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Han S, Xu Q, Du Y, Tang C, Cui H, Xia X, Zheng R, Sun Y, Shang H. Single-cell spatial transcriptomics in cardiovascular development, disease, and medicine. Genes Dis 2024; 11:101163. [PMID: 39224111 PMCID: PMC11367031 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.101163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) impose a significant burden worldwide. Despite the elucidation of the etiology and underlying molecular mechanisms of CVDs by numerous studies and recent discovery of effective drugs, their morbidity, disability, and mortality are still high. Therefore, precise risk stratification and effective targeted therapies for CVDs are warranted. Recent improvements in single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics have improved our understanding of the mechanisms and cells involved in cardiovascular phylogeny and CVDs. Single-cell RNA sequencing can facilitate the study of the human heart at remarkably high resolution and cellular and molecular heterogeneity. However, this technique does not provide spatial information, which is essential for understanding homeostasis and disease. Spatial transcriptomics can elucidate intracellular interactions, transcription factor distribution, cell spatial localization, and molecular profiles of mRNA and identify cell populations causing the disease and their underlying mechanisms, including cell crosstalk. Herein, we introduce the main methods of RNA-seq and spatial transcriptomics analysis and highlight the latest advances in cardiovascular research. We conclude that single-cell RNA sequencing interprets disease progression in multiple dimensions, levels, perspectives, and dynamics by combining spatial and temporal characterization of the clinical phenome with multidisciplinary techniques such as spatial transcriptomics. This aligns with the dynamic evolution of CVDs (e.g., "angina-myocardial infarction-heart failure" in coronary artery disease). The study of pathways for disease onset and mechanisms (e.g., age, sex, comorbidities) in different patient subgroups should improve disease diagnosis and risk stratification. This can facilitate precise individualized treatment of CVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songjie Han
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Qianqian Xu
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Yawen Du
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Chuwei Tang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Herong Cui
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Xiaofeng Xia
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Rui Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Yang Sun
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Hongcai Shang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
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2
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Le S, Wu J, Liu H, Du Y, Wang D, Luo J, Yang P, Ran S, Hu P, Chen M, Ye P, Xia J. Single-cell RNA sequencing identifies interferon-inducible monocytes/macrophages as a cellular target for mitigating the progression of abdominal aortic aneurysm and rupture risk. Cardiovasc Res 2024; 120:1351-1364. [PMID: 38836630 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvae117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) represents a life-threatening condition characterized by medial layer degeneration of the abdominal aorta. Nevertheless, knowledge regarding changes in regulators associated with aortic status remains incomplete. A thorough understanding of cell types and signalling pathways involved in the development and progression of AAAs is essential for the development of medical therapy. METHODS AND RESULTS We harvested specimens of the abdominal aorta with different pathological features in Angiotensin II (AngII)-infused ApoE-/- mice, conducted scRNA-seq, and identified a unique population of interferon-inducible monocytes/macrophages (IFNICs), which were amply found in the AAAs. Gene set variation analysis revealed that activation of the cytosolic DNA sensing cGAS-STING and JAK-STAT pathways promoted the secretion of type I interferons in monocytes/macrophages and differentiated them into IFNICs. We generated myeloid cell-specific deletion of Sting1 (Lyz2-Cre+/-; Sting1flox/flox) mice and performed bone marrow transplantation and found that myeloid cell-specific deletion of Sting1 or Ifnar1 significantly reduced the incidence of AAA, aortic rupture rate, and diameter of the abdominal aorta. Mechanistically, the activated pyroptosis- and inflammation-related signalling pathways, regulated by IRF7 in IFNICs, play critical roles in the developing AAAs. CONCLUSION IFNICs are a unique monocyte/macrophage subset implicated in the development of AAAs and aortic rupture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Le
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, JieFang Road 1277, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Jia Wu
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Diagnosis of Hubei Province Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, ShengLi Street 26, Wuhan 430014, China
| | - Hao Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, JieFang Road 1277, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Yifan Du
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, JieFang Road 1277, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Dashuai Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, JieFang Road 1277, Wuhan 430022, China
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No.1 East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Jingjing Luo
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, JieFang Road 1277, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Peiwen Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, JieFang Road 1277, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Shuan Ran
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, JieFang Road 1277, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Poyi Hu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, JieFang Road 1277, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Manhua Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, ShengLi Street 26, Wuhan 430014, China
| | - Ping Ye
- Department of Cardiology, Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, ShengLi Street 26, Wuhan 430014, China
| | - Jiahong Xia
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, JieFang Road 1277, Wuhan 430022, China
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3
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Perrotta M, Carnevale D. Neuroimmune modulation for targeting organ damage in hypertension and atherosclerosis. J Physiol 2024. [PMID: 39298270 DOI: 10.1113/jp284078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The brain is essential for processing and integrating sensory signals coming from peripheral tissues. Conversely, the autonomic nervous system regulated by brain centres modulates the immune responses involved in the genesis and progression of cardiovascular diseases. Understanding the pathophysiological bases of this relationship established between the brain and immune system is relevant for advancing therapies. An additional mechanism involved in the regulation of cardiovascular function is provided by the brain-mediated control of the renin-angiotensin system. In both cases, the communication is typically bidirectional and established by afferent and sensory signals collected at the level of peripheral tissues, efferent circuits, as well as of hormones. Understanding how the brain mediates the bidirectional communication and how the immune system participates in this process is object of intense investigation. This review examines key findings that support a role for these interactions in the pathogenesis of major vascular diseases that are characterized by a consistent alteration of the immune response, such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. In addition, we provide a critical appraisal of the translational implications that these discoveries have in the clinical setting where an effective management of neuroimmune and/or neuroinflammatory state might be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marialuisa Perrotta
- Research Unit of Neuro and Cardiovascular Pathophysiology, IRCCS Neuromed, Department of Angiocardioneurology and Translational Medicine, Pozzilli, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, 'Sapienza' University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Carnevale
- Research Unit of Neuro and Cardiovascular Pathophysiology, IRCCS Neuromed, Department of Angiocardioneurology and Translational Medicine, Pozzilli, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, 'Sapienza' University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Wang Y, Wang Z, Zou Y, Lin L, Qiao L. Single-Cell Time-Resolved Metabolomics and Lipidomics Reveal Apoptotic and Ferroptotic Heterogeneity during Foam Cell Formation. Anal Chem 2024; 96:14621-14629. [PMID: 39189349 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c03260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Macrophage-derived foam cells play a crucial role in plaque formation and rupture during the progression of atherosclerosis. Traditional studies have often overlooked the heterogeneity of foam cells, focusing instead on populations of cells. To address this, we have developed time-resolved, single-cell metabolomics and lipidomics approaches to explore the heterogeneity of macrophages during foam cell formation. Our dynamic metabolomic and lipidomic analyses revealed a dual regulatory axis involving inflammation and ferroptosis. Further, single-cell metabolomics and lipidomics have delineated a continuum of macrophage states, with varied susceptibilities to apoptosis and ferroptosis. Single-cell transcriptomic profiling confirmed these divergent fates, both in established cell lines and in macrophages derived from peripheral blood monocytes. This research has uncovered the complex molecular interactions that dictate these divergent cell fates, providing crucial insights into the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwen Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Zhongshan Hospital, and Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200000, China
| | - Zengyu Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Zhongshan Hospital, and Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200000, China
| | - Yunzeng Zou
- Department of Chemistry, Zhongshan Hospital, and Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200000, China
| | - Ling Lin
- Department of Chemistry, Zhongshan Hospital, and Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200000, China
| | - Liang Qiao
- Department of Chemistry, Zhongshan Hospital, and Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200000, China
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Liu Y, Wang Z, Fang L, Xu Y, Zhao B, Kang X, Zhao Y, Han J, Zhang Y, Dong E, Wang N. Deficiency of 5-HT 2B receptors alleviates atherosclerosis by regulating macrophage phenotype through inhibiting interferon signalling. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 39232850 DOI: 10.1111/bph.17315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Elevated levels of 5-HT have been correlated with coronary artery disease and cardiac events, suggesting 5-HT is a potential novel factor in the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, the underlying pathological mechanisms of the 5-HT system in atherosclerosis remain unclear. The 5-HT2B receptor (5-HT2BR), which establishes a positive feedback loop with 5-HT, has been identified as a contributor to pathophysiological processes in various vascular disorders. In this study, we investigated the immunological impact of 5-HT2BR in atherosclerosis-prone apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Plasma levels of 5-HT were measured in mice using an ELISA kit. Atherosclerotic plaque formation, macrophage infiltration and inflammatory signalling were assessed in ApoE-/- mice by employing both pharmacological inhibition and genetic deficiency of 5-HT2BR. Inflammasome activation was elucidated using peritoneal macrophages isolated from 5-HT2BR-deficient mice. KEY RESULTS An upregulation of 5-HT2BR expression was observed in the aortas of ApoE-/- mice, exhibiting a strong correlation with the presence of macrophages in plaques. Atherosclerosis was attenuated in mice through pharmacological inhibition and genetic deficiency of 5-HT2BR. Additionally, a significant reduction in atherosclerotic plaque size was achieved through bone marrow reconstitution with 5-HT2BR-deficient cells. 5-HT2BR-deficient macrophages showed attenuated interferon (IFN) signalling, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and interleukin-1β release. Moreover, macrophages primed with 5-HT2BR deficiency displayed an anti-inflammatory phenotype. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS These findings support the hypothesis that 5-HT2BR in macrophages plays a causal role in the development of atherosclerosis, revealing a novel perspective for potential therapeutic strategies in atherosclerosis-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahan Liu
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center; State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhipeng Wang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center; State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Li Fang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center; State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yaohua Xu
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center; State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Beilei Zhao
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center; State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xuya Kang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center; State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanqing Zhao
- Department of Interventional Radiology and Vascular Surgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jintao Han
- Department of Interventional Radiology and Vascular Surgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center; State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, The first affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Erdan Dong
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center; State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Department of Cardiology and Institute of Vascular Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital; Research Unit of Medical Science Research Management/Basic and Clinical Research of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Research Center for Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Qingdao Hospital (Qingdao Municipal Hospital); School of Health and Life Sciences, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Nanping Wang
- Wuhu Hospital, East China Normal University (ECNU), Wuhu, China
- East China Normal University Health Science Center, Shanghai, China
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Armstrong Suthahar SS, Nettersheim FS, Alimadadi A, Wang E, Billitti M, Resto-Trujillo N, Roy P, Hedrick CC, Ley K, Orecchioni M. Olfr2-positive macrophages originate from monocytes proliferate in situ and present a pro-inflammatory foamy-like phenotype. Cardiovasc Res 2024:cvae153. [PMID: 39229899 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvae153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Olfactory receptor 2 (Olfr2) has been identified in a minimum of 30% of vascular macrophages, and its depletion was shown to reduce atherosclerosis progression. Mononuclear phagocytes, including monocytes and macrophages within the vessel wall, are major players in atherosclerosis. Single-cell RNA sequencing studies revealed that atherosclerotic artery walls encompass several monocytes and vascular macrophages, defining at least nine distinct subsets potentially serving diverse functions in disease progression. This study investigates the functional phenotype and ontogeny of Olfr2-expressing vascular macrophages in atherosclerosis. METHODS AND RESULTS Olfr2+ macrophages rapidly increase in Apoe-/- mice's aorta when fed a Western diet (WD). Mass cytometry showed that Olfr2+ cells are clustered within the CD64 high population and enriched for CD11c and Ccr2 markers. Olfr2+ macrophages express many pro-inflammatory cytokines, including Il1b, Il6, Il12, and Il23, and chemokines, including Ccl5, Cx3cl1, Cxcl9, and Ccl22. By extracting differentially expressed genes from bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) of Olfr2+ vs. Olfr2- macrophages, we defined a signature that significantly mapped to single-cell data of plaque myeloid cells, including monocytes, subendothelial MacAir, and Trem2Gpnmb foamy macrophages. By adoptive transfer experiments, we identified that Olfr2 competent monocytes from CD45.1Apoe-/-Olfr2+/+ mice transferred into CD45.2Apoe-/-Olfr2-/- recipient mice fed WD for 12 weeks, accumulate in the atherosclerotic aorta wall already at 72 h, and differentiate in macrophages. Olfr2+ macrophages showed significantly increased BrdU incorporation compared to Olfr2- macrophages. Flow cytometry confirmed that at least 50% of aortic Olfr2+ macrophages are positive for BODIPY staining and have increased expression of both tumour necrosis factor and interleukin 6 compared to Olfr2- macrophages. Gene set enrichment analysis of the Olfr2+ macrophage signature revealed a similar enrichment pattern in human atherosclerotic plaques, particularly within foamy/TREM2hi-Mφ and monocytes. CONCLUSIONS In summary, we conclude that Olfr2+ macrophages in the aorta originate from monocytes and can accumulate at the early stages of disease progression. These cells can undergo differentiation into MacAir and Trem2Gpnmb foamy macrophages, exhibiting proliferative and pro-inflammatory potentials. This dynamic behaviour positions them as key influencers in shaping the myeloid landscape within the atherosclerotic plaque.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Felix Sebastian Nettersheim
- Division of Inflammation Biology, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, 9420 Athena Cir, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Ahmad Alimadadi
- Division of Inflammation Biology, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, 9420 Athena Cir, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, 1410 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Erpei Wang
- Division of Inflammation Biology, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, 9420 Athena Cir, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Monica Billitti
- Division of Inflammation Biology, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, 9420 Athena Cir, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Natalya Resto-Trujillo
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, 1410 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Payel Roy
- Division of Inflammation Biology, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, 9420 Athena Cir, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, 1410 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Catherine C Hedrick
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, 1410 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Department of Medicine, Augusta University, 1120 15th St BA 8412, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Klaus Ley
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, 1410 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Department of Physiology, Augusta University, 1462 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Marco Orecchioni
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, 1410 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Augusta University, 1459 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA 30901, USA
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7
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Certo M, Rahimzadeh M, Mauro C. Immunometabolism in atherosclerosis: a new understanding of an old disease. Trends Biochem Sci 2024; 49:791-803. [PMID: 38937222 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2024.06.003] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory condition, remains a leading cause of death globally, necessitating innovative approaches to target pro-atherogenic pathways. Recent advancements in the field of immunometabolism have highlighted the crucial interplay between metabolic pathways and immune cell function in atherogenic milieus. Macrophages and T cells undergo dynamic metabolic reprogramming to meet the demands of activation and differentiation, influencing plaque progression. Furthermore, metabolic intermediates intricately regulate immune cell responses and atherosclerosis development. Understanding the metabolic control of immune responses in atherosclerosis, known as athero-immunometabolism, offers new avenues for preventive and therapeutic interventions. This review elucidates the emerging intricate interplay between metabolism and immunity in atherosclerosis, underscoring the significance of metabolic enzymes and metabolites as key regulators of disease pathogenesis and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelangelo Certo
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Mahsa Rahimzadeh
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; Molecular Medicine Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Claudio Mauro
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
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8
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Khan A, Roy P, Ley K. Breaking tolerance: the autoimmune aspect of atherosclerosis. Nat Rev Immunol 2024; 24:670-679. [PMID: 38472321 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-024-01010-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arterial walls and is characterized by the accumulation of lipoproteins that are insufficiently cleared by phagocytes. Following the initiation of atherosclerosis, the pathological progression is accelerated by engagement of the adaptive immune system. Atherosclerosis triggers the breakdown of tolerance to self-components. This loss of tolerance is reflected in defective expression of immune checkpoint molecules, dysfunctional antigen presentation, and aberrations in T cell populations - most notably in regulatory T (Treg) cells - and in the production of autoantibodies. The breakdown of tolerance to self-proteins that is observed in ASCVD may be linked to the conversion of Treg cells to 'exTreg' cells because many Treg cells in ASCVD express T cell receptors that are specific for self-epitopes. Alternatively, or in addition, breakdown of tolerance may trigger the activation of naive T cells, resulting in the clonal expansion of T cell populations with pro-inflammatory and cytotoxic effector phenotypes. In this Perspective, we review the evidence that atherosclerosis is associated with a breakdown of tolerance to self-antigens, discuss possible immunological mechanisms and identify knowledge gaps to map out future research. Rational approaches aimed at re-establishing immune tolerance may become game changers in treating ASCVD and in preventing its downstream sequelae, which include heart attacks and strokes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Khan
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Payel Roy
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Klaus Ley
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.
