1
|
Liao C, Huang Z, Chen L, Fan X, Peng J, Tan X, Yang J, Zhang X. Urotensin II promotes the proliferation and secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor in rat dermal papilla cells by activating the Wnt-β-catenin signaling pathway. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICINE 2023; 17. [DOI: 10.4081/itjm.2023.1607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Urotensin II (U II) is a kind of active peptide with a variety of biological effects, such as promoting cell proliferation and endocrine effects. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of urotensin II on the proliferation and secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in cultured rat dermal papilla cells (DPCs), and to explore its molecular mechanism. Materials and Methods. We used the DPCs isolated from the thoracic aortas of Wistar-Kyoto rats to run the CCK8 and ELISA assay, RC-PCR and Western blotting techniques to identify the effect of Urotensin II on the proliferation and secretion of VEGF in DPCs, data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA or t-test. Results. U II can increase the mRNA expression of proliferation markers Ki67 and PCNA. In addition, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway was activated by U II, but Wnt inhibitor DKK1 reversed the effect of U II. Conclusions. U II promoted the proliferation and secretion of VEGF in rat DPCs through activation of the Wnt-β-catenin signaling pathway.
Collapse
|
2
|
Wu X, Xu M, Geng M, Chen S, Little PJ, Xu S, Weng J. Targeting protein modifications in metabolic diseases: molecular mechanisms and targeted therapies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:220. [PMID: 37244925 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01439-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The ever-increasing prevalence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) represents a major public health burden worldwide. The most common form of NCD is metabolic diseases, which affect people of all ages and usually manifest their pathobiology through life-threatening cardiovascular complications. A comprehensive understanding of the pathobiology of metabolic diseases will generate novel targets for improved therapies across the common metabolic spectrum. Protein posttranslational modification (PTM) is an important term that refers to biochemical modification of specific amino acid residues in target proteins, which immensely increases the functional diversity of the proteome. The range of PTMs includes phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation, ubiquitination, SUMOylation, neddylation, glycosylation, palmitoylation, myristoylation, prenylation, cholesterylation, glutathionylation, S-nitrosylation, sulfhydration, citrullination, ADP ribosylation, and several novel PTMs. Here, we offer a comprehensive review of PTMs and their roles in common metabolic diseases and pathological consequences, including diabetes, obesity, fatty liver diseases, hyperlipidemia, and atherosclerosis. Building upon this framework, we afford a through description of proteins and pathways involved in metabolic diseases by focusing on PTM-based protein modifications, showcase the pharmaceutical intervention of PTMs in preclinical studies and clinical trials, and offer future perspectives. Fundamental research defining the mechanisms whereby PTMs of proteins regulate metabolic diseases will open new avenues for therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiumei Wu
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diabetology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510000, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mengyun Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
| | - Mengya Geng
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
| | - Shuo Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
| | - Peter J Little
- School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, Woolloongabba, QLD, 4102, Australia
- Sunshine Coast Health Institute and School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, QLD, 4575, Australia
| | - Suowen Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
| | - Jianping Weng
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China.
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diabetology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 510000, Guangzhou, China.
- Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dynamic Changes in Plasma Urotensin II and Its Correlation With Plaque Stability. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2021; 78:e147-e155. [PMID: 34173803 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000001044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Urotensin II (UII) is involved in the formation of atherosclerosis, but its role in the stability of atherosclerotic plaques is unknown. The purpose of this study was to observe the dynamic changes in plasma UII and analyze its relationship to the stability of atherosclerotic plaques. One hundred thirty-five consecutive patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) were enrolled. The plasma UII levels were measured immediately after admission and during three-month follow-up. A vulnerable plaque model was established using local transfection of a recombinant P53 adenovirus into plaques in rabbits fed with a high-cholesterol diet and subjected to balloon arterial injury. The levels of plasma UII were measured weekly. The changes in plasma UII during the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and before and after plaque transfection were observed. The morphology of the plaques and the expression, distribution, and quantitative expression of UII in the plaques also were observed. Our results showed that the levels of plasma UII in patients with ACS at admission were lower than levels observed at the three-month follow-up. UII dynamic changes and its correlation with plaque stabilities were further verified in rabbits with atherosclerotic vulnerable plaques. The UII levels in rabbits were significantly decreased immediately after the P53 gene transfection, which led to plaque instability and rupture. These results suggested that UII expression was down-regulated in ACS, which may be related to its ability to modulate mechanisms involved in plaque stability and instability.
Collapse
|
4
|
Khan K, Albanese I, Yu B, Shalal Y, Al-Kindi H, Alaws H, Tardif JC, Gourgas O, Cerutti M, Schwertani A. Urotensin II, urotensin-related peptide, and their receptor in aortic valve stenosis. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2019; 161:e1-e15. [PMID: 31679703 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcvs.2019.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 09/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Aortic valve stenosis (AVS) is the most common cause of surgical valve replacement worldwide. The vasoactive peptide urotensin II (UII) is upregulated in atherosclerosis and several other cardiovascular diseases; however, its role in the pathogenesis of AVS remains to be determined. Here, we investigated the expression of UII, urotensin-related peptide (URP), and the urotensin receptor (UT) and the role this system plays in AVS. METHODS Immunohistochemistry and reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction were used to examine the cellular localization and mRNA expression, of UII, URP, and UT in calcified and noncalcified aortic valves. Human aortic valve interstitial cells were isolated from normal valves and treated with UII or URP, and changes in cell proliferation, cholesterol efflux, calcium deposition, and β-catenin translocation were assessed. RESULTS The mRNA expression of UII, URP, and UT was significantly greater in patients with AVS. There was abundant presence of UII, URP, and UT immunostaining in diseased compared with nondiseased valves and correlated significantly with presence of calcification (P < .0001) and fibrosis (P < .0001). Treating human aortic valve interstitial cells with UII or URP significantly increased cell proliferation (P < .0001) and decreased cholesterol efflux (P = .0011 and P = .0002, respectively). UII also significantly reduced ABCA1 protein expression (P = .0457) and increased β-catenin nuclear translocation (P < .0001) and mineral deposition (P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS Together, these data suggest that the urotensin system plays a role in the pathogenesis of AVS and warrants further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kashif Khan
- Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Isabella Albanese
- Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Bin Yu
- Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Yousif Shalal
- Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Hamood Al-Kindi
- Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Hossney Alaws
- Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Ophélie Gourgas
- Department of Materials Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marta Cerutti
- Department of Materials Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Adel Schwertani
- Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sato K, Yamashita T, Shirai R, Shibata K, Okano T, Yamaguchi M, Mori Y, Hirano T, Watanabe T. Adropin Contributes to Anti-Atherosclerosis by Suppressing Monocyte-Endothelial Cell Adhesion and Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E1293. [PMID: 29701665 PMCID: PMC5983814 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Adropin, a peptide hormone expressed in liver and brain, is known to improve insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction. Serum levels of adropin are negatively associated with the severity of coronary artery disease. However, it remains unknown whether adropin could modulate atherogenesis. We assessed the effects of adropin on inflammatory molecule expression and human THP1 monocyte adhesion in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), foam cell formation in THP1 monocyte-derived macrophages, and the migration and proliferation of human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) in vitro and atherogenesis in Apoe-/- mice in vivo. Adropin was expressed in THP1 monocytes, their derived macrophages, HASMCs, and HUVECs. Adropin suppressed tumor necrosis factor α-induced THP1 monocyte adhesion to HUVECs, which was associated with vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 downregulation in HUVECs. Adropin shifted the phenotype to anti-inflammatory M2 rather than pro-inflammatory M1 via peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ upregulation during monocyte differentiation into macrophages. Adropin had no significant effects on oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced foam cell formation in macrophages. In HASMCs, adropin suppressed the migration and proliferation without inducing apoptosis via ERK1/2 and Bax downregulation and phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt/Bcl2 upregulation. Chronic administration of adropin to Apoe-/- mice attenuated the development of atherosclerotic lesions in the aorta, with reduced the intra-plaque monocyte/macrophage infiltration and smooth muscle cell content. Thus, adropin could serve as a novel therapeutic target in atherosclerosis and related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kengo Sato
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, 1432-1 Horinouchi, Hachioji-City, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan.
| | - Tomoyuki Yamashita
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, 1432-1 Horinouchi, Hachioji-City, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan.
| | - Remina Shirai
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, 1432-1 Horinouchi, Hachioji-City, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan.
| | - Koichiro Shibata
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, 1432-1 Horinouchi, Hachioji-City, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan.
| | - Taisuke Okano
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, 1432-1 Horinouchi, Hachioji-City, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan.
| | - Maho Yamaguchi
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, 1432-1 Horinouchi, Hachioji-City, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan.
| | - Yusaku Mori
- Division of Diabetes, Metabolism, and Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8666, Japan.
| | - Tsutomu Hirano
- Division of Diabetes, Metabolism, and Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8666, Japan.
