1
|
Davis MJ, Earley S, Li YS, Chien S. Vascular mechanotransduction. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:1247-1421. [PMID: 36603156 PMCID: PMC9942936 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00053.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This review aims to survey the current state of mechanotransduction in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs), including their sensing of mechanical stimuli and transduction of mechanical signals that result in the acute functional modulation and longer-term transcriptomic and epigenetic regulation of blood vessels. The mechanosensors discussed include ion channels, plasma membrane-associated structures and receptors, and junction proteins. The mechanosignaling pathways presented include the cytoskeleton, integrins, extracellular matrix, and intracellular signaling molecules. These are followed by discussions on mechanical regulation of transcriptome and epigenetics, relevance of mechanotransduction to health and disease, and interactions between VSMCs and ECs. Throughout this review, we offer suggestions for specific topics that require further understanding. In the closing section on conclusions and perspectives, we summarize what is known and point out the need to treat the vasculature as a system, including not only VSMCs and ECs but also the extracellular matrix and other types of cells such as resident macrophages and pericytes, so that we can fully understand the physiology and pathophysiology of the blood vessel as a whole, thus enhancing the comprehension, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of vascular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Davis
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Scott Earley
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada
| | - Yi-Shuan Li
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, California
- Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Shu Chien
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, California
- Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rachubik P, Rogacka D, Audzeyenka I, Szrejder M, Topolewska A, Rychłowski M, Piwkowska A. The Role of PKGIα and AMPK Signaling Interplay in the Regulation of Albumin Permeability in Cultured Rat Podocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043952. [PMID: 36835364 PMCID: PMC9964913 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The permeability of the glomerular filtration barrier (GFB) is mainly regulated by podocytes and their foot processes. Protein kinase G type Iα (PKGIα) and adenosine monophosphate-dependent kinase (AMPK) affect the contractile apparatus of podocytes and influence the permeability of the GFB. Therefore, we studied the interplay between PKGIα and AMPK in cultured rat podocytes. The glomerular permeability to albumin and transmembrane FITC-albumin flux decreased in the presence of AMPK activators and increased in the presence of PKG activators. The knockdown of PKGIα or AMPK with small-interfering RNA (siRNA) revealed a mutual interaction between PKGIα and AMPK and influenced podocyte permeability to albumin. Moreover, PKGIα siRNA activated the AMPK-dependent signaling pathway. AMPKα2 siRNA increased basal levels of phosphorylated myosin phosphate target subunit 1 and decreased the phosphorylation of myosin light chain 2. Podocytes that were treated with AMPK or PKG activators were characterized by the different organization of actin filaments within the cell. Our findings suggest that mutual interactions between PKGIα and AMPKα2 regulate the contractile apparatus and permeability of the podocyte monolayer to albumin. Understanding this newly identified molecular mechanism in podocytes provides further insights into the pathogenesis of glomerular disease and novel therapeutic targets for glomerulopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Rachubik
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Nephrology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wita Stwosza 63 St., 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-585235486
| | - Dorota Rogacka
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Nephrology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wita Stwosza 63 St., 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 63 St., 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Irena Audzeyenka
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Nephrology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wita Stwosza 63 St., 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 63 St., 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Maria Szrejder
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Nephrology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wita Stwosza 63 St., 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Anna Topolewska
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Nephrology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wita Stwosza 63 St., 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 63 St., 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Michał Rychłowski
- Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk, Medical University of Gdansk, Abrahama 58 St., 80-307 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Piwkowska
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Nephrology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wita Stwosza 63 St., 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 63 St., 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Deng Z, Zhang Y, Zhang Q, Li X, Zeng W, Jun C, Yuan D. Function of connexin 43 and RhoA/LIMK2/Cofilin signaling pathway in transient changes of contraction and dilation of human umbilical arterial smooth muscle cells. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2022; 153:106326. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2022.106326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
4
|