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9
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Khan AW, Aziz M, Sourris KC, Lee MKS, Dai A, Watson AMD, Maxwell S, Sharma A, Zhou Y, Cooper ME, Calkin AC, Murphy AJ, Baratchi S, Jandeleit-Dahm KAM. The Role of Activator Protein-1 Complex in Diabetes-Associated Atherosclerosis: Insights From Single-Cell RNA Sequencing. Diabetes 2024; 73:1495-1512. [PMID: 38905153 DOI: 10.2337/db23-0167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Despite advances in treatment, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in patients with diabetes. Even when risk factors are mitigated, the disease progresses, and thus, newer targets need to be identified that directly inhibit the underlying pathobiology of atherosclerosis in diabetes. A single-cell sequencing approach was used to distinguish the proatherogenic transcriptional profile in aortic cells in diabetes using a streptozotocin-induced diabetic Apoe-/- mouse model. Human carotid endarterectomy specimens from individuals with and without diabetes were also evaluated via immunohistochemical analysis. Further mechanistic studies were performed in human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) and human THP-1-derived macrophages. We then performed a preclinical study using an activator protein-1 (AP-1) inhibitor in a diabetic Apoe-/- mouse model. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis identified the AP-1 complex as a novel target in diabetes-associated atherosclerosis. AP-1 levels were elevated in carotid endarterectomy specimens from individuals with diabetes compared with those without diabetes. AP-1 was validated as a mechanosensitive transcription factor via immunofluorescence staining for regional heterogeneity of endothelial cells of the aortic region exposed to turbulent blood flow and by performing microfluidics experiments in HAECs. AP-1 inhibition with T-5224 blunted endothelial cell activation as assessed by a monocyte adhesion assay and expression of genes relevant to endothelial function. Furthermore, AP-1 inhibition attenuated foam cell formation. Critically, treatment with T-5224 attenuated atherosclerosis development in diabetic Apoe-/- mice. This study has identified the AP-1 complex as a novel target, the inhibition of which treats the underlying pathobiology of atherosclerosis in diabetes. ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Waheed Khan
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Misbah Aziz
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Karly C Sourris
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Man K S Lee
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Aozhi Dai
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anna M D Watson
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Scott Maxwell
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Arpeeta Sharma
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ying Zhou
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark E Cooper
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anna C Calkin
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Sara Baratchi
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Karin A M Jandeleit-Dahm
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Leibniz Institute for Diabetes Research, Heinrich Heine University, Dusseldorf, Germany
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10
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He Z, Chen W, Hu K, Luo Y, Zeng W, He X, Li T, Ouyang J, Li Y, Xie L, Zhang Y, Xu Q, Yang S, Guo M, Zou W, Li Y, Huang L, Chen L, Zhang X, Saiding Q, Wang R, Zhang MR, Kong N, Xie T, Song X, Tao W. Resolvin D1 delivery to lesional macrophages using antioxidative black phosphorus nanosheets for atherosclerosis treatment. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 19:1386-1398. [PMID: 38898135 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-024-01687-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
The buildup of plaques in atherosclerosis leads to cardiovascular events, with chronic unresolved inflammation and overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) being major drivers of plaque progression. Nanotherapeutics that can resolve inflammation and scavenge ROS have the potential to treat atherosclerosis. Here we demonstrate the potential of black phosphorus nanosheets (BPNSs) as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of atherosclerosis. BPNSs can effectively scavenge a broad spectrum of ROS and suppress atherosclerosis-associated pro-inflammatory cytokine production in lesional macrophages. We also demonstrate ROS-responsive, targeted-peptide-modified BPNS-based carriers for the delivery of resolvin D1 (an inflammation-resolving lipid mediator) to lesional macrophages, which further boosts the anti-atherosclerotic efficacy. The targeted nanotherapeutics not only reduce plaque areas but also substantially improve plaque stability in high-fat-diet-fed apolipoprotein E-deficient mice. This study presents a therapeutic strategy against atherosclerosis, and highlights the potential of BPNS-based therapeutics to treat other inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongshan He
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Kuan Hu
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, Quantum Life and Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yaoyao Luo
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wanqin Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xi He
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiang Ouyang
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yongjiang Li
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lin Xie
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, Quantum Life and Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yiding Zhang
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, Quantum Life and Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan
| | - Qin Xu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shuping Yang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mengran Guo
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Zou
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanfei Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lingjing Huang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xingcai Zhang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Qimanguli Saiding
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ming-Rong Zhang
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, Quantum Life and Medical Science Directorate, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba, Japan
| | - Na Kong
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tian Xie
- College of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangrong Song
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Wei Tao
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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11
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Chen J, Liu S, Ruan Z, Wang K, Xi X, Mao J. Thrombotic events associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors and novel antithrombotic strategies to mitigate bleeding risk. Blood Rev 2024; 67:101220. [PMID: 38876840 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2024.101220] [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: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Although immunotherapy is expanding treatment options for cancer patients, the prognosis of advanced cancer remains poor, and these patients must contend with both cancers and cancer-related thrombotic events. In particular, immune checkpoint inhibitors are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerotic thrombotic events. Given the fundamental role of platelets in atherothrombosis, co-administration of antiplatelet agents is always indicated. Platelets are also involved in all steps of cancer progression. Classical antithrombotic drugs can cause inevitable hemorrhagic side effects due to blocking integrin β3 bidirectional signaling, which regulates simultaneously thrombosis and hemostasis. Meanwhile, many promising new targets are emerging with minimal bleeding risk and desirable anti-tumor effects. This review will focus on the issue of thrombosis during immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment and the role of platelet activation in cancer progression as well as explore the mechanisms by which novel antiplatelet therapies may exert both antithrombotic and antitumor effects without excessive bleeding risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Chen
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Zheng Ruan
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Kankan Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; Sino-French Research Center for Life Sciences and Genomics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
| | - Xiaodong Xi
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
| | - Jianhua Mao
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
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12
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Shamsuzzaman S, Deaton RA, Salamon A, Doviak H, Serbulea V, Milosek VM, Evans MA, Karnewar S, Saibaba S, Alencar GF, Shankman LS, Walsh K, Bekiranov S, Kocher O, Krieger M, Kull B, Persson M, Michaëlsson E, Bergenhem N, Heydarkhan-Hagvall S, Owens GK. Novel Mouse Model of Myocardial Infarction, Plaque Rupture, and Stroke Shows Improved Survival With Myeloperoxidase Inhibition. Circulation 2024; 150:687-705. [PMID: 38881440 PMCID: PMC11347105 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.123.067931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thromboembolic events, including myocardial infarction (MI) or stroke, caused by the rupture or erosion of unstable atherosclerotic plaques are the leading cause of death worldwide. Although most mouse models of atherosclerosis develop lesions in the aorta and carotid arteries, they do not develop advanced coronary artery lesions. Moreover, they do not undergo spontaneous plaque rupture with MI and stroke or do so at such a low frequency that they are not viable experimental models to study late-stage thrombotic events or to identify novel therapeutic approaches for treating atherosclerotic disease. This has stymied the development of more effective therapeutic approaches for reducing these events beyond what has been achieved with aggressive lipid lowering. Here, we describe a diet-inducible mouse model that develops widespread advanced atherosclerosis in coronary, brachiocephalic, and carotid arteries with plaque rupture, MI, and stroke. METHODS We characterized a novel mouse model with a C-terminal mutation in the scavenger receptor class B, type 1 (SR-BI), combined with Ldlr knockout (designated SR-BI∆CT/∆CT/Ldlr-/-). Mice were fed Western diet (WD) for 26 weeks and analyzed for MI and stroke. Coronary, brachiocephalic, and carotid arteries were analyzed for atherosclerotic lesions and indices of plaque stability. To validate the utility of this model, SR-BI∆CT/∆CT/Ldlr-/- mice were treated with the drug candidate AZM198, which inhibits myeloperoxidase, an enzyme produced by activated neutrophils that predicts rupture of human atherosclerotic lesions. RESULTS SR-BI∆CT/∆CT/Ldlr-/- mice show high (>80%) mortality rates after 26 weeks of WD feeding because of major adverse cardiovascular events, including spontaneous plaque rupture with MI and stroke. Moreover, WD-fed SR-BI∆CT/∆CT/Ldlr-/- mice displayed elevated circulating high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I and increased neutrophil extracellular trap formation within lesions compared with control mice. Treatment of WD-fed SR-BI∆CT/∆CT/Ldlr-/- mice with AZM198 showed remarkable benefits, including >90% improvement in survival and >60% decrease in the incidence of plaque rupture, MI, and stroke, in conjunction with decreased circulating high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I and reduced neutrophil extracellular trap formation within lesions. CONCLUSIONS WD-fed SR-BI∆CT/∆CT/Ldlr-/- mice more closely replicate late-stage clinical events of advanced human atherosclerotic disease than previous models and can be used to identify and test potential new therapeutic agents to prevent major adverse cardiac events.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Male
- Mice
- Diet, Western/adverse effects
- Disease Models, Animal
- Enzyme Inhibitors/therapeutic use
- Enzyme Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Myocardial Infarction/pathology
- Myocardial Infarction/drug therapy
- Peroxidase/metabolism
- Plaque, Atherosclerotic/drug therapy
- Receptors, LDL/genetics
- Receptors, LDL/deficiency
- Rupture, Spontaneous
- Scavenger Receptors, Class B/genetics
- Scavenger Receptors, Class B/metabolism
- Stroke/drug therapy
- Stroke/prevention & control
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohel Shamsuzzaman
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Rebecca A. Deaton
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Anita Salamon
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Heather Doviak
- Hematovascular Biology Center, Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Vlad Serbulea
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Victoria M. Milosek
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Megan A. Evans
- Hematovascular Biology Center, Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Santosh Karnewar
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Subhi Saibaba
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Program in Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Gabriel F. Alencar
- Beirne B Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Laura S. Shankman
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Kenneth Walsh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Hematovascular Biology Center, Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Stefan Bekiranov
- Hematovascular Biology Center, Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Olivier Kocher
- Department of Pathology and Center for Vascular Biology Research, Beth Israel Medical Deaconess Medical Center Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Monty Krieger
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Bengt Kull
- BioPharmaceuticals R&D Early Cardiovascular Renal and Metabolism (CVRM) Bioscience Cardiovascular, AstraZeneca, Mölndal 43183, Sweden
| | - Marie Persson
- BioPharmaceuticals R&D Early Cardiovascular Renal and Metabolism (CVRM) DMPK, AstraZeneca, Mölndal 43183, Sweden
| | - Erik Michaëlsson
- Early Clinical Development, Research and Early Development, Cardiovascular, Renal, and Metabolism, Biopharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Nils Bergenhem
- Alliance Management, Business Development & Licensing, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Waltham, MA, USA
| | - Sepideh Heydarkhan-Hagvall
- AstraZeneca R&D, Chief Medical Office, Global Patient Safety, Pepparedsleden 1, Mölndal, SE43183, Sweden
| | - Gary K. Owens
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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13
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Gerdes N, Klingenberg R. Mini-Review: Immunogenic epitopes in apolipoprotein B-100 for atheroprotective immunization. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1448664. [PMID: 39211769 PMCID: PMC11357920 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1448664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Here, we provide a concise overview of recent developments in the identification of immunogenic epitopes in human apolipoprotein B-100 for immunization against atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Major steps forward toward a clinical application of vaccines include the design of humanized mouse models, tetramer-based identification of antigen-specific T cells, and novel analysis tools, such as single-cell RNA sequencing and cytometry by time of flight, to assess temporal and spatial changes in immune cells in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norbert Gerdes
- Division of Cardiology, Pulmonology, and Vascular Medicine, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Düsseldorf (CARID), Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Roland Klingenberg
- Cardiology, Kerckhoff-Klinik, Bad Nauheim, Campus of the Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Department of Cardiology, German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine-Main, Bad Nauheim, Germany
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14
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Bloodworth N, Chen W, Hunter K, Patrick D, Palubinsky A, Phillips E, Roeth D, Kalkum M, Mallal S, Davies S, Ao M, Moretti R, Meiler J, Harrison DG. Posttranslationally modified self-peptides promote hypertension in mouse models. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e174374. [PMID: 39145457 PMCID: PMC11324298 DOI: 10.1172/jci174374] [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: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Posttranslational modifications can enhance immunogenicity of self-proteins. In several conditions, including hypertension, systemic lupus erythematosus, and heart failure, isolevuglandins (IsoLGs) are formed by lipid peroxidation and covalently bond with protein lysine residues. Here, we show that the murine class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC-I) variant H-2Db uniquely presents isoLG-modified peptides and developed a computational pipeline that identifies structural features for MHC-I accommodation of such peptides. We identified isoLG-adducted peptides from renal proteins, including sodium glucose transporter 2, cadherin 16, Kelch domain-containing protein 7A, and solute carrier family 23, that are recognized by CD8+ T cells in tissues of hypertensive mice, induce T cell proliferation in vitro, and prime hypertension after adoptive transfer. Finally, we find patterns of isoLG-adducted antigen restriction in class I human leukocyte antigens that are similar to those in murine analogs. Thus, we have used a combined computational and experimental approach to define likely antigenic peptides in hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wei Chen
