1
|
Juin SK, Ouseph R, Gondim DD, Jala VR, Sen U. Diabetic Nephropathy and Gaseous Modulators. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12051088. [PMID: 37237955 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12051088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) remains the leading cause of vascular morbidity and mortality in diabetes patients. Despite the progress in understanding the diabetic disease process and advanced management of nephropathy, a number of patients still progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The underlying mechanism still needs to be clarified. Gaseous signaling molecules, so-called gasotransmitters, such as nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), have been shown to play an essential role in the development, progression, and ramification of DN depending on their availability and physiological actions. Although the studies on gasotransmitter regulations of DN are still emerging, the evidence revealed an aberrant level of gasotransmitters in patients with diabetes. In studies, different gasotransmitter donors have been implicated in ameliorating diabetic renal dysfunction. In this perspective, we summarized an overview of the recent advances in the physiological relevance of the gaseous molecules and their multifaceted interaction with other potential factors, such as extracellular matrix (ECM), in the severity modulation of DN. Moreover, the perspective of the present review highlights the possible therapeutic interventions of gasotransmitters in ameliorating this dreaded disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Subir Kumar Juin
- Department of Physiology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Brown Cancer Center, Center for Microbiomics, Inflammation and Pathogenicity, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Rosemary Ouseph
- Division of Nephrology & Hypertension, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Dibson Dibe Gondim
- Department of Pathology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Venkatakrishna Rao Jala
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Brown Cancer Center, Center for Microbiomics, Inflammation and Pathogenicity, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Utpal Sen
- Department of Physiology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Haefliger JA, Meda P, Alonso F. Endothelial Connexins in Developmental and Pathological Angiogenesis. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2022; 12:a041158. [PMID: 35074793 PMCID: PMC9159259 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs) constitute a large family of transmembrane proteins that form gap junction channels, which enable the direct transfer of small signaling molecules from cell to cell. In blood vessels, Cx channels allow the endothelial cells (ECs) to respond to external and internal cues as a whole and, thus, contribute to the maintenance of vascular homeostasis. While the role of Cxs has been extensively studied in large arteries, a growing body of evidence suggests that they also play a role in the formation of microvascular networks. Since the formation of new blood vessels requires the coordinated response of ECs to external stimuli, endothelial Cxs may play an important role there. Recent studies in developmental and pathologic models reveal that EC Cxs regulate physiological and pathological angiogenesis through canonical and noncanonical functions, making these proteins potential therapeutic targets for the development of new strategies aimed at a better control of angiogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Paolo Meda
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva, Medical Center, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Florian Alonso
- Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, 33076 Bordeaux, France
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Targeting Endothelial Connexin37 Reduces Angiogenesis and Decreases Tumor Growth. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23062930. [PMID: 35328350 PMCID: PMC8948817 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23062930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin37 (Cx37) and Cx40 form intercellular channels between endothelial cells (EC), which contribute to the regulation of the functions of vessels. We previously documented the participation of both Cx in developmental angiogenesis and have further shown that loss of Cx40 decreases the growth of different tumors. Here, we report that loss of Cx37 reduces (1) the in vitro proliferation of primary human EC; (2) the vascularization of subcutaneously implanted matrigel plugs in Cx37−/− mice or in WT using matrigel plugs supplemented with a peptide targeting Cx37 channels; (3) tumor angiogenesis; and (4) the growth of TC-1 and B16 tumors, resulting in a longer mice survival. We further document that Cx37 and Cx40 function in a collaborative manner to promote tumor growth, inasmuch as the injection of a peptide targeting Cx40 into Cx37−/− mice decreased the growth of TC-1 tumors to a larger extent than after loss of Cx37. This loss did not alter vessel perfusion, mural cells coverage and tumor hypoxia compared to tumors grown in WT mice. The data show that Cx37 is relevant for the control of EC proliferation and growth in different tumor models, suggesting that it may be a target, alone or in combination with Cx40, in the development of anti-tumoral treatments.