| | - Takuya Watanabe
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, 1432-1 Horinouchi, Hachioji-City, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhang Y, Qian X, Sun X, Lin C, Jing Y, Yao Y, Ma Z, Kuai M, Lu Y, Kong X, Chen Q, Wu X, Zhao X, Li Y, Bian H. Liuwei Dihuang, a traditional Chinese medicinal formula, inhibits proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells via modulation of estrogen receptors. Int J Mol Med 2018; 42:31-40. [PMID: 29693116 PMCID: PMC5979928 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2018.3622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The phenotypic modulation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) serves an important role in atherosclerosis-induced vascular alterations, including vascular remodeling. However, the precise mechanisms underlying VSMC phenotypic modulation remain to be elucidated. Our previous study demonstrated that Liuwei Dihuang formula (LWDHF) could improve menopausal atherosclerosis by upregulating the expression of estrogen receptors (ERs). The present study examined the role of ERs in the effects of LWDHF on VSMC phenotypic modulation. VSMC proliferation and cell cycle progression were examined by MTT assay and flow cytometry, respectively. The expression levels of α-smooth muscle actin, osteopontin and ERs were determined using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blot analysis. Cell ultrastructure was observed under an electron microscope. F-actin polymerization was detected by fluorescein isothiocyanate-phalloidin staining using fluorescence microscopy. A modified Boyden chamber assay was employed to assess VSMCs migration. Small interfering (si)RNA technology was used to examine the role of ERα in the effects of LWDHF on phenotypic modulation. The results indicated that LWDHF (3-12 µg/ml) inhibited proliferation and induced a cell cycle arrest in VSMCs treated with angiotensin II (Ang II; 100 nM) in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, Ang II-stimulated migration of VSMCs and reorganization of actin were markedly inhibited by treatment with 12 µg/ml LWDHF. Results of RT-qPCR and western blotting demonstrated that LWDHF markedly stimulated transcription and expression of ERα and ERβ, and inhibited VSMC synthetic phenotype. Furthermore, LWDHF-induced inhibition of phenotypic switching was partially suppressed by tamoxifen, and transfection with ERα siRNA markedly abolished the effects of LWDHF on VSMC phenotypic switching. In conclusion, these results revealed that ERα served an important role in LWDHF-induced regulation of the VSMC phenotype, including proliferation and migration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yayun Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China
| | - Xing Qian
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China
| | - Xin Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China
| | - Chao Lin
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China
| | - Yi Jing
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Yao
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China
| | - Zhi Ma
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China
| | - Meiyu Kuai
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China
| | - Ying Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China
| | - Xueyun Kong
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China
| | - Qi Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China
| | - Xiang Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China
| | - Xuan Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China
| | - Yu Li
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China
| | - Huimin Bian
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Rahimi R, Karimi J, Khodadadi I, Tayebinia H, Kheiripour N, Hashemnia M, Goli F. Silymarin ameliorates expression of urotensin II (U-II) and its receptor (UTR) and attenuates toxic oxidative stress in the heart of rats with type 2 diabetes. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 101:244-250. [PMID: 29494961 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.02.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Revised: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Urotensin II ((U-II)) and its receptor (UTR) are involved in the progression of CVD through enhancement in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Since silymarin (SMN) is a natural agent with anti-diabetic effects, this study aimed to investigate the antioxidant potency of SMN on the expression of (U-II)/UTR system and oxidative stress status in the heart of type 2 diabetic rats. Thirty-six male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6). Control and diabetic groups treated with or without SMN (60 and 120 mg/kg/day) for 2 months. Fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin, lipid profile, creatine kinase-MB ((CK-MB)), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and markers of oxidative stress were measured by spectrophotometric methods while (U-II) and UTR gene expression was determined by qPCR method. SMN significantly reduced the FBS level, increased the concentration of insulin and improved HOMA-IR. SMN prevented diabetes-induced weight loss, and attenuated the increased levels of total oxidative status (TOS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO). Diabetes-induced reduction of total thiol molecules content (TTM) was normalized to the normal level in SMN treated rats. SMN significantly modulated serum lipid profile, reduced the expression of (U-II) and UTR in the heart, and improved histopathological changes in the heart tissues. Therefore, the current study indicated that SMN ameliorated unpleasant diabetic characteristics via down-regulation of (U-II) and UTR gene expression and modulation of oxidative stress in the heart tissue of type 2 diabetic rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rahimeh Rahimi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Jamshid Karimi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
| | - Iraj Khodadadi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Heidar Tayebinia
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Nejat Kheiripour
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hashemnia
- Departments of Pathobiology, Veterinary Medicine Faculty, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Goli
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Matsumoto T, Watanabe S, Kobayashi S, Ando M, Taguchi K, Kobayashi T. Age-Related Reduction of Contractile Responses to Urotensin II Is Seen in Aortas from Wistar Rats but Not from Type 2 Diabetic Goto-Kakizaki Rats. Rejuvenation Res 2016; 20:134-145. [PMID: 27841739 DOI: 10.1089/rej.2016.1864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular dysfunction is a common finding in type 2 diabetes, although the response to urotensin II (UII), a potent vasoconstrictor peptide, remains unclear. We investigated whether a UII-induced contraction was increased in the aortas from type 2 diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats at the chronic stage. At 36 or 37 weeks of age (older group), a UII-induced contraction was seen in GK rats and was reduced by a Rho kinase inhibitor or urotensin receptor (UT) antagonist, whereas UII failed to induce a contraction in aortas from age-matched Wistar rats. In UII-stimulated aortas, the expression of Rho kinases, Rho A, and phosphorylated myosin phosphatase target subunit 1 did not change between the two groups; however, phosphorylation of extracellular-regulated kinase 1/2 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) was greater in GK than in Wistar rats. Compared to intact aortas, UII-induced contractions were slightly, but not significantly, increased by endothelial denudation of the aortas of Wistar rats at 24 weeks of age. At 6 weeks of age (young group), the UII-induced contractions were seen in GK and Wistar groups. The total expression and the membrane-to-cytosol ratio of the UT protein slightly decreased in Wistar aortas with aging but not in GK aortas. These results demonstrate that the UII-induced contraction gradually decreased with aging in Wistar rats and was preserved in type 2 diabetes. Although alterations of UII-induced contractions during aging and type 2 diabetes may be associated with kinase activities (MAPKs or Rho kinase) or receptor profiles, further investigations are necessary to clarify the mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Matsumoto
- Department of Physiology and Morphology, Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Hoshi University , Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shun Watanabe
- Department of Physiology and Morphology, Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Hoshi University , Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shota Kobayashi
- Department of Physiology and Morphology, Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Hoshi University , Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Makoto Ando
- Department of Physiology and Morphology, Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Hoshi University , Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kumiko Taguchi
- Department of Physiology and Morphology, Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Hoshi University , Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsuneo Kobayashi
- Department of Physiology and Morphology, Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Hoshi University , Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Urotensin II induction of neonatal cardiomyocyte hypertrophy involves the CaMKII/PLN/SERCA 2a signaling pathway. Gene 2016; 583:8-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2016.02.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Revised: 02/08/2016] [Accepted: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
|
10
|
Vaudry H, Leprince J, Chatenet D, Fournier A, Lambert DG, Le Mével JC, Ohlstein EH, Schwertani A, Tostivint H, Vaudry D. International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology. XCII. Urotensin II, urotensin II-related peptide, and their receptor: from structure to function. Pharmacol Rev 2015; 67:214-58. [PMID: 25535277 DOI: 10.1124/pr.114.009480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Urotensin II (UII) is a cyclic neuropeptide that was first isolated from the urophysis of teleost fish on the basis of its ability to contract the hindgut. Subsequently, UII was characterized in tetrapods including humans. Phylogenetic studies and synteny analysis indicate that UII and its paralogous peptide urotensin II-related peptide (URP) belong to the somatostatin/cortistatin superfamily. In mammals, the UII and URP genes are primarily expressed in cholinergic neurons of the brainstem and spinal cord. UII and URP mRNAs are also present in various organs notably in the cardiovascular, renal, and endocrine systems. UII and URP activate a common G protein-coupled receptor, called UT, that exhibits relatively high sequence identity with somatostatin, opioid, and galanin receptors. The UT gene is widely expressed in the central nervous system (CNS) and in peripheral tissues including the retina, heart, vascular bed, lung, kidney, adrenal medulla, and skeletal muscle. Structure-activity relationship studies and NMR conformational analysis have led to the rational design of a number of peptidic and nonpeptidic UT agonists and antagonists. Consistent with the wide distribution of UT, UII has now been shown to exert a large array of biologic activities, in particular in the CNS, the cardiovascular system, and the kidney. Here, we review the current knowledge concerning the pleiotropic actions of UII and discusses the possible use of antagonists for future therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hubert Vaudry
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U982, Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.), University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.); Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand Frappier, Laval, Québec, Canada (D.C., A.F.); International Associated Laboratory Samuel de Champlain, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.C., A.F., D.V.); Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Division of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, University of Leicester, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom (D.G.L.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1101, Laboratoire de Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Laboratoire de Neurophysiologie, Université Européenne de Bretagne, Brest, France (J.-C.L.M.); AltheRx Pharmaceuticals, Malvern, Pennsylvania (E.H.O.); Division of Cardiology, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Québec, Canada (A.S.); and Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7221, Evolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France (H.T.)
| | - Jérôme Leprince
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U982, Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.), University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.); Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand Frappier, Laval, Québec, Canada (D.C., A.F.); International Associated Laboratory Samuel de Champlain, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.C., A.F., D.V.); Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Division of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, University of Leicester, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom (D.G.L.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1101, Laboratoire de Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Laboratoire de Neurophysiologie, Université Européenne de Bretagne, Brest, France (J.-C.L.M.); AltheRx Pharmaceuticals, Malvern, Pennsylvania (E.H.O.); Division of Cardiology, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Québec, Canada (A.S.); and Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7221, Evolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France (H.T.)
| | - David Chatenet
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U982, Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.), University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.); Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand Frappier, Laval, Québec, Canada (D.C., A.F.); International Associated Laboratory Samuel de Champlain, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.C., A.F., D.V.); Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Division of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, University of Leicester, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom (D.G.L.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1101, Laboratoire de Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Laboratoire de Neurophysiologie, Université Européenne de Bretagne, Brest, France (J.-C.L.M.); AltheRx Pharmaceuticals, Malvern, Pennsylvania (E.H.O.); Division of Cardiology, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Québec, Canada (A.S.); and Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7221, Evolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France (H.T.)