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine
| | - Kuniko Hunter
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine
| | - David Patrick
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine
| | | | - Elizabeth Phillips
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Australia
- Center for Drug Safety and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Daniel Roeth
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Markus Kalkum
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Simon Mallal
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Australia
| | - Sean Davies
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine
| | - Mingfang Ao
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine
| | | | - Jens Meiler
- Center for Structural Biology, and
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Institute for Drug Discovery, Universität Leipzig Medical School, Leipzig, Germany
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15
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Annink ME, Kraaijenhof JM, Stroes ESG, Kroon J. Moving from lipids to leukocytes: inflammation and immune cells in atherosclerosis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1446758. [PMID: 39161593 PMCID: PMC11330886 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1446758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the most important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. While it is traditionally attributed to lipid accumulation in the vascular endothelium, recent research has shown that plaque inflammation is an important additional driver of atherogenesis. Though clinical outcome trials utilizing anti-inflammatory agents have proven promising in terms of reducing ASCVD risk, it is imperative to identify novel actionable targets that are more specific to atherosclerosis to mitigate adverse effects associated with systemic immune suppression. To that end, this review explores the contributions of various immune cells from the innate and adaptive immune system in promoting and mitigating atherosclerosis by integrating findings from experimental studies, high-throughput multi-omics technologies, and epidemiological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxim E. Annink
- Department of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jordan M. Kraaijenhof
- Department of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Erik S. G. Stroes
- Department of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jeffrey Kroon
- Department of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), Leuven, Belgium
- Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Atherosclerosis and Ischemic Syndromes, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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16
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Wang X, He B. Endothelial dysfunction: molecular mechanisms and clinical implications. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e651. [PMID: 39040847 PMCID: PMC11261813 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and its complications are a leading cause of death worldwide. Endothelial dysfunction plays a crucial role in the initiation and progression of CVD, serving as a pivotal factor in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular, metabolic, and other related diseases. The regulation of endothelial dysfunction is influenced by various risk factors and intricate signaling pathways, which vary depending on the specific disease context. Despite numerous research efforts aimed at elucidating the mechanisms underlying endothelial dysfunction, the precise molecular pathways involved remain incompletely understood. This review elucidates recent research findings on the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in endothelial dysfunction, including nitric oxide availability, oxidative stress, and inflammation-mediated pathways. We also discuss the impact of endothelial dysfunction on various pathological conditions, including atherosclerosis, heart failure, diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, we summarize the traditional and novel potential biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction as well as pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapeutic strategies for endothelial protection and treatment for CVD and related complications. Consequently, this review is to improve understanding of emerging biomarkers and therapeutic approaches aimed at reducing the risk of developing CVD and associated complications, as well as mitigating endothelial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Wang
- Department of CardiologyShanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Ben He
- Department of CardiologyShanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
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17
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Gergely TG, Drobni ZD, Sayour NV, Ferdinandy P, Varga ZV. Molecular fingerprints of cardiovascular toxicities of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Basic Res Cardiol 2024:10.1007/s00395-024-01068-8. [PMID: 39023770 DOI: 10.1007/s00395-024-01068-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer therapy by unleashing the power of the immune system against malignant cells. However, their use is associated with a spectrum of adverse effects, including cardiovascular complications, which can pose significant clinical challenges. Several mechanisms contribute to cardiovascular toxicity associated with ICIs. First, the dysregulation of immune checkpoints, such as cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) and its ligand (PD-L1), and molecular mimicry with cardiac autoantigens, leads to immune-related adverse events, including myocarditis and vasculitis. These events result from the aberrant activation of T cells against self-antigens within the myocardium or vascular endothelium. Second, the disruption of immune homeostasis by ICIs can lead to autoimmune-mediated inflammation of cardiac tissues, manifesting as cardiac dysfunction and heart failure, arrhythmias, or pericarditis. Furthermore, the upregulation of inflammatory cytokines, particularly tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interferon-γ, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and interleukin-17 contributes to cardiac and endothelial dysfunction, plaque destabilization, and thrombosis, exacerbating cardiovascular risk on the long term. Understanding the intricate mechanisms of cardiovascular side effects induced by ICIs is crucial for optimizing patient care and to ensure the safe and effective integration of immunotherapy into a broader range of cancer treatment protocols. The clinical implications of these mechanisms underscore the importance of vigilant monitoring and early detection of cardiovascular toxicity in patients receiving ICIs. Future use of these key pathological mediators as biomarkers may aid in prompt diagnosis of cardiotoxicity and will allow timely interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamás G Gergely
- Center for Pharmacology and Drug Research & Development, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- HCEMM-SU Cardiometabolic Immunology Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Momentum Cardio-Oncology and Cardioimmunology Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsófia D Drobni
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Nabil V Sayour
- Center for Pharmacology and Drug Research & Development, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- HCEMM-SU Cardiometabolic Immunology Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Momentum Cardio-Oncology and Cardioimmunology Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Péter Ferdinandy
- Center for Pharmacology and Drug Research & Development, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Zoltán V Varga
- Center for Pharmacology and Drug Research & Development, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
- HCEMM-SU Cardiometabolic Immunology Research Group, Budapest, Hungary.
- MTA-SE Momentum Cardio-Oncology and Cardioimmunology Research Group, Budapest, Hungary.
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18
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Verheijen FWM, Tran TNM, Chang J, Broere F, Zaal EA, Berkers CR. Deciphering metabolic crosstalk in context: lessons from inflammatory diseases. Mol Oncol 2024; 18:1759-1776. [PMID: 38275212 PMCID: PMC11223610 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13588] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolism plays a crucial role in regulating the function of immune cells in both health and disease, with altered metabolism contributing to the pathogenesis of cancer and many inflammatory diseases. The local microenvironment has a profound impact on the metabolism of immune cells. Therefore, immunological and metabolic heterogeneity as well as the spatial organization of cells in tissues should be taken into account when studying immunometabolism. Here, we highlight challenges of investigating metabolic communication. Additionally, we review the capabilities and limitations of current technologies for studying metabolism in inflamed microenvironments, including single-cell omics techniques, flow cytometry-based methods (Met-Flow, single-cell energetic metabolism by profiling translation inhibition (SCENITH)), cytometry by time of flight (CyTOF), cellular indexing of transcriptomes and epitopes by sequencing (CITE-Seq), and mass spectrometry imaging. Considering the importance of metabolism in regulating immune cells in diseased states, we also discuss the applications of metabolomics in clinical research, as well as some hurdles to overcome to implement these techniques in standard clinical practice. Finally, we provide a flowchart to assist scientists in designing effective strategies to unravel immunometabolism in disease-relevant contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenne W. M. Verheijen
- Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Department Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityThe Netherlands
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityThe Netherlands
| | - Thi N. M. Tran
- Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Department Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityThe Netherlands
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Centre for Biomolecular ResearchUtrecht UniversityThe Netherlands
| | - Jung‐Chin Chang
- Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Department Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityThe Netherlands
| | - Femke Broere
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityThe Netherlands
| | - Esther A. Zaal
- Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Department Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityThe Netherlands
| | - Celia R. Berkers
- Division of Cell Biology, Metabolism & Cancer, Department Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityThe Netherlands
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19
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Xing Y, Lin X. Challenges and advances in the management of inflammation in atherosclerosis. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00253-4. [PMID: 38909884 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.06.016] [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: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Atherosclerosis, traditionally considered a lipid-related disease, is now understood as a chronic inflammatory condition with significant global health implications. OBJECTIVES This review aims to delve into the complex interactions among immune cells, cytokines, and the inflammatory cascade in atherosclerosis, shedding light on how these elements influence both the initiation and progression of the disease. METHODS This review draws on recent clinical research to elucidate the roles of key immune cells, macrophages, T cells, endothelial cells, and clonal hematopoiesis in atherosclerosis development. It focuses on how these cells and process contribute to disease initiation and progression, particularly through inflammation-driven processes that lead to plaque formation and stabilization. Macrophages ingest oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), which partially converts to high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or accumulates as lipid droplets, forming foam cells crucial for plaque stability. Additionally, macrophages exhibit diverse phenotypes within plaques, with pro-inflammatory types predominating and others specializing in debris clearance at rupture sites. The involvement of CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells in these processes promotes inflammatory macrophage states, suppresses vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, and enhances plaque instability. RESULTS The nuanced roles of macrophages, T cells, and the related immune cells within the atherosclerotic microenvironment are explored, revealing insights into the cellular and molecular pathways that fuel inflammation. This review also addresses recent advancements in imaging and biomarker technology that enhance our understanding of disease progression. Moreover, it points out the limitations of current treatment and highlights the potential of emerging anti-inflammatory strategies, including clinical trials for agents such as p38MAPK, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and IL-1β, their preliminary outcomes, and the promising effects of canakinumab, colchicine, and IL-6R antagonists. CONCLUSION This review explores cutting-edge anti-inflammatory interventions, their potential efficacy in preventing and alleviating atherosclerosis, and the role of nanotechnology in delivering drugs more effectively and safely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Xing
- Cardiology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei City, Anhui Province, 230022, China
| | - Xianhe Lin
- Cardiology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei City, Anhui Province, 230022, China.
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20
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Xu B, Wu Q, La R, Lu L, Abdu FA, Yin G, Zhang W, Ding W, Ling Y, He Z, Che W. Is systemic inflammation a missing link between cardiometabolic index with mortality? Evidence from a large population-based study. Cardiovasc Diabetol 2024; 23:212. [PMID: 38902748 PMCID: PMC11191290 DOI: 10.1186/s12933-024-02251-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study sought to elucidate the associations of cardiometabolic index (CMI), as a metabolism-related index, with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality among the older population. Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), we further explored the potential mediating effect of inflammation within these associations. METHODS A cohort of 3029 participants aged over 65 years old, spanning six NHANES cycles from 2005 to 2016, was enrolled and assessed. The primary endpoints of the study included all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality utilizing data from National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS). Cox regression model and subgroup analysis were conducted to assess the associations of CMI with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. The mediating effect of inflammation-related indicators including leukocyte, neutrophil, lymphocyte, systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were evaluated to investigate the potential mechanism of the associations between CMI and mortality through mediation package in R 4.2.2. RESULTS The mean CMI among the enrolled participants was 0.74±0.66, with an average age of 73.28±5.50 years. After an average follow-up period of 89.20 months, there were 1,015 instances of all-cause deaths and 348 cardiovascular deaths documented. In the multivariable-adjusted model, CMI was positively related to all-cause mortality (Hazard Ratio (HR)=1.11, 95% CI=1.01-1.21). Mediation analysis indicated that leukocytes and neutrophils mediated 6.6% and 13.9% of the association of CMI with all-cause mortality. CONCLUSION Elevated CMI is positively associated with all-cause mortality in the older adults. The association appeared to be partially mediated through inflammatory pathways, indicating that CMI may serve as a valuable indicator for poor prognosis among the older population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 301 Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072, China
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Wu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizijie Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China.
- Research Institute of Clinical Medicine, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Republic of Korea.
| | - Rui La
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizijie Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lingchen Lu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Rehabilitation, Kunshan Maternity and Children's Health Care Hospital, Kunshan, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fuad A Abdu
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 301 Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Guoqing Yin
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 301 Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Wen Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 301 Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Wenquan Ding
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizijie Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yicheng Ling
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizijie Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhiyuan He
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizijie Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenliang Che
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 301 Yanchang Road, Shanghai, 200072, China.