Collapse
|
4
|
Ling X, Peng S, Xu Y, Chu F. Beneficial effect of simvastatin on human umbilical vein endothelial cells gap junctions induced by TNF-α. Anim Cells Syst (Seoul) 2022; 26:10-18. [PMID: 35308127 PMCID: PMC8928848 DOI: 10.1080/19768354.2021.2023037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Although simvastatin has been shown to inhibit vascular permeability, which might be amplified via gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC), the underlying mechanism of action remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the effects and mechanisms of simvastatin on endothelial cells GJIC. Specifically, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were stimulated with TNF-α (10 ng/mL) alone or in combination with simvastatin (5 µM), and their effects on vascular endothelial cell GJIC tested via the scrape loading/dye transfer (SL/DT) assay. Next, we performed immunofluorescence, real-time PCR and western blot assays to analyze expression of Cx37, Cx40 and Cx43 in HUVECs. Results showed that GJIC activity in HUVECs was markedly elevated in HUVECs treated with TNF-α in combination with simvastatin. In addition, simvastatin treatment significantly upregulated expression of Cx37 and Cx40 but downregulated Cx43 mRNAs and proteins. Taken together, these marked changes indicated that simvastatin exerts its regulatory effects on gap junction function by upregulating Cx37 and Cx40 and downregulating Cx43 expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiwen Ling
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Siyuan Peng
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yaqin Xu
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fujiang Chu
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Macabrey D, Deslarzes-Dubuis C, Longchamp A, Lambelet M, Ozaki CK, Corpataux JM, Allagnat F, Déglise S. Hydrogen Sulphide Release via the Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitor Zofenopril Prevents Intimal Hyperplasia in Human Vein Segments and in a Mouse Model of Carotid Artery Stenosis. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2021; 63:336-346. [PMID: 34916111 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejvs.2021.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hypertension is a major risk factor for intimal hyperplasia (IH) and re-stenosis following vascular and endovascular interventions. Preclinical studies suggest that hydrogen sulphide (H2S), an endogenous gasotransmitter, limits re-stenosis. While there is no clinically available pure H2S releasing compound, the sulfhydryl containing angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor zofenopril is a source of H2S. Here, it was hypothesised that zofenopril, due to H2S release, would be superior to other non-sulfhydryl containing angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) in reducing intimal hyperplasia. METHODS Spontaneously hypertensive male Cx40 deleted mice (Cx40-/-) or wild type (WT) littermates were randomly treated with enalapril 20 mg or zofenopril 30 mg. Discarded human vein segments and primary human smooth muscle cells (SMCs) were treated with the active compound enalaprilat or zofenoprilat. IH was evaluated in mice 28 days after focal carotid artery stenosis surgery and in human vein segments cultured for seven days ex vivo. Human primary smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation and migration were studied in vitro. RESULTS Compared with control animals (intima/media thickness 2.3 ± 0.33 μm), enalapril reduced IH in Cx40-/- hypertensive mice by 30% (1.7 ± 0.35 μm; p = .037), while zofenopril abrogated IH (0.4 ± 0.16 μm; p < .002 vs. control and p > .99 vs. sham operated Cx40-/- mice). In WT normotensive mice, enalapril had no effect (0.9665 ± 0.2 μm in control vs. 1.140 ± 0.27 μm; p > .99), while zofenopril also abrogated IH (0.1623 ± 0.07 μm; p < .008 vs. control and p > .99 vs. sham operated WT mice). Zofenoprilat, but not enalaprilat, also prevented IH in human vein segments ex vivo. The effect of zofenopril on carotid and SMCs correlated with reduced SMC proliferation and migration. Zofenoprilat inhibited the mitogen activated protein kinase and mammalian target of rapamycin pathways in SMCs and human vein segments. CONCLUSION Zofenopril provides extra beneficial effects compared with non-sulfhydryl ACEi in reducing SMC proliferation and re-stenosis, even in normotensive animals. These findings may hold broad clinical implications for patients suffering from vascular occlusive diseases and hypertension.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diane Macabrey
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Céline Deslarzes-Dubuis
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Alban Longchamp
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Martine Lambelet
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Charles K Ozaki
- Department of Surgery and the Heart and Vascular Centre, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jean-Marc Corpataux
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Florent Allagnat
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Sébastien Déglise