| | - Alain Fournier
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U982, Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.), University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.); Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand Frappier, Laval, Québec, Canada (D.C., A.F.); International Associated Laboratory Samuel de Champlain, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.C., A.F., D.V.); Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Division of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, University of Leicester, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom (D.G.L.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1101, Laboratoire de Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Laboratoire de Neurophysiologie, Université Européenne de Bretagne, Brest, France (J.-C.L.M.); AltheRx Pharmaceuticals, Malvern, Pennsylvania (E.H.O.); Division of Cardiology, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Québec, Canada (A.S.); and Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7221, Evolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France (H.T.)
| | - David G Lambert
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U982, Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.), University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.); Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand Frappier, Laval, Québec, Canada (D.C., A.F.); International Associated Laboratory Samuel de Champlain, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.C., A.F., D.V.); Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Division of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, University of Leicester, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom (D.G.L.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1101, Laboratoire de Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Laboratoire de Neurophysiologie, Université Européenne de Bretagne, Brest, France (J.-C.L.M.); AltheRx Pharmaceuticals, Malvern, Pennsylvania (E.H.O.); Division of Cardiology, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Québec, Canada (A.S.); and Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7221, Evolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France (H.T.)
| | - Jean-Claude Le Mével
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U982, Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.), University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.); Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand Frappier, Laval, Québec, Canada (D.C., A.F.); International Associated Laboratory Samuel de Champlain, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.C., A.F., D.V.); Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Division of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, University of Leicester, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom (D.G.L.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1101, Laboratoire de Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Laboratoire de Neurophysiologie, Université Européenne de Bretagne, Brest, France (J.-C.L.M.); AltheRx Pharmaceuticals, Malvern, Pennsylvania (E.H.O.); Division of Cardiology, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Québec, Canada (A.S.); and Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7221, Evolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France (H.T.)
| | - Eliot H Ohlstein
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U982, Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.), University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.); Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand Frappier, Laval, Québec, Canada (D.C., A.F.); International Associated Laboratory Samuel de Champlain, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.C., A.F., D.V.); Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Division of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, University of Leicester, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom (D.G.L.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1101, Laboratoire de Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Laboratoire de Neurophysiologie, Université Européenne de Bretagne, Brest, France (J.-C.L.M.); AltheRx Pharmaceuticals, Malvern, Pennsylvania (E.H.O.); Division of Cardiology, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Québec, Canada (A.S.); and Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7221, Evolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France (H.T.)
| | - Adel Schwertani
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U982, Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.), University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.); Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand Frappier, Laval, Québec, Canada (D.C., A.F.); International Associated Laboratory Samuel de Champlain, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.C., A.F., D.V.); Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Division of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, University of Leicester, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom (D.G.L.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1101, Laboratoire de Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Laboratoire de Neurophysiologie, Université Européenne de Bretagne, Brest, France (J.-C.L.M.); AltheRx Pharmaceuticals, Malvern, Pennsylvania (E.H.O.); Division of Cardiology, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Québec, Canada (A.S.); and Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7221, Evolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France (H.T.)
| | - Hervé Tostivint
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U982, Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.), University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.); Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand Frappier, Laval, Québec, Canada (D.C., A.F.); International Associated Laboratory Samuel de Champlain, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.C., A.F., D.V.); Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Division of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, University of Leicester, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom (D.G.L.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1101, Laboratoire de Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Laboratoire de Neurophysiologie, Université Européenne de Bretagne, Brest, France (J.-C.L.M.); AltheRx Pharmaceuticals, Malvern, Pennsylvania (E.H.O.); Division of Cardiology, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Québec, Canada (A.S.); and Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7221, Evolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France (H.T.)
| | - David Vaudry
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U982, Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.), University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.V.); Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand Frappier, Laval, Québec, Canada (D.C., A.F.); International Associated Laboratory Samuel de Champlain, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France (H.V., J.L., D.C., A.F., D.V.); Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Division of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, University of Leicester, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom (D.G.L.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1101, Laboratoire de Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Laboratoire de Neurophysiologie, Université Européenne de Bretagne, Brest, France (J.-C.L.M.); AltheRx Pharmaceuticals, Malvern, Pennsylvania (E.H.O.); Division of Cardiology, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Québec, Canada (A.S.); and Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7221, Evolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France (H.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Chen YL, Tsai YT, Lee CY, Lee CH, Chen CY, Liu CM, Chen JJ, Loh SH, Tsai CS. Urotensin II inhibits doxorubicin-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cell death by modulating ATF expression and via the ERK and Akt pathway. PLoS One 2014; 9:e106812. [PMID: 25268131 PMCID: PMC4182104 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0106812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose Regulation of the homeostasis of vascular endothelium is critical for the processes of vascular remodeling and angiogenesis under physiological and pathological conditions. Urotensin II (U-II), a potent vasoactive peptide, participates in vascular and myocardial remodeling after injury. We investigated the protective effect of U-II on doxorubicin (DOX)-induced apoptosis in cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and the potential mechanisms involved in this process. Experimental Approach Cultured HUVECs were treated with vehicle, DOX (1 µM), U-II, or U-II plus DOX. Apoptosis was evaluated by DNA strand break level with TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining. Western blot analysis was employed to determine the related protein expression and flow cytometry assay was used to determine the TUNEL positive cells. Key Results U-II reduced the quantity of cleaved caspase-3 and cytosol cytochrome c and increased Bcl-2 expression, which results in protecting HUVECs from DOX-induced apoptosis. U-II induced Activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) at both mRNA and protein levels in U-II-treated cells. Knockdown of ATF3 with ATF3 siRNA significantly reduced ATF3 protein levels and U-II protective effect under DOX-treated condition. U-II downregulated p53 expression in DOX-induced HUVECs apoptosis, and it rapidly activated extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) and Akt. The DOX induced change of p53 was not affected by U-II antagonist (urantide) under ATF-3 knockdown. The inhibitory effect of U-II on DOX-increased apoptosis was attenuated by inhibitors of ERK (U0126) and PI3K/Akt (LY294002). Conclusion and Implications Our observations provide evidence that U-II protects HUVECs from DOX-induced apoptosis. ERK-Akt phosphorylation, ATF3 activation, and p53 downregulation may play a signal-transduction role in this process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Ling Chen
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Yi-Ting Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Chung-Yi Lee
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Chien-Hsing Lee
- Department of Nursing, Min-Hwei College of Health Care Management, Tainan, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Chung-Yi Chen
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Fooyin University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Chi-Ming Liu
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Fooyin University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Jin-Jer Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine and Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Shih-Hurng Loh
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Department of Pharmacology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- * E-mail: (C-ST); (S-HL)
| | - Chien-Sung Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- * E-mail: (C-ST); (S-HL)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Al Kindi H, Hafiane A, You Z, Albanese I, Pilote L, Genest J, Schwertani A. Circulating levels of the vasoactive peptide urotensin II in patients with acute coronary syndrome and stable coronary artery disease. Peptides 2014; 55:151-7. [PMID: 24642358 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2014.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2013] [Revised: 02/26/2014] [Accepted: 03/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Urotensin II (UII) is a vasoactive peptide with various roles in cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology. There is an accumulating evidence implicating UII in atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease, making it an important target in acute coronary syndrome (ACS). In this study, we sought to determine the plasma levels of UII in ACS patients within 48 h of clinical presentation and after a 12-week recovery period. We compared them to patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD) and a control group of normolipidemic subjects without known CAD. Using a highly sensitive ELISA technique, we measured plasma UII in 27 ACS patients, 26 stable CAD patients and 22 age-matched controls. ACS patients had significantly elevated plasma UII during the first 48 h of clinical presentation compared to stable CAD patients and controls. We also found significant positive correlations between UII and CRP and with triglycerides and a significant negative correlation between UII and EF. There was no correlation with LDL-C. In conclusion, plasma UII levels were elevated in patients with acute coronary syndrome, particularly immediately after clinical presentation. This suggests an upregulation of UII expression in ACS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hamood Al Kindi