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21
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Ya X, Ma L, Li H, Ge P, Zheng Z, Mou S, Liu C, Zhang Y, Wang R, Zhang Q, Ye X, Zhang D, Zhao J. Exploring the relationship between hemodynamics and the immune microenvironment in carotid atherosclerosis: Insights from CFD and CyTOF technologies. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2024:271678X241251976. [PMID: 38833561 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x241251976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Carotid atherosclerosis is a major cause of stroke. Hemodynamic forces, such as shear stress and oscillatory shear, play an important role in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. The alteration of the immune microenvironment is the fundamental pathological mechanism by which diverse external environmental factors impact the formation and progression of plaques. However, Current research on the relationship between hemodynamics and immunity in atherosclerosis still lack of comprehensive understanding. In this study, we combined computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and Mass cytometry (CyTOF) technologies to explore the changes in the immune microenvironment within plaques under different hemodynamic conditions. Our results indicated that neutrophils were enriched in adverse flow environments. M2-like CD163+CD86+ macrophages were predominantly enriched in high WSS and low OSI environments, while CD163-CD14+ macrophages were enriched in low WSS and high OSI environments. Functional analysis further revealed T cell pro-inflammatory activation and dysregulation in modulation, along with an imbalance in M1-like/M2-like macrophages, suggesting their potential involvement in the progression of atherosclerotic lesions mediated by adverse flow patterns. Our study elucidated the potential mechanisms by which hemodynamics regulated the immune microenvironment within plaques, providing intervention targets for future precision therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Ya
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Long Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Peicong Ge
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiyao Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Siqi Mou
- Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chenglong Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Rong Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Xun Ye
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Dong Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Jizong Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
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22
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de Jong MJM, Depuydt MAC, Schaftenaar FH, Liu K, Maters D, Wezel A, Smeets HJ, Kuiper J, Bot I, van Gisbergen K, Slütter B. Resident Memory T Cells in the Atherosclerotic Lesion Associate With Reduced Macrophage Content and Increased Lesion Stability. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2024; 44:1318-1329. [PMID: 38634281 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.123.320511] [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: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tissue resident memory T (TRM) cells are a T-cell subset that resides at the site of prior antigen recognition to protect the body against reoccurring encounters. Besides their protective function, TRM cells have also been implicated in inflammatory disorders. TRM cells are characterized by the expression of CD69 and transcription factors Hobit (homolog of Blimp-1 [B lymphocyte-induced maturation protein 1] in T cells) and Blimp-1. As the majority of T cells in the arterial intima expresses CD69, TRM cells may contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis as well. Here, we aimed to assess the presence and potential role of TRM cells in atherosclerosis. METHODS To identify TRM cells in human atherosclerotic lesions, a single-cell RNA-sequencing data set was interrogated, and T-cell phenotypes were compared with that of integrated predefined TRM cells. The presence and phenotype of TRM in atherosclerotic lesions was corroborated using a mouse model that enabled tracking of Hobit-expressing TRM cells. To explore the function of TRM cells during atherogenesis, RAG1-/- (recombination activating gene 1 deficient) LDLr-/- (low-density lipoprotein receptor knockout) mice received a bone marrow transplant from HobitKO/CREBlimp-1flox/flox mice, which exhibit abrogated TRM cell formation, whereafter the mice were fed a Western-type diet for 10 weeks. RESULTS Human atherosclerotic lesions contained T cells that exhibited a TRM cell-associated gene signature. Moreover, a fraction of these T cells clustered together with predefined TRM cells upon integration. The presence of Hobit-expressing TRM cells in the atherosclerotic lesion was confirmed in mice. These lesion-derived TRM cells were characterized by the expression of CD69 and CD49α. Moreover, we demonstrated that this small T-cell subset significantly affects lesion composition, by reducing the amount of intralesional macrophages and increasing collagen content. CONCLUSIONS TRM cells, characterized by the expression of CD69 and CD49α, constitute a minor population in atherosclerotic lesions and are associated with increased lesion stability in a Hobit and Blimp-1 knockout mouse model.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Atherosclerosis/pathology
- Atherosclerosis/immunology
- Atherosclerosis/metabolism
- Atherosclerosis/genetics
- Humans
- Memory T Cells/immunology
- Memory T Cells/metabolism
- Macrophages/metabolism
- Macrophages/immunology
- Macrophages/pathology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Immunologic Memory
- Receptors, LDL/genetics
- Receptors, LDL/deficiency
- Plaque, Atherosclerotic
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice
- Male
- Mice, Knockout
- Antigens, Differentiation, T-Lymphocyte/metabolism
- Antigens, Differentiation, T-Lymphocyte/genetics
- Lectins, C-Type/metabolism
- Lectins, C-Type/genetics
- Phenotype
- Female
- Antigens, CD/metabolism
- Antigens, CD/genetics
- Aortic Diseases/pathology
- Aortic Diseases/immunology
- Aortic Diseases/genetics
- Aortic Diseases/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Maaike J M de Jong
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
| | - Marie A C Depuydt
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
| | - Frank H Schaftenaar
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
| | - Kun Liu
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
| | - David Maters
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
| | - Anouk Wezel
- Department of Surgery, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands (A.W., H.J.S.)
| | - Harm J Smeets
- Department of Surgery, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands (A.W., H.J.S.)
| | - Johan Kuiper
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
| | - Ilze Bot
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
| | - Klaas van Gisbergen
- van Gisbergen Lab, Tissue Immunity, Champalimaud Research, Lisbon, Portugal (K.v.G.)
| | - Bram Slütter
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
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23
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van Blokland IV, Oelen R, Groot HE, Benjamins JW, Pekayvaz K, Losert C, Knottenberg V, Heinig M, Nicolai L, Stark K, van der Harst P, Franke L, van der Wijst MG. Single-Cell Dissection of the Immune Response After Acute Myocardial Infarction. CIRCULATION. GENOMIC AND PRECISION MEDICINE 2024; 17:e004374. [PMID: 38752343 PMCID: PMC11188632 DOI: 10.1161/circgen.123.004374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The immune system's role in ST-segment-elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) remains poorly characterized but is an important driver of recurrent cardiovascular events. While anti-inflammatory drugs show promise in reducing recurrence risk, their broad immune system impairment may induce severe side effects. To overcome these challenges, a nuanced understanding of the immune response to STEMI is needed. METHODS For this, we compared peripheral blood mononuclear single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) and plasma protein expression over time (hospital admission, 24 hours, and 6-8 weeks post-STEMI) in 38 patients and 38 controls (95 995 diseased and 33 878 control peripheral blood mononuclear cells). RESULTS Compared with controls, classical monocytes were increased and CD56dim natural killer cells were decreased in patients with STEMI at admission and persisted until 24 hours post-STEMI. The largest gene expression changes were observed in monocytes, associating with changes in toll-like receptor, interferon, and interleukin signaling activity. Finally, a targeted cardiovascular biomarker panel revealed expression changes in 33/92 plasma proteins post-STEMI. Interestingly, interleukin-6R, MMP9 (matrix metalloproteinase-9), and LDLR (low-density lipoprotein receptor) were affected by coronary artery disease-associated genetic risk variation, disease status, and time post-STEMI, indicating the importance of considering these aspects when defining potential future therapies. CONCLUSIONS Our analyses revealed the immunologic pathways disturbed by STEMI, specifying affected cell types and disease stages. Additionally, we provide insights into patients expected to benefit most from anti-inflammatory treatments by identifying the genetic variants and disease stage at which these variants affect the outcome of these (drug-targeted) pathways. These findings advance our knowledge of the immune response post-STEMI and provide guidance for future therapeutic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene V. van Blokland
- Department of Cardiology (I.V.B., H.E.G., J.W.B.), University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
- Department of Genetics (I.V.B., R.O., L.F., M.G.P.v.d.W.), University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Roy Oelen
- Department of Genetics (I.V.B., R.O., L.F., M.G.P.v.d.W.), University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Hilde E. Groot
- Department of Cardiology (I.V.B., H.E.G., J.W.B.), University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Jan Walter Benjamins
- Department of Cardiology (I.V.B., H.E.G., J.W.B.), University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Kami Pekayvaz
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilian University, Munich, Germany (K.P., V.K., L.N., K.S.)
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research, Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany (K.P., V.K., L.N., K.S.)
| | - Corinna Losert
- Institute of Computational Biology, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany (C.L., M.H.)
- Department of Computer Science, TUM School of Computation, Information & Technology, Garching, Germany (C.L., M.H.)
| | - Viktoria Knottenberg
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilian University, Munich, Germany (K.P., V.K., L.N., K.S.)
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research, Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany (K.P., V.K., L.N., K.S.)
| | - Matthias Heinig
- Institute of Computational Biology, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany (C.L., M.H.)
- Department of Computer Science, TUM School of Computation, Information & Technology, Garching, Germany (C.L., M.H.)
- Department of Informatics, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, Munich, Germany (M.H.)
| | - Leo Nicolai
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilian University, Munich, Germany (K.P., V.K., L.N., K.S.)
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research, Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany (K.P., V.K., L.N., K.S.)
| | - Konstantin Stark
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilian University, Munich, Germany (K.P., V.K., L.N., K.S.)
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research, Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany (K.P., V.K., L.N., K.S.)
| | - Pim van der Harst
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands (P.v.d.H.)
| | - Lude Franke
- Department of Genetics (I.V.B., R.O., L.F., M.G.P.v.d.W.), University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Monique G.P. van der Wijst
- Department of Genetics (I.V.B., R.O., L.F., M.G.P.v.d.W.), University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
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24
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Chen R, Zhang H, Tang B, Luo Y, Yang Y, Zhong X, Chen S, Xu X, Huang S, Liu C. Macrophages in cardiovascular diseases: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:130. [PMID: 38816371 PMCID: PMC11139930 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01840-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The immune response holds a pivotal role in cardiovascular disease development. As multifunctional cells of the innate immune system, macrophages play an essential role in initial inflammatory response that occurs following cardiovascular injury, thereby inducing subsequent damage while also facilitating recovery. Meanwhile, the diverse phenotypes and phenotypic alterations of macrophages strongly associate with distinct types and severity of cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease, valvular disease, myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, atherosclerosis and aneurysm, which underscores the importance of investigating macrophage regulatory mechanisms within the context of specific diseases. Besides, recent strides in single-cell sequencing technologies have revealed macrophage heterogeneity, cell-cell interactions, and downstream mechanisms of therapeutic targets at a higher resolution, which brings new perspectives into macrophage-mediated mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets in cardiovascular diseases. Remarkably, myocardial fibrosis, a prevalent characteristic in most cardiac diseases, remains a formidable clinical challenge, necessitating a profound investigation into the impact of macrophages on myocardial fibrosis within the context of cardiac diseases. In this review, we systematically summarize the diverse phenotypic and functional plasticity of macrophages in regulatory mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases and unprecedented insights introduced by single-cell sequencing technologies, with a focus on different causes and characteristics of diseases, especially the relationship between inflammation and fibrosis in cardiac diseases (myocardial infarction, pressure overload, myocarditis, dilated cardiomyopathy, diabetic cardiomyopathy and cardiac aging) and the relationship between inflammation and vascular injury in vascular diseases (atherosclerosis and aneurysm). Finally, we also highlight the preclinical/clinical macrophage targeting strategies and translational implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runkai Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Laboratory of Heart Center, Heart Center, Translational Medicine Research Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 253 Industrial Avenue, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Hongrui Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Laboratory of Heart Center, Heart Center, Translational Medicine Research Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 253 Industrial Avenue, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Botao Tang
- Department of Cardiology, Laboratory of Heart Center, Heart Center, Translational Medicine Research Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 253 Industrial Avenue, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Yukun Luo
- Department of Cardiology, Laboratory of Heart Center, Heart Center, Translational Medicine Research Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 253 Industrial Avenue, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Yufei Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Laboratory of Heart Center, Heart Center, Translational Medicine Research Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 253 Industrial Avenue, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Xin Zhong
- Department of Cardiology, Laboratory of Heart Center, Heart Center, Translational Medicine Research Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 253 Industrial Avenue, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Sifei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China
| | - Xinjie Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China.
| | - Shengkang Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China.
| | - Canzhao Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Laboratory of Heart Center, Heart Center, Translational Medicine Research Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 253 Industrial Avenue, Guangzhou, 510280, China.
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Mocci G, Sukhavasi K, Örd T, Bankier S, Singha P, Arasu UT, Agbabiaje OO, Mäkinen P, Ma L, Hodonsky CJ, Aherrahrou R, Muhl L, Liu J, Gustafsson S, Byandelger B, Wang Y, Koplev S, Lendahl U, Owens GK, Leeper NJ, Pasterkamp G, Vanlandewijck M, Michoel T, Ruusalepp A, Hao K, Ylä-Herttuala S, Väli M, Järve H, Mokry M, Civelek M, Miller CJ, Kovacic JC, Kaikkonen MU, Betsholtz C, Björkegren JL. Single-Cell Gene-Regulatory Networks of Advanced Symptomatic Atherosclerosis. Circ Res 2024; 134:1405-1423. [PMID: 38639096 PMCID: PMC11122742 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.123.323184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While our understanding of the single-cell gene expression patterns underlying the transformation of vascular cell types during the progression of atherosclerosis is rapidly improving, the clinical and pathophysiological relevance of these changes remains poorly understood. METHODS Single-cell RNA sequencing data generated with SmartSeq2 (≈8000 genes/cell) in 16 588 single cells isolated during atherosclerosis progression in Ldlr-/-Apob100/100 mice with human-like plasma lipoproteins and from humans with asymptomatic and symptomatic carotid plaques was clustered into multiple subtypes. For clinical and pathophysiological context, the advanced-stage and symptomatic subtype clusters were integrated with 135 tissue-specific (atherosclerotic aortic wall, mammary artery, liver, skeletal muscle, and visceral and subcutaneous, fat) gene-regulatory networks (GRNs) inferred from 600 coronary artery disease patients in the STARNET (Stockholm-Tartu Atherosclerosis Reverse Network Engineering Task) study. RESULTS Advanced stages of atherosclerosis progression and symptomatic carotid plaques were largely characterized by 3 smooth muscle cells (SMCs), and 3 macrophage subtype clusters with extracellular matrix organization/osteogenic (SMC), and M1-type proinflammatory/Trem2-high lipid-associated (macrophage) phenotypes. Integrative analysis of these 6 clusters with STARNET revealed significant enrichments of 3 arterial wall GRNs: GRN33 (macrophage), GRN39 (SMC), and GRN122 (macrophage) with major contributions to coronary artery disease heritability and strong associations with clinical scores of coronary atherosclerosis severity. The presence and pathophysiological relevance of GRN39 were verified in 5 independent RNAseq data sets obtained from the human coronary and aortic artery, and primary SMCs and by targeting its top-key drivers, FRZB and ALCAM in cultured human coronary artery SMCs. CONCLUSIONS By identifying and integrating the most gene-rich single-cell subclusters of atherosclerosis to date with a coronary artery disease framework of GRNs, GRN39 was identified and independently validated as being critical for the transformation of contractile SMCs into an osteogenic phenotype promoting advanced, symptomatic atherosclerosis.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Single-Cell Analysis
- Animals
- Gene Regulatory Networks
- Atherosclerosis/genetics
- Atherosclerosis/metabolism
- Atherosclerosis/pathology
- Mice
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/pathology
- Male
- Plaque, Atherosclerotic
- Disease Progression
- Female
- Macrophages/metabolism
- Macrophages/pathology
- Mice, Knockout
- Receptors, LDL/genetics
- Receptors, LDL/metabolism
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/pathology
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Mocci
- Department of Medicine (Huddinge), Karolinska Institutet, Sweden (G.M., L. Muhl, J.L., S.G., B.B., U.L., M.V., C.B., J.L.M.B.)
| | - Katyayani Sukhavasi
- Department of Cardiac Surgery and The Heart Clinic, Tartu University Hospital and Department of Cardiology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Tartu University, Estonia (K.S., A.R., H.J.)
| | - Tiit Örd
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio (T.O., P.S., U.T.A., O.O.A., P.M., S.Y.-H., M.U.K.)
| | - Sean Bankier
- Computational Biology Unit, Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, Norway (S.B., T.M.)
| | - Prosanta Singha
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio (T.O., P.S., U.T.A., O.O.A., P.M., S.Y.-H., M.U.K.)
| | - Uma Thanigai Arasu
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio (T.O., P.S., U.T.A., O.O.A., P.M., S.Y.-H., M.U.K.)
| | - Olayinka Oluwasegun Agbabiaje
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio (T.O., P.S., U.T.A., O.O.A., P.M., S.Y.-H., M.U.K.)
| | - Petri Mäkinen
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio (T.O., P.S., U.T.A., O.O.A., P.M., S.Y.-H., M.U.K.)
| | - Lijiang Ma
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Institute of Genomics and Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York (L. Ma, S.K., K.H., J.L.M.B.)
| | - Chani J. Hodonsky
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center (C.J.H., G.K.O., C.J.M.), University of Virginia, Charlottesville
- Center for Public Health Genomics (C.J.H., R.A., M.C.), University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Redouane Aherrahrou
- Center for Public Health Genomics (C.J.H., R.A., M.C.), University of Virginia, Charlottesville
- Department of Biomedical Engineering (R.A., M.C.), University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Lars Muhl
- Department of Medicine (Huddinge), Karolinska Institutet, Sweden (G.M., L. Muhl, J.L., S.G., B.B., U.L., M.V., C.B., J.L.M.B.)
| | - Jianping Liu
- Department of Medicine (Huddinge), Karolinska Institutet, Sweden (G.M., L. Muhl, J.L., S.G., B.B., U.L., M.V., C.B., J.L.M.B.)
| | - Sonja Gustafsson
- Department of Medicine (Huddinge), Karolinska Institutet, Sweden (G.M., L. Muhl, J.L., S.G., B.B., U.L., M.V., C.B., J.L.M.B.)
| | - Byambajav Byandelger
- Department of Medicine (Huddinge), Karolinska Institutet, Sweden (G.M., L. Muhl, J.L., S.G., B.B., U.L., M.V., C.B., J.L.M.B.)
| | - Ying Wang
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA (Y.W., N.J.L.)
