1
|
Majid QA, Ghimire BR, Merkely B, Randi AM, Harding SE, Talman V, Földes G. Generation and characterisation of scalable and stable human pluripotent stem cell-derived microvascular-like endothelial cells for cardiac applications. Angiogenesis 2024; 27:561-582. [PMID: 38775849 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-024-09929-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Coronary microvascular disease (CMD) and its progression towards major adverse coronary events pose a significant health challenge. Accurate in vitro investigation of CMD requires a robust cell model that faithfully represents the cells within the cardiac microvasculature. Human pluripotent stem cell-derived endothelial cells (hPSC-ECs) offer great potential; however, they are traditionally derived via differentiation protocols that are not readily scalable and are not specified towards the microvasculature. Here, we report the development and comprehensive characterisation of a scalable 3D protocol enabling the generation of phenotypically stable cardiac hPSC-microvascular-like ECs (hPSC-CMVECs) and cardiac pericyte-like cells. These were derived by growing vascular organoids within 3D stirred tank bioreactors and subjecting the emerging 3D hPSC-ECs to high-concentration VEGF-A treatment (3DV). Not only did this promote phenotypic stability of the 3DV hPSC-ECs; single cell-RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) revealed the pronounced expression of cardiac endothelial- and microvascular-associated genes. Further, the generated mural cells attained from the vascular organoid exhibited markers characteristic of cardiac pericytes. Thus, we present a suitable cell model for investigating the cardiac microvasculature as well as the endothelial-dependent and -independent mechanisms of CMD. Moreover, owing to their phenotypic stability, cardiac specificity, and high angiogenic potential, the cells described within would also be well suited for cardiac tissue engineering applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qasim A Majid
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
- Drug Research Programme, Division of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Bishwa R Ghimire
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- MediCity Research Laboratory, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Bela Merkely
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 68 Varosmajor Street, Budapest, H1122, Hungary
| | - Anna M Randi
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Sian E Harding
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Virpi Talman
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
- Drug Research Programme, Division of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Gábor Földes
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK.
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 68 Varosmajor Street, Budapest, H1122, Hungary.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Fan L, Yao D, Fan Z, Zhang T, Shen Q, Tong F, Qian X, Xu L, Jiang C, Dong N. Beyond VICs: Shedding light on the overlooked VECs in calcific aortic valve disease. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 178:117143. [PMID: 39024838 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is prevalent in developed nations and has emerged as a pressing global public health concern due to population aging. The precise etiology of this disease remains uncertain, and recent research has primarily focused on examining the role of valvular interstitial cells (VICs) in the development of CAVD. The predominant treatment options currently available involve open surgery and minimally invasive interventional surgery, with no efficacious pharmacological treatment. This article seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of valvular endothelial cells (VECs) from the aspects of valvular endothelium-derived nitric oxide (NO), valvular endothelial mechanotransduction, valvular endothelial injury, valvular endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), and valvular neovascularization, which have received less attention, and aims to establish their role and interaction with VICs in CAVD. The ultimate goal is to provide new perspectives for the investigation of non-invasive treatment options for this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Fan
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dingyi Yao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhengfeng Fan
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tailong Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiang Shen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fuqiang Tong
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xingyu Qian
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Xu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Chen Jiang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Nianguo Dong
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mankuzhy P, Dharmarajan A, Perumalsamy LR, Sharun K, Samji P, Dilley RJ. The role of Wnt signaling in mesenchymal stromal cell-driven angiogenesis. Tissue Cell 2023; 85:102240. [PMID: 37879288 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2023.102240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Development, growth, and remodeling of blood vessels occur through an intricate process involving cell differentiation, proliferation, and rearrangement by cell migration under the direction of various signaling pathways. Recent reports highlight that resident and exogenous mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have the potential to regulate the neovascularization process through paracrine secretion of proangiogenic factors. Recent research has established that the vasculogenic potential of MSCs is regulated by several signaling pathways, including the Wnt signaling pathway, and their interplay. These findings emphasize the complex nature of the vasculogenic process and underscore the importance of understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms for the development of effective cell-based therapies in regenerative medicine. This review provides an updated briefing on the canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling pathways and summarizes the recent reports of both in vitro and in vivo studies with the involvement of MSCs of various sources in the vasculogenic process mediated by Wnt signaling pathways. Here we outline the current understanding of the plausible role of the Wnt signaling pathway, specifically in MSC-regulated angiogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pratheesh Mankuzhy
- Department of Surgery and Centre for Medical Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 6009 Perth, Australia; College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences - Mannuthy, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Pookode, Wayanad, Kerala 673576 India.
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Porur, Chennai 600116, India; School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; School of Human Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Western Australia, 6009 Perth, Australia
| | - Lakshmi R Perumalsamy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Porur, Chennai 600116, India
| | - Khan Sharun
- Division of Surgery, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Priyanka Samji
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Porur, Chennai 600116, India
| | - Rodney J Dilley
- Department of Surgery and Centre for Medical Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 6009 Perth, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sun L, Huang Z, Fei S, Ni B, Wang Z, Chen H, Tao J, Han Z, Ju X, Gu M, Tan R. Vascular calcification progression and its association with mineral and bone disorder in kidney transplant recipients. Ren Fail 2023; 45:2276382. [PMID: 37936391 PMCID: PMC10653689 DOI: 10.1080/0886022x.2023.2276382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The assessment and prevention of vascular calcification (VC) in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) have not been systematically studied. We aimed to evaluate VC change one year after kidney transplantation (KT) and identify their influencing factors. METHODS 95 KTRs (68 males; ages 40.2 ± 10.8 years) were followed one year after KT. Changes in bone mineral density (BMD) and bone metabolism biomarkers were assessed. Coronary artery calcification (CAC) and thoracic aortic calcification (TAC) were measured using 192-slice third-generation dual-source CT. The relationship between bone metabolism indicators and VC and the factors influencing VC were analyzed. RESULTS Postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate was 79.96 ± 24.18 mL/min*1.73 m2. One year after KT, serum phosphorus, intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), osteocalcin, type I collagen N-terminal peptide (NTx), type I collagen C-terminal peptide, and BMD decreased, 25-hydroxyvitamin D remained low, and VC increased. Post-CAC and TAC were negatively correlated with pre-femoral neck BMD, and TAC was positively correlated with post-calcium. CAC and TAC change were positively correlated with post-calcium and 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Increased CAC was positively associated with hemodialysis and pre-femoral neck osteopenia. CAC change was positively associated with prediabetes, post-calcium, and pre-CAC and negatively associated with preoperative and postoperative femoral neck BMD, and NTx change. Increased TAC was positively associated with age, prediabetes, preoperative parathyroid hyperplasia/nodule, post-calcium, and post-femoral neck osteopenia. TAC change was positively associated with age, diabetes, pre-triglyceride, pre-TAC, dialysis time, post-calcium and post-iPTH, and negatively associated with post-femoral neck BMD. CONCLUSIONS Mineral and bone disorders persisted, and VC progressed after KT, showing a close relationship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Sun
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhengkai Huang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shuang Fei
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bin Ni
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zijie Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Tao
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhijian Han
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaobing Ju
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Min Gu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruoyun Tan
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Akhter MS, Goodwin JE. Endothelial Dysfunction in Cardiorenal Conditions: Implications of Endothelial Glucocorticoid Receptor-Wnt Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14261. [PMID: 37762564 PMCID: PMC10531724 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814261] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The endothelium constitutes the innermost lining of the blood vessels and controls blood fluidity, vessel permeability, platelet aggregation, and vascular tone. Endothelial dysfunction plays a key role in initiating a vascular inflammatory cascade and is the pivotal cause of various devastating diseases in multiple organs including the heart, lung, kidney, and brain. Glucocorticoids have traditionally been used to combat vascular inflammation. Endothelial cells express glucocorticoid receptors (GRs), and recent studies have demonstrated that endothelial GR negatively regulates vascular inflammation in different pathological conditions such as sepsis, diabetes, and atherosclerosis. Mechanistically, the anti-inflammatory effects of GR are mediated, in part, through the suppression of Wnt signaling. Moreover, GR modulates the fatty acid oxidation (FAO) pathway in endothelial cells and hence can influence FAO-mediated fibrosis in several organs including the kidneys. This review summarizes the relationship between GR and Wnt signaling in endothelial cells and the effects of the Wnt pathway in different cardiac and renal diseases. Available data suggest that GR plays a significant role in restoring endothelial integrity, and research on endothelial GR-Wnt interactions could facilitate the development of novel therapies for many cardiorenal conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Shohel Akhter
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Vascular Biology and Therapeutics Program, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Julie Elizabeth Goodwin
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Vascular Biology and Therapeutics Program, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lu D, Jiang H, Zou T, Jia Y, Zhao Y, Wang Z. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition: New insights into vascular calcification. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 213:115579. [PMID: 37589048 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
With the continuous progress of atherosclerosis research, the significant pathological change of it--vascular calcification (VC), gains increasing attention. In recent years, numerous studies have demonstrated that it is an independent predictor of death risk of cardiovascular disease, and it has a strong correlation with poor clinical prognosis. As the world's population continues to age, the occurrence of VC is expected to reach its highest point in the near future. Therefore, it is essential to investigate ways to prevent or even reverse this process for clinical purposes. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) describes the progressive differentiation of endothelial cells into mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) under various stimuli and acquisition of pluripotent cell characteristics. More and more studies show that EndMT plays a vital role in various cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, vascular calcification and heart valvular disease. EndMT is also involved in the formation and progression of VC. This review vividly describes the history, characteristics of EndMT and how it affects the endothelial cell process, then focuses on the relationship between vascular endothelium, EndMT, amino acid metabolism, and vascular calcification. Finally, it overviews the signal pathway of EndMT and drugs targeting EndMT, hoping to provide new ideas and a theoretical basis for studying potential therapeutic targets of VC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dingkun Lu
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China
| | - Han Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China
| | - Ting Zou
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China
| | - Yuanwang Jia
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China
| | - Yunyun Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China
| | - Zhongqun Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Feng J, Wu Y. Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition: Potential Target of Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity. Am J Cardiovasc Drugs 2023; 23:231-246. [PMID: 36841924 DOI: 10.1007/s40256-023-00573-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