Pütz S, Barthel LS, Frohn M, Metzler D, Barham M, Pryymachuk G, Trunschke O, Lubomirov LT, Hescheler J, Chalovich JM, Neiss WF, Koch M, Schroeter MM, Pfitzer G. Caldesmon ablation in mice causes umbilical herniation and alters contractility of fetal urinary bladder smooth muscle. J Gen Physiol 2021; 153:212279. [PMID: 34115104 PMCID: PMC8203487 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202012776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The actin-, myosin-, and calmodulin-binding protein caldesmon (CaD) is expressed in two splice isoforms: h-CaD, which is an integral part of the actomyosin domain of smooth muscle cells, and l-CaD, which is widely expressed and is involved in many cellular functions. Despite extensive research for many years, CaD's in vivo function has remained elusive. To explore the role of CaD in smooth muscle contraction in vivo, we generated a mutant allele that ablates both isoforms. Heterozygous animals were viable and had a normal life span, but homozygous mutants died perinatally, likely because of a persistent umbilical hernia. The herniation was associated with hypoplastic and dysmorphic abdominal wall muscles. We assessed mechanical parameters in isometrically mounted longitudinal strips of E18.5 urinary bladders and in ring preparations from abdominal aorta using wire myography. Ca2+ sensitivity was higher and relaxation rate was slower in Cald1−/− compared with Cald1+/+ skinned bladder strips. However, we observed no change in the content and phosphorylation of regulatory proteins of the contractile apparatus and myosin isoforms known to affect these contractile parameters. Intact fibers showed no difference in actin and myosin content, regardless of genotype, although KCl-induced force tended to be lower in homozygous and higher in heterozygous mutants than in WTs. Conversely, in skinned fibers, myosin content and maximal force were significantly lower in Cald1−/− than in WTs. In KO abdominal aortas, resting and U46619 elicited force were lower than in WTs. Our results are consistent with the notion that CaD impacts smooth muscle function dually by (1) acting as a molecular brake on contraction and (2) maintaining the structural integrity of the contractile machinery. Most importantly, CaD is essential for resolution of the physiological umbilical hernia and ventral body wall closure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Pütz
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Lisa Sophie Barthel
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Marina Frohn
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Doris Metzler
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mohammed Barham
- Institute of Anatomy I, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Galyna Pryymachuk
- Institute of Anatomy I, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Oliver Trunschke
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Lubomir T Lubomirov
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jürgen Hescheler
- Institute of Neurophysiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Joseph M Chalovich
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC
| | - Wolfram F Neiss
- Institute of Anatomy I, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Manuel Koch
- Institute for Dental Research and Oral Musculoskeletal Biology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mechthild M Schroeter
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gabriele Pfitzer
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology, Center of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Rodríguez C, Muñoz M, Contreras C, Prieto D. AMPK, metabolism, and vascular function. FEBS J 2021; 288:3746-3771. [PMID: 33825330 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a cellular energy sensor activated during energy stress that plays a key role in maintaining energy homeostasis. This ubiquitous signaling pathway has been implicated in multiple functions including mitochondrial biogenesis, redox regulation, cell growth and proliferation, cell autophagy and inflammation. The protective role of AMPK in cardiovascular function and the involvement of dysfunctional AMPK in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease have been highlighted in recent years. In this review, we summarize and discuss the role of AMPK in the regulation of blood flow in response to metabolic demand and the basis of the AMPK physiological anticontractile, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiatherogenic actions in the vascular system. Investigations by others and us have demonstrated the key role of vascular AMPK in the regulation of endothelial function, redox homeostasis, and inflammation, in addition to its protective role in the hypoxia and ischemia/reperfusion injury. The pathophysiological implications of AMPK involvement in vascular function with regard to the vascular complications of metabolic disease and the therapeutic potential of AMPK activators are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Rodríguez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Muñoz
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Contreras
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Dolores Prieto
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ren W, Zhao W, Cao L, Huang J. Involvement of the Actin Machinery in Programmed Cell Death. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:634849. [PMID: 33634110 PMCID: PMC7900405 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.634849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Programmed cell death (PCD) depicts a genetically encoded and an orderly mode of cellular mortality. When triggered by internal or external stimuli, cells initiate PCDs through evolutionary conserved regulatory mechanisms. Actin, as a multifunctional cytoskeleton protein that forms microfilament, its integrity and dynamics are essential for a variety of cellular processes (e.g., morphogenesis, membrane blebbing and intracellular transport). Decades of work have broadened our knowledge about different types of PCDs and their distinguished signaling pathways. However, an ever-increasing pool of evidences indicate that the delicate relationship between PCDs and the actin cytoskeleton is beginning to be elucidated. The purpose of this article is to review the current understanding of the relationships between different PCDs and the actin machinery (actin, actin-binding proteins and proteins involved in different actin signaling pathways), in the hope that this attempt can shed light on ensuing studies and the development of new therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weida Ren