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, CA (Y.W., N.J.L.)
| | - Simon Koplev
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Institute of Genomics and Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York (L. Ma, S.K., K.H., J.L.M.B.)
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, United Kingdom (S.K.)
| | - Urban Lendahl
- Department of Medicine (Huddinge), Karolinska Institutet, Sweden (G.M., L. Muhl, J.L., S.G., B.B., U.L., M.V., C.B., J.L.M.B.)
| | - Gary K. Owens
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center (C.J.H., G.K.O., C.J.M.), University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Nicholas J. Leeper
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA (Y.W., N.J.L.)
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, CA (Y.W., N.J.L.)
| | - Gerard Pasterkamp
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology (G.P., M.M.), University Medical Center Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Central Diagnostics Laboratory (G.P., M.M.), University Medical Center Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Michael Vanlandewijck
- Department of Medicine (Huddinge), Karolinska Institutet, Sweden (G.M., L. Muhl, J.L., S.G., B.B., U.L., M.V., C.B., J.L.M.B.)
| | - Tom Michoel
- Computational Biology Unit, Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, Norway (S.B., T.M.)
| | - Arno Ruusalepp
- Department of Cardiac Surgery and The Heart Clinic, Tartu University Hospital and Department of Cardiology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Tartu University, Estonia (K.S., A.R., H.J.)
| | - Ke Hao
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Institute of Genomics and Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York (L. Ma, S.K., K.H., J.L.M.B.)
| | - Seppo Ylä-Herttuala
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio (T.O., P.S., U.T.A., O.O.A., P.M., S.Y.-H., M.U.K.)
| | - Marika Väli
- Department of Immunology, Genetics, and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Sweden (M.V., C.B.)
- Department of Pathological anatomy and Forensic medicine, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Estonia (M.V.)
| | - Heli Järve
- Department of Cardiac Surgery and The Heart Clinic, Tartu University Hospital and Department of Cardiology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Tartu University, Estonia (K.S., A.R., H.J.)
| | - Michal Mokry
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio (T.O., P.S., U.T.A., O.O.A., P.M., S.Y.-H., M.U.K.)
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology (G.P., M.M.), University Medical Center Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Mete Civelek
- Center for Public Health Genomics (C.J.H., R.A., M.C.), University of Virginia, Charlottesville
- Department of Biomedical Engineering (R.A., M.C.), University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Clint J. Miller
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center (C.J.H., G.K.O., C.J.M.), University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Jason C. Kovacic
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York (J.C.K.)
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, Australia (J.C.K.)
- St. Vincent’s Clinical School, University of NSW, Sydney, Australia (J.C.K.)
| | - Minna U. Kaikkonen
- A. I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio (T.O., P.S., U.T.A., O.O.A., P.M., S.Y.-H., M.U.K.)
| | - Christer Betsholtz
- Department of Medicine (Huddinge), Karolinska Institutet, Sweden (G.M., L. Muhl, J.L., S.G., B.B., U.L., M.V., C.B., J.L.M.B.)
- Department of Immunology, Genetics, and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Sweden (M.V., C.B.)
| | - Johan L.M. Björkegren
- Department of Medicine (Huddinge), Karolinska Institutet, Sweden (G.M., L. Muhl, J.L., S.G., B.B., U.L., M.V., C.B., J.L.M.B.)
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Institute of Genomics and Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York (L. Ma, S.K., K.H., J.L.M.B.)
- Clinical Gene Networks AB, Stockholm, Sweden (J.L.M.B.)
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26
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Xu R, Vujić N, Bianco V, Reinisch I, Kratky D, Krstic J, Prokesch A. Lipid-associated macrophages between aggravation and alleviation of metabolic diseases. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2024:S1043-2760(24)00092-4. [PMID: 38705759 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2024.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Lipid-associated macrophages (LAMs) are phagocytic cells with lipid-handling capacity identified in various metabolic derangements. During disease development, they locate to atherosclerotic plaques, adipose tissue (AT) of individuals with obesity, liver lesions in steatosis and steatohepatitis, and the intestinal lamina propria. LAMs can also emerge in the metabolically demanding microenvironment of certain tumors. In this review, we discuss major questions regarding LAM recruitment, differentiation, and self-renewal, and, ultimately, their acute and chronic functional impact on the development of metabolic diseases. Further studies need to clarify whether and under which circumstances LAMs drive disease progression or resolution and how their phenotype can be modulated to ameliorate metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruonan Xu
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism, and Aging, Division of Cell Biology, Histology, and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Nemanja Vujić
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Valentina Bianco
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Isabel Reinisch
- Institute of Food Nutrition and Health, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich (ETH), Schwerzenbach, Switzerland
| | - Dagmar Kratky
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Jelena Krstic
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism, and Aging, Division of Cell Biology, Histology, and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Andreas Prokesch
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism, and Aging, Division of Cell Biology, Histology, and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria.
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27
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Smit V, de Mol J, Kleijn MNAB, Depuydt MAC, de Winther MPJ, Bot I, Kuiper J, Foks AC. Sexual dimorphism in atherosclerotic plaques of aged Ldlr -/- mice. Immun Ageing 2024; 21:27. [PMID: 38698438 PMCID: PMC11064395 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-024-00434-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atherosclerosis, the main underlying pathology of cardiovascular disease, is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by lipid accumulation and immune cell responses in the vascular wall, resulting in plaque formation. It is well-known that atherosclerosis prevalence and manifestation vary by sex. However, sexual dimorphism in the immune landscape of atherosclerotic plaques has up to date not been studied at high-resolution. In this study, we investigated sex-specific differences in atherosclerosis development and the immunological landscape of aortas at single-cell level in aged Ldlr-/- mice. METHODS We compared plaque morphology between aged male and female chow diet-fed Ldlr-/- mice (22 months old) with histological analysis. Using single-cell RNA-sequencing and flow cytometry on CD45+ immune cells from aortas of aged Ldlr-/- mice, we explored the immune landscape in the atherosclerotic environment in males and females. RESULTS We show that plaque volume is comparable in aged male and female mice, and that plaques in aged female mice contain more collagen and cholesterol crystals, but less necrotic core and macrophage content compared to males. We reveal increased immune cell infiltration in female aortas and found that expression of pro-atherogenic markers and inflammatory signaling pathways was enriched in plaque immune cells of female mice. Particularly, female aortas show enhanced activation of B cells (Egr1, Cd83, Cd180), including age-associated B cells, in addition to an increased M1/M2 macrophage ratio, where Il1b+ M1-like macrophages display a more pro-inflammatory phenotype (Nlrp3, Cxcl2, Mmp9) compared to males. In contrast, increased numbers of age-associated Gzmk+CD8+ T cells, dendritic cells, and Trem2+ macrophages were observed in male aortas. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, our findings highlight that sex is a variable that contributes to immunological differences in the atherosclerotic plaque environment in mice and provide valuable insights for further preclinical studies into the impact of sex on the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Smit
- LACDR, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jill de Mol
- LACDR, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mireia N A Bernabé Kleijn
- LACDR, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marie A C Depuydt
- LACDR, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Menno P J de Winther
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers - location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Experimental Vascular Biology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ilze Bot
- LACDR, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Johan Kuiper
- LACDR, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Amanda C Foks
- LACDR, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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28
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Gu J, Yang W, Lin S, Ying D. Identification of co-expressed genes and immune infiltration features related to the progression of atherosclerosis. J Appl Genet 2024; 65:331-339. [PMID: 37996696 DOI: 10.1007/s13353-023-00801-8] [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: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects arterial walls and is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease. Gene co-expression modules can provide insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying atherosclerosis progression. In this study, gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was done to identify gene co-expression modules associated with atherosclerosis progression. Before conducting WGCNA, preprocessing and soft power selection were performed on the GSE28829, GSE100927, GSE43292, GSE10334, and GSE16134 datasets ( https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/query/acc.cgi ). Co-expression modules were identified using dynamic tree cuts, and their correlations and trait associations were visualized. Enrichment analysis was performed on the blue and magenta modules to identify biological processes (BP) and pathways related to atherosclerosis. The CIBERSORT algorithm was used to predict immune cell infiltration in early and advanced atherosclerotic plaques. We identified 12 co-expression modules, in which blue and magenta were most highly correlated with atherosclerosis progression. The blue module was enriched for inflammation- and immune-related BP and pathways, including phagosome, lysosome, osteoclast differentiation, chemokine signaling pathway, platelet activation, NF-kappa B signaling pathway, Fc gamma R-mediated phagocytosis, lipid and atherosclerosis, autophagy, and apoptosis. The magenta module was significantly enriched for vascular permeability regulation, positive and negative regulation of epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and lamellipodium. Additionally, the CIBERSORT algorithm predicted less abundance of T regulatory cells and monocytes in advanced compared to early atherosclerotic plaques. The enrichment analysis of BP, cellular components, molecular functions, and atherosclerosis-related pathways in the blue and magenta modules showed that inflammation and immune response played a key role in the progression of atherosclerosis. Our study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying atherosclerosis progression and identifies potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of atherosclerosis. The identification of immune cell subtypes associated with atherosclerosis could lead to the development of immunomodulatory therapies to prevent or treat atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junqing Gu
- Yuyao Municipal People's Hospital, Yuyao City, China
| | - Wenwei Yang
- Longshan Hospital, Cixi City, Yuyao City, China
| | - Shun Lin
- Linhai City First People's Hospital, Yuyao City, China
| | - Danqing Ying
- Yuyao City Lanjiang Street Community Health Service Center, Yuyao City, China.