The use of chemotherapeutic agents is becoming more frequent as the proportion of new oncology patients increases worldwide, with prolonged survival after treatment. As one of the most popular chemotherapy drugs, doxorubicin plays a substantial role in the treatment of tumors. Unfortunately, the use of doxorubicin is associated with several adverse effects, particularly severe cardiotoxicity that can be life-threatening, which greatly limits its clinical use. For decades, scientists have tried to explore many cardioprotective agents and therapeutic approaches, but their efficacy remains controversial, and some drugs have even brought about significant adverse effects. The concrete molecular mechanism of doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity is still to be unraveled, yet endothelial damage is gradually being identified as an important mechanism triggering the development and progression of doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), a fundamental process regulating morphogenesis in multicellular organisms, is recognized to be associated with endothelial damage repair and acts as an important factor in the progression of cardiovascular diseases, tumors, and rheumatic immune diseases. Mounting evidence suggests that endothelial-mesenchymal transition may play a non-negligible role in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. In this paper, we reviewed the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways of EndMT and outlined the molecular mechanisms of doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity and the current therapeutic advances. Furthermore, we summarized the basic principles of doxorubicin-induced endothelial-mesenchymal transition that lead to endothelial dysfunction and cardiotoxicity, aiming to provide suggestions or new ideas for the prevention and treatment of doxorubicin-induced endothelial and cardiac injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Feng
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Yanqing Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Li X, Liu XL, Li X, Zhao YC, Wang QQ, Zhong HY, Liu DD, Yuan C, Zheng TF, Zhang M. Dickkopf1 (Dkk1) Alleviates Vascular Calcification by Regulating the Degradation of Phospholipase D1 (PLD1). J Cardiovasc Transl Res 2022; 15:1327-1339. [PMID: 35426038 DOI: 10.1007/s12265-022-10251-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Vascular calcification (VC) is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular mortality and morbidity in patients with atherosclerosis (AS), chronic kidney disease, and diabetes. Dickkopf1 (Dkk1) is a multifunctional secreted glycoprotein that has been explored as a novel potential antitumor target. Recently, Dkk1 was shown to be closely associated with AS development. However, the role of Dkk1 in VC remains elusive. In this study, we explored the role and molecular mechanisms of Dkk1 in VC based on a smooth muscle-specific Dkk1-knockout (Dkk1SMKO) mouse model. Our data indicated that Dkk1 expression was decreased under calcifying conditions and that Dkk1 overexpression alleviated high phosphate-induced vascular calcification. In vivo, smooth muscle Dkk1-specific knockout aggravated vascular calcification in mice. However, phospholipase D1 (PLD1) overexpression partially weakened the protective effect of Dkk1 against vascular calcification. Mechanistically, Dkk1 slowed vascular calcification by promoting the degradation of PLD1 via the regulating autophagosome formation and maturation. In conclusion, we found that Dkk1 could alleviate vascular calcification by regulating the degradation of PLD1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Li
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107, Wen Hua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Xiao-Lin Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107, Wen Hua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Xiao Li
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107, Wen Hua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Ya-Chao Zhao
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107, Wen Hua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Qian-Qian Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107, Wen Hua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Hong-Yu Zhong
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107, Wen Hua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Dong-Dong Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107, Wen Hua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Chong Yuan
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107, Wen Hua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Teng-Fei Zheng
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107, Wen Hua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
| | - Mei Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 107, Wen Hua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Al-Hakeim HK, Al-Kaabi QJ, Maes M. High mobility group box 1 and Dickkopf-related protein 1 as biomarkers of glucose toxicity, atherogenicity, and lower β cell function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Growth Factors 2022; 40:240-253. [PMID: 36165005 DOI: 10.1080/08977194.2022.2126317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with increased atherogenicity and inflammatory responses, which may be related to high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1). The role of HMGB1 and DKK1 in T2DM is examined in association with lipid and insulin profiles. Serum HMGB1 and DKK1 were measured in T2DM with and without hypertension and compared with controls. The results showed that HMGB1 and DKK1 are higher in T2DM irrespective of hypertension. A large part of the variance in the β-cell index and glucose toxicity was explained by the combined effects of HMGB1 and DKK1. In conclusion, both HMGB1 and DKK1 may contribute to increased atherogenicity in T2DM. Moreover, both biomarkers may cause more deficits in β-cell function and increase glucose toxicity leading to the development of more inflammation and diabetic complications. HMGB1 and the Wnt pathways are other drug targets in treating T2DM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michael Maes
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- School of Medicine, IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Vallée A. Arterial Stiffness and the Canonical WNT/β-catenin Pathway. Curr Hypertens Rep 2022; 24:499-507. [PMID: 35727523 DOI: 10.1007/s11906-022-01211-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Arterial stiffness (AS) was mainly associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in a hypertensive patient. Some risk factors contribute to the development of AS, such as aging, high blood pressure, vascular calcification, inflammation, and diabetes mellitus. The WNT/β-catenin pathway is implicated in numerous signaling and regulating pathways, including embryogenesis, cell proliferation, migration and polarity, apoptosis, and organogenesis. The activation of the WNT/β-catenin pathway is associated with the development of these risk factors. RECENT FINDINGS Aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) is measured to determine AS, and in peripheral artery disease patients, PWV is higher than controls. An augmentation in PWV by 1 m/s has been shown to increase the risk of cardiovascular events by 14%. AS measured by PWV is characterized by the deregulation of the WNT/β-catenin pathway by the inactivation of its two inhibitors, i.e., DKK1 and sclerostin. Thus, this review focuses on the role of the WNT/β-catenin pathway which contributes to the development of arterial stiffness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Vallée
- Department of Epidemiology - Data - Biostatistics, Delegation of Clinical Research and Innovation, Foch Hospital, 92150, Suresnes, France.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Rao Z, Zheng Y, Xu L, Wang Z, Zhou Y, Chen M, Dong N, Cai Z, Li F. Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Pathogenesis of Vascular Calcification. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:918056. [PMID: 35783850 PMCID: PMC9243238 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.918056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular calcification (VC) is characterized by calcium phosphate deposition in blood vessel walls and is associated with many diseases, as well as increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying of VC development and pathogenesis are not fully understood, thus impeding the design of molecular-targeted therapy for VC. Recently, several studies have shown that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress can exacerbate VC. The ER is an intracellular membranous organelle involved in the synthesis, folding, maturation, and post-translational modification of secretory and transmembrane proteins. ER stress (ERS) occurs when unfolded/misfolded proteins accumulate after a disturbance in the ER environment. Therefore, downregulation of pathological ERS may attenuate VC. This review summarizes the relationship between ERS and VC, focusing on how ERS regulates the development of VC by promoting osteogenic transformation, inflammation, autophagy, and apoptosis, with particular interest in the molecular mechanisms occurring in various vascular cells. We also discuss, the therapeutic effects of ERS inhibition on the progress of diseases associated with VC are detailed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenqi Rao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yidan Zheng
- Basic Medical School, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Xu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zihao Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ming Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Nianguo Dong
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhejun Cai
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chatterjee S, Sil PC. ROS-Influenced Regulatory Cross-Talk With Wnt Signaling Pathway During Perinatal Development. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:889719. [PMID: 35517861 PMCID: PMC9061994 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.889719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Over a century ago, it was found that a rapid burst of oxygen is needed and produced by the sea urchin oocyte to activate fertilization and block polyspermy. Since then, scientific research has taken strides to establish that Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), besides being toxic effectors of cellular damage and death, also act as molecular messengers in important developmental signaling cascades, thereby modulating them. Wnt signaling pathway is one such developmental pathway, which has significant effects on growth, proliferation, and differentiation of cells at the earliest embryonic stages of an organism, apart from being significant role-players in the instances of cellular transformation and cancer when this tightly-regulated system encounters aberrations. In this review, we discuss more about the Wnt and ROS signaling pathways, how they function, what roles they play overall in animals, and mostly about how these two major signaling systems cross paths and interplay in mediating major cellular signals and executing the predestined changes during the perinatal condition, in a systematic manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Parames C Sil
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Xu X, Zou R, Liu X, Liu J, Su Q. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related genes in coronary artery disease. Open Med (Wars) 2022; 17:781-800. [PMID: 35529472 PMCID: PMC9034345 DOI: 10.1515/med-2022-0476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is critical in the development of coronary artery disease (CAD). However, landscapes of EMT-related genes have not been fully established in CAD. We identified the differentially expressed mRNAs and lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Pearson’s correlation analysis, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression, and support vector machine reverse feature elimination algorithms were used to screen EMT-related lncRNAs. The cis–trans regulatory networks were constructed based on EMT-related lncRNAs. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to validate the expression of EMT-related genes in a cohort of six patients with CAD and six healthy controls. We further estimated the infiltration of the immune cells in CAD patients with five algorithms, and the correlation between EMT-related genes and infiltrating immune cells was analyzed. We identified eight EMT-related lncRNAs in CAD. The area under curve value was greater than 0.95. The immune analysis revealed significant CD8 T cells, monocytes, and NK cells in CAD and found that EMT-related lncRNAs were correlated with these immune cell subsets. Moreover, SNAI2, an EMT-TF gene, was found in the trans-regulatory network of EMT-related lncRNAs. Further, we found SNAI2 as a biomarker for the diagnosis of CAD but it also had a close correlation with immune cell subsets in CAD. Eight EMT-related lncRNAs and SNAI2 have important significance in the diagnosis of CAD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Xu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Renchao Zou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Xiaoyong Liu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Kunming Medical University, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, 650500, China
| | - Qianqian Su
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Kunming Medical University, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, 650500, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cardiac Calcifications: Phenotypes, Mechanisms, Clinical and Prognostic Implications. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11030414. [PMID: 35336788 PMCID: PMC8945469 DOI: 10.3390/biology11030414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
There is a growing interest in arterial and heart valve calcifications, as these contribute to cardiovascular outcome, and are leading predictors of cardiovascular and kidney diseases. Cardiovascular calcifications are often considered as one disease, but, in effect, they represent multifaced disorders, occurring in different milieus and biological phenotypes, following different pathways. Herein, we explore each different molecular process, its relative link with the specific clinical condition, and the current therapeutic approaches to counteract calcifications. Thus, first, we explore the peculiarities between vascular and valvular calcium deposition, as this occurs in different tissues, responds differently to shear stress, has specific etiology and time courses to calcification. Then, we differentiate the mechanisms and pathways leading to hyperphosphatemic calcification, typical of the media layer of the vessel and mainly related to chronic kidney diseases, to those of inflammation, typical of the intima vascular calcification, which predominantly occur in atherosclerotic vascular diseases. Finally, we examine calcifications secondary to rheumatic valve disease or other bacterial lesions and those occurring in autoimmune diseases. The underlying clinical conditions of each of the biological calcification phenotypes and the specific opportunities of therapeutic intervention are also considered and discussed.