- Division of Cardiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anouar Hafiane
- Division of Cardiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Zhipeng You
- Division of Cardiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Isabella Albanese
- Division of Cardiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Louise Pilote
- Division of Cardiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jacques Genest
- Division of Cardiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Adel Schwertani
- Division of Cardiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Dadbinpour A, Sheikhha MH, Darbouy M, Afkhami-Ardekani M. Investigating GSTT1 and GSTM1 null genotype as the risk factor of diabetes type 2 retinopathy. J Diabetes Metab Disord 2013; 12:48. [PMID: 24355557 PMCID: PMC7968338 DOI: 10.1186/2251-6581-12-48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background Diabetes is one of the multifactorial disorders with genetics and environmental factors playing important role in its cause. In diabetes, the defects in cellular metabolism results in increasing free radicals. These radicals react with other vital cellular molecules which are responsible in diabetes side effects. Human glutathione S-transferases (GST) are a family of enzymes that catalyses conjugation of electrophilic substances with glutathione. In this research the deletion of two of the most important genes of this family; GSTT1 and GSTM1 genes was investigated as the risk factor for diabetes mellitus type II and one of its most important complications; retinopathy. Material and methods In this study deletion of GSTT1 and GSTM1 genes in 57 diabetics’ patients with retinopathy and 58 diabetic peoples without retinopathy was examined. DNA was extracted from peripheral blood and then multiplex PCR was performed following agarose gel electrophoresis to detect GSTT1 and GSTM1 null genotypes. Data were analyzed with SPSS v16 software. Results The results indicated that there was significant relationship between GSTM1 null genotype with retinopathy side effect of diabetes type 2. While there was no significant relationship between GSTT1 null genotypes with retinopathy in diabetes type 2. Conclusion Significant correlation between GSTM1 null genotype and retinopathy in this and other studies could indicate this fact that impair cellular metabolism result in increase free radicals and oxidative pressure. Therefore, GST null genotypes may result in decrease antioxidant capacity which causes side effects of diabetes. Considering the performance of different classes of GST null genotypes additional studies are required to confirm this study. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/2251-6581-12-48) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammad Hasan Sheikhha
- Yazd Diabetes Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Jomhori Boulevard, Yazd, Iran.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
You Z, Al Kindi H, Abdul-Karim A, Barrette PO, Schwertani A. Blocking the urotensin II receptor pathway ameliorates the metabolic syndrome and improves cardiac function in obese mice. FASEB J 2013; 28:1210-20. [PMID: 24297699 DOI: 10.1096/fj.13-236471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The metabolic syndrome is defined by the presence of hyperlipidemia, obesity, hypertension, and diabetes. The syndrome is associated with significant cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The aim of the present study was to determine the role of the vasoactive peptide urotensin II (UII) in the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome. We used obese mice (ob/ob) to determine the effect of UII receptor (UT) blockage on the different facets of the metabolic syndrome with special emphasis on cardiac function. Our data demonstrate a significant increase in UII and UT expression in the myocardium of obese mice accompanied by a significant decrease in sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase 2a (SERCA2a) expression, as well as intracellular Na(+) and Ca(2+) compared with wild-type mice (P<0.05). Treatment of ob/ob mice with the UII receptor antagonist SB657510 significantly improved glucose levels, blood pressure, hyperlipidemia, expression of myocardial SERCA2a, intracellular Na(+) and Ca(2+) and cardiac function in association with a decrease in weight gain, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and sodium/hydrogen exchanger 1 (NHE-1) protein expression compared with vehicle (P<0.05). These findings demonstrate an important role for UII in the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome and suggest that the use of UT receptor antagonists may provide a new therapeutic tool for the treatment of this syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhipeng You
- 1McGill University Health Center, Ste. C9-166, Montreal General Hospital, 1650 Cedar Ave., Montreal, Quebec H3G 1A4, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Salusins: potential use as a biomarker for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. Int J Hypertens 2013; 2013:965140. [PMID: 24251033 PMCID: PMC3819761 DOI: 10.1155/2013/965140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2013] [Revised: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 09/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Human salusin- α and salusin- β are related peptides produced from prosalusin. Bolus injection of salusin- β into rats induces more profound hypotension and bradycardia than salusin- α . Central administration of salusin- β increases blood pressure via release of norepinephrine and arginine-vasopressin. Circulating levels of salusin- α and salusin- β are lower in patients with essential hypertension. Salusin- β exerts more potent mitogenic effects on human vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and fibroblasts than salusin- α . Salusin- β accelerates inflammatory responses in human endothelial cells and monocyte-endothelial adhesion. Human macrophage foam cell formation is stimulated by salusin- β but suppressed by salusin- α . Chronic salusin- β infusion into apolipoprotein E-deficient mice enhances atherosclerotic lesions; salusin- α infusion reduces lesions. Salusin- β is expressed in proliferative neointimal lesions of porcine coronary arteries after stenting. Salusin- α and salusin- β immunoreactivity have been detected in human coronary atherosclerotic plaques, with dominance of salusin- β in macrophage foam cells, VSMCs, and fibroblasts. Circulating salusin- β levels increase and salusin- α levels decrease in patients with coronary artery disease. These findings suggest that salusin- β and salusin- α may contribute to proatherogenesis and antiatherogenesis, respectively. Increased salusin- β and/or decreased salusin- α levels in circulating blood and vascular tissue are closely linked with atherosclerosis. Salusin- α and salusin- β could be candidate biomarkers and therapeutic targets for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.
Collapse
|
16
|
|
17
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Urotensin II (UTS2), the most potent vasoconstrictor identified thus far, is an undecapeptide hormone with a structure that is highly conserved through mammalian phylogeny. In spite of its broad expression across the invertebrate and vertebrate world, the precise role of UTS2 in physiology and disease is still unknown. The first description of human UTS2 and its receptor brought initial promise of a potential therapeutic target for progressive renal disease, with vasoconstrictive and profibrotic actions within an autocrine and paracrine system and local renal generation that was upregulated with renal pathology. RECENT FINDINGS However, the last decade has not brought the successful development of new treatments first hoped for, with one small human clinical trial bearing negative results. What has become apparent is that the spectrum of actions of UTS2 is broad and often paradoxical. This ancient hormone has both vasoconstrictor and vasodilatory actions, has both profibrotic and antiapoptotic activity, as well as actions which are highly contextual on the particular vascular bed studied and on the presence or absence of superimposed disease state. SUMMARY With current development of newer UTS2 antagonists attempting to more closely replicate the ligand-receptor kinetics of UTS2 and its receptor, the focus on potential clinical applications of UTS2 inhibition has moved away from the kidney to the treatment of chronic lung and cardiovascular diseases.
Collapse
|
18
|
Thomas MC. Emerging drugs for managing kidney disease in patients with diabetes. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2013; 18:55-70. [PMID: 23330907 DOI: 10.1517/14728214.2013.762356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The need for new approaches to manage the increasing numbers of patients with diabetes and their burden of complications is urgent. Of these, chronic kidney disease imposes some of the highest costs, both in dollars and in terms of human suffering. In individuals with diabetes, the presence and severity of kidney disease adversely affects their well-being, contributes to disease morbidity and increases their risk of a premature death. AREAS COVERED To collect information for the strategies previously or currently under investigation for managing kidney disease in patients with diabetes, a literature search was performed through the search engines PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov. EXPERT OPINION Despite advancing knowledge on the pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease, and promising effects in experimental models, at present there are no new drugs that come close to providing the solutions we desire for our patients. Even when used in combination with standard care, renal complications are at best only modestly reduced, at the considerable expense of additional pill burden and exposure to serious off-target effects. Some of the most exciting advances over the last decade, including thiazolidinediones, direct renin inhibitors, endothelin antagonists and most recently bardoxolone methyl have all fallen at this last hurdle. Better targeted ('smarter') drugs appear to be the best hope for renoprotective therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Merlin C Thomas
- Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, St Kilda Rd Central, PO Box 6492, Melbourne, VIC 8008, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Urotensin-II: More Than a Mediator for Kidney. Int J Nephrol 2012; 2012:249790. [PMID: 23094156 PMCID: PMC3474241 DOI: 10.1155/2012/249790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2011] [Accepted: 09/06/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Human urotensin-II (hU-II) is one of the most potent vasoconstrictors in mammals. Although both hU-II and its receptor, GPR14, are detected in several tissues, kidney is a major source of U-II in humans. Recent studies suggest that U-II may have a possible autocrine/paracrine functions in kidney and may be an important target molecule in studying renal pathophysiology. It has several effects on tubular transport and probably has active role in renal hemodynamics. Although it is an important peptide in renal physiology, certain diseases, such as hypertension and glomerulonephritis, may alter the expression of U-II. As might be expected, oxidative stress, mediators, and inflammation are like a devil's triangle in kidney diseases, mostly they induce each other. Since there is a complex relationship between U-II and oxidative stress, and other mediators, such as transforming growth factor β1 and angiotensin II, U-II is more than a mediator in glomerular diseases. Although it is an ancient peptide, known for 31 years, it looks like that U-II will continue to give new messages as well as raising more questions as research on it increases. In this paper, we mainly discuss the possible role of U-II on renal physiology and its effect on kidney diseases.