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hamard L, Santoro T, Allagnat F, Meda P, Nardelli-Haefliger D, Alonso F, Haefliger JA. Targeting connexin37 alters angiogenesis and arteriovenous differentiation in the developing mouse retina. FASEB J 2020; 34:8234-8249. [PMID: 32323401 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202000257r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Connexin37 (Cx37) forms intercellular channels between endothelial cells (EC), and contributes to coordinate the motor tone of vessels. We investigated the contribution of this protein during physiological angiogenesis. We show that, compared to WT littermates, mice lacking Cx37 (Cx37-/- ) featured (i) a decreased extension of the superficial vascular plexus during the first 4 days after birth; (ii) an increased vascular density at the angiogenic front at P6, due to an increase in the proliferative rate of EC and in the sprouting of the venous compartment, as well as to a somewhat displaced position of tip cells; (iii) a decreased coverage of newly formed arteries and veins by mural cells; (iv) altered ERK-dependent endothelial cells proliferation through the EphB4 signaling pathway, which is involved in the specification of veins and arteries. In vitro studies documented that, in the absence of Cx37, human venous EC (HUVEC) released less platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and more Angiopoietin-2, two molecules involved in the recruitment of mural cells. Treatment of mice with DAPT, an inhibitor of the Notch pathway, decreased the expression of Cx37, and partially mimicked in WT retinas, the alterations observed in Cx37-/- mice. Thus, Cx37 contributes to (i) the early angiogenesis of retina, by interacting with the Notch pathway; (ii) the growth and maturation of neo-vessels, by modulating tip, stalk, and mural cells; (iii) the regulation of arteriovenous specification, thus, representing a novel target for treatments of retina diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauriane Hamard
- Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tania Santoro
- Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Florent Allagnat
- Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Paolo Meda
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Medical Center, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Florian Alonso
- Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Price GW, Potter JA, Williams BM, Cliff CL, Squires PE, Hills CE. Connexin-mediated cell communication in the kidney: A potential therapeutic target for future intervention of diabetic kidney disease?: Joan Mott Prize Lecture. Exp Physiol 2020; 105:219-229. [PMID: 31785013 DOI: 10.1113/ep087770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The ability of cells to communicate and synchronise their activity is essential for the maintenance of tissue structure, integrity and function. A family of membrane-bound proteins called connexins are largely responsible for mediating the local transfer of information between cells. Assembled in the cell membrane as a hexameric connexon, they either function as a conduit for paracrine signalling, forming a transmembrane hemi-channel, or, if aligned with connexons on neighbouring cells, form a continuous aqueous pore or gap junction, which allows for the direct transmission of metabolic and electrical signals. Regulation of connexin synthesis and activity is critical to cellular function, and a number of diseases are attributed to changes in the expression and/or function of these important proteins. A link between hyperglycaemia, connexin expression, altered nucleotide concentrations and impaired function highlights a potential role for connexin-mediated cell communication in complications of diabetes. In the diabetic kidney, glycaemic injury is the leading cause of end-stage renal failure, reflecting multiple aetiologies including glomerular hyperfiltration, albuminuria, increased deposition of extracellular matrix and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Loss of connexin-mediated cell-to-cell communication in diabetic nephropathy may represent an early sign of disease progression, but our understanding of the process remains severely limited. This review focuses on recent evidence demonstrating that glucose-evoked changes in connexin-mediated cell communication and associated purinergic signalling may contribute to the pathogenesis of kidney disease in diabetes, highlighting the tantalising potential of targeting these proteins as a novel therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gareth W Price
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, UK
| | - Joe A Potter
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, UK
| | - Bethany M Williams
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, UK
| | - Chelsy L Cliff
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, UK
| | - Paul E Squires
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, UK
| | - Claire E Hills