Collapse
|
15
|
Sellers SL, Gulsin GS, Zaminski D, Bing R, Latib A, Sathananthan J, Pibarot P, Bouchareb R. Platelets: Implications in Aortic Valve Stenosis and Bioprosthetic Valve Dysfunction From Pathophysiology to Clinical Care. JACC Basic Transl Sci 2021; 6:1007-1020. [PMID: 35024507 PMCID: PMC8733745 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2021.07.008] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Aortic stenosis (AS) is the most common heart valve disease requiring surgery in developed countries, with a rising global burden associated with aging populations. The predominant cause of AS is believed to be driven by calcific degeneration of the aortic valve and a growing body of evidence suggests that platelets play a major role in this disease pathophysiology. Furthermore, platelets are a player in bioprosthetic valve dysfunction caused by their role in leaflet thrombosis and thickening. This review presents the molecular function of platelets in the context of recent and rapidly evolving understanding the role of platelets in AS, both of the native aortic valve and bioprosthetic valves, where there remain concerns about the effects of subclinical leaflet thrombosis on long-term prosthesis durability. This review also presents the role of antiplatelet and anticoagulation therapies on modulating the impact of platelets on native and bioprosthetic aortic valves, highlighting the need for further studies to determine whether these therapies are protective and may increase the life span of surgical and transcatheter aortic valve implants. By linking molecular mechanisms through which platelets drive disease of native and bioprosthetic aortic valves with studies evaluating the clinical impact of antiplatelet and antithrombotic therapies, we aim to bridge the gaps between our basic science understanding of platelet biology and their role in patients with AS and ensuing preventive and therapeutic implications.
Collapse
Key Words
- AS, aortic stenosis
- AV, aortic valve
- AVR, aortic valve replacements
- COX, cyclooxygenase
- ECM, extracellular matrix protein
- HALT, hypoattenuating leaflet thickening
- HMW, high molecular weight
- MK, megakaryocyte
- SAVR, surgical aortic valve replacement
- TAVR
- TAVR, transcatheter aortic valve replacements
- TGF, transforming growth factor
- VEC, vascular endothelial cell
- VHD, valvular heart disease
- VIC, valve interstitial cell
- WSS, wall shear stress
- aortic stenosis
- calcified aortic valves
- platelets
- thrombosis
- vWF, Von Willebrand factor
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L. Sellers
- Department of Radiology, St Paul’s Hospital and University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation and Cardiovascular Translational Laboratory, St Paul’s Hospital and University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Division of Cardiology and Centre for Cardiovascular Innovation, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Gaurav S. Gulsin
- Department of Radiology, St Paul’s Hospital and University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation and Cardiovascular Translational Laboratory, St Paul’s Hospital and University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Devyn Zaminski
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, and Graduate School of Biological Sciences, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Rong Bing
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Azeem Latib
- Department of Cardiology, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Janarthanan Sathananthan
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation and Cardiovascular Translational Laboratory, St Paul’s Hospital and University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Division of Cardiology and Centre for Cardiovascular Innovation, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Philippe Pibarot
- Institut de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Laval University, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Rihab Bouchareb
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, and Graduate School of Biological Sciences, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Regulation of MDM2 E3 ligase-dependent vascular calcification by MSX1/2. Exp Mol Med 2021; 53:1781-1791. [PMID: 34845330 PMCID: PMC8639964 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-021-00708-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular calcification increases morbidity and mortality in patients with cardiovascular and renal diseases. Previously, we reported that histone deacetylase 1 prevents vascular calcification, whereas its E3 ligase, mouse double minute 2 homolog (MDM2), induces vascular calcification. In the present study, we identified the upstream regulator of MDM2. By utilizing cellular models and transgenic mice, we confirmed that E3 ligase activity is required for vascular calcification. By promoter analysis, we found that both msh homeobox 1 (Msx1) and msh homeobox 2 (Msx2) bound to the MDM2 promoter region, which resulted in transcriptional activation of MDM2. The expression levels of both Msx1 and Msx2 were increased in mouse models of vascular calcification and in calcified human coronary arteries. Msx1 and Msx2 potentiated vascular calcification in cellular and mouse models in an MDM2-dependent manner. Our results establish a novel role for MSX1/MSX2 in the transcriptional activation of MDM2 and the resultant increase in MDM2 E3 ligase activity during vascular calcification. The identification of a signaling pathway involved in triggering vascular calcification, the deposition of calcium phosphate crystals in blood vessels, could inform new therapeutic interventions for related cardiovascular complications. Vascular calcification causes significant complications in patients with metabolic syndrome, renal failure, or cardiovascular disease. In their previous work, Hyun Kook and Duk-Hwa Kwon at Chonnam National University Medical School, Jeollanamdo, Republic of Korea, and coworkers demonstrated that the E3 ligase activity of a protein called MDM2 induces calcification. Now, following further mouse trials, the team have identified an upstream signaling pathway involving several development proteins such as MSX1 and MSX2 which activate MDM2. The activation of this signaling axis leads to the degradation of a key protein that would otherwise prevent calcification. The results may provide a platform for novel therapies targeting the condition.
Collapse
|
17
|
Seo SH, Cho KJ, Park HJ, Kim H, Lee HW, Kim BK, Park JY, Kim DY, Ahn SH, Kim SU. Dickkopf-1 promotes angiogenesis by upregulating VEGF receptor 2-mediated mTOR/p70S6K signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:4788-4806. [PMID: 34765293 PMCID: PMC8569356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The expression of Dickkopf-1 (DKK1), a negative regulator of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, is upregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we investigated the tumorigenic and angiogenic potential of DKK1 in HCC. Stable cell lines were established using the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated nuclease 9 (CRISPR/Cas9)-based DKK1 knock-out system in Hep3B cells and the tetracycline-based DKK1 inducible system in Huh7 cells. Multicellular tumor spheroids (MCTSs) were cultured using Hep3B stable cells. We also employed xenografts generated using Hep3B stable cells and transgenic mouse models established using hydrodynamic tail vein injection. The angiogenic potential increased in HUVECs treated with CM from Huh7 stable cells with high DKK1 expression and Hep3B wild-type cells. DKK1 accelerated the downstream molecules of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2)-mediated mTOR/p70 S6 kinase (p70S6K) signaling. MCTSs generated using Hep3B wild-type cells promoted compact spheroid formation and increased the expression of CD31 and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers, and increased the VEGFR2-mediated mTOR/p70S6K signaling, compared to the controls (all P<0.01). Xenograft tumors generated using Hep3B cells with DKK1 knock-out (n=10) exhibited slower growth than, the controls (n=10) and the expression of Ki-67, VEGFR2, CD31 and EMT markers decreased (all P<0.05). In addition, forced DKK1 expression with HRAS in transgenic mouse livers (n=5) resulted in the formation of more tumors and increased expression of downstream molecules of VEGFR2-mediated mTOR/p70S6K signaling pathway as well as Ki67, CD31 and EMT markers (P<0.05), compared to that of the controls (n=5). Our findings indicate that DKK1 facilitates angiogenesis and tumorigenesis by upregulating VEGFR2-mediated mTOR/p70S6K signaling in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sang Hyun Seo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of MedicineSeoul, Korea
- Yonsei Liver Center, Severance HospitalSeoul, Korea
| | - Kyung Joo Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of MedicineSeoul, Korea
- Yonsei Liver Center, Severance HospitalSeoul, Korea
| | | | - Hyemi Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yonsei University College of MedicineSeoul, Korea
| | - Hye Won Lee
- Yonsei Liver Center, Severance HospitalSeoul, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of MedicineSeoul, Korea
| | - Beom Kyung Kim
- Yonsei Liver Center, Severance HospitalSeoul, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of MedicineSeoul, Korea
| | - Jun Yong Park
- Yonsei Liver Center, Severance HospitalSeoul, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of MedicineSeoul, Korea
| | - Do Young Kim
- Yonsei Liver Center, Severance HospitalSeoul, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of MedicineSeoul, Korea
| | - Sang Hoon Ahn
- Yonsei Liver Center, Severance HospitalSeoul, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of MedicineSeoul, Korea
| | - Seung Up Kim
- Yonsei Liver Center, Severance HospitalSeoul, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Yonsei University College of MedicineSeoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Islam S, Boström KI, Di Carlo D, Simmons CA, Tintut Y, Yao Y, Hsu JJ. The Mechanobiology of Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Cardiovascular Disease. Front Physiol 2021; 12:734215. [PMID: 34566697 PMCID: PMC8458763 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.734215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) lining the cardiovascular system are subjected to a highly dynamic microenvironment resulting from pulsatile pressure and circulating blood flow. Endothelial cells are remarkably sensitive to these forces, which are transduced to activate signaling pathways to maintain endothelial homeostasis and respond to changes in the environment. Aberrations in these biomechanical stresses, however, can trigger changes in endothelial cell phenotype and function. One process involved in this cellular plasticity is endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). As a result of EndMT, ECs lose cell-cell adhesion, alter their cytoskeletal organization, and gain increased migratory and invasive capabilities. EndMT has long been known to occur during cardiovascular development, but there is now a growing body of evidence also implicating it in many cardiovascular diseases (CVD), often associated with alterations in the cellular mechanical environment. In this review, we highlight the emerging role of shear stress, cyclic strain, matrix stiffness, and composition associated with EndMT in CVD. We first provide an overview of EndMT and context for how ECs sense, transduce, and respond to certain mechanical stimuli. We then describe the biomechanical features of EndMT and the role of mechanically driven EndMT in CVD. Finally, we indicate areas of open investigation to further elucidate the complexity of EndMT in the cardiovascular system. Understanding the mechanistic underpinnings of the mechanobiology of EndMT in CVD can provide insight into new opportunities for identification of novel diagnostic markers and therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shahrin Islam
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Kristina I Boström
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,UCLA Molecular Biology Institute, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Dino Di Carlo
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Craig A Simmons
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yin Tintut
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Yucheng Yao
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Jeffrey J Hsu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Zhou K, Tian KJ, Yan BJ, Gui DD, Luo W, Ren Z, Wei DH, Liu LS, Jiang ZS. A promising field: regulating imbalance of EndMT in cardiovascular diseases. Cell Cycle 2021; 20:1477-1486. [PMID: 34266366 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2021.1951939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is widely involved in the occurrence and development of cardiovascular diseases. Although there is no direct evidence, it is very promising as an effective target for the treatment of these diseases. Endothelial cells need to respond to the complex cardiovascular environment through EndMT, but sustained stimuli will cause the imbalance of EndMT. Blocking the signal transduction promoting EndMT is an effective method to control the imbalance of EndMT. In particular, we also discussed the potential role of endothelial cell apoptosis and autophagy in regulating the imbalance of EndMT. In addition, promoting mesenchymal-endothelial transformation (MEndT) is also a method to control the imbalance of EndMT. However, targeting EndMT to treat cardiovascular disease still faces many challenges. By reviewing the research progress of EndMT, we have put forward some insights and translated them into challenges and opportunities for new treatment strategies for cardiovascular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kun Zhou
- Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, International Joint Laboratory for Arteriosclerotic Disease Research of Hunan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan Province, China
| | - Kai-Jiang Tian
- Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, International Joint Laboratory for Arteriosclerotic Disease Research of Hunan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan Province, China
| | - Bin-Jie Yan
- Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, International Joint Laboratory for Arteriosclerotic Disease Research of Hunan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan Province, China
| | - Dan-Dan Gui
- Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, International Joint Laboratory for Arteriosclerotic Disease Research of Hunan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan Province, China
| | - Wen Luo
- Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, International Joint Laboratory for Arteriosclerotic Disease Research of Hunan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zhong Ren
- Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, International Joint Laboratory for Arteriosclerotic Disease Research of Hunan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan Province, China
| | - Dang-Heng Wei
- Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, International Joint Laboratory for Arteriosclerotic Disease Research of Hunan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan Province, China
| | - Lu-Shan Liu
- Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, International Joint Laboratory for Arteriosclerotic Disease Research of Hunan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zhi-Sheng Jiang
- Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, International Joint Laboratory for Arteriosclerotic Disease Research of Hunan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Nie X, Wei X, Ma H, Fan L, Chen WD. The complex role of Wnt ligands in type 2 diabetes mellitus and related complications. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:6479-6495. [PMID: 34042263 PMCID: PMC8278111 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the major chronic diseases, whose prevalence is increasing dramatically worldwide and can lead to a range of serious complications. Wnt ligands (Wnts) and their activating Wnt signalling pathways are closely involved in the regulation of various processes that are important for the occurrence and progression of T2DM and related complications. However, our understanding of their roles in these diseases is quite rudimentary due to the numerous family members of Wnts and conflicting effects via activating the canonical and/or non-canonical Wnt signalling pathways. In this review, we summarize the current findings on the expression pattern and exact role of each human Wnt in T2DM and related complications, including Wnt1, Wnt2, Wnt2b, Wnt3, Wnt3a, Wnt4, Wnt5a, Wnt5b, Wnt6, Wnt7a, Wnt7b, Wnt8a, Wnt8b, Wnt9a, Wnt9b, Wnt10a, Wnt10b, Wnt11 and Wnt16. Moreover, the role of main antagonists (sFRPs and WIF-1) and coreceptor (LRP6) of Wnts in T2DM and related complications and main challenges in designing Wnt-based therapeutic approaches for these diseases are discussed. We hope a deep understanding of the mechanistic links between Wnt signalling pathways and diabetic-related diseases will ultimately result in a better management of these diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobo Nie
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences, People's Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xiaoyun Wei
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences, People's Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Han Ma
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences, People's Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Lili Fan
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences, People's Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Wei-Dong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Basic Medical Sciences, People's Hospital of Hebi, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.,Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Di Benedetto P, Ruscitti P, Berardicurti O, Vomero M, Navarini L, Dolo V, Cipriani P, Giacomelli R. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in systemic sclerosis. Clin Exp Immunol 2021; 205:12-27. [PMID: 33772754 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by significant vascular alterations and multi-organ fibrosis. Microvascular alterations are the first event of SSc and injured endothelial cells (ECs) may transdifferentiate towards myofibroblasts, the cells responsible for fibrosis and collagen deposition. This process is identified as endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), and understanding of its development is pivotal to identify early pathogenetic events and new therapeutic targets for SSc. In this review, we have highlighted the molecular mechanisms of EndMT and summarize the evidence of the role played by EndMT during the development of progressive fibrosis in SSc, also exploring the possible therapeutic role of its inhibition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Di Benedetto
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - P Ruscitti
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - O Berardicurti
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - M Vomero
- Unit of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Rome 'Campus Biomedico', Rome, Italy
| | - L Navarini
- Unit of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Rome 'Campus Biomedico', Rome, Italy
| | - V Dolo
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - P Cipriani
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - R Giacomelli
- Unit of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Rome 'Campus Biomedico', Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Anbara T, Sharifi M, Aboutaleb N. Endothelial to Mesenchymal Transition in the Cardiogenesis and Cardiovascular Diseases. Curr Cardiol Rev 2021; 16:306-314. [PMID: 31393254 PMCID: PMC7903503 DOI: 10.2174/1573403x15666190808100336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Today, cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT) does not only play a major role in the course of development but also contributes to several cardiovascular diseases in adulthood. EndMT is characterized by down-regulation of the endothelial proteins and highly up-regulated fibrotic specific genes and extracellular matrix-forming proteins. EndMT is also a transforming growth factor-β-driven (TGF-β) process in which endothelial cells lose their endothelial characteristics and acquire a mesenchymal phenotype with expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), fibroblast-specific protein 1, etc. EndMT is a vital process during cardiac development, thus disrupted EndMT gives rise to the congenital heart diseases, namely septal defects and valve abnormalities. In this review, we have discussed the main signaling pathways and mechanisms participating in the process of EndMT such as TGF-β and Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), Wnt#, and Notch signaling pathway and also studied the role of EndMT in physiological cardiovascular development and pathological conditions including myocardial infarction, pulmonary arterial hypertension, congenital heart defects, cardiac fibrosis, and atherosclerosis. As a perspective view, having a clear understanding of involving cellular and molecular mechanisms in EndMT and conducting Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with a large number of samples for involving pharmacological agents may guide us into novel therapeutic approaches of congenital disorders and heart diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taha Anbara
- Department of Surgery, Erfan Specialty Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masuomeh Sharifi
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nahid Aboutaleb
- Physiology Research Center, Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Summers ME, Richmond BW, Kropski JA, Majka SA, Bastarache JA, Hatzopoulos AK, Bylund J, Ghosh M, Petrache I, Foronjy RF, Geraghty P, Majka SM. Balanced Wnt/Dickkopf-1 signaling by mesenchymal vascular progenitor cells in the microvascular niche maintains distal lung structure and function. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2021; 320:C119-C131. [PMID: 33085496 PMCID: PMC7846975 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00277.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The well-described Wnt inhibitor Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) plays a role in angiogenesis as well as in regulation of growth factor signaling cascades in pulmonary remodeling associated with chronic lung diseases (CLDs) including emphysema and fibrosis. However, the specific mechanisms by which DKK1 influences mesenchymal vascular progenitor cells (MVPCs), microvascular endothelial cells (MVECs), and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) within the microvascular niche have not been elucidated. In this study, we show that knockdown of DKK1 in Abcg2pos lung mouse adult tissue resident MVPCs alters lung stiffness, parenchymal collagen deposition, microvessel muscularization and density as well as loss of tissue structure in response to hypoxia exposure. To complement the in vivo mouse modeling, we also identified cell- or disease-specific responses to DKK1, in primary lung chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) MVPCs, COPD MVECs, and SMCs, supporting a paradoxical disease-specific response of cells to well-characterized factors. Cell responses to DKK1 were dose dependent and correlated with varying expressions of the DKK1 receptor, CKAP4. These data demonstrate that DKK1 expression is necessary to maintain the microvascular niche whereas its effects are context specific. They also highlight DKK1 as a regulatory candidate to understand the role of Wnt and DKK1 signaling between cells of the microvascular niche during tissue homeostasis and during the development of chronic lung diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megan E Summers
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado
| | - Bradley W Richmond
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine or Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Jonathan A Kropski
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine or Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Sarah A Majka
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado
| | - Julie A Bastarache
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine or Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Antonis K Hatzopoulos
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine or Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Jeffery Bylund
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine or Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Moumita Ghosh
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado
| | - Irina Petrache
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado
| | - Robert F Foronjy
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York
| | - Patrick Geraghty
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York
| | - Susan M Majka
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
- Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Reinhold S, Blankesteijn WM, Foulquier S. The Interplay of WNT and PPARγ Signaling in Vascular Calcification. Cells 2020; 9:cells9122658. [PMID: 33322009 PMCID: PMC7763279 DOI: 10.3390/cells9122658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular calcification (VC), the ectopic deposition of calcium phosphate crystals in the vessel wall, is one of the primary contributors to cardiovascular death. The pathology of VC is determined by vascular topography, pre-existing diseases, and our genetic heritage. VC evolves from inflammation, mediated by macrophages, and from the osteochondrogenic transition of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) in the atherosclerotic plaque. This pathologic transition partly resembles endochondral ossification, involving the chronologically ordered activation of the β-catenin-independent and -dependent Wingless and Int-1 (WNT) pathways and the termination of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) signal transduction. Several atherosclerotic plaque studies confirmed the differential activity of PPARγ and the WNT signaling pathways in VC. Notably, the actively regulated β-catenin-dependent and -independent WNT signals increase the osteochondrogenic transformation of VSMC through the up-regulation of the osteochondrogenic transcription factors SRY-box transcription factor 9 (SOX9) and runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2). In addition, we have reported studies showing that WNT signaling pathways may be antagonized by PPARγ activation via the expression of different families of WNT inhibitors and through its direct interaction with β-catenin. In this review, we summarize the existing knowledge on WNT and PPARγ signaling and their interplay during the osteochondrogenic differentiation of VSMC in VC. Finally, we discuss knowledge gaps on this interplay and its possible clinical impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Reinhold
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Cardiovascular Research Institute (CARIM), Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands; (S.R.); (W.M.B.)
| | - W. Matthijs Blankesteijn
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Cardiovascular Research Institute (CARIM), Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands; (S.R.); (W.M.B.)
| | - Sébastien Foulquier
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Cardiovascular Research Institute (CARIM), Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands; (S.R.); (W.M.B.)