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29
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He C, Kim HI, Park J, Guo J, Huang W. The role of immune cells in different stages of atherosclerosis. Int J Med Sci 2024; 21:1129-1143. [PMID: 38774746 PMCID: PMC11103388 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.94570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the accumulation of immune cells in the intima of arteries. Experimental and clinical evidence shows that both innate and adaptive immunity orchestrate the progression of atherosclerosis. The heterogeneous nature of immune cells within atherosclerosis lesions is important. Studies utilizing high-dimensional mass spectrometry and single-cell RNA sequencing of leukocytes from atherosclerotic lesions show the diversity and adaptability of these immune cell subtypes. Their migration, compositional changes, phenotypic alterations, and adaptive responses are key features throughout atherosclerosis progression. Understanding how these immune cells and their subtypes affect atherogenesis would help to develop novel therapeutic approaches that control atherosclerosis progression. Precise targeting of specific immune system components involved in atherosclerosis, rather than broad suppression of the immune system with anti-inflammatory agents, can more accurately regulate the progress of atherosclerosis with fewer side effects. In this review, we cover the most recent advances in the field of atherosclerosis to understand the role of various immune cells on its development. We focus on the complex network of immune cells and the interaction between the innate immune system and adaptive immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong He
- Department of Pharmacology, Harbin Medical University-Daqing, Daqing 163319, PR China
| | - Hyo In Kim
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - Jinbong Park
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Junli Guo
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Tropical Cardiovascular Diseases Research of Hainan Province, School of Public Health, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, PR China
| | - Wei Huang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medicine and Life Sciences, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education & Key Laboratory of Tropical Cardiovascular Diseases Research of Hainan Province, School of Public Health, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, PR China
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30
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Reilly NA, Sonnet F, Dekkers KF, Kwekkeboom JC, Sinke L, Hilt S, Suleiman HM, Hoeksema MA, Mei H, van Zwet EW, Everts B, Ioan-Facsinay A, Jukema JW, Heijmans BT. Oleic acid triggers metabolic rewiring of T cells poising them for T helper 9 differentiation. iScience 2024; 27:109496. [PMID: 38558932 PMCID: PMC10981094 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
T cells are the most common immune cells in atherosclerotic plaques, and the function of T cells can be altered by fatty acids. Here, we show that pre-exposure of CD4+ T cells to oleic acid, an abundant fatty acid linked to cardiovascular events, upregulates core metabolic pathways and promotes differentiation into interleukin-9 (IL-9)-producing cells upon activation. RNA sequencing of non-activated T cells reveals that oleic acid upregulates genes encoding key enzymes responsible for cholesterol and fatty acid biosynthesis. Transcription footprint analysis links these expression changes to the differentiation toward TH9 cells, a pro-atherogenic subset. Spectral flow cytometry shows that pre-exposure to oleic acid results in a skew toward IL-9+-producing T cells upon activation. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of either cholesterol or fatty acid biosynthesis abolishes this effect, suggesting a beneficial role for statins beyond cholesterol lowering. Taken together, oleic acid may affect inflammatory diseases like atherosclerosis by rewiring T cell metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie A. Reilly
- Molecular Epidemiology, Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Friederike Sonnet
- Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LUCID), Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Koen F. Dekkers
- Molecular Epidemiology, Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | - Lucy Sinke
- Molecular Epidemiology, Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Stan Hilt
- Molecular Epidemiology, Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Hayat M. Suleiman
- Molecular Epidemiology, Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Marten A. Hoeksema
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hailiang Mei
- Sequencing Analysis Support Core, Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Erik W. van Zwet
- Medical Statistics, Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Bart Everts
- Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LUCID), Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Andreea Ioan-Facsinay
- Department of Rheumatology Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - J. Wouter Jukema
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Netherlands Heart Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Bastiaan T. Heijmans
- Molecular Epidemiology, Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden, the Netherlands
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31
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Cyr Y, Bozal FK, Barcia Durán JG, Newman AAC, Amadori L, Smyrnis P, Gourvest M, Das D, Gildea M, Kaur R, Zhang T, Wang KM, Von Itter R, Schlegel PM, Dupuis SD, Sanchez BF, Schmidt AM, Fisher EA, van Solingen C, Giannarelli C, Moore KJ. The IRG1-itaconate axis protects from cholesterol-induced inflammation and atherosclerosis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2400675121. [PMID: 38564634 PMCID: PMC11009655 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2400675121] [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: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is fueled by a failure to resolve lipid-driven inflammation within the vasculature that drives plaque formation. Therapeutic approaches to reverse atherosclerotic inflammation are needed to address the rising global burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Recently, metabolites have gained attention for their immunomodulatory properties, including itaconate, which is generated from the tricarboxylic acid-intermediate cis-aconitate by the enzyme Immune Responsive Gene 1 (IRG1/ACOD1). Here, we tested the therapeutic potential of the IRG1-itaconate axis for human atherosclerosis. Using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), we found that IRG1 is up-regulated in human coronary atherosclerotic lesions compared to patient-matched healthy vasculature, and in mouse models of atherosclerosis, where it is primarily expressed by plaque monocytes, macrophages, and neutrophils. Global or hematopoietic Irg1-deficiency in mice increases atherosclerosis burden, plaque macrophage and lipid content, and expression of the proatherosclerotic cytokine interleukin (IL)-1β. Mechanistically, absence of Irg1 increased macrophage lipid accumulation, and accelerated inflammation via increased neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation and NET-priming of the NLRP3-inflammasome in macrophages, resulting in increased IL-1β release. Conversely, supplementation of the Irg1-itaconate axis using 4-octyl itaconate (4-OI) beneficially remodeled advanced plaques and reduced lesional IL-1β levels in mice. To investigate the effects of 4-OI in humans, we leveraged an ex vivo systems-immunology approach for CVD drug discovery. Using CyTOF and scRNA-seq of peripheral blood mononuclear cells treated with plasma from CVD patients, we showed that 4-OI attenuates proinflammatory phospho-signaling and mediates anti-inflammatory rewiring of macrophage populations. Our data highlight the relevance of pursuing IRG1-itaconate axis supplementation as a therapeutic approach for atherosclerosis in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Cyr
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - Fazli K. Bozal
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | | | - Alexandra A. C. Newman
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - Letizia Amadori
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - Panagiotis Smyrnis
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - Morgane Gourvest
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - Dayasagar Das
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - Michael Gildea
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - Ravneet Kaur
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - Tracy Zhang
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - Kristin M. Wang
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - Richard Von Itter
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - P. Martin Schlegel
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich81675, Germany
| | - Samantha D. Dupuis
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - Bernard F. Sanchez
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - Ann Marie Schmidt
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY10016
| | - Edward A. Fisher
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
- Department of Cell Biology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - Coen van Solingen
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - Chiara Giannarelli
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
| | - Kathryn J. Moore
- Cardiovascular Research Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
- Department of Cell Biology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
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Pertiwi KR, Teunissen MBM, Krebbers G, Willems MC, Huisman L, Poelen C, van der Wal AC, de Boer OJ. Enrichment of type 1 innate lymphoid cells in the course of human atherosclerotic plaque development suggests contribution to atherogenesis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1354617. [PMID: 38638438 PMCID: PMC11024276 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1354617] [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: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) have been implicated in multiple pathologic conditions, including atherogenesis, as documented in experimental mice studies, however, their role in atherosclerosis in humans remains unexplored. Methods Here, we identify ILCs and their dynamics in early, advanced, and complicated human carotid- and aortic atherosclerotic plaques, using a multiplex immunohistochemical quadruple-staining technique with prototypic transcription factors T-bet, GATA3, or RORgt for identification of the ILC1, ILC2 and ILC3 subsets, respectively, in combination with lineage markers CD3, CD20/ CD79a and CD56 to exclude other lymphoid cell types. ILC subsets were quantified, and to put this in perspective, their numbers were expressed as percentage of the total number of infiltrated lymphoid cells and related to the frequency of conventional T cells, B cells, NK cells, and NKT cells. Results All ILC subsets were present in every different stage of atherogenesis. ILC1s were the most abundant ILC subset, and their numbers significantly increased in the course of plaque development, but paradoxically, their relative frequency was reduced because of a higher increment of T cells and B cells. The numbers of ILC2s and ILC3s also gradually increased, but this trend did not achieve significance. T cell subsets always significantly outnumbered their ILC counterparts, except for the early lesions where the proportion of ILC1s was markedly higher, albeit not significant. Discussion The high abundance of ILC1s in the early stages and further significant enrichment in later stages, suggest they may participate in the initiation and development of atherogenesis, and thus, may represent a novel target to prevent or treat atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kartika R. Pertiwi
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Faculty of Medicine and Department of Biology Education, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Marcel B. M. Teunissen
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gabrielle Krebbers
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Martine C.M. Willems
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Flevoziekenhuis, Almere, Netherlands
| | - Laurens Huisman
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Flevoziekenhuis, Almere, Netherlands
| | - Cindy Poelen
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Allard C. van der Wal
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Onno J. de Boer
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Stroope C, Nettersheim FS, Coon B, Finney AC, Schwartz MA, Ley K, Rom O, Yurdagul A. Dysregulated cellular metabolism in atherosclerosis: mediators and therapeutic opportunities. Nat Metab 2024; 6:617-638. [PMID: 38532071 PMCID: PMC11055680 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-024-01015-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence over the past decades has revealed an intricate relationship between dysregulation of cellular metabolism and the progression of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, an integrated understanding of dysregulated cellular metabolism in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and its potential value as a therapeutic target is missing. In this Review, we (1) summarize recent advances concerning the role of metabolic dysregulation during atherosclerosis progression in lesional cells, including endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, macrophages and T cells; (2) explore the complexity of metabolic cross-talk between these lesional cells; (3) highlight emerging technologies that promise to illuminate unknown aspects of metabolism in atherosclerosis; and (4) suggest strategies for targeting these underexplored metabolic alterations to mitigate atherosclerosis progression and stabilize rupture-prone atheromas with a potential new generation of cardiovascular therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad Stroope
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Felix Sebastian Nettersheim
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Brian Coon
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Cardiovascular Biology Research Program, OMRF, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Alexandra C Finney
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Martin A Schwartz
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Departments of Cell Biology and Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Klaus Ley
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Immunology Center of Georgia (IMMCG), Augusta University Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Oren Rom
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Arif Yurdagul
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA.
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA.
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Wu X, Zhang H. Omics Approaches Unveiling the Biology of Human Atherosclerotic Plaques. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2024; 194:482-498. [PMID: 38280419 PMCID: PMC10988765 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arterial wall, characterized by the buildup of plaques with the accumulation and transformation of lipids, immune cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, and necrotic cell debris. Plaques with collagen-poor thin fibrous caps infiltrated by macrophages and lymphocytes are considered unstable because they are at the greatest risk of rupture and clinical events. However, the current histologic definition of plaque types may not fully capture the complex molecular nature of atherosclerotic plaque biology and the underlying mechanisms contributing to plaque progression, rupture, and erosion. The advances in omics technologies have changed the understanding of atherosclerosis plaque biology, offering new possibilities to improve risk prediction and discover novel therapeutic targets. Genomic studies have shed light on the genetic predisposition to atherosclerosis, and integrative genomic analyses expedite the translation of genomic discoveries. Transcriptomic, proteomic, metabolomic, and lipidomic studies have refined the understanding of the molecular signature of atherosclerotic plaques, aiding in data-driven hypothesis generation for mechanistic studies and offering new prospects for biomarker discovery. Furthermore, advancements in single-cell technologies and emerging spatial analysis techniques have unveiled the heterogeneity and plasticity of plaque cells. This review discusses key omics-based discoveries that have advanced the understanding of human atherosclerotic plaque biology, focusing on insights derived from omics profiling of human atherosclerotic vascular specimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Wu
- Cardiometabolic Genomics Program, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Hanrui Zhang
- Cardiometabolic Genomics Program, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York.
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35
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Gibson Hughes TA, Dona MSI, Sobey CG, Pinto AR, Drummond GR, Vinh A, Jelinic M. Aortic Cellular Heterogeneity in Health and Disease: Novel Insights Into Aortic Diseases From Single-Cell RNA Transcriptomic Data Sets. Hypertension 2024; 81:738-751. [PMID: 38318714 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.123.20597] [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] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Aortic diseases such as atherosclerosis, aortic aneurysms, and aortic stiffening are significant complications that can have significant impact on end-stage cardiovascular disease. With limited pharmacological therapeutic strategies that target the structural changes in the aorta, surgical intervention remains the only option for some patients with these diseases. Although there have been significant contributions to our understanding of the cellular architecture of the diseased aorta, particularly in the context of atherosclerosis, furthering our insight into the cellular drivers of disease is required. The major cell types of the aorta are well defined; however, the advent of single-cell RNA sequencing provides unrivaled insights into the cellular heterogeneity of each aortic cell type and the inferred biological processes associated with each cell in health and disease. This review discusses previous concepts that have now been enhanced with recent advances made by single-cell RNA sequencing with a focus on aortic cellular heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayla A Gibson Hughes
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, Department of Microbiology, Anatomy Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia (T.A.G.H., C.G.S., A.R.P., G.R.D., A.V., M.J.)
| | - Malathi S I Dona
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia (M.S.I.D., A.R.P.)
| | - Christopher G Sobey
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, Department of Microbiology, Anatomy Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia (T.A.G.H., C.G.S., A.R.P., G.R.D., A.V., M.J.)
| | - Alexander R Pinto
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, Department of Microbiology, Anatomy Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia (T.A.G.H., C.G.S., A.R.P., G.R.D., A.V., M.J.)
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia (M.S.I.D., A.R.P.)
| | - Grant R Drummond
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, Department of Microbiology, Anatomy Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia (T.A.G.H., C.G.S., A.R.P., G.R.D., A.V., M.J.)
| | - Antony Vinh
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, Department of Microbiology, Anatomy Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia (T.A.G.H., C.G.S., A.R.P., G.R.D., A.V., M.J.)
| | - Maria Jelinic
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, Department of Microbiology, Anatomy Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia (T.A.G.H., C.G.S., A.R.P., G.R.D., A.V., M.J.)
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Vos WG, van Os BW, den Toom M, Beckers L, van Roomen CP, van Tiel CM, Mohapatra BC, Band H, Nitz K, Weber C, Atzler D, de Winther MP, Bosmans LA, Lutgens E, Seijkens TT. T cell specific deletion of Casitas B lineage lymphoma-b reduces atherosclerosis, but increases plaque T cell infiltration and systemic T cell activation. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1297893. [PMID: 38504977 PMCID: PMC10949527 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1297893] [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: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Atherosclerosis is a lipid-driven inflammatory disease of the arterial wall, and the underlying cause of the majority of cardiovascular diseases. Recent advances in high-parametric immunophenotyping of immune cells indicate that T cells constitute the major leukocyte population in the atherosclerotic plaque. The E3 ubiquitin ligase Casitas B-lymphoma proto-oncogene-B (CBL-B) is a critical intracellular regulator that sets the threshold for T cell activation, making CBL-B a potential therapeutic target to modulate inflammation in atherosclerosis. We previously demonstrated that complete knock-out of CBL-B aggravated atherosclerosis in Apoe-/- mice, which was attributed to increased macrophage recruitment and increased CD8+ T cell activation in the plaque. Methods To further study the T cell specific role of CBL-B in atherosclerosis, Apoe-/- CD4cre Cblb fl/fl (Cbl-bcKO) mice and Apoe-/-CD4WTCblbfl/fl littermates (Cbl-bfl/fl) were fed a high cholesterol diet for ten weeks. Results Cbl-bcKO mice had smaller atherosclerotic lesions in the aortic arch and root compared to Cbl-bfl/fl, and a substantial increase in CD3+ T cells in the plaque. Collagen content in the plaque was decreased, while other plaque characteristics including plaque necrotic core, macrophage content, and smooth muscle cell content, remained unchanged. Mice lacking T cell CBL-B had a 1.4-fold increase in CD8+ T cells and a 1.8-fold increase in regulatory T cells in the spleen. Splenic CD4+ and CD8+ T cells had increased expression of C-X-C Motif Chemokine Receptor 3 (CXCR3) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ), indicating a T helper 1 (Th1)-like/effector CD8+ T cell-like phenotype. Conclusion In conclusion, Cbl-bcKO mice have reduced atherosclerosis but show increased T cell accumulation in the plaque accompanied by systemic T cell activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winnie G. Vos
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC) Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Atherosclerosis & Ischemic Syndromes, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Immunity and Infection, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Bram W. van Os
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC) Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Atherosclerosis & Ischemic Syndromes, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Immunity and Infection, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Myrthe den Toom
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC) Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Linda Beckers
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC) Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Cindy P.A.A. van Roomen
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC) Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Claudia M. van Tiel
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC) Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Bhopal C. Mohapatra
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Hamid Band
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Katrin Nitz
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine and Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Christian Weber
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
- Department of Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Dorothee Atzler
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Walther Straub Institute of Parmacology and Toxicology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Menno P.J. de Winther
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC) Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Atherosclerosis & Ischemic Syndromes, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Immunity and Infection, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Laura A. Bosmans
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC) Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Atherosclerosis & Ischemic Syndromes, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Immunity and Infection, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Esther Lutgens
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine and Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Tom T.P. Seijkens
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC) Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Atherosclerosis & Ischemic Syndromes, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Lin A, Ramaswamy Y, Misra A. Developmental heterogeneity of vascular cells: Insights into cellular plasticity in atherosclerosis? Semin Cell Dev Biol 2024; 155:3-15. [PMID: 37316416 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2023.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells and macrophages display remarkable heterogeneity within the healthy vasculature and under pathological conditions. During development, these cells arise from numerous embryological origins, which confound with different microenvironments to generate postnatal vascular cell diversity. In the atherosclerotic plaque milieu, all these cell types exhibit astonishing plasticity, generating a variety of plaque burdening or plaque stabilizing phenotypes. And yet how developmental origin influences intraplaque cell plasticity remains largely unexplored despite evidence suggesting this may be the case. Uncovering the diversity and plasticity of vascular cells is being revolutionized by unbiased single cell whole transcriptome analysis techniques that will likely continue to pave the way for therapeutic research. Cellular plasticity is only just emerging as a target for future therapeutics, and uncovering how intraplaque plasticity differs across vascular beds may provide key insights into why different plaques behave differently and may confer different risks of subsequent cardiovascular events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Lin
- Atherosclerosis and Vascular Remodeling Group, Heart Research Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Yogambha Ramaswamy
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ashish Misra
- Atherosclerosis and Vascular Remodeling Group, Heart Research Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Heart Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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38
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Zhang T, Pang C, Xu M, Zhao Q, Hu Z, Jiang X, Guo M. The role of immune system in atherosclerosis: Molecular mechanisms, controversies, and future possibilities. Hum Immunol 2024; 85:110765. [PMID: 38369442 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2024.110765] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Numerous cardiovascular disorders have atherosclerosis as their pathological underpinning. Numerous studies have demonstrated that, with the aid of pattern recognition receptors, cytokines, and immunoglobulins, innate immunity, represented by monocytes/macrophages, and adaptive immunity, primarily T/B cells, play a critical role in controlling inflammation and abnormal lipid metabolism in atherosclerosis. Additionally, the finding of numerous complement components in atherosclerotic plaques suggests yet again how heavily the immune system controls atherosclerosis. Therefore, it is essential to have a thorough grasp of how the immune system contributes to atherosclerosis. The specific molecular mechanisms involved in the activation of immune cells and immune molecules in atherosclerosis, the controversy surrounding some immune cells in atherosclerosis, and the limitations of extrapolating from relevant animal models to humans were all carefully reviewed in this review from the three perspectives of innate immunity, adaptive immunity, and complement system. This could provide fresh possibilities for atherosclerosis research and treatment in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianle Zhang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Chenxu Pang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Mengxin Xu
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Qianqian Zhao
- School of Medical Technology, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Zhijie Hu
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Xijuan Jiang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, PR China.