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wanyu Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lingbo Cao
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junqi Huang
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Rogacka D, Audzeyenka I, Piwkowska A. Regulation of podocytes function by AMP-activated protein kinase. Arch Biochem Biophys 2020; 692:108541. [PMID: 32781053 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2020.108541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Podocytes are unique, highly specialized, terminally differentiated cells that form an essential, integral part of the glomerular filter. These cells limit the outside border of the glomerular basement membrane, forming a tight barrier that prevents significant protein loss from the capillary space. The slit diaphragm formed by podocytes is crucial for maintaining glomerular integrity and function. They are the target of injury in many glomerular diseases, including hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Accumulating studies have revealed that AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), an essential cellular energy sensor, might play a fundamental role in regulating podocyte metabolism and function. AMPK participates in insulin signaling, therefore controls glucose uptake and podocytes insulin sensitivity. It is also involved in insulin-dependent cytoskeleton reorganization in podocytes, mediating glomerular albumin permeability. AMPK plays an important role in the regulation of autophagy/apoptosis processes, which influence podocytes viability. The present review aimed to highlight the molecular mechanisms associated with AMPK that are involved in the regulation of podocyte function in health and disease states.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dorota Rogacka
- Mossakowski Medical Research Centre Polish Academy of Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Nephrology, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland; University of Gdansk, Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland.
| | - Irena Audzeyenka
- Mossakowski Medical Research Centre Polish Academy of Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Nephrology, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland; University of Gdansk, Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Piwkowska
- Mossakowski Medical Research Centre Polish Academy of Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Nephrology, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland; University of Gdansk, Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Angé M, Castanares-Zapatero D, De Poortere J, Dufeys C, Courtoy GE, Bouzin C, Quarck R, Bertrand L, Beauloye C, Horman S. α1AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Protects against Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Endothelial Barrier Disruption via Junctional Reinforcement and Activation of the p38 MAPK/HSP27 Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155581. [PMID: 32759774 PMCID: PMC7432762 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular hyperpermeability is a determinant factor in the pathophysiology of sepsis. While, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is known to play a role in maintaining endothelial barrier function in this condition. Therefore, we investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms of this protective effect. α1AMPK expression and/or activity was modulated in human dermal microvascular endothelial cells using either α1AMPK-targeting small interfering RNA or the direct pharmacological AMPK activator 991, prior to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment. Western blotting was used to analyze the expression and/or phosphorylation of proteins that compose cellular junctions (zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-Cad), connexin 43 (Cx43)) or that regulate actin cytoskeleton (p38 MAPK; heat shock protein 27 (HSP27)). Functional endothelial permeability was assessed by in vitro Transwell assays, and quantification of cellular junctions in the plasma membrane was assessed by immunofluorescence. Actin cytoskeleton remodeling was evaluated through actin fluorescent staining. We consequently demonstrate that α1AMPK deficiency is associated with reduced expression of CX43, ZO-1, and VE-Cad, and that the drastic loss of CX43 is likely responsible for the subsequent decreased expression and localization of ZO-1 and VE-Cad in the plasma membrane. Moreover, α1AMPK activation by 991 protects against LPS-induced endothelial barrier disruption by reinforcing cortical actin cytoskeleton. This is due to a mechanism that involves the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and HSP27, which is nonetheless independent of the small GTPase Rac1. This results in a drastic decrease of LPS-induced hyperpermeability. We conclude that α1AMPK activators that are suitable for clinical use may provide a specific therapeutic intervention that limits sepsis-induced vascular leakage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marine Angé
- Pôle de Recherche Cardiovasculaire (CARD), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (M.A.); (D.C.-Z.); (J.D.P.); (C.D.); (L.B.); (C.B.)
| | - Diego Castanares-Zapatero
- Pôle de Recherche Cardiovasculaire (CARD), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (M.A.); (D.C.-Z.); (J.D.P.); (C.D.); (L.B.); (C.B.)