- Department of Neurology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-433881409
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Liu S, Xu DS, Li M, Zhang Y, Li Q, Li TT, Ren LQ. Icariin attenuates endothelial-mesenchymal transition via H19/miR-148b-3p/ELF5 in ox-LDL-stimulated HUVECs. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2020; 23:464-475. [PMID: 33510936 PMCID: PMC7809175 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2020.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is the main cause of cardio-cerebrovascular diseases. Endothelial-mesenchymal transition plays an important role in atherosclerosis. Icariin has a protective effect on atherosclerosis; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we explored the molecular mechanism underlying the protective function of icariin in oxidized low-density lipoprotein-stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells. H19, a long non-coding RNA, was identified to be downregulated in the background of the oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced endothelial-mesenchymal transition in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Icariin upregulated H19 expression and inhibited the transformation of endothelial cells into interstitial cells. Overexpression of H19 affected endothelial-mesenchymal transition in oxidized low-density lipoprotein-stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells, whereas H19 knockdown reversed endothelial protective effects of icariin and reduced human umbilical vein endothelial cell migration. Knockdown of H19 significantly downregulated oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced E74-like factor 5 and upregulated miR-148b-3p, which was reversed by icariin. Thus, icariin may play a protective role in atherosclerosis, and H19 may be a potential therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shan Liu
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Xu
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Qi Li
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China.,The Third Hospital Affiliated of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou 121000, Liaoning, China
| | - Teng-Teng Li
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Li-Qun Ren
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Bruijn LE, van den Akker BEWM, van Rhijn CM, Hamming JF, Lindeman JHN. Extreme Diversity of the Human Vascular Mesenchymal Cell Landscape. J Am Heart Assoc 2020; 9:e017094. [PMID: 33190596 PMCID: PMC7763765 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.017094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Human mesenchymal cells are culprit factors in vascular (patho)physiology and are hallmarked by phenotypic and functional heterogeneity. At present, they are subdivided by classic umbrella terms, such as "fibroblasts," "myofibroblasts," "smooth muscle cells," "fibrocytes," "mesangial cells," and "pericytes." However, a discriminative marker-based subclassification has to date not been established. Methods and Results As a first effort toward a classification scheme, a systematic literature search was performed to identify the most commonly used phenotypical and functional protein markers for characterizing and classifying vascular mesenchymal cell subpopulation(s). We next applied immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence to inventory the expression pattern of identified markers on human aorta specimens representing early, intermediate, and end stages of human atherosclerotic disease. Included markers comprise markers for mesenchymal lineage (vimentin, FSP-1 [fibroblast-specific protein-1]/S100A4, cluster of differentiation (CD) 90/thymocyte differentiation antigen 1, and FAP [fibroblast activation protein]), contractile/non-contractile phenotype (α-smooth muscle actin, smooth muscle myosin heavy chain, and nonmuscle myosin heavy chain), and auxiliary contractile markers (h1-Calponin, h-Caldesmon, Desmin, SM22α [smooth muscle protein 22α], non-muscle myosin heavy chain, smooth muscle myosin heavy chain, Smoothelin-B, α-Tropomyosin, and Telokin) or adhesion proteins (Paxillin and Vinculin). Vimentin classified as the most inclusive lineage marker. Subset markers did not separate along classic lines of smooth muscle cell, myofibroblast, or fibroblast, but showed clear temporal and spatial diversity. Strong indications were found for presence of stem cells/Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal cell Transition and fibrocytes in specific aspects of the human atherosclerotic process. Conclusions This systematic evaluation shows a highly diverse and dynamic landscape for the human vascular mesenchymal cell population that is not captured by the classic nomenclature. Our observations stress the need for a consensus multiparameter subclass designation along the lines of the cluster of differentiation classification for leucocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura E. Bruijn
- Division of Vascular SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenthe Netherlands
| | | | - Connie M. van Rhijn
- Division of Vascular SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenthe Netherlands
| | - Jaap F. Hamming
- Division of Vascular SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenthe Netherlands
| | - Jan H. N. Lindeman
- Division of Vascular SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenthe Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Zhang Z, Ge L, Zhang S, Wang J, Jiang W, Xin Q, Luan Y. The protective effects of MSC-EXO against pulmonary hypertension through regulating Wnt5a/BMP signalling pathway. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:13938-13948. [PMID: 33090702 PMCID: PMC7754064 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to explore the mechanism of mesenchymal stem cell‐derived exosomes (MSC‐EXO) to protect against experimentally induced pulmonary hypertension (PH). Monocrotaline (MCT)‐induced rat model of PH was successfully established by a single intraperitoneal injection of 50 mg/kg MCT, 3 weeks later the animals were treated with MSC‐EXO via tail vein injection. Post‐operation, our results showed that MSC‐EXO could significantly reduce right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) and the right ventricular hypertrophy index, attenuate pulmonary vascular remodelling and lung fibrosis in vivo. In vitro experiment, the hypoxia models of pulmonary artery endothelial cell (PAEC) and pulmonary vascular smooth muscle cell (PASMC) were used. We found that the expression levels of Wnt5a, Wnt11, BMPR2, BMP4 and BMP9 were increased, but β‐catenin, cyclin D1 and TGF‐β1 were decreased in MSC‐EXO group as compared with MCT or hypoxia group in vivo or vitro. However, these increased could be blocked when cells were transfected with Wnt5a siRNA in vitro. Taken together, these results suggested that the mechanism of MSC‐EXO to prevent PH vascular remodelling may be via regulation of Wnt5a/BMP signalling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohua Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - LiLi Ge
- The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Department of Cardiac Ultrasound, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shanshan Zhang
- Department of Emergency, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jue Wang
- Central Research Laboratory, Institute of Medical Science, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Wen Jiang
- Central Research Laboratory, Institute of Medical Science, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Qian Xin
- Central Research Laboratory, Institute of Medical Science, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yun Luan
- Central Research Laboratory, Institute of Medical Science, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Liu Y, Neogi A, Mani A. The role of Wnt signalling in development of coronary artery disease and its risk factors. Open Biol 2020; 10:200128. [PMID: 33081636 PMCID: PMC7653355 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [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: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The Wnt signalling pathways are composed of a highly conserved cascade of events that govern cell differentiation, apoptosis and cell orientation. Three major and distinct Wnt signalling pathways have been characterized: the canonical Wnt pathway (or Wnt/β-catenin pathway), the non-canonical planar cell polarity pathway and the non-canonical Wnt/Ca2+ pathway. Altered Wnt signalling pathway has been associated with diverse diseases such as disorders of bone density, different malignancies, cardiac malformations and heart failure. Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease in the United States. Atherosclerosis is a multi-step pathological process, which starts with lipid deposition and endothelial cell dysfunction, triggering inflammatory reactions, followed by recruitment and aggregation of monocytes. Subsequently, monocytes differentiate into tissue-resident macrophages and transform into foam cells by the uptake of modified low-density lipoprotein. Meanwhile, further accumulations of lipids, infiltration and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells, and deposition of the extracellular matrix occur under the intima. An atheromatous plaque or hyperplasia of the intima and media is eventually formed, resulting in luminal narrowing and reduced blood flow to the myocardium, leading to chest pain, angina and even myocardial infarction. The Wnt pathway participates in all different stages of this process, from endothelial dysfunction to lipid deposit, and from initial inflammation to plaque formation. Here, we focus on the role of Wnt cascade in pathophysiological mechanisms that take part in coronary artery disease from both clinical and experimental perspectives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya Liu
- Department of Cardiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Arpita Neogi
- Yale Cardiovascular Genetics Program, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Arya Mani
- Yale Cardiovascular Genetics Program, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Cianciolo G, La Manna G, Capelli I, Gasperoni L, Galassi A, Ciceri P, Cozzolino M. The role of activin: the other side of chronic kidney disease-mineral bone disorder? Nephrol Dial Transplant 2020; 36:966-974. [PMID: 32940690 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfaa203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease-mineral bone disorder (CKD-MBD) plays a pivotal role in the excess of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality associated with CKD. There is now a growing awareness that pathways involved in CKD-MBD, like canonical Wnt signalling, are activated from the earliest stages of CKD, playing a role in the development of adynamic bone disease with unknown consequences on vasculature. These changes occur before the classic changes in mineral metabolism: secondary hyperparathyroidism, calcitriol deficiency and hyperphosphataemia. Furthermore, vascular calcification is frequently associated and evolves with decreased bone mineral density and deranged bone turnover, while bone and arterial mineralization share common pathways. Therefore, results of clinical trials focused on mineral bone disorder, aimed at preserving bone and cardiovascular health, are considered unsatisfactory. In order to identify more effective therapeutic strategies, it is necessary to clarify the pathways modulating the cross-talk between bone and vasculature and identify new mediators involved in the pathogenesis of CKD-MBD. Much attention has been paid recently to the role of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily members in renal disease, and in particular of activin A (ActA). Preclinical studies demonstrate an upgrade of ActA signalling in kidney, skeleton, vasculature and heart during CKD. This supports the idea that an endocrine factor produced in the kidney during renal disease, in addition to promoting the progression of kidney damage, deranges other organs' homoeostasis and participates in CKD-MBD. In this review, we analyse the contribution of ActA to kidney fibrosis and inflammation as well as its role in the development of CKD-MBD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Cianciolo
- Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplant Unit, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gaetano La Manna
- Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplant Unit, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Irene Capelli
- Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplant Unit, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Gasperoni
- Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplant Unit, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Galassi
- Department of Health Sciences, Renal Division, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Ciceri
- Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Renal Transplant, Renal Research Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Mario Cozzolino