Collapse
|
20
|
Desrues L, Lefebvre T, Lecointre C, Schouft MT, Leprince J, Compère V, Morin F, Proust F, Gandolfo P, Tonon MC, Castel H. Down-regulation of GABA(A) receptor via promiscuity with the vasoactive peptide urotensin II receptor. Potential involvement in astrocyte plasticity. PLoS One 2012; 7:e36319. [PMID: 22563490 PMCID: PMC3341351 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0036319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2011] [Accepted: 04/02/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
GABAA receptor (GABAAR) expression level is inversely correlated with the proliferation rate of astrocytes after stroke or during malignancy of astrocytoma, leading to the hypothesis that GABAAR expression/activation may work as a cell proliferation repressor. A number of vasoactive peptides exhibit the potential to modulate astrocyte proliferation, and the question whether these mechanisms may imply alteration in GABAAR-mediated functions and/or plasma membrane densities is open. The peptide urotensin II (UII) activates a G protein-coupled receptor named UT, and mediates potent vasoconstriction or vasodilation in mammalian vasculature. We have previously demonstrated that UII activates a PLC/PIPs/Ca2+ transduction pathway, via both Gq and Gi/o proteins and stimulates astrocyte proliferation in culture. It was also shown that UT/Gq/IP3 coupling is regulated by the GABAAR in rat cultured astrocytes. Here we report that UT and GABAAR are co-expressed in cerebellar glial cells from rat brain slices, in human native astrocytes and in glioma cell line, and that UII inhibited the GABAergic activity in rat cultured astrocytes. In CHO cell line co-expressing human UT and combinations of GABAAR subunits, UII markedly depressed the GABA current (β3γ2>α2β3γ2>α2β1γ2). This effect, characterized by a fast short-term inhibition followed by drastic and irreversible run-down, is not relayed by G proteins. The run-down partially involves Ca2+ and phosphorylation processes, requires dynamin, and results from GABAAR internalization. Thus, activation of the vasoactive G protein-coupled receptor UT triggers functional inhibition and endocytosis of GABAAR in CHO and human astrocytes, via its receptor C-terminus. This UII-induced disappearance of the repressor activity of GABAAR, may play a key role in the initiation of astrocyte proliferation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurence Desrues
- Inserm U982, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Communication and Differentiation, Astrocyte and Vascular Niche, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
- Institute of Research and Biomedical Innovation (IRIB), Normandy University PRES, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
| | - Thomas Lefebvre
- Inserm U982, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Communication and Differentiation, Astrocyte and Vascular Niche, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
- Institute of Research and Biomedical Innovation (IRIB), Normandy University PRES, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
| | - Céline Lecointre
- Inserm U982, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Communication and Differentiation, Astrocyte and Vascular Niche, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
- Institute of Research and Biomedical Innovation (IRIB), Normandy University PRES, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
| | - Marie-Thérèse Schouft
- Inserm U982, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Communication and Differentiation, Astrocyte and Vascular Niche, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
- Institute of Research and Biomedical Innovation (IRIB), Normandy University PRES, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
| | - Jérôme Leprince
- Inserm U982, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Communication and Differentiation, Astrocyte and Vascular Niche, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
- Institute of Research and Biomedical Innovation (IRIB), Normandy University PRES, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
| | - Vincent Compère
- Inserm U982, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Communication and Differentiation, Astrocyte and Vascular Niche, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
- Institute of Research and Biomedical Innovation (IRIB), Normandy University PRES, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Rouen University Hospital, Rouen, France
| | - Fabrice Morin
- Inserm U982, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Communication and Differentiation, Astrocyte and Vascular Niche, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
- Institute of Research and Biomedical Innovation (IRIB), Normandy University PRES, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
| | - François Proust
- Inserm U982, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Communication and Differentiation, Astrocyte and Vascular Niche, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
- Institute of Research and Biomedical Innovation (IRIB), Normandy University PRES, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rouen University Hospital, Rouen, France
| | - Pierrick Gandolfo
- Inserm U982, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Communication and Differentiation, Astrocyte and Vascular Niche, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
- Institute of Research and Biomedical Innovation (IRIB), Normandy University PRES, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
| | - Marie-Christine Tonon
- Inserm U982, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Communication and Differentiation, Astrocyte and Vascular Niche, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
- Institute of Research and Biomedical Innovation (IRIB), Normandy University PRES, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
| | - Hélène Castel
- Inserm U982, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Communication and Differentiation, Astrocyte and Vascular Niche, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
- Institute of Research and Biomedical Innovation (IRIB), Normandy University PRES, University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
ICB3E induces iNOS expression by ROS-dependent JNK and ERK activation for apoptosis of leukemic cells. Apoptosis 2012; 17:612-26. [DOI: 10.1007/s10495-011-0695-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
|
22
|
Barrette PO, Schwertani AG. A closer look at the role of urotensin II in the metabolic syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2012; 3:165. [PMID: 23293629 PMCID: PMC3531708 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2012.00165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2012] [Accepted: 11/29/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Urotensin II (UII) is a vasoactive peptide that was first discovered in the teleost fish, and later in mammals and humans. UII binds to the G protein coupled receptor GPR14 (now known as UT). UII mediates important physiological and pathological actions by interacting with its receptor. The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is described as cluster of factors such as obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and insulin resistance (IR), further leading to development of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases. UII levels are upregulated in patients with the MetS. Evidence directly implicating UII in every risk factor of the MetS has been accumulated. The mechanism that links the different aspects of the MetS relies primarily on IR and inflammation. By directly modulating both of these factors, UII is thought to play a central role in the pathogenesis of the MetS. Moreover, UII also plays an important role in hypertension and hyperlipidemia thereby contributing to cardiovascular complications associated with the MetS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Adel Giaid Schwertani
- *Correspondence: Adel Giaid Schwertani, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Center, 1650 Cedar Avenue, Room C9-166, Montreal, QC, Canada H3G 1A4. e-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Tsoukas P, Kane E, Giaid A. Potential Clinical Implications of the Urotensin II Receptor Antagonists. Front Pharmacol 2011; 2:38. [PMID: 21811463 PMCID: PMC3143724 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2011.00038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2010] [Accepted: 07/05/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Urotensin II (UII) binds to its receptor, UT, playing an important role in the heart, kidneys, pancreas, adrenal gland, and central nervous system. In the vasculature, it acts as a potent endothelium-independent vasoconstrictor and endothelium-dependent vasodilator. In disease states, however, this constriction–dilation equilibrium is disrupted. There is an upregulation of the UII system in heart disease, metabolic syndrome, and kidney failure. The increase in UII release and UT expression suggest that UII system may be implicated in the pathology and pathogenesis of these diseases by causing an increase in acyl-coenzyme A:cholesterol acyltransferase-1 (ACAT-1) activity leading to smooth muscle cell proliferation and foam cell infiltration, insulin resistance (DMII), as well as inflammation, high blood pressure, and plaque formation. Recently, UT antagonists such as SB-611812, palosuran, and most recently a piperazino-isoindolinone based antagonist have been developed in the hope of better understanding the UII system and treating its associated diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philip Tsoukas
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University Health Center Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Gong H, Ma H, Liu M, Zhou B, Zhang G, Chen Z, Jiang G, Yan Y, Yang C, Kanda M, Wu J, Yuan J, Li L, Nagai T, Komuro I, Ge J, Zou Y. Urotensin II inhibits the proliferation but not the differentiation of cardiac side population cells. Peptides 2011; 32:1035-41. [PMID: 21291940 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2011.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2010] [Revised: 01/22/2011] [Accepted: 01/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Urotensin II (UII) induces the development of cardiac remodeling and atherosclerosis by promoting hypertrophy of cardiomyocytes and mitogenesis of fibroblasts and vascular smooth muscle cells. But its effect on cardiac side population cells (CSPs), one of somatic stem cells, is unclear. The present study examined the influences of UII on the differentiation and proliferation of CSPs. CSPs were isolated from neonatal rat hearts by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and cultured with or without the presence of UII (10(-8), 10(-7), 10(-6)mol/l). The expressions of α-cardiac myosin heavy chain (α-MHC), α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) and Von Willebrand factor (vWF) mRNAs and proteins were analyzed by reverse transcriptional PCR (RT-PCR) and immunofluorescence to evaluate the differentiation of CSPs into cardiomyocytes, smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells, respectively. The proliferation of CSPs was assessed by Luminescent Cell Viability Assay. The influence of UII on the proliferation of CSPs in vivo was also evaluated by FACS. Our results revealed that UII did inhibit the proliferation of CSPs through up-regulation of phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase (JNK), although it didn't affect the differentiation of cultured CSPs. Experiments in vivo also showed that UII reduced the number of CSPs in mice compared with control group. These data indicate that UII reduces the number of CSPs by inhibiting the proliferation of CSPs possibly through increase of JNK phosphorylation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Gong