- Division of Intensive Care, Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Julien De Poortere
- Pôle de Recherche Cardiovasculaire (CARD), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (M.A.); (D.C.-Z.); (J.D.P.); (C.D.); (L.B.); (C.B.)
| | - Cécile Dufeys
- Pôle de Recherche Cardiovasculaire (CARD), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (M.A.); (D.C.-Z.); (J.D.P.); (C.D.); (L.B.); (C.B.)
| | - Guillaume E. Courtoy
- IREC Imaging Platform, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (G.E.C.); (C.B.)
| | - Caroline Bouzin
- IREC Imaging Platform, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (G.E.C.); (C.B.)
| | - Rozenn Quarck
- Department of Chronic Diseases & Metabolism (CHROMETA), Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases & Thoracic Surgery (BREATHE), KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Luc Bertrand
- Pôle de Recherche Cardiovasculaire (CARD), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (M.A.); (D.C.-Z.); (J.D.P.); (C.D.); (L.B.); (C.B.)
| | - Christophe Beauloye
- Pôle de Recherche Cardiovasculaire (CARD), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (M.A.); (D.C.-Z.); (J.D.P.); (C.D.); (L.B.); (C.B.)
- Division of Cardiology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sandrine Horman
- Pôle de Recherche Cardiovasculaire (CARD), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (M.A.); (D.C.-Z.); (J.D.P.); (C.D.); (L.B.); (C.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +32-2-764-55-66
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Stanisic J, Ivkovic T, Romic S, Zec M, Culafic T, Stojiljkovic M, Koricanac G. Beneficial effect of walnuts on vascular tone is associated with Akt signalling, voltage-dependent calcium channel LTCC and ATP-sensitive potassium channel Kv1.2. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2020; 72:324-334. [PMID: 32693647 DOI: 10.1080/09637486.2020.1796931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Consumption of walnuts is beneficial for cardiovascular health. To study walnut effects on proteins involved in vascular tone regulation, control and fructose-fed rats were subjected to walnut diet for 6 weeks. In contrast with increased energy intake and body mass gain, aortic protein level of L-type calcium channel alpha subunit was decreased and the level of SUR2B subunit of ATP-sensitive K + channel was increased in healthy rats subjected to walnuts, together with improved Akt phosphorylation. Upon the walnut diet in rats subjected to fructose overload, the rise in energy intake and body mass gain, was followed by an increase in blood insulin. Although SUR2B level was elevated, the level of sodium-calcium exchanger NCX1 and inducible nitric oxide synthase were reduced and increased, respectively. In summary, walnut consumption was accompanied with moderate beneficial vascular effect in healthy rats, while an effect of walnut in rats with metabolic disturbances was rather controversial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Stanisic
- Laboratory for Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade
| | - Tamara Ivkovic
- Laboratory for Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade
| | - Snjezana Romic
- Laboratory for Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade
| | - Manja Zec
- Centre of Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism Research, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade
| | - Tijana Culafic
- Laboratory for Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade
| | - Mojca Stojiljkovic
- Laboratory for Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade
| | - Goran Koricanac
- Laboratory for Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
The influence of hypoxia and energy depletion on the response of endothelial cells to the vascular disrupting agent combretastatin A-4-phosphate. Sci Rep 2020; 10:9926. [PMID: 32555222 PMCID: PMC7303175 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-66568-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Combretastatin A-4 phosphate (CA4P) is a microtubule-disrupting tumour-selective vascular disrupting agent (VDA). CA4P activates the actin-regulating RhoA-GTPase/ ROCK pathway, which is required for full vascular disruption. While hypoxia renders tumours resistant to many conventional therapies, little is known about its influence on VDA activity. Here, we found that active RhoA and ROCK effector phospho-myosin light chain (pMLC) were downregulated in endothelial cells by severe hypoxia. CA4P failed to activate RhoA/ROCK/pMLC but its activity was restored upon reoxygenation. Hypoxia also inhibited CA4P-mediated actinomyosin contractility, VE-cadherin junction disruption and permeability rise. Glucose withdrawal downregulated pMLC, and coupled with hypoxia, reduced pMLC faster and more profoundly than hypoxia alone. Concurrent inhibition of glycolysis (2-deoxy-D-glucose, 2DG) and mitochondrial respiration (rotenone) caused profound actin filament loss, blocked RhoA/ROCK signalling and rendered microtubules CA4P-resistant. Withdrawal of the metabolism inhibitors restored the cytoskeleton and CA4P activity. The AMP-activated kinase AMPK was investigated as a potential mediator of pMLC downregulation. Pharmacological AMPK activators that generate AMP, unlike allosteric activators, downregulated pMLC but only when combined with 2DG and/or rotenone. Altogether, our results suggest that Rho/ROCK and actinomyosin contractility are regulated by AMP/ATP levels independently of AMPK, and point to hypoxia/energy depletion as potential modifiers of CA4P response.
Collapse
|
11
|
Pillai-Kastoori L, Schutz-Geschwender AR, Harford JA. A systematic approach to quantitative Western blot analysis. Anal Biochem 2020; 593:113608. [PMID: 32007473 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2020.113608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Attaining true quantitative data from WB requires that all the players involved in the procedure are quality controlled including the user. Appropriate protein extraction method, electrophoresis, and transfer of proteins, immunodetection of blotted protein by antibodies, and the ultimate step of imaging and analyzing the data is nothing short of a symphony. Like with any other technology in life-sciences research, Western blotting can produce erroneous and irreproducible data. We provide a systematic approach to generate quantitative data from Western blot experiments that incorporates critical validation steps to identify and minimize sources of error and variability throughout the Western blot process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jeff A Harford
- LI-COR Biosciences, 4647 Superior Street, Lincoln, NE, 68504, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chen H, Vanhoutte PM, Leung SWS. Vascular adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase: Enhancer, brake or both? Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2019; 127:81-91. [PMID: 31671245 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), expressed/present ubiquitously in the body, contributes to metabolic regulation. In the vasculature, activation of AMPK is associated with several beneficial biological effects including enhancement of vasodilatation, reduction of oxidative stress and inhibition of inflammatory reactions. The vascular protective effects of certain anti-diabetic (metformin and sitagliptin) or lipid-lowering (simvastatin and fenofibrate) therapeutic agents, of active components of Chinese medicinal herbs (resveratrol and berberine) and of pharmacological agents (AICAR, A769662 and PT1) have been attributed to the activation of AMPK (in endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells and/or perivascular adipocytes), independently of changes in the metabolic profile (eg glucose tolerance and/or plasma lipoprotein levels), leading to improved endothelium-derived nitric oxide-mediated vasodilatation and attenuated endothelium-derived cyclooxygenase-dependent vasoconstriction. By contrast, endothelial AMPK activation with pharmacological agents or by genetic modification is associated with reduced endothelium-dependent relaxations in small blood vessels and elevated systolic blood pressure. Indeed, AMPK activators inhibit endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization (EDH)-type relaxations in superior mesenteric arteries, partly by inhibiting endothelial calcium-activated potassium channel signalling. Therefore, AMPK activation is not necessarily beneficial in terms of endothelial function. The contribution of endothelial AMPK in the regulation of vascular tone, in particular in the microvasculature where EDH plays a more important role, remains to be characterized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Paul Michel Vanhoutte
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Institute for Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Susan Wai Sum Leung
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Balcilar C, Ozakca-Gunduz I, Altan VM. Contributions of Rho-kinase and AMP-related kinase signaling pathways to responses mediated by endothelium-derived contracting factors in diabetic rat aorta. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2019; 97:600-610. [DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2018-0698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes-induced endothelial damage leads to vascular dysfunction. The current study investigated the effects of short-term (4-week) streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes on responses mediated by endothelium-derived contracting factors (EDCFs) as well as possible contributions of Rho-kinase and AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) signaling pathways. The effects of STZ-diabetes on vascular function were examined in isolated thoracic aorta preparations of 30-week-old rats (n = 27). The diabetes-associated changes in vascular function were studied with calcium ionophore A23187, acetylcholine, Rho-kinase inhibitor Y27632 ((R)-(+)-trans-4-(1-aminoethyl)-N-(4-pyridyl)cyclohexanecarboxamide dihydrochloride), and AMPK activator AICAR (5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-β-d-ribofuranoside). The phosphorylation of acetyl-CoA carboxylase, AMPK, and phospholamban and the protein levels of sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic Ca2+-ATPase 2 (SERCA2) and Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCKII) were measured in aortic preparations. Although the acetylcholine-mediated relaxation responses were preserved in 4-week STZ-induced diabetes, the increased activation of the Rho-kinase pathway was demonstrated via twofold enhancement in A23187-mediated contractile responses and significantly augmented protein levels of ROCKII. The AICAR-activated AMPK-mediated relaxation response was also augmented ∼4-fold in diabetic rats, without any alteration in phospholamban phosphorylation; further, this relaxation response suppressed A23187-mediated contraction in both groups. Diabetic rats showed an increase in AICAR-induced AMPK-mediated vasorelaxation and a 2.5-fold elevation of phosphorylated AMPK levels. These results indicate a possible compensation between hyperglycemia-induced endothelium-dependent hypercontractility and AMPK-mediated vasorelaxation in diabetes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cennet Balcilar
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Isil Ozakca-Gunduz
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - V. Melih Altan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Endothelial AMP-Activated Kinase α1 Phosphorylates eNOS on Thr495 and Decreases Endothelial NO Formation. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092753. [PMID: 30217073 PMCID: PMC6165563 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is frequently reported to phosphorylate Ser1177 of the endothelial nitric-oxide synthase (eNOS), and therefore, is linked with a relaxing effect. However, previous studies failed to consistently demonstrate a major role for AMPK on eNOS-dependent relaxation. As AMPK also phosphorylates eNOS on the inhibitory Thr495 site, this study aimed to determine the role of AMPKα1 and α2 subunits in the regulation of NO-mediated vascular relaxation. Vascular reactivity to phenylephrine and acetylcholine was assessed in aortic and carotid artery segments from mice with global (AMPKα-/-) or endothelial-specific deletion (AMPKαΔEC) of the AMPKα subunits. In control and AMPKα1-depleted human umbilical vein endothelial cells, eNOS phosphorylation on Ser1177 and Thr495 was assessed after AMPK activation with thiopental or ionomycin. Global deletion of the AMPKα1 or α2 subunit in mice did not affect vascular reactivity. The endothelial-specific deletion of the AMPKα1 subunit attenuated phenylephrine-mediated contraction in an eNOS- and endothelium-dependent manner. In in vitro studies, activation of AMPK did not alter the phosphorylation of eNOS on Ser1177, but increased its phosphorylation on Thr495. Depletion of AMPKα1 in cultured human endothelial cells decreased Thr495 phosphorylation without affecting Ser1177 phosphorylation. The results of this study indicate that AMPKα1 targets the inhibitory phosphorylation Thr495 site in the calmodulin-binding domain of eNOS to attenuate basal NO production and phenylephrine-induced vasoconstriction.
Collapse
|
15
|
Tojkander S, Ciuba K, Lappalainen P. CaMKK2 Regulates Mechanosensitive Assembly of Contractile Actin Stress Fibers. Cell Rep 2018; 24:11-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
|
16
|
Clifford PS, Ferguson BS, Jasperse JL, Hill MA. Arteriolar vasodilation involves actin depolymerization. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2018; 315:H423-H428. [PMID: 29727217 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00723.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
It is generally assumed that relaxation of arteriolar vascular smooth muscle occurs through hyperpolarization of the cell membrane, reduction in intracellular Ca2+ concentration, and activation of myosin light chain phosphatase/inactivation of myosin light chain kinase. We hypothesized that vasodilation is related to depolymerization of F-actin. Cremaster muscles were dissected in rats under pentobarbital sodium anesthesia (50 mg/kg). First-order arterioles were dissected, cannulated on glass micropipettes, pressurized, and warmed to 34°C. Internal diameter was monitored with an electronic video caliper. The concentration of G-actin was determined in flash-frozen intact segments of arterioles by ultracentrifugation and Western blot analyses. Arterioles dilated by ~40% of initial diameter in response to pinacidil (1 × 10-6 mM) and sodium nitroprusside (5 × 10-5 mM). The G-actin-to-smooth muscle 22α ratio was 0.67 ± 0.09 in arterioles with myogenic tone and increased significantly to 1.32 ± 0.34 ( P < 0.01) when arterioles were dilated with pinacidil and 1.14 ± 0.18 ( P < 0.01) with sodium nitroprusside, indicating actin depolymerization. Compared with control vessels (49 ± 5%), the percentage of phosphorylated myosin light chain was significantly reduced by pinacidil (24 ± 2%, P < 0.01) but not sodium nitroprusside (42 ± 4%). These findings suggest that actin depolymerization is an important mechanism for vasodilation of resistance arterioles to external agonists. Furthermore, pinacidil produces smooth muscle relaxation via both decreases in myosin light chain phosphorylation and actin depolymerization, whereas sodium nitroprusside produces smooth muscle relaxation primarily via actin depolymerization. NEW & NOTEWORTHY This article adds to the accumulating evidence on the contribution of the actin cytoskeleton to the regulation of vascular smooth muscle tone in resistance arterioles. Actin depolymerization appears to be an important mechanism for vasodilation of resistance arterioles to pharmacological agonists. Dilation to the K+ channel opener pinacidil is produced by decreases in myosin light chain phosphorylation and actin depolymerization, whereas dilation to the nitric oxide donor sodium nitroprusside occurs primarily via actin depolymerization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philip S Clifford
- College of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago , Chicago, Illinois
| | - Brian S Ferguson
- College of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago , Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jeffrey L Jasperse
- Department of Sports Medicine, Pepperdine University , Malibu, California
| | - Michael A Hill
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center and Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri , Columbia, Missouri
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Smith CA, Miner AS, Barbee RW, Ratz PH. Metabolic Stress-Induced Activation of AMPK and Inhibition of Constitutive Phosphoproteins Controlling Smooth Muscle Contraction: Evidence for Smooth Muscle Fatigue? Front Physiol 2017; 8:681. [PMID: 28943852 PMCID: PMC5596101 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic stress diminishes smooth muscle contractile strength by a poorly defined mechanism. To test the hypothesis that metabolic stress activates a compensatory cell signaling program to reversibly downregulate contraction, arterial rings and bladder muscle strips in vitro were deprived of O2 and glucose for 30 and 60 min (“starvation”) to induce metabolic stress, and the phosphorylation status of proteins involved in regulation of contraction and metabolic stress were assessed in tissues under basal and stimulated conditions. A 15–30 min recovery period (O2 and glucose repletion) tested whether changes induced by starvation were reversible. Starvation decreased basal phosphorylation of myosin regulatory light chain (MLC-pS19) and of the rho kinase (ROCK) downstream substrates cofilin (cofilin-pS3) and myosin phosphatase targeting subunit MYPT1 (MYPT1-pT696 and MYPT1-pT853), and abolished the ability of contractile stimuli to cause a strong, sustained contraction. Starvation increased basal phosphorylation of AMPK (AMPK-pT172) and 3 downstream AMPK substrates, acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC-pS79), rhoA (rhoA-pS188), and phospholamban (PLB-pS16). Increases in rhoA-pS188 and PLB-pS16 would be expected to inhibit contraction. Recovery restored basal AMPK-pT172 and MLC-pS19 to control levels, and restored contraction. In AMPKα2 deficient mice (AMPKα2-/-), the basal level of AMPK-pT172 was reduced by 50%, and MLC-pS19 was elevated by 50%, but AMPKα2-/- did not prevent starvation-induced contraction inhibition nor enhance recovery from starvation. These results indicate that constitutive AMPK activity participates in constitutive regulation of contractile proteins, and suggest that AMPK activation is necessary, but may not be sufficient, to cause smooth muscle contraction inhibition during metabolic stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Corey A Smith
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond, VA, United States
| | - Amy S Miner
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond, VA, United States
| | - Robert W Barbee
- Departments of Emergency Medicine and Physiology, Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond, VA, United States
| | - Paul H Ratz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond, VA, United States
| |
Collapse
|