- Department of Health Sciences, Renal Division, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Cheng W, Li X, Liu D, Cui C, Wang X. Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition: Role in Cardiac Fibrosis. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther 2020; 26:3-11. [PMID: 32851865 DOI: 10.1177/1074248420952233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is a complex biological process by which endothelial cells lose their endothelial cell characteristics and acquire mesenchymal cell properties under certain physiological or pathological conditions. Recently, it has been found that EndMT plays an important role in the occurrence and development of fibrotic cardiovascular diseases. In this review, we first summarize the main induction pathways involved in EndMT process. In addition, we discuss the role of EndMT in fibrotic cardiovascular diseases and its potential implication in new therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weijia Cheng
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, 91593Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Xiao Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, 91593Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Dongling Liu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, 91593Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Chaochu Cui
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, 91593Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Xianwei Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, 91593Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Hulshoff MS, Del Monte-Nieto G, Kovacic J, Krenning G. Non-coding RNA in endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Cardiovasc Res 2020; 115:1716-1731. [PMID: 31504268 PMCID: PMC6755356 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvz211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is the process wherein endothelial cells lose their typical endothelial cell markers and functions and adopt a mesenchymal-like phenotype. EndMT is required for development of the cardiac valves, the pulmonary and dorsal aorta, and arterial maturation, but activation of the EndMT programme during adulthood is believed to contribute to several pathologies including organ fibrosis, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Non-coding RNAs, including microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs, modulate EndMT during development and disease. Here, we review the mechanisms by which non-coding RNAs facilitate or inhibit EndMT during development and disease and provide a perspective on the therapeutic application of non-coding RNAs to treat fibroproliferative cardiovascular disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie S Hulshoff
- Laboratory for Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen, The Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, University Medical Center of Göttingen, Georg-August University, Göttingen, Germany.,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site, Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Jason Kovacic
- Dept. Cardiology, Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Guido Krenning
- Laboratory for Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Wang Y, Negri S, Li Z, Xu J, Hsu CY, Peault B, Broderick K, James AW. Anti-DKK1 Enhances the Early Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Adipose-Derived Stem/Stromal Cells. Stem Cells Dev 2020; 29:1007-1015. [PMID: 32460636 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2020.0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Adipose-derived stem/stromal cells (ASCs) have been previously used for bone repair. However, significant cell heterogeneity exists within the ASC population, which has the potential to result in unreliable bone tissue formation and/or low efficacy. Although the use of cell sorting to lower cell heterogeneity is one method to improve bone formation, this is a technically sophisticated and costly process. In this study, we tried to find a simpler and more deployable solution-blocking antiosteogenic molecule Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) to improve osteogenic differentiation. Human adipose-derived stem cells were derived from = 5 samples of human lipoaspirate. In vitro, anti-DKK1 treatment, but not anti-sclerostin (SOST), promoted ASC osteogenic differentiation, assessed by alizarin red staining and real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Increased canonical Wnt signaling was confirmed after anti-DKK1 treatment. Expression levels of DKK1 peaked during early osteogenic differentiation (day 3). Concordantly, anti-DKK1 supplemented early (day 3 or before), but not later (day 7) during osteogenic differentiation positively regulated osteoblast formation. Finally, anti-DKK1 led to increased transcript abundance of the Wnt inhibitor SOST, potentially representing a compensatory cellular mechanism. In sum, DKK1 represents a targetable "molecular brake" on the osteogenic differentiation of human ASC. Moreover, release of this brake by neutralizing anti-DKK1 antibody treatment at least partially rescues the poor bone-forming efficacy of ASC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiyun Wang
- Department of Pathology and Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Stefano Negri
- Department of Pathology and Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Zhao Li
- Department of Pathology and Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jiajia Xu
- Department of Pathology and Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ching-Yun Hsu
- Department of Pathology and Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Bruno Peault
- UCLA and Orthopaedic Hospital Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Center for Cardiovascular Science and MRC Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Kristen Broderick
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Aaron W James
- Department of Pathology and Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,UCLA and Orthopaedic Hospital Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Lung amylacea-corporea and microlithiasis: Paraneoplasia-related microscopy lesions? Pathol Res Pract 2020; 216:153027. [PMID: 32703492 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2020.153027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
34
|
Kuipers AL, Miljkovic I, Barinas-Mitchell E, Nestlerode CS, Cvejkus RK, Wheeler VW, Zhang Y, Zmuda JM. Wnt Pathway Gene Expression Is Associated With Arterial Stiffness. J Am Heart Assoc 2020; 9:e014170. [PMID: 32013702 PMCID: PMC7033870 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.119.014170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background Animal and in vitro experiments implicate the Wnt pathway in cardiac development, fibrosis, vascular calcification, and atherosclerosis, but research in humans is lacking. We examined peripheral blood Wnt pathway gene expression and arterial stiffness in 369 healthy African ancestry men (mean age, 64 years). Methods and Results Gene expression was assessed using a custom Nanostring nCounter gene expression panel (N=43 genes) and normalized to housekeeping genes and background signal. Arterial stiffness was assessed via brachial‐ankle pulse‐wave velocity. Fourteen Wnt genes showed detectable expression and were tested individually as predictors of pulse‐wave velocity using linear regression, adjusting for age, height, weight, blood pressure, medication use, resting heart rate, current smoking, alcohol intake, and sedentary lifestyle. Adenomatous polyposis coli regulator of Wnt signaling pathway (APC), glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3B), and transcription factor 4 (TCF4) were significantly associated with arterial stiffness (P<0.05 for all). When entered into a single model, APC and TCF4 expression remained independently associated with arterial stiffness (P=0.04 and 0.003, respectively), and each explained ≈3% of the variance in pulse‐wave velocity. Conclusions The current study establishes a novel association between in vivo expression of the Wnt pathway genes, APC and TCF4, with arterial stiffness in African ancestry men, a population at high risk of hypertensive vascular disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Iva Miljkovic
- Department of Epidemiology University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh PA
| | | | | | - Ryan K Cvejkus
- Department of Epidemiology University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh PA
| | | | - Yingze Zhang
- Department of Medicine University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh PA
| | - Joseph M Zmuda
- Department of Epidemiology University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh PA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Gene Expression Profiles Induced by a Novel Selective Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor α Modulator (SPPARMα) Pemafibrate. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20225682. [PMID: 31766193 PMCID: PMC6888257 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20225682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pemafibrate is the first clinically-available selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α modulator (SPPARMα) that has been shown to effectively improve hypertriglyceridemia and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels. Global gene expression analysis reveals that the activation of PPARα by pemafibrate induces fatty acid (FA) uptake, binding, and mitochondrial or peroxisomal oxidation as well as ketogenesis in mouse liver. Pemafibrate most profoundly induces HMGCS2 and PDK4, which regulate the rate-limiting step of ketogenesis and glucose oxidation, respectively, compared to other fatty acid metabolic genes in human hepatocytes. This suggests that PPARα plays a crucial role in nutrient flux in the human liver. Additionally, pemafibrate induces clinically favorable genes, such as ABCA1, FGF21, and VLDLR. Furthermore, pemafibrate shows anti-inflammatory effects in vascular endothelial cells. Pemafibrate is predicted to exhibit beneficial effects in patients with atherogenic dyslipidemia and diabetic microvascular complications.
Collapse
|
36
|
Evenepoel P, Opdebeeck B, David K, D'Haese PC. Bone-Vascular Axis in Chronic Kidney Disease. Adv Chronic Kidney Dis 2019; 26:472-483. [PMID: 31831125 DOI: 10.1053/j.ackd.2019.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at increased risk of osteoporosis and vascular calcification. Bone demineralization and vascular mineralization go often hand in hand in CKD, similar to as in the general population. This contradictory association is independent of aging and is commonly referred to as the "calcification paradox" or the bone-vascular axis. Various common risk factors and mechanisms have been identified. Alternatively, calcifying vessels may release circulating factors that affect bone metabolism, while bone disease may infer conditions that favor vascular calcification. The present review focuses on emerging concepts and major mechanisms involved in the bone-vascular axis in the setting of CKD. A better understanding of these concepts and mechanisms may identify therapeutics able to target and exert beneficial effects on bone and vasculature simultaneously.
Collapse
|
37
|
Smith ER, Hewitson TD, Holt SG. Diagnostic Tests for Vascular Calcification. Adv Chronic Kidney Dis 2019; 26:445-463. [PMID: 31831123 DOI: 10.1053/j.ackd.2019.07.001] [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: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Vascular calcification (VC) is the heterogeneous endpoint of multiple vascular insults, which varies by arterial bed, the layer of the arterial wall affected, and is propagated by diverse cellular and biochemical mechanisms. A variety of in vivo and ex vivo techniques have been applied to the analysis of VC in preclinical studies, but clinical examination has principally relied on a number of noninvasive and invasive imaging modalities for detection and quantitation. Most imaging methods suffer from suboptimal spatial resolution, leading to the inability to distinguish medial from intimal VC and insufficient sensitivity to detect microcalcifications that are indicative of active mineral deposition and of vulnerable plaques which may be prone to rupture. Serum biomarkers lack specificity for VC and cannot discriminate pathology. Overall, uncertainties surrounding the sensitivity and specificity of different VC testing modalities, the absence of a clear cause-effect relationship, and lack of any evidence-based diagnostic or therapeutic protocols in relation to VC testing in chronic kidney disease has yielded weak or ungraded recommendations for their use in clinical practice. While VC is recognized as a key manifestation of chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder and those with an increasing burden of VC are considered to be at higher cardiovascular risk, routine screening is not currently recommended.