| | - Maojuan Guo
- School of Integrative Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, PR China.
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Mao A, Zhang K, Kan H, Gao M, Wang Z, Zhou T, Shao J, He D. Single-Cell RNA-Seq Reveals Coronary Heterogeneity and Identifies CD133 +TRPV4 high Endothelial Subpopulation in Regulating Flow-Induced Vascular Tone in Mice. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2024; 44:653-665. [PMID: 38269590 PMCID: PMC10880935 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.123.319516] [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: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Single-cell RNA-Seq analysis can determine the heterogeneity of cells between different tissues at a single-cell level. Coronary artery endothelial cells (ECs) are important to coronary blood flow. However, little is known about the heterogeneity of coronary artery ECs, and cellular identity responses to flow. Identifying endothelial subpopulations will contribute to the precise localization of vascular endothelial subpopulations, thus enabling the precision of vascular injury treatment. METHODS Here, we performed a single-cell RNA sequencing of 31 962 cells and functional assays of 3 branches of the coronary arteries (right coronary artery/circumflex left coronary artery/anterior descending left coronary artery) in wild-type mice. RESULTS We found a compendium of 7 distinct cell types in mouse coronary arteries, mainly ECs, granulocytes, cardiac myocytes, smooth muscle cells, lymphocytes, myeloid cells, and fibroblast cells, and showed spatial heterogeneity between arterial branches. Furthermore, we revealed a subpopulation of coronary artery ECs, CD133+TRPV4high ECs. TRPV4 (transient receptor potential vanilloid 4) in CD133+TRPV4high ECs is important for regulating vasodilation and coronary blood flow. CONCLUSIONS Our study elucidates the nature and range of coronary arterial cell diversity and highlights the importance of coronary CD133+TRPV4high ECs in regulating coronary vascular tone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiqin Mao
- Wuxi School of Medicine (A.M., K.Z., H.K., M.G., Z.W., T.Z., J.S.), Jiangnan University, China
- School of Food Science and Technology (A.M., D.H.), Jiangnan University, China
| | - Ka Zhang
- Wuxi School of Medicine (A.M., K.Z., H.K., M.G., Z.W., T.Z., J.S.), Jiangnan University, China
| | - Hao Kan
- Wuxi School of Medicine (A.M., K.Z., H.K., M.G., Z.W., T.Z., J.S.), Jiangnan University, China
| | - Mengru Gao
- Wuxi School of Medicine (A.M., K.Z., H.K., M.G., Z.W., T.Z., J.S.), Jiangnan University, China
| | - Zhiwei Wang
- Wuxi School of Medicine (A.M., K.Z., H.K., M.G., Z.W., T.Z., J.S.), Jiangnan University, China
| | - Tingting Zhou
- Wuxi School of Medicine (A.M., K.Z., H.K., M.G., Z.W., T.Z., J.S.), Jiangnan University, China
| | - Jing Shao
- Wuxi School of Medicine (A.M., K.Z., H.K., M.G., Z.W., T.Z., J.S.), Jiangnan University, China
| | - Dongxu He
- School of Food Science and Technology (A.M., D.H.), Jiangnan University, China
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40
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Gianopoulos I, Daskalopoulou SS. Macrophage profiling in atherosclerosis: understanding the unstable plaque. Basic Res Cardiol 2024; 119:35-56. [PMID: 38244055 DOI: 10.1007/s00395-023-01023-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
The development and rupture of atherosclerotic plaques is a major contributor to myocardial infarctions and ischemic strokes. The dynamic evolution of the plaque is largely attributed to monocyte/macrophage functions, which respond to various stimuli in the plaque microenvironment. To this end, macrophages play a central role in atherosclerotic lesions through the uptake of oxidized low-density lipoprotein that gets trapped in the artery wall, and the induction of an inflammatory response that can differentially affect the stability of the plaque in men and women. In this environment, macrophages can polarize towards pro-inflammatory M1 or anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes, which represent the extremes of the polarization spectrum that include Mhem, M(Hb), Mox, and M4 populations. However, this traditional macrophage model paradigm has been redefined to include numerous immune and nonimmune cell clusters based on in-depth unbiased single-cell approaches. The goal of this review is to highlight (1) the phenotypic and functional properties of monocyte subsets in the circulation, and macrophage populations in atherosclerotic plaques, as well as their contribution towards stable or unstable phenotypes in men and women, and (2) single-cell RNA sequencing studies that have advanced our knowledge of immune, particularly macrophage signatures present in the atherosclerotic niche. We discuss the importance of performing high-dimensional approaches to facilitate the development of novel sex-specific immunotherapies that aim to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Gianopoulos
- Division of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Stella S Daskalopoulou
- Division of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
- Department of Medicine, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Glen Site, 1001 Decarie Boulevard, EM1.2210, Montreal, Quebec, H4A 3J1, Canada.
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Sharma D, Worssam MD, Pedroza AJ, Dalal AR, Alemany H, Kim HJ, Kundu R, Fischbein M, Cheng P, Wirka R, Quertermous T. Comprehensive Integration of Multiple Single-Cell Transcriptomic Data Sets Defines Distinct Cell Populations and Their Phenotypic Changes in Murine Atherosclerosis. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2024; 44:391-408. [PMID: 38152886 PMCID: PMC11285358 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.123.320030] [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: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The application of single-cell transcriptomic (single-cell RNA sequencing) analysis to the study of atherosclerosis has provided unique insights into the molecular and genetic mechanisms that mediate disease risk and pathophysiology. However, nonstandardized methodologies and relatively high costs associated with the technique have limited the size and replication of existing data sets and created disparate or contradictory findings that have fostered misunderstanding and controversy. METHODS To address these uncertainties, we have performed a conservative integration of multiple published single-cell RNA sequencing data sets into a single meta-analysis, performed extended analysis of native resident vascular cells, and used in situ hybridization to map the disease anatomic location of the identified cluster cells. To investigate the transdifferentiation of smooth muscle cells to macrophage phenotype, we have developed a classifying algorithm based on the quantification of reporter transgene expression. RESULTS The reporter gene expression tool indicates that within the experimental limits of the examined studies, transdifferentiation of smooth muscle cell to the macrophage lineage is extremely rare. Validated transition smooth muscle cell phenotypes were defined by clustering, and the location of these cells was mapped to lesion anatomy with in situ hybridization. We have also characterized 5 endothelial cell phenotypes and linked these cellular species to different vascular structures and functions. Finally, we have identified a transcriptomically unique cellular phenotype that constitutes the aortic valve. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these analyses resolve a number of outstanding issues related to differing results reported with vascular disease single-cell RNA sequencing studies, and significantly extend our understanding of the role of resident vascular cells in anatomy and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Disha Sharma
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Matthew DeForest Worssam
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Albert J. Pedroza
- Division of Cardiothoracic surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Alex R. Dalal
- Division of Cardiothoracic surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Haizea Alemany
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Hyun-Jung Kim
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305
| | | | - Michael Fischbein
- Division of Cardiothoracic surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Paul Cheng
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Robert Wirka
- Division of Cardiology, McAllister Heart Institute, UNC School of Medicine, 111 Mason Farm Road, MBRB 3312B, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7126
| | - Thomas Quertermous
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305
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42
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Schelemei P, Wagner E, Picard FSR, Winkels H. Macrophage mediators and mechanisms in cardiovascular disease. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23424. [PMID: 38275140 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202302001r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Macrophages are major players in myocardial infarction (MI) and atherosclerosis, two major cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Atherosclerosis is caused by the buildup of cholesterol-rich lipoproteins in blood vessels, causing inflammation, vascular injury, and plaque formation. Plaque rupture or erosion can cause thrombus formation resulting in inadequate blood flow to the heart muscle and MI. Inflammation, particularly driven by macrophages, plays a central role in both atherosclerosis and MI. Recent integrative approaches of single-cell analysis-based classifications in both murine and human atherosclerosis as well as experimental MI showed overlap in origin, diversity, and function of macrophages in the aorta and the heart. We here discuss differences and communalities between macrophages in the heart and aorta at steady state and in atherosclerosis or upon MI. We focus on markers, mediators, and functional states of macrophage subpopulations. Recent trials testing anti-inflammatory agents show a major benefit in reducing the inflammatory burden of CVD patients, but highlight a necessity for a broader understanding of immune cell ontogeny and heterogeneity in CVD. The novel insights into macrophage biology in CVD represent exciting opportunities for the development of novel treatment strategies against CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrik Schelemei
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Clinic III for Internal Medicine, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Elena Wagner
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Clinic III for Internal Medicine, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Felix Simon Ruben Picard
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Clinic III for Internal Medicine, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Holger Winkels
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Clinic III for Internal Medicine, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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43
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Ya X, Li H, Ge P, Xu Y, Liu Z, Zheng Z, Mou S, Liu C, Zhang Y, Wang R, Zhang Q, Ye X, Wang W, Zhang D, Zhao J. Single-Cell Atlas of Atherosclerosis Patients by Cytof: Circulatory and Local Immune Disorders. Aging Dis 2024; 15:245-258. [PMID: 37307820 PMCID: PMC10796097 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0426-1] [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: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a common underlying pathology of coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and stroke. The characteristics of immune cells within plaques and their functional relationships with blood are crucial in AS. In this study, Mass cytometry (CyTOF), RNA-sequencing and immunofluorescence were combined to comprehensively analyze plaque tissues and peripheral blood from 25 AS patients (22 for Mass cytometry and 3 for RNA-sequencing), as well as blood from 20 healthy individuals. The study identified a complexity of leukocytes in the plaque, including both defined anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory subsets such as M2-like CD163+ macrophages, Natural killer T cells (NKT), CD11b+ CD4+ T effector memory cells (Tem), and CD8+ terminally differentiated effector memory cells (TEMRA). Functionally activated cell subsets were also found in peripheral blood in AS patients, highlighting the vivid interactions between leukocytes in plaque and blood. The study provides an atlas of the immune landscape in atherosclerotic patients, where pro-inflammatory activation was found to be a major feature of peripheral blood. The study identified NKT, CD11b+ CD4+ Tem, CD8+ TEMRA and CD163+ macrophages as key players in the local immune environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Ya
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China.
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China.
| | - Peicong Ge
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China.
| | - Yiqiao Xu
- Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Zechen Liu
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, USA.
| | - Zhiyao Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Siqi Mou
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Chenglong Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China.
| | - Rong Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China.
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China.
| | - Xun Ye
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China.