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, 138 Yixueyuan Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Wang H, Dong K, Xue X, Feng P, Wang X. Elevated expression of urotensin II and its receptor in diethylnitrosamine-mediated precancerous lesions in rat liver. Peptides 2011; 32:382-7. [PMID: 21056072 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2010.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2010] [Revised: 10/27/2010] [Accepted: 10/27/2010] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Urotensin II (UII) is a somatostatin-like peptide involved in cell proliferation and in tumor biology. To explore the role of liver-derived UII in the pathogenesis of precancerous liver lesions in rat, we investigated the expression of UII and its receptor, UT, in diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced precancerous liver lesions and the effects of UII on cell proliferation by hepatic oval cells. Radioimmunoassay, RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and western blot were used in this study. Compared with untreated controls, rats treated with DEN showed increased UII content by 47.7% in plasma and by 164.9% in liver tissue (all P<0.01). The expression of UII protein and of both UT mRNA and protein was significantly enhanced in the liver of treated rats. Western blot analysis revealed that the expression of phosphorylated protein kinase C (p-PKC) and phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK1/2) was increased in the liver of treated animals. Treatment with UII (10(-10)-10(-6)M) for 24h significantly increased number of cultured hepatic oval cells (at 10(-9)-10(-8)M). However, during the pre-incubation with calphostin C (inhibitor of PKC) or PD98059 (inhibitor of MEK), the proliferation was decreased by 40.1% and 25.4% respectively (both P<0.05). In DEN-induced precancerous liver lesions, the UII/UT system was up-regulated, which may contribute to the pathogenesis of liver cancer through a PKC- or ERK1/2-dependent pro-mitogenic pathway in an autocrine/paracrine manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongxia Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Ding RQ, Tsao J, Chai H, Mochly-Rosen D, Zhou W. Therapeutic potential for protein kinase C inhibitor in vascular restenosis. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther 2010; 16:160-7. [PMID: 21183728 DOI: 10.1177/1074248410382106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Vascular restenosis, an overreaction of biological response to injury, is initialized by thrombosis and inflammation. This response is characterized by increased smooth muscle cell migration and proliferation. Available pharmacological treatments include anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, immunosuppressants, and antiproliferation agents. Protein kinase C (PKC), a large family of serine/threonine kinases, has been shown to participate in various pathological stages of restenosis. Consequently, PKC inhibitors are expected to exert a wide range of pharmacological activities therapeutically beneficial for restenosis. In this review, the roles of PKC isozymes in platelets, leukocytes, endothelial cells, and smooth muscle cells are discussed, with emphasis given to smooth muscle cells. We will describe cellular and animal studies assessing prevention of restenosis with PKC inhibitors, particularly targeting -α, -β, -δ, and -ζ isozymes. The delivery strategy, efficacy, and safety of such PKC regulators will also be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Qinxue Ding
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94350, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Vaudry H, Do Rego JC, Le Mevel JC, Chatenet D, Tostivint H, Fournier A, Tonon MC, Pelletier G, Conlon JM, Leprince J. Urotensin II, from fish to human. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2010; 1200:53-66. [PMID: 20633133 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2010.05514.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The cyclic peptide urotensin II (UII) was originally isolated from the urophysis of teleost fish on the basis of its ability to contract intestinal smooth muscle. The UII peptide has subsequently been isolated from frog brain and, later on, the pre-proUII cDNA has been characterized in mammals, including humans. A UII paralog called urotensin II-related peptide (URP) has been identified in the rat brain. The UII and URP genes originate from the same ancestral gene as the somatostatin and cortistatin genes. In the central nervous system (CNS) of tetrapods, UII is expressed primarily in motoneurons of the brainstem and spinal cord. The biological actions of UII and URP are mediated through a G protein-coupled receptor, termed UT, that exhibits high sequence similarity with the somatostatin receptors. The UT gene is widely expressed in the CNS and in peripheral organs. Consistent with the broad distribution of UT, UII and URP exert a large array of behavioral effects and regulate endocrine, cardiovascular, renal, and immune functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hubert Vaudry
- Laboratory of Cellular Neuroendocrinology, INSERM U413, European Institute for Peptide Research (IFRMP 23), University of Rouen, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Li L, Zhou Y, Wang C, Zhao YL, Zhang ZG, Fan D, Cui XB, Wu LL. Src tyrosine kinase regulates angiotensin II-induced protein kinase Czeta activation and proliferation in vascular smooth muscle cells. Peptides 2010; 31:1159-64. [PMID: 20307614 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2010.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2010] [Revised: 03/12/2010] [Accepted: 03/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Protein kinase Czeta (PKCzeta) isoform plays a critical role in angiotensin II (AngII)-elicited extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) activation and proliferation in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). However, the exact signal transduction mechanism by which AngII activates PKCzeta has not been clarified. In this study, we investigated the role of Src in PKCzeta activation and VSMCs proliferation induced by AngII. AngII-induced rapid activation of PKCzeta, which was associated with its phosphorylation and nuclear translocation. AngII not only induced Src activation but also promoted the physical association between Src and PKCzeta, which was abolished by Src inhibition with PP2. Src inhibition also abrogated AngII-stimulated PKCzeta activation, ERK1/2 phosphorylation and VSMCs proliferation. In conclusion, Src kinase plays an important role in AngII-elicited PKCzeta activation and the subsequent downstream signaling including ERK1/2 activation and VSMCs proliferation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Peking University Health Science Center and Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Sciences, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Guidolin D, Albertin G, Ribatti D. Urotensin-II as an angiogenic factor. Peptides 2010; 31:1219-24. [PMID: 20346384 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2010.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2010] [Revised: 03/17/2010] [Accepted: 03/17/2010] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Angiogenesis, the process through which new blood vessels arise from pre-existing ones, is regulated by numerous "classic" factors and other "nonclassic" regulators of angiogenesis. Among these latter urotensin-II is a cyclic 11-amino acid (human) or 15-amino acid (rodent) peptide, originally isolated from the fish urophysis, which exerts a potent systemic vasoconstrictor and hypertensive effect. This review article summarizes the literature data concerning the involvement of urotensin-II in angiogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego Guidolin
- Department of Human, Anatomy and Physiology (Section of Anatomy), University of Padova Medical School, Via Gabelli, 65, I-35121 Padova, Italy.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
The kidneys receive 20-25 % of cardiac output and play a main role in the control of cardiovascular homeostasis. It is an endocrine organ that regulates and produces many substances, scavenger particles and immune complexes. Cytokines, growth factors, reactive oxygen metabolites, bioactive lipids, proteases, vasoactive substances such as nitric oxide (NO), adrenomedullin (AM), urotensin-II (U-II), have been released in several diseases, and kidney is one of mostly affected organs in body. Some of these mediators act in a paracrine fashion while some act in autocrine. They play important roles in modulating the cardiovascular responses, renal hemodynamics, and probably in mediating the clinical and laboratory manifestations of several renal diseases. These mediators are like "a double edged sword". While small amounts of them mediate many physiological events, little excess may cause the damage to the healthy cells. Many investigators have searched the role(s) of mediators in several diseases. However, the findings are mostly like the model of "chicken and egg", and indistinguishable as to whether they are the causes of, or results of the diseases. We will discuss mainly the possible roles of NO, AM and U-II in children with several renal diseases and summarize what is known, and what must be known about these mediators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayse Balat
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Xu S, Jiang H, Wu B, Yang J, Chen S. Urotensin II induces migration of endothelial progenitor cells via activation of the RhoA/Rho kinase pathway. TOHOKU J EXP MED 2010; 219:283-8. [PMID: 19966526 DOI: 10.1620/tjem.219.283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Urotensin II (UII) is a vasoactive peptide with many potent effects in the cardiorenovascular system and may be involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Cardiovascular risk factors are often accompanied by reduced numbers of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and their impaired migratory capacity. However, the role of UII in the migration of EPCs has not been reported so far. The aim of this study was to investigate whether UII influences the chemotactic function of bone marrow-derived EPCs and the possible signaling mechanisms involved. As a ligand for the orphan G-protein coupled receptor 14 (GPR14, UT receptor), UII exerts vasoactive functions through activation of the RhoA/Rho kinase pathway. We therefore analyzed the expression of GPR14 mRNA and protein, the activation of RhoA kinase and the phosphorylation of myosin light chain (MLC) in EPCs, isolated from the rat bone marrow. EPCs of 1-4 passages expressed GPR14 mRNA and protein. Chemotaxis assays were performed using Transwell cell-culture chambers with UII (10(-10)-10(-6) M), showing that UII induced chemotaxis of EPCs in a concentration-dependent manner after 3-h treatment (all p < 0.05), with the highest value (about 3-fold increase) at 10(-8) M. UII caused rapid activation of RhoA and increased phosphorylation of MLC. Conversely, a Rho-kinase inhibitor Y-27632 prevented the UII-induced migration and the phosphorylation of MLC. In conclusion, GPR14/UT receptor is expressed in EPCs, and UII induces migration of EPCs via activation of the RhoA/Rho kinase pathway. These findings provide new insights into the actions of UII in atherosclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengkai Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Lawson EC, Luci DK, Ghosh S, Kinney WA, Reynolds CH, Qi J, Smith CE, Wang Y, Minor LK, Haertlein BJ, Parry TJ, Damiano BP, Maryanoff BE. Nonpeptide Urotensin-II Receptor Antagonists: A New Ligand Class Based on Piperazino-Phthalimide and Piperazino-Isoindolinone Subunits. J Med Chem 2009; 52:7432-45. [PMID: 19731961 DOI: 10.1021/jm900683d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Edward C. Lawson
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, Welsh & McKean Roads, Spring House, Pennsylvania 19477-0776
| | - Diane K. Luci
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, Welsh & McKean Roads, Spring House, Pennsylvania 19477-0776
| | - Shyamali Ghosh
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, Welsh & McKean Roads, Spring House, Pennsylvania 19477-0776
| | - William A. Kinney
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, Welsh & McKean Roads, Spring House, Pennsylvania 19477-0776
| | - Charles H. Reynolds
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, Welsh & McKean Roads, Spring House, Pennsylvania 19477-0776
| | - Jenson Qi
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, Welsh & McKean Roads, Spring House, Pennsylvania 19477-0776
| | - Charles E. Smith
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, Welsh & McKean Roads, Spring House, Pennsylvania 19477-0776
| | - Yuanping Wang
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, Welsh & McKean Roads, Spring House, Pennsylvania 19477-0776
| | - Lisa K. Minor
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, Welsh & McKean Roads, Spring House, Pennsylvania 19477-0776
| | - Barbara J. Haertlein
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, Welsh & McKean Roads, Spring House, Pennsylvania 19477-0776
| | - Tom J. Parry
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, Welsh & McKean Roads, Spring House, Pennsylvania 19477-0776
| | - Bruce P. Damiano
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, Welsh & McKean Roads, Spring House, Pennsylvania 19477-0776
| | - Bruce E. Maryanoff
- Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, Welsh & McKean Roads, Spring House, Pennsylvania 19477-0776
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Tsai CS, Loh SH, Liu JC, Lin JW, Chen YL, Chen CH, Cheng TH. Urotensin II-induced endothelin-1 expression and cell proliferation via epidermal growth factor receptor transactivation in rat aortic smooth muscle cells. Atherosclerosis 2009; 206:86-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2009.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2008] [Revised: 01/14/2009] [Accepted: 02/04/2009] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
34
|