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, UK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Le Gal L, Pellegrin M, Santoro T, Mazzolai L, Kurtz A, Meda P, Wagner C, Haefliger J. Connexin37-Dependent Mechanisms Selectively Contribute to Modulate Angiotensin II -Mediated Hypertension. J Am Heart Assoc 2019; 8:e010823. [PMID: 30943815 PMCID: PMC6507190 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.118.010823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Gap junction channels made of Connexin37 (Cx37) are expressed by aortic endothelial and smooth muscle cells of hypertensive mice, as well as by the renin-secreting cells of kidneys. Methods and Results To decipher whether Cx37 has any role in hypertension, angiotensin II (Ang II ) was infused in normotensive wild-type and Cx37-deficient mice (Cx37-/-). After 2 to 4 weeks, the resulting increase in blood pressure was lower in Cx37-/- than in wild-type mice, suggesting an alteration in the Ang II response. To investigate this possibility, mice were submitted to a 2-kidney, 1-clip procedure, a renin-dependent model of hypertension. Two weeks after this clipping, Cx37-/- mice were less hypertensive than wild-type mice and, 2 weeks later, their blood pressure had returned to control values, in spite of abnormally high plasma renin levels. In contrast, Cx37-/- and wild-type mice that received N-nitro-l-arginine-methyl-ester, a renin-independent model of hypertension, featured a similar and sustained increase in blood pressure. The data indicate that loss of Cx37 selectively altered the Ang II -dependent pathways. Consistent with this conclusion, aortas of Cx37-/- mice featured an increased basal expression of the Ang II type 2 receptors ( AT 2R), and increased transcripts levels of downstream signaling proteins, such as Cnksr1 and Ptpn6 ( SHP -1). Accordingly, the response of Cx37-/- mice aortas to an ex vivo Ang II exposure was altered, since phosphorylation levels of several proteins of the Ang II pathway ( MLC 2, ERK , and AKT ) remained unchanged. Conclusions These findings provide evidence that Cx37 selectively influences Ang II signaling, mostly via a modulation of the expression of the Ang II type 2 receptor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Loïc Le Gal
- Department of MedicineUniversity of LausanneSwitzerland
| | - Maxime Pellegrin
- Division of AngiologyHeart and Vessel DepartmentCentre Hospitalier Universitaire VaudoisUniversity of LausanneSwitzerland
| | - Tania Santoro
- Department of MedicineUniversity of LausanneSwitzerland
| | - Lucia Mazzolai
- Division of AngiologyHeart and Vessel DepartmentCentre Hospitalier Universitaire VaudoisUniversity of LausanneSwitzerland
| | - Armin Kurtz
- Department of PhysiologyUniversity of RegensburgGermany
| | - Paolo Meda
- Department of Cell Physiology and MetabolismSchool of MedicineCMUUniversity of GenevaSwitzerland
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Oliveira M, Lira R, Freire T, Luna C, Martins M, Almeida A, Carvalho S, Cortez E, Stumbo AC, Thole A, Carvalho L. Bone marrow mononuclear cell transplantation rescues the glomerular filtration barrier and epithelial cellular junctions in a renovascular hypertension model. Exp Physiol 2019; 104:740-754. [DOI: 10.1113/ep087330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Oliveira
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Rafaelle Lira
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Thiago Freire
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Camila Luna
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Marcela Martins
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Aline Almeida
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Simone Carvalho
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Erika Cortez
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Stumbo
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Thole
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Lais Carvalho
- Laboratory of Stem Cell ResearchHistology and Embryology DepartmentBiology InstituteState University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Novielli-Kuntz NM, Jelen M, Barr K, DeLalio LJ, Feng Q, Isakson BE, Gros R, Laird DW. Ablation of both Cx40 and Panx1 results in similar cardiovascular phenotypes exhibited in Cx40 knockout mice. Biosci Rep 2019; 39:BSR20182350. [PMID: 30745457 PMCID: PMC6393227 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20182350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs) and pannexins (Panxs) are highly regulated large-pore channel-forming proteins that participate in cellular communication via small molecular exchange with the extracellular microenvironment, or in the case of connexins, directly between cells. Given the putative functional overlap between single membrane-spanning connexin hemichannels and Panx channels, and cardiovascular system prevalence, we generated the first Cx40-/-Panx1-/- mouse with the anticipation that this genetic modification would lead to a severe cardiovascular phenotype. Mice null for both Cx40 and Panx1 produced litter sizes and adult growth progression similar to wild-type (WT), Cx40-/- and Panx1-/- mice. Akin to Cx40-/- mice, Cx40-/-Panx1-/- mice exhibited cardiac hypertrophy and elevated systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure compared with WT and Panx1-/- mice; however assessment of left ventricular ejection fraction and fractional shortening revealed no evidence of cardiac dysfunction between groups. Furthermore, Cx40-/-, Panx1-/-, and Cx40-/-Panx1-/- mice demonstrated impaired endothelial-mediated vasodilation of aortic segments to increasing concentrations of methacholine (MCh) compared with WT, highlighting roles for both Cx40 and Panx1 in vascular endothelial cell (EC) function. Surprisingly, elevated kidney renin mRNA expression, plasma renin activity, and extraglomerular renin-producing cell populations found in Cx40-/- mice was further exaggerated in double knockout mice. Thus, while gestation and gross development were conserved in Cx40-/-Panx1-/- mice, they exhibit cardiac hypertrophy, hypertension, and impaired endothelial-mediated vasodilation that phenocopies Cx40-/- mice. Nevertheless, the augmented renin homeostasis observed in the double knockout mice suggests that both Cx40 and Panx1 may play an integrative role.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Meghan Jelen