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Dong Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Jizong Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Institute of Hepatology, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Puertas-Umbert L, Puig N, Camacho M, Dantas AP, Marín R, Martí-Fàbregas J, Jiménez-Xarrié E, Benitez S, Camps-Renom P, Jiménez-Altayó F. Serum from Stroke Patients with High-Grade Carotid Stenosis Promotes Cyclooxygenase-Dependent Endothelial Dysfunction in Non-ischemic Mice Carotid Arteries. Transl Stroke Res 2024; 15:140-152. [PMID: 36536168 PMCID: PMC10796474 DOI: 10.1007/s12975-022-01117-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is responsible for 20% of ischemic strokes, and severe carotid stenosis is associated with a higher incidence of first-ever and recurrent strokes. The release of pro-inflammatory mediators into the blood in severe atherosclerosis may aggravate endothelial dysfunction after stroke contributing to impair disease outcomes. We hypothesize that environments of severe carotid atherosclerotic disease worsen endothelial dysfunction in stroke linked to enhanced risk of further cerebrovascular events. We mounted nonischemic common carotid arteries from 2- to 4-month-old male Oncins France 1 mice in tissue baths for isometric contraction force measurements and exposed them to serum from men with a recent ischemic stroke and different degrees of carotid stenosis: low- or moderate-grade stenosis (LMGS; < 70%) and high-grade stenosis (HGS; ≥ 70%). The results show that serum from stroke patients induced an impairment of acetylcholine relaxations in mice carotid arteries indicative of endothelium dysfunction. This effect was more pronounced after incubation with serum from patients with a recurrent stroke or vascular death within 1 year of follow-up. When patients were stratified according to the degree of stenosis, serum from HGS patients induced more pronounced carotid artery endothelial dysfunction, an effect that was associated with enhanced circulating levels of IL-1β. Mechanistically, endothelial dysfunction was prevented by both nonselective and selective COX blockade. Altogether, the present findings add knowledge on the understanding of the mechanisms involved in the increased risk of stroke in atherosclerosis and suggest that targeting COX in the carotid artery wall may represent a potential novel therapeutic strategy for secondary stroke prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lídia Puertas-Umbert
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Neuroscience Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau (IIB, SANT PAU), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Núria Puig
- Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau (IIB, SANT PAU), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercedes Camacho
- Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau (IIB, SANT PAU), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Paula Dantas
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Cardiovascular Institute, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rebeca Marín
- Department of Neurology, IIB SANT PAU, Hospital de La Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joan Martí-Fàbregas
- Department of Neurology, IIB SANT PAU, Hospital de La Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Jiménez-Xarrié
- Department of Neurology, IIB SANT PAU, Hospital de La Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sonia Benitez
- Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau (IIB, SANT PAU), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER of Diabetes and Related Metabolic Diseases (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pol Camps-Renom
- Department of Neurology, IIB SANT PAU, Hospital de La Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesc Jiménez-Altayó
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
- Neuroscience Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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45
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Song YJ, Ma Y, Meng T, Zhuang T, Ruan CC, Li Y, Zhang GN. The Characteristics of Macrophage Heterogeneity in Atherosclerotic Aortas. J Cardiovasc Transl Res 2024; 17:153-166. [PMID: 37713049 DOI: 10.1007/s12265-023-10434-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Macrophage is the main effector cell during atherosclerosis. We applied single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA) data to investigate the role of macrophage subsets in atherosclerosis. Monocyte and macrophage clusters were divided into 6 subclusters. Each subcluster's markers were calculated and validated by immunofluorescence. Elevated macrophage subclusters in the WD group were subject to enrichment pathway analysis and exhibited different phenotypes. Pseudotime analysis shows the subclusters originate from monocytes. We cultured bone marrow-derived macrophages with CSF-1 and ox-LDL to simulate an atherosclerotic-like environment and detected the transformation of subclusters. Macrophage-Vegfa and Macrophage-C1qb increased in the WD group. Macrophage-Vegfa acquires the characteristics of phagocytosis and immune response, while Macrophage-C1qb is not involved in lipid metabolism. The two subclusters are both enriched in cell movement and migration pathways. Experimental verification proved Monocyte-Ly6C evolved into Macrophage-Vegfa and Macrophage-C1qb during atherosclerosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jie Song
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Ma
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ting Meng
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Bioactive Small Molecules, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tao Zhuang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Bioactive Small Molecules, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng-Chao Ruan
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Bioactive Small Molecules, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Jinshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Cardiology, RuiJin Hospital/LuWan Branch, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Guan-Nan Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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Gong B, Guo Y, Li Y, Wang J, Zhou G, Chen YH, Nie T, Yang M, Luo K, Zheng C, Pan F, Liang B, Yang L. Immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer: the increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease events and progression of coronary artery calcium. BMC Med 2024; 22:44. [PMID: 38291431 PMCID: PMC10829401 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03261-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have contributed to a significant advancement in the treatment of cancer, leading to improved clinical outcomes in many individuals with advanced disease. Both preclinical and clinical investigations have shown that ICIs are associated with atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular events; however, the exact mechanism underlying this relationship has not been clarified. METHODS Patients diagnosed with stages III or IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) at the Wuhan Union Hospital from March 1, 2020, to April 30, 2022, were included in this retrospective study. Coronary artery calcium (CAC) volume and score were assessed in a subset of patients during non-ECG-gated chest CT scans at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed in a 1:1 ratio to balance the baseline characteristics between the two groups. RESULTS Overall, 1458 patients (487 with ICI therapy and 971 without ICI therapy) were enrolled in this cardiovascular cohort study. After PSM, 446 patients were included in each group. During the entire period of follow-up (median follow-up 23.1 months), 24 atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) events (4.9%) occurred in the ICI group, and 14 ASCVD events (1.4%) in the non-ICI group, before PSM; 24 ASCVD events (5.4%) occurred in the ICI group and 5 ASCVD events (1.1%) in the non-ICI group after PSM. The CAC imaging study group comprised 113 patients with ICI therapy and 133 patients without ICI therapy. After PSM, each group consisted of 75 patients. In the ICI group, the CAC volume/score increased from 93.4 mm3/96.9 (baseline) to 125.1 mm3/132.8 (at 12 months). In the non-ICI group, the CAC volume/score was increased from 70.1 mm3/68.8 (baseline) to 84.4 mm3/87.9 (at 12 months). After PSM, the CAC volume/score was increased from 85.1 mm3/76.4 (baseline) to 111.8 mm3/121.1 (12 months) in the ICI group and was increased from 74.9 mm3/76.8 (baseline) to 109.3 mm3/98.7 (12 months) in the non-ICI group. Both cardiovascular events and CAC progression were increased after the initiation of ICIs. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with ICIs was associated with a higher rate of ASCVD events and a noticeable increase in CAC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingxin Gong
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yusheng Guo
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Guofeng Zhou
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yong-Hao Chen
- Department of Cardiology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Tong Nie
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Ming Yang
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Kun Luo
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Chuansheng Zheng
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Feng Pan
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Bo Liang
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| | - Lian Yang
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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Xue Y, Hu Y, Yu S, Zhu W, Liu L, Luo M, Luo S, Shen J, Huang L, Liu J, Lv D, Zhang W, Wang J, Li X. The lncRNA GAS5 upregulates ANXA2 to mediate the macrophage inflammatory response during atherosclerosis development. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24103. [PMID: 38293536 PMCID: PMC10825448 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory macrophages play a crucial role in atherosclerosis development. The long non-coding RNA growth arrest-specific 5 (GAS5) regulates THP-1 macrophage inflammation by sponging microRNAs. The purpose of this study was to investigate the regulatory mechanism of GAS5 in atherosclerosis development. GSE40231, GSE21545, and GSE28829 datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus database were integrated after adjusting for batch effect. Differential analysis was performed on the integrated dataset and validated using the Genotype-Tissue Expression and GSE57691 datasets. Potential biological functions of GAS5 and annexin A2 (ANXA2) were identified using gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). ssGSEA, CIBERSORTx, and ImmuCellAI algorithms were used to identify immune infiltration in plaque samples. GAS5 and ANXA2 expression levels in RAW264.7 cells treated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) were measured by qRT-PCR and Western blot. Small interfering and short hairpin RNA were used to silence GAS5 expression. Plasmids of ANXA2 were used to establish ANXA2 overexpression. Apoptosis and inflammatory markers in macrophages were detected by Western blot. Aortic samples from APOE-/- mice were collected to validate the expression of GAS5 and ANXA2. GAS5 expression was significantly increased during atherosclerosis. GAS5 expression was positively correlated with macrophage activation and ANXA2 expression in plaques. Furthermore, ANXA2 upregulation was also related to the activation of macrophage. GSEA indicated similar biological functions for GAS5 and ANXA2 in plaques. Moreover, in vitro experiments showed that both GAS5 and ANXA2 contributed to macrophage apoptosis and inflammation. Rescue assays revealed that the inflammatory effects of GAS5 on macrophages were ANXA2-dependent. In vivo experiments confirmed the highly expression of Gas5 and Anxa2 in the plaque group. We identified the atherogenic roles of GAS5 and ANXA2 in the inflammatory response of macrophages. The inflammatory response in ox-LDL-treated macrophages was found to be mediated by GAS5-ANXA2 regulation, opening new avenues for atherosclerosis therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhou Xue
- Department of Cardiology and Institute of Vascular Medicine, NHC Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Molecular Biology and Regulatory Peptides, State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Receptors Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yu Hu
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 402160, China
| | - Shikai Yu
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Wenyan Zhu
- Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing, 401331, China
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Dermatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Minghao Luo
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Suxin Luo
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jian Shen
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Longxiang Huang
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Dingyi Lv
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wenming Zhang
- Department of Cardiology and Institute of Vascular Medicine, NHC Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Molecular Biology and Regulatory Peptides, State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, Peking University Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Receptors Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jingyu Wang
- Renal Division Key Laboratory of Renal Disease Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Peking University First Hospital, Peking University Institute of Nephrology, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Gong B, Li Y, Guo Y, Wang J, Liu W, Zhou G, Song J, Pan F, Yang L, Liang B. The impact of pulmonary artery to ascending aorta diameter ratio progression on the prognosis of NSCLC patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1302233. [PMID: 38348049 PMCID: PMC10859503 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1302233] [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: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Immunotherapy, represented by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), is a major breakthrough in cancer treatment. Studies have reported that the use of ICIs is associated with an increase in the pulmonary artery to ascending aorta diameter (PAD/AoD) ratio. However, the impact of PAD/AoD ratio progression on the prognosis of patients is unclear. Methods This retrospective cohort study included patients with stage III or IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with ICIs at the Wuhan Union Hospital between March 1, 2020, and September 1, 2022. The baseline and post-treatment PAD/AoD ratios of patients were evaluated through chest CT scans. The primary outcome of this study was overall survival (OS), while the secondary outcomes included progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR). Results The PAD/AoD ratio increased after the initiation of ICIs (from 0.75 to 0.78; P < 0.001). A total of 441 patients were divided into severe group (n=221) and non-severe group (n=220) according to the median increase of PAD/AoD ratio (1.06). Compared with the non-severe group, the severe group had a lower DCR (87.8% vs. 96.0%, P = 0.005) and ORR (87.5% vs. 96.0%, P = 0.063). Over the entire duration of follow-up (median 22.0 months), 85 (38.5%) patients in the severe group and 30 (7.3%) patients in the non-severe group died. An increased PAD/AoD ratio was associated with shorter PFS (Hazard ratio (HR): 1.48 [95% CI, 1.14 to 1.93]; P = 0.003) and OS (HR: 3.50 [95% CI, 2.30 to 5.30]; P < 0.001). Similar results were obtained across subgroups. Conclusions ICI treatment exacerbates an increase in the PAD/AoD ratio in patients with cancer, and greater increase in the PAD/AoD ratio was associated with a worse prognosis. PAD/AoD ratio could be a biomarker to stratify prognosis of NSCLC patients treated with ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingxin Gong
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
| | - Yusheng Guo
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
| | - Weiwei Liu
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
| | - Guofeng Zhou
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiyu Song
- Department of Pathology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Pan
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
| | - Lian Yang
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
| | - Bo Liang
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
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Lin H, Zhang M, Hu M, Zhang Y, Jiang W, Tang W, Ouyang Y, Jiang L, Mi Y, Chen Z, He P, Zhao G, Ouyang X. Emerging applications of single-cell profiling in precision medicine of atherosclerosis. J Transl Med 2024; 22:97. [PMID: 38263066 PMCID: PMC10804726 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04629-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic, progressive, inflammatory disease that occurs in the arterial wall. Despite recent advancements in treatment aimed at improving efficacy and prolonging survival, atherosclerosis remains largely incurable. In this review, we discuss emerging single-cell sequencing techniques and their novel insights into atherosclerosis. We provide examples of single-cell profiling studies that reveal phenotypic characteristics of atherosclerosis plaques, blood, liver, and the intestinal tract. Additionally, we highlight the potential clinical applications of single-cell analysis and propose that combining this approach with other techniques can facilitate early diagnosis and treatment, leading to more accurate medical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiling Lin
- Department of Physiology, Medical College, Institute of Neuroscience Research, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration and Cognitive Impairment, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University (Qingyuan People's Hospital), Qingyuan, 511518, Guangdong, China
| | - Mi Hu
- Department of Physiology, Medical College, Institute of Neuroscience Research, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration and Cognitive Impairment, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Yangkai Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College, Institute of Neuroscience Research, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration and Cognitive Impairment, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
| | - WeiWei Jiang
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wanying Tang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College, Institute of Neuroscience Research, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration and Cognitive Impairment, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Yuxin Ouyang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College, Institute of Neuroscience Research, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration and Cognitive Impairment, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Liping Jiang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yali Mi
- Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University (Qingyuan People's Hospital), Qingyuan, 511518, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhi Chen
- College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Pingping He
- Department of Nursing, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China.
| | - Guojun Zhao
- Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University (Qingyuan People's Hospital), Qingyuan, 511518, Guangdong, China.
| | - Xinping Ouyang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College, Institute of Neuroscience Research, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration and Cognitive Impairment, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China.
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China.
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, 410081, Hunan, Changsha, China.
- The Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, 410081, Hunan, Changsha, China.
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50
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Karnewar S, Karnewar V, Shankman LS, Owens GK. Treatment of advanced atherosclerotic mice with ABT-263 reduced indices of plaque stability and increased mortality. JCI Insight 2024; 9:e173863. [PMID: 38258907 PMCID: PMC10906456 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.173863] [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: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The use of senolytic agents to remove senescent cells from atherosclerotic lesions is controversial. A common limitation of previous studies is the failure to rigorously define the effects of senolytic agent ABT-263 (Navitoclax) on smooth muscle cells (SMC) despite studies claiming that these cells are the major source of senescent cells. Moreover, there are no studies on the effect of ABT-263 on endothelial cells (EC), which - along with SMC - comprise 90% of α-smooth muscle actin+ (α-SMA+) myofibroblast-like cells in the protective fibrous cap. Here we tested the hypothesis that treatment of advanced atherosclerotic mice with ABT-263 will reduce lesion size and increase plaque stability. SMC (Myh11-CreERT2-eYFP) and EC (Cdh5-CreERT2-eYFP) lineage tracing Apoe-/- mice were fed a western diet (WD) for 18 weeks, followed by ABT-263 at 100 mg/kg/bw for 6 weeks or 50 mg/kg/bw for 9 weeks. ABT-263 treatment did not change lesion size or lumen area of the brachiocephalic artery (BCA). However, ABT-263 treatment reduced SMC by 90% and increased EC contributions to lesions via EC-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) by 60%. ABT-263 treatment also reduced α-SMA+ fibrous cap thickness by 60% and was associated with a > 50% mortality rate. Taken together, ABT-263 treatment of WD-fed Apoe-/- mice with advanced lesions resulted in multiple detrimental changes, including reduced indices of stability and increased mortality.
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