Collapse
|
38
|
Henry TW, Mendoza FA, Jimenez SA. Role of microRNA in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis tissue fibrosis and vasculopathy. Autoimmun Rev 2019; 18:102396. [PMID: 31520794 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2019.102396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) pathogenesis involves multiple immunological, vascular and fibroproliferative abnormalities that contribute to a severe and complex clinical picture. Vasculopathy and fibroproliferative alterations are two hallmark pathological processes in SSc that are responsible for the most severe clinical manifestations of the disease and determine its clinical outcome and mortality. However, the pathogenesis of SSc vasculopathy and of the uncontrolled SSc fibrotic process remain incompletely understood. Recent investigations into the molecular pathways involved in these processes have identified an important role for epigenetic processes that contribute to overall disease progression and have emphasized microRNAs (miRNAs) as crucial epigenetic regulators. MiRNAs hold unique potential for elucidating SSc pathogenesis, improving diagnosis and developing effective targeted therapies for the disease. This review examines the important role that miRNAs play in the development and regulation of vascular and fibroproliferative alterations associated with SSc pathogenesis and their possible participation in the establishment of pathogenetic connections between these two processes. This review also emphasizes that further understanding of the involvement of miRNA in SSc fibrosis and vasculopathy will very likely provide novel future research directions and allow for the identification of groundbreaking therapeutic interventions within these processes. MiR-21, miR- 31, and miR-155 are of particular interest owing to their important involvement in both SSc vasculopathy and fibroproliferative alterations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tyler W Henry
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia 19107, USA; Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, USA
| | - Fabian A Mendoza
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, USA; Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, USA
| | - Sergio A Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
Clinical and preclinical studies over the past 3 decades have uncovered a multitude of signaling pathways involved in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. From these studies, signaling by proteins of the Wnt family has recently emerged as an important player in the development of atherosclerosis. Wnt signaling is characterized by a large number of ligands, receptors, and coreceptors and can be regulated at many different levels. Among Wnt modulators, the evolutionary conserved Dkk (Dickkopf) proteins, and especially Dkk-1, the founding member of the family, are the best characterized. The role of Dkks in the pathophysiology of the arterial wall is only partially understood, but their involvement in atherosclerosis is becoming increasingly evident. This review introduces recent key findings on Dkk proteins and their functions in atherosclerosis and discusses the potential importance of modulating Dkk signaling as part of a novel, improved strategy for preventing and treating atherosclerosis-related diseases.
Visual Overview—
An online visual overview is available for this article.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Baetta
- From the Centro Cardiologico Monzino, IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Cristina Banfi
- From the Centro Cardiologico Monzino, IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Liang L, Tu Y, Lu J, Wang P, Guo Z, Wang Q, Guo K, Lan R, Li H, Liu P. Dkk1 exacerbates doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity by inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. J Cell Sci 2019; 132:jcs.228478. [PMID: 31028181 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.228478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The cancer clinical therapy of doxorubicin (Dox) treatment is limited by its life-threatening cardiotoxic effects. Dickkopf-1 (Dkk1), the founding and best-studied member of the Dkk family, functions as an antagonist of canonical Wnt/β-catenin. Dkk1 is considered to play a broad role in a variety of biological processes, but its effects on Dox-induced cardiomyopathy are poorly understood. Here, we found that the level of Dkk1 was significantly increased in Dox-treated groups, and this increase exacerbated Dox-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction. Overexpressing Dkk1 aggravated Dox-induced cardiotoxicity in H9C2 cells. Similar results were detected when adding active Dkk1 protein extracellularly. Conversely, adding specific antibody blocking extracellular Dkk1 attenuated the cardiotoxic response to Dox. Adenovirus encoding Dkk1 was transduced through intramyocardial injection and exacerbated Dox-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis, mitochondrial damage and heart injury in vivo Furthermore, Wnt/β-catenin signaling was inhibited during Dox-induced cardiotoxicity, and the re-activation of β-catenin prevented the effect of overexpressed Dkk1 and Dox-induced cardiotoxicity. In conclusion, these results reveal the crucial role of the Dkk1-Wnt/β-catenin signaling axis in the process of Dox-induced cardiotoxicity and provide novel insights into the potential mechanism of cardiomyopathy caused by clinical application of Dox.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liying Liang
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Yalin Tu
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Jing Lu
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Panxia Wang
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Zhen Guo
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Kaiteng Guo
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Rui Lan
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Hong Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, P. R. China
| | - Peiqing Liu
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Piera-Velazquez S, Jimenez SA. Endothelial to Mesenchymal Transition: Role in Physiology and in the Pathogenesis of Human Diseases. Physiol Rev 2019; 99:1281-1324. [PMID: 30864875 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00021.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 308] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have demonstrated that endothelial cells are capable of undergoing endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT), a newly recognized type of cellular transdifferentiation. EndMT is a complex biological process in which endothelial cells adopt a mesenchymal phenotype displaying typical mesenchymal cell morphology and functions, including the acquisition of cellular motility and contractile properties. Endothelial cells undergoing EndMT lose the expression of endothelial cell-specific proteins such as CD31/platelet-endothelial cell adhesion molecule, von Willebrand factor, and vascular-endothelial cadherin and initiate the expression of mesenchymal cell-specific genes and the production of their encoded proteins including α-smooth muscle actin, extra domain A fibronectin, N-cadherin, vimentin, fibroblast specific protein-1, also known as S100A4 protein, and fibrillar type I and type III collagens. Transforming growth factor-β1 is considered the main EndMT inducer. However, EndMT involves numerous molecular and signaling pathways that are triggered and modulated by multiple and often redundant mechanisms depending on the specific cellular context and on the physiological or pathological status of the cells. EndMT participates in highly important embryonic development processes, as well as in the pathogenesis of numerous genetically determined and acquired human diseases including malignant, vascular, inflammatory, and fibrotic disorders. Despite intensive investigation, many aspects of EndMT remain to be elucidated. The identification of molecules and regulatory pathways involved in EndMT and the discovery of specific EndMT inhibitors should provide novel therapeutic approaches for various human disorders mediated by EndMT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonsoles Piera-Velazquez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sergio A Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Xu M, Shaw G, Murphy M, Barry F. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Are Functionally and Genetically Different From Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells. Stem Cells 2019; 37:754-765. [PMID: 30779868 PMCID: PMC6591688 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
There has been considerable interest in the generation of functional mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) preparations from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and this is now regarded as a potential source of unlimited, standardized, high‐quality cells for therapeutic applications in regenerative medicine. Although iMSCs meet minimal criteria for defining MSCs in terms of marker expression, there are substantial differences in terms of trilineage potential, specifically a marked reduction in chondrogenic and adipogenic propensity in iMSCs compared with bone marrow‐derived (BM) MSCs. To reveal the cellular basis underlying these differences, we conducted phenotypic, functional, and genetic comparisons between iMSCs and BM‐MSCs. We found that iMSCs express very high levels of both KDR and MSX2 compared with BM‐MSCs. In addition, BM‐MSCs had significantly higher levels of PDGFRα. These distinct gene expression profiles were maintained during culture expansion, suggesting that prepared iMSCs are more closely related to vascular progenitor cells (VPCs). Although VPCs can differentiate along the chondrogenic, osteogenic, and adipogenic pathways, they require different inductive conditions compared with BM‐MSCs. These observations suggest to us that iMSCs, based on current widely used preparation protocols, do not represent a true alternative to primary MSCs isolated from BM. Furthermore, this study highlights the fact that high levels of expression of typical MSC markers such as CD73, CD90, and CD105 are insufficient to distinguish MSCs from other mesodermal progenitors in differentiated induced pluripotent stem cell cultures. stem cells2019;37:754–765
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maojia Xu
- The Regenerative Medicine Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Georgina Shaw
- The Regenerative Medicine Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Mary Murphy
- The Regenerative Medicine Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Frank Barry
- The Regenerative Medicine Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Hao YM, Yuan HQ, Ren Z, Qu SL, Liu LS, Dang-HengWei, Yin K, Fu M, Jiang ZS. Endothelial to mesenchymal transition in atherosclerotic vascular remodeling. Clin Chim Acta 2018; 490:34-38. [PMID: 30571947 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2018.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Revised: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial cells are the main components of the heart, blood vessels, and lymphatic vessels, which play an important role in regulating the physiological functions of the cardiovascular system. Endothelial dysfunction is involved in a variety of acute and chronic cardiovascular diseases. As a special type of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), endothelium to mesenchymal transition (EndMT) regulates the transformation of endothelial cells into mesenchymal cells accompanied by changes in the expression of various transcription factors and cytokines, which is closely related to vascular endothelial injury, vascular remodeling, myocardial fibrosis and valvar disease. Endothelial cells undergoing EndMT lose their endothelial characteristics and undergo a transition toward a more mesenchymal-like phenotype. However, the molecular mechanism of EndMT remains unclear. EndMT, as a type of endothelial dysfunction, can cause vascular remodeling which is a major determinant of atherosclerotic luminal area. Therefore, exploring the important signaling pathways in the process of EndMT may provide novel therapeutic strategies for treating atherosclerotic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Meng Hao
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerosis of Hunan Province, University of South, Hengyang City, Hunan Province 421001, PR China
| | - Hou-Qin Yuan
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerosis of Hunan Province, University of South, Hengyang City, Hunan Province 421001, PR China
| | - Zhong Ren
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerosis of Hunan Province, University of South, Hengyang City, Hunan Province 421001, PR China
| | - Shun-Lin Qu
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerosis of Hunan Province, University of South, Hengyang City, Hunan Province 421001, PR China
| | - Lu-Shan Liu
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerosis of Hunan Province, University of South, Hengyang City, Hunan Province 421001, PR China
| | - Dang-HengWei
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerosis of Hunan Province, University of South, Hengyang City, Hunan Province 421001, PR China
| | - Kai Yin
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerosis of Hunan Province, University of South, Hengyang City, Hunan Province 421001, PR China; Research Lab of Translational Medicine, Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, PR China
| | - Mingui Fu
- Department of Biomedical Science, Shock/Trauma Research Center, School of Medicine, University of Missouri Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Zhi-Sheng Jiang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerosis of Hunan Province, University of South, Hengyang City, Hunan Province 421001, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Pontremoli M, Brioschi M, Baetta R, Ghilardi S, Banfi C. Identification of DKK-1 as a novel mediator of statin effects in human endothelial cells. Sci Rep 2018; 8:16671. [PMID: 30420710 PMCID: PMC6232108 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-35119-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study shows that DKK-1, a member of the Dickkopf family and a regulator of the Wnt pathways, represents a novel target of statins which, through the inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase and of non-steroidal isoprenoid intermediates, exert extra-beneficial effect in preventing atherosclerosis beyond their effect on the lipid profile. We found that atorvastatin downregulates DKK-1 protein (−88.3 ± 4.1%) and mRNA expression (−90 ± 4.2%) through the inhibition of Cdc42, Rho and Rac geranylgeranylated proteins. Further, a combined approach based on the integration of label-free quantitative mass spectrometry based-proteomics and gene silencing allowed us to demonstrate that DKK-1 itself mediates, at least in part, statin effects on human endothelial cells. Indeed, DKK-1 is responsible for the regulation of the 21% of the statin-modulated proteins, which include, among others, clusterin/apoJ, plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1), myristoylated alanine-rich C-kinase substrate (MARCKS), and pentraxin 3 (PTX3). The Gene Ontology enrichment annotation revealed that DKK-1 is also a potential mediator of the extracellular matrix organization, platelet activation and response to wounding processes induced by statin. Finally, we found that plasma level of DKK-1 from cholesterol-fed rabbits treated with atorvastatin (2.5 mg/kg/day for 8 weeks) was lower (−42 ± 23%) than that of control animals. Thus, DKK-1 is not only a target of statin but it directly regulates the expression of molecules involved in a plethora of biological functions, thus expanding its role, which has been so far restricted mainly to cancer.