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Kevin Barr
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Leon J DeLalio
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, U.S.A
| | - Qingping Feng
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology London, ON, Canada
| | - Brant E Isakson
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, U.S.A
| | - Robert Gros
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology London, ON, Canada
- Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Dale W Laird
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology London, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Haefliger JA, Allagnat F, Hamard L, Le Gal L, Meda P, Nardelli-Haefliger D, Génot E, Alonso F. Targeting Cx40 (Connexin40) Expression or Function Reduces Angiogenesis in the Developing Mouse Retina. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2017; 37:2136-2146. [PMID: 28982669 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.117.310072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cx40 (Connexin40) forms intercellular channels that coordinate the electric conduction in the heart and the vasomotor tone in large vessels. The protein was shown to regulate tumoral angiogenesis; however, whether Cx40 also contributes to physiological angiogenesis is still unknown. APPROACH AND RESULTS Here, we show that Cx40 contributes to physiological angiogenesis. Genetic deletion of Cx40 leads to a reduction in vascular growth and capillary density in the neovascularization model of the mouse neonatal retina. At the angiogenic front, vessel sprouting is reduced, and the mural cells recruited along the sprouts display an altered phenotype. These alterations can be attributed to disturbed endothelial cell functions as selective reexpression of Cx40 in these cells restores normal angiogenesis. In vitro, targeting Cx40 in microvascular endothelial cells, by silencing its expression or by blocking gap junction channels, decreases their proliferation. Moreover, loss of Cx40 in these cells also increases their release of PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor) and promotes the chemoattraction of mural cells. In vivo, an intravitreal injection of a Cx40 inhibitory peptide, phenocopies the loss of Cx40 in the retinal vasculature of wild-type mice. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our data show that endothelial Cx40 contributes to the early stages of physiological angiogenesis in the developing retina, by regulating vessel growth and maturation. Cx40 thus represents a novel therapeutic target for treating pathological ocular angiogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacques-Antoine Haefliger
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.).
| | - Florent Allagnat
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.)
| | - Lauriane Hamard
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.)
| | - Loïc Le Gal
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.)
| | - Paolo Meda
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.)
| | - Denise Nardelli-Haefliger
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.)
| | - Elisabeth Génot
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.)
| | - Florian Alonso
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.).
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Allagnat F, Dubuis C, Lambelet M, Le Gal L, Alonso F, Corpataux JM, Déglise S, Haefliger JA. Connexin37 reduces smooth muscle cell proliferation and intimal hyperplasia in a mouse model of carotid artery ligation. Cardiovasc Res 2017; 113:805-816. [PMID: 28449099 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvx079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Intimal hyperplasia (IH) is an abnormal response to vessel injury characterized by the dedifferentiation, migration, and proliferation of quiescent vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) to form a neointima layer. Vascular connexins (Cx) are involved in the pathophysiology of various vascular diseases, and Cx43, the main Cx expressed in VSMC, has been shown to promote VSMC proliferation and IH. The aim of this study was to investigate the participation of another Cx, namely Cx37, in the formation of the neointima layer. METHODS AND RESULTS Wild-type (WT) and Cx37-deficient (Cx37-/-) C57BL/6J mice were subjected to carotid artery ligation (CAL), a model of vessel injury and IH. The neointima developed linearly in WT until 28 days post surgery. In contrast, the neointima layer was almost absent 14 days after surgery in Cx37-/- mice, and twice as more developed after 28 days compared to WT mice. This large neointima formation correlated with a two-fold increase in cell proliferation in the media and neointima regions between 14 and 28 days in Cx37-/- mice compared to WT mice. The CAL triggered Cx43 overexpression in the media and neointima layers of ligated carotids in WT mice, and selectively up-regulated Cx37 expression in the media layer, but not in the neointima layer. The de novo expression of Cx37 in human primary VSMC reduced cell proliferation and P-Akt levels, in association with lower Cx43 levels, whereas Cx43 overexpression increased P-Akt levels. CONCLUSION The presence of Cx37 in the media layer of injured arteries restrains VSMC proliferation and limits the development of IH, presumably by