Takahashi K, Hirose T, Mori N, Morimoto R, Kohzuki M, Imai Y, Totsune K. The renin-angiotensin system, adrenomedullins and urotensin II in the kidney: possible renoprotection via the kidney peptide systems. Peptides 2009; 30:1575-85. [PMID: 19477209 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2009.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2009] [Revised: 05/18/2009] [Accepted: 05/18/2009] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of chronic kidney disease, such as diabetic nephropathy, is increasing throughout the world. Many biologically active peptides play important roles in the kidney. The classical example is the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Angiotensin II plays critical roles in the progression of chronic kidney disease through its vasoconstrictor action, stimulatory action on cell proliferation, and reactive oxygen-generating activity. A renin inhibitor, aliskiren, has recently been shown to be a clinically effective drug to reduce proteinuria in patients with diabetic nephropathy. (Pro)renin receptor, a specific receptor for renin and prorenin, was newly identified as a member of the RAS. When bound to prorenin, (pro)renin receptor activates the angiotensin I-generating activity of prorenin in the absence of cleavage of the prosegment, and directly stimulates the pathway of mitogen-activated protein kinase independently from the RAS. The kidney peptides that antagonize the intrarenal RAS may have renoprotective actions. Adrenomedullins, potent vasodilator peptides, have been shown to have renoprotective actions. On the other hand, urotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor peptide, may promote the renal dysfunction in chronic kidney disease together with the renal RAS. Thus, in addition to the renin inhibitor and (pro)renin receptor, adrenomedullins and urotensin II may be novel targets to develop therapeutic strategies against chronic kidney disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Takahashi
- Department of Endocrinology and Applied Medical Science, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
|
36
|
Hirose T, Takahashi K, Mori N, Nakayama T, Kikuya M, Ohkubo T, Kohzuki M, Totsune K, Imai Y. Increased expression of urotensin II, urotensin II-related peptide and urotensin II receptor mRNAs in the cardiovascular organs of hypertensive rats: comparison with endothelin-1. Peptides 2009; 30:1124-9. [PMID: 19463745 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2009.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2008] [Revised: 02/09/2009] [Accepted: 02/11/2009] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Urotensin II (UII) and urotensin II-related peptide (URP) are novel vasoactive peptides that share urotensin II receptor (UT). We have recently reported that expressions of URP and UT were up-regulated in kidneys of rats with renal failure or hypertension. To clarify possible changes of the UII system expression in cardiovascular organs with hypertension, we examined the gene expression of UII, URP and UT in hearts and aortae of hypertensive rats. Furthermore, the expression was compared with that of endothelin-1 (ET-1). Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that expression levels of UII mRNA and UT mRNA were significantly elevated in the atrium of 11-12-week-old spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) compared with age-matched Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). Moreover, UT mRNA expression was elevated in the ventricle of 11-12-week-old SHR. In the aorta, expression levels of URP mRNA and UT mRNA were significantly elevated in 11-12-week-old SHR compared with age-matched WKY, similarly to those in the kidney. In contrast, expression levels of ET-1 were significantly decreased in both the heart and the kidney of 11-12-week-old SHR compared with age-matched WKY. Immunohistochemistry showed that URP and UT were immunostained in cardiomyocytes, with weaker immunostaining in vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells, in both SHR and WKY. These findings indicate that the gene expression of the UII system components (UII, URP and UT) and ET-1 is differently regulated in hypertension, and that the UII system in the heart and aortae may have certain pathophysiological roles in hypertension.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takuo Hirose
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Tohoku University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Papadopoulos P, Bousette N, Al-Ramli W, You Z, Behm DJ, Ohlstein EH, Harrison SM, Douglas SA, Giaid A. Targeted overexpression of the human urotensin receptor transgene in smooth muscle cells: Effect of UT antagonism in ApoE knockout mice fed with Western diet. Atherosclerosis 2009; 204:395-404. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2008.10.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2008] [Revised: 10/17/2008] [Accepted: 10/20/2008] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
|
38
|
Mori N, Hirose T, Nakayama T, Ito O, Kanazawa M, Imai Y, Kohzuki M, Takahashi K, Totsune K. Increased expression of urotensin II-related peptide and its receptor in kidney with hypertension or renal failure. Peptides 2009; 30:400-8. [PMID: 18955095 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2008.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2008] [Revised: 09/25/2008] [Accepted: 09/25/2008] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Urotensin II-related peptide (URP) is a novel vasoactive peptide that shares urotensin II receptor (UT) with urotensin II. In order to clarify possible changes of URP expression in hypertension and chronic renal failure (CRF), the expressions of URP and UT were studied by quantitative RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry in kidneys obtained from spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHR), Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY), and WKY with CRF due to 5/6 nephrectomy. Expression levels of URP mRNA and UT mRNA were significantly higher in the kidneys obtained from SHR compared with age-matched WKY (at 5-16 and 16 weeks old, respectively). A dissection study of the kidney into three portions (inner medulla, outer medulla and cortex) showed that the expression levels of URP mRNA and UT mRNA were highest in the inner medulla and the outer medulla, respectively, in both SHR and WKY. The expression levels of URP and UT mRNAs were greatly elevated in the remnant kidneys of CRF rats at day 56 after nephrectomy, compared with sham-operated rats (about 6.5- and 11.9-fold, respectively). Immunohistochemistry showed that URP immunostaining was found mainly in the renal tubules, vascular smooth muscle cells and vascular endothelial cells. UT immunoreactivity was localized in the renal tubules and vascular endothelial cells. These findings suggest that the expressions of URP and UT mRNAs in the kidney are enhanced in hypertension and CRF, and that URP and its receptor have important pathophysiological roles in these diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nobuyoshi Mori
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rehabilitation Science, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8574, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Ban Y, Watanabe T, Suguro T, Matsuyama TA, Iso Y, Sakai T, Sato R, Idei T, Nakano Y, Ota H, Miyazaki A, Kato N, Hirano T, Ban Y, Kobayashi Y. Increased Plasma Urotensin-II and Carotid Atherosclerosis are Associated with Vascular Dementia. J Atheroscler Thromb 2009; 16:179-87. [DOI: 10.5551/jat.e608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
|
40
|
Silvestre RA, Egido EM, Hernández R, Marco J. Characterization of the insulinostatic effect of urotensin II: a study in the perfused rat pancreas. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 153:37-42. [PMID: 19101596 DOI: 10.1016/j.regpep.2008.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2008] [Revised: 08/04/2008] [Accepted: 11/27/2008] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED We have investigated the effect of urotensin II (UII) on insulin secretion at normal and high glucose concentrations as well as induced by secretagogues acting on the B cell via different mechanisms. The study was performed in the perfused rat pancreas. UII, at 1 nM, blocked the insulin response to an increase in perfusate glucose concentration from 5.5 to 9 mM while failed to significantly modify insulin secretion at higher glucose levels (from 9 to 13 mM). The insulinotropic effect of this glucose challenge was reduced by 10 nM UII. UII, at 1 nM, inhibited tolbutamide-induced insulin secretion, whereas, it did not affect KCl-induced insulin release. UII inhibited exendin-4-induced insulin secretion, an effect not observed in pertussis toxin-treated rats. CONCLUSION 1) B cells are less sensitive to UII at a high glucose level than at a low glucose. 2) The inhibitory effect of UII on both glucose and tolbutamide-induced insulin release, suggests the implication of ATP-dependent K(+) channels. The insulinostatic effect of UII was not observed during KCl stimulation, a condition in which these channels are overridden. 3) The insulinostatic effect of UII can also be mediated by its inhibitory action on the adenylate cyclase/cAMP system via a pertussis toxin-sensitive G(i) protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramona A Silvestre
- Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro and Department of Physiology, Medical School, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, San Martín de Porres 4, 28035 Madrid, Spain.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Increased plasma urotensin-II levels are associated with diabetic retinopathy and carotid atherosclerosis in Type 2 diabetes. Clin Sci (Lond) 2008; 115:327-34. [PMID: 18338983 DOI: 10.1042/cs20080014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Human U-II (urotensin-II), the most potent vasoconstrictor peptide identified to date, is associated with cardiovascular disease. A single nucleotide polymorphism (S89N) in the gene encoding U-II (UTS2) is associated with the onset of Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance in the Japanese population. In the present study, we have demonstrated a relationship between plasma U-II levels and the progression of diabetic retinopathy and vascular complications in patients with Type 2 diabetes. Eye fundus, IMT (intima-media thickness) and plaque score in the carotid artery, BP (blood pressure), FPG (fasting plasma glucose), HbA(1c) (glycated haemoglobin), U-II, angiogenesis-stimulating factors, such as VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) and heregulin-beta(1), and lipid profiles were determined in 64 patients with Type 2 diabetes and 24 non-diabetic controls. FPG, HbA(1c) and VEGF levels were significantly higher in patients with Type 2 diabetes than in non-diabetic controls. Diabetes duration, insufficient glycaemic and BP control, plasma U-II levels, IMT, plaque score and nephropathy grade increased significantly across the subjects as follows: non-diabetic controls, patients with Type 2 diabetes without retinopathy (group N), patients with Type 2 diabetes with simple (background) retinopathy (group A) and patients with Type 2 diabetes with pre-proliferative and proliferative retinopathy (group B). The prevalence of obesity and smoking, age, low-density lipoprotein, triacylglycerols (triglycerides) and heregulin-beta(1) were not significantly different among the four groups. In all subjects, U-II levels were significantly positively correlated with IMT, FPG, and systolic and diastolic BP. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that, of the above parameters, U-II levels alone had a significantly independent association with diabetic retinopathy. In conclusion, the results of the present study provide the first evidence that increased plasma U-II levels may be associated with the progression of diabetic retinopathy and carotid atherosclerosis in patients with Type 2 diabetes.
Collapse
|
42
|
Chronic urotensin II infusion enhances macrophage foam cell formation and atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E-knockout mice. J Hypertens 2008; 26:1955-65. [DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0b013e32830b61d8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
43
|
Pakala R. Role of urotensin II in atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. CARDIOVASCULAR REVASCULARIZATION MEDICINE 2008; 9:166-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carrev.2008.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2007] [Revised: 01/24/2008] [Accepted: 02/05/2008] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
44
|
Abstract
Urotensin II was first identified over 30 years ago as a potent vasoconstrictor, and the identification of its receptor in the heart, lungs, blood vessels, and brain have made it a potential target for human pharmacotherapy. Current research would suggest that urotensin II plays a major role in the pathophysiology of various cardiovascular disease entities. This article discusses the biologic effects of urotensin under normal and pathophysiologic conditions, and reviews the research experiences with synthetic urotensin blockers in the treatment of various cardiovascular illnesses.
Collapse
|
45
|
Loirand G, Rolli-Derkinderen M, Pacaud P. Urotensin II and atherosclerosis. Peptides 2008; 29:778-82. [PMID: 17933432 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2007.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2007] [Revised: 08/22/2007] [Accepted: 08/27/2007] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Urotensin II, through its interaction with its UT receptor, is a potent vasoactive peptide in humans and in several animal models. Recent studies have demonstrated elevated plasma U-II levels in patients with atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. U-II is expressed in endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells and infiltrating macrophages of atherosclerotic human coronary arteries. UT receptor expression is up-regulated by inflammatory stimuli. Activation of UT receptor by U-II stimulates endothelial and smooth muscle cell proliferation and monocytes chemotaxis. Therefore, in addition to its primary vasoactive effect, these observations suggest a role of U-II and UT receptor in the initiation and/or progression of atherosclerosis.
Collapse
|
46
|
Leprince J, Chatenet D, Dubessy C, Fournier A, Pfeiffer B, Scalbert E, Renard P, Pacaud P, Oulyadi H, Ségalas-Milazzo I, Guilhaudis L, Davoust D, Tonon MC, Vaudry H. Structure-activity relationships of urotensin II and URP. Peptides 2008; 29:658-73. [PMID: 17931747 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2007.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2007] [Revised: 08/14/2007] [Accepted: 08/16/2007] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Urotensin II (U-II) and urotensin II-related peptide (URP) are the endogenous ligands for the orphan G-protein-coupled receptor GPR14 now renamed UT. At the periphery, U-II and/or URP exert a wide range of biological effects on cardiovascular tissues, airway smooth muscles, kidney and endocrine glands, while central administration of U-II elicits various behavioral and cardiovascular responses. There is also evidence that U-II and/or URP may be involved in a number of pathological conditions including heart failure, atherosclerosis, renal dysfunction and diabetes. Because of the potential involvement of the urotensinergic system in various physiopathological processes, there is need for the rational design of potent and selective ligands for the UT receptor. Structure-activity relationship studies have shown that the minimal sequence required to retain full biological activity is the conserved U-II(4-11) domain, in particular the Cys5 and Cys10 residues involved in the disulfide bridge, and the Phe6, Lys8 and Tyr9 residues. Free alpha-amino group and C-terminal COOH group are not necessary for the biological activity, and modifications of these radicals may even increase the stability of the analogs. Punctual substitution of native amino acids, notably Phe6 and Trp7, by particular residues generates analogs with antagonistic properties. These studies, which provide crucial information regarding the structural and conformational requirements for ligand-receptor interactions, will be of considerable importance for the design of novel UT ligands with increased selectivity, potency and stability, that may eventually lead to the development of innovative drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Leprince
- Inserm U413, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Nakayama T, Hirose T, Totsune K, Mori N, Maruyama Y, Maejima T, Minagawa K, Morimoto R, Asayama K, Kikuya M, Ohkubo T, Hashimoto J, Kohzuki M, Takahashi K, Imai Y. Increased gene expression of urotensin II-related peptide in the hearts of rats with congestive heart failure. Peptides 2008; 29:801-8. [PMID: 18314225 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2007.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2007] [Revised: 12/10/2007] [Accepted: 12/17/2007] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Urotensin II-related peptide (URP) is a novel endogenous ligand for urotensin II receptor (UT-R). To investigate the pathophysiological role of URP in heart failure, we examined URP, UII and UT-R expression in hearts and kidneys of rats with congestive heart failure due to coronary ligation by quantitative RT-PCR and immunocytochemistry. Significantly increased expression levels of URP mRNA were found in the atrium, the right ventricle and the infarcted part of left ventricle of heart failure rats, when compared with sham-operated rats (about 2.2-fold, 2.7-fold and 3.9-fold, respectively). Expression levels of UII mRNA in the heart were about 10% of URP mRNA, and were slightly increased only in the infarcted part of left ventricle of heart failure rats, when compared with sham-operated rats. The expression levels of UT-R mRNA were increased in the atrium of heart failure rats. There was no significant change of URP, UII and UT-R mRNA expression levels in the kidney between heart failure and sham-operated rats. The myocardium was diffusely immunostained with URP in both rats. The blood vessels in the heart were positively immunostained with URP in heart failure rats, but not in sham-operated rats, whereas they were positively immunostained with UT-R in both rats. These findings suggest that the expression of URP, UII and UT-R is enhanced in failing heart, and the UII/URP/UT-R system has important pathophysiological roles in the progression of heart failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Nakayama
- Department of Planning for Drug Development and Clinical Evaluation, Tohoku University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicine, 6-3 Aramaki-aza-Aoba, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8578, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Papadopoulos P, Bousette N, Giaid A. Urotensin-II and cardiovascular remodeling. Peptides 2008; 29:764-9. [PMID: 17988761 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2007.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2007] [Revised: 09/14/2007] [Accepted: 09/17/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Urotensin-II (U-II), a cyclic undecapeptide, and its receptor, UT, have been linked to vascular and cardiac remodeling. In patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), it has been shown that U-II plasma levels are significantly greater than in normal patients and the severity of the disease is increased proportionally to the U-II plasma levels. We showed that U-II protein and mRNA levels were significantly elevated in the arteries of patients with coronary atherosclerosis in comparison to healthy arteries. We observed U-II expression in endothelial cells, foam cells, and myointimal and medial vSMCs of atherosclerotic human coronary arteries. Recent studies have demonstrated that U-II acts in synergy with mildly oxidized LDL inducing vascular smooth muscle cell (vSMC) proliferation. Additionally, U-II has been shown to induce cardiac fibrosis and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy leading to cardiac remodeling. When using a selective U-II antagonist, SB-611812, we demonstrated a decrease in cardiac dysfunction including a reduction in cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and cardiac fibrosis. These findings suggest that U-II is undoubtedly a potential therapeutic target in treating cardiovascular remodeling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Panayiota Papadopoulos
- Division of Cardiology, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Morimoto R, Satoh F, Murakami O, Totsune K, Arai Y, Suzuki T, Sasano H, Ito S, Takahashi K. Immunolocalization of urotensin II and its receptor in human adrenal tumors and attached non-neoplastic adrenal tissues. Peptides 2008; 29:873-80. [PMID: 17686550 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2007.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2007] [Revised: 06/19/2007] [Accepted: 06/21/2007] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Urotensin II (UII), first identified from goby urophysis, is a potent vasoactive peptide hormone and an endogenous ligand for an orphan G protein-coupled receptor GPR14, now named urotensin II receptor (UT-R). In addition to its vascular actions, UII has been shown to have mitogenic effects on tumor growth and some regulatory effects on adrenal steroidogenesis. In the present study, we examined expression of UII and UT-R in human adrenal tumors and attached non-neoplastic adrenal tissues by immunohistochemistry. Both UII and UT-R were immunolocalized in tumor cells of all adrenal tumors examined: 8 cases of cortisol-producing adenomas, 8 cases of aldosterone-producing adenomas, 2 cases of non-functioning adenomas, 17 cases of adrenocortical carcinomas, and 8 cases of pheochromocytomas. In attached adrenals, immunoreactivity for UII was detected in medulla, but much weaker in the cortex than in cortical tumors, suggesting that expression of UII was up-regulated in neoplastic adrenocortical tissues. No significant differences were found in the degree of immunoreactivity for UT-R between the tumors and the attached adrenal tissues. The present study showed that both UII and UT-R were expressed in the adrenal tumors and attached non-neoplastic adrenal tissues, and suggests possible roles of UII and UT-R in tumor growth and/or secretory activities of these tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Morimoto
- Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Vascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8574, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Prosser HCG, Forster ME, Richards AM, Pemberton CJ. Urotensin II and urotensin II-related peptide (URP) in cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury. Peptides 2008; 29:770-7. [PMID: 17900760 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2007.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2007] [Revised: 07/13/2007] [Accepted: 08/14/2007] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Circulating urotensin II (UII) concentrations and the tissue expression of its cognate receptor (UT) are elevated in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). The functional significance of elevated plasma UII levels in CVD is unclear. Urotensin-related peptide (URP) is a paralog of UII in that it contains the six amino acid ring structures found in UII. Although both peptides are implicated as bioactive factors capable of modulating cardiovascular status, the role of both UII and URP in ischemic injury is unknown. Accordingly, we provide here the first report describing the direct cardiac effects of UII and URP in ischemia-reperfusion injury. Isolated perfused rat hearts were subjected to no-flow global ischemia for 45 min after 30min preconditioning with either 1nM rUII or 10nM URP. Both rUII- and URP-induced significant vasodilation of coronary arteries before (both P<0.05) and after ischemia (both P<0.05). Rat UII alone lowered contractility prior to ischemia (P=0.053). Specific assay of perfusate revealed rUII and URP both significantly inhibited reperfusion myocardial creatine kinase (CK) release (P=0.012 and 0.036, respectively) and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) secretion (P=0.025). Antagonism of the UT receptor with 1muM palosuran caused a significant increase in perfusion pressure (PP) prior to and post-ischemia. Furthermore, palosuran significantly inhibited reductions in both PP and myocardial damage marker release induced by both rUII and URP. In conclusion, our data suggests rUII and URP reduce cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury by increasing flow through the coronary circulation, reducing contractility and therefore myocardial energy demand, and inhibiting reperfusion myocardial damage. Thus, UII and URP present as novel peptides with potential cardioprotective actions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H C G Prosser
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|