Collapse
|
45
|
Appelman-Dijkstra NM, Papapoulos SE. Clinical advantages and disadvantages of anabolic bone therapies targeting the WNT pathway. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2018; 14:605-623. [PMID: 30181608 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-018-0087-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The WNT signalling pathway is a key regulator of bone metabolism, particularly bone formation, which has helped to define the role of osteocytes - the most abundant bone cells - as orchestrators of bone remodelling. Several molecules involved in the control of the WNT signalling pathway have been identified as potential targets for the development of bone-building therapeutics for patients with osteoporosis. Several of these molecules have been investigated in animal models, but only inhibitors of sclerostin (which is produced by osteocytes) have been investigated in phase III clinical studies. Here, we review the rationale for these developments and the specificity and potential off-target actions of WNT-based therapeutics. We also describe the available preclinical and clinical studies and discuss the benefits and risks of using sclerostin inhibitors for the management of patients with osteoporosis.
Collapse
|
46
|
Helmke A, Casper J, Nordlohne J, David S, Haller H, Zeisberg EM, Vietinghoff S. Endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition shapes the atherosclerotic plaque and modulates macrophage function. FASEB J 2018; 33:2278-2289. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.201801238r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Helmke
- Division of Nephrology and HypertensionDepartment of Internal MedicineHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Janis Casper
- Division of Nephrology and HypertensionDepartment of Internal MedicineHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Johannes Nordlohne
- Division of Nephrology and HypertensionDepartment of Internal MedicineHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Sascha David
- Division of Nephrology and HypertensionDepartment of Internal MedicineHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Hermann Haller
- Division of Nephrology and HypertensionDepartment of Internal MedicineHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Elisabeth M. Zeisberg
- Department of Cardiology and PneumologyUniversity Medical Center of GöttingenGöttingenGermany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK)Partner Site GöttingenGöttingenGermany
| | - Sibylle Vietinghoff
- Division of Nephrology and HypertensionDepartment of Internal MedicineHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Lin L, Liang L, Yang X, Sun H, Li Y, Pei D, Zheng H. The homeobox transcription factor MSX2 partially mediates the effects of bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) on somatic cell reprogramming. J Biol Chem 2018; 293:14905-14915. [PMID: 30097516 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra118.003913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) induce mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) and enhance the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). However, BMPs are also signaling molecules critical for arresting reprogramming in the pre-iPSC state. In this study, using mouse embryonic fibroblasts, we found that the time- and concentration-dependent effects of BMPs on reprogramming are mediated by Msh homeobox 2 (MSX2), a homeobox-containing transcription factor. BMPs up-regulated Msx2 by activating SMAD1/5, and MSX2 then directly bound to the promoters and up-regulated the expression of the cadherin 1 (Cdh1, also known as E-cadherin), GATA-binding protein 3 (Gata3), and Nanog genes. Cdh1 contributed to BMP4- and MSX2-induced MET and subsequently promoted reprogramming. On the other hand, GATA3 promoted reprogramming, possibly by up-regulating Spalt-like transcription factor 4 (SALL4) expression. As key transcriptional factors in maintaining pluripotency, up-regulation of SALL4 and NANOG enhanced reprogramming. Moreover, the ability of MSX2 to up-regulate Cdh1, Gata3, Nanog, and Sall4 was further potentiated in the presence of Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4). However, MSX2 did not mediate the effects of BMP4 signaling on activation of the microRNAs miR-205 and miR-200 or the inhibitory effects that arrested reprogramming in the pre-iPSC state. In conclusion, MSX2 partially mediates the effects of BMP4 signaling during reprogramming, improving our understanding of the role of BMP signaling in MET and of the connection between cell lineage specifiers such as MSX2 and GATA3 and pluripotency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lilong Lin
- From the Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China.,the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou 510530, China.,the Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health-Guangdong Laboratory (GRMH-GDL), Guangzhou 510530, China, and.,the Institutes for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Lining Liang
- From the Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China.,the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou 510530, China.,the Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health-Guangdong Laboratory (GRMH-GDL), Guangzhou 510530, China, and.,the Institutes for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- From the Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China.,the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou 510530, China.,the Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health-Guangdong Laboratory (GRMH-GDL), Guangzhou 510530, China, and.,the Institutes for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Hao Sun
- From the Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China.,the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou 510530, China.,the Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health-Guangdong Laboratory (GRMH-GDL), Guangzhou 510530, China, and
| | - Yuan Li
- From the Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China.,the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou 510530, China.,the Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health-Guangdong Laboratory (GRMH-GDL), Guangzhou 510530, China, and
| | - Duanqing Pei
- From the Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China.,the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou 510530, China.,the Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health-Guangdong Laboratory (GRMH-GDL), Guangzhou 510530, China, and
| | - Hui Zheng
- From the Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China, .,the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou 510530, China.,the Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health-Guangdong Laboratory (GRMH-GDL), Guangzhou 510530, China, and.,the Institutes for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Fuery MA, Liang L, Kaplan FS, Mohler ER. Vascular ossification: Pathology, mechanisms, and clinical implications. Bone 2018; 109:28-34. [PMID: 28688892 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2017.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Revised: 07/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, the mechanisms and clinical significance of vascular calcification have been increasingly investigated. For over a century, however, pathologists have recognized that vascular calcification is a form of heterotopic ossification. In this review, we aim to describe the pathology and molecular processes of vascular ossification, to characterize its clinical significance and treatment options, and to elucidate areas that require further investigation. The molecular mechanisms of vascular ossification involve the activation of regulators including bone morphogenic proteins and chondrogenic transcription factors and the loss of mineralization inhibitors like fetuin-A and pyrophosphate. Although few studies have examined the gross pathology of vascular ossification, the presence of these molecular regulators and evidence of microfractures and cartilage have been demonstrated on heart valves and atherosclerotic plaques. These changes are often triggered by common inflammatory and metabolic disorders like diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and chronic kidney disease. The increasing prevalence of these diseases warrants further research into the clinical significance of vascular ossification and future treatment options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Fuery
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Division, Section of Vascular Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Lusha Liang
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Division, Section of Vascular Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Frederick S Kaplan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Emile R Mohler
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Division, Section of Vascular Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Souilhol C, Harmsen MC, Evans PC, Krenning G. Endothelial–mesenchymal transition in atherosclerosis. Cardiovasc Res 2018; 114:565-577. [DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvx253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Celine Souilhol
- Department of Infection, Immunity & Cardiovascular Disease (IICD), Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Martin C Harmsen
- Laboratory for Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul C Evans
- Department of Infection, Immunity & Cardiovascular Disease (IICD), Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Guido Krenning
- Laboratory for Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Cardoso L, Weinbaum S. Microcalcifications, Their Genesis, Growth, and Biomechanical Stability in Fibrous Cap Rupture. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1097:129-155. [PMID: 30315543 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-96445-4_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
For many decades, cardiovascular calcification has been considered as a passive process, accompanying atheroma progression, correlated with plaque burden, and apparently without a major role on plaque vulnerability. Clinical and pathological analyses have previously focused on the total amount of calcification (calcified area in a whole atheroma cross section) and whether more calcification means higher risk of plaque rupture or not. However, this paradigm has been changing in the last decade or so. Recent research has focused on the presence of microcalcifications (μCalcs) in the atheroma and more importantly on whether clusters of μCalcs are located in the cap of the atheroma. While the vast majority of μCalcs are found in the lipid pool or necrotic core, they are inconsequential to vulnerable plaque. Nevertheless, it has been shown that μCalcs located within the fibrous cap could be numerous and that they behave as an intensifier of the background circumferential stress in the cap. It is now known that such intensifying effect depends on the size and shape of the μCalc as well as the proximity between two or more μCalcs. If μCalcs are located in caps with very low background stress, the increase in stress concentration may not be sufficient to reach the rupture threshold. However, the presence of μCalc(s) in the cap with a background stress of about one fifth to one half the rupture threshold (a stable plaque) will produce a significant increase in local stress, which may exceed the cap rupture threshold and thus transform a non-vulnerable plaque into a vulnerable one. Also, the classic view that treats cardiovascular calcification as a passive process has been challenged, and emerging data suggest that cardiovascular calcification may encompass both passive and active processes. The passive calcification process comprises biochemical factors, specifically circulating nucleating complexes, which would lead to calcification of the atheroma. The active mechanism of atherosclerotic calcification is a cell-mediated process via cell death of macrophages and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and/or the release of matrix vesicles by SMCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis Cardoso
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The City College of New York, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Sheldon Weinbaum
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The City College of New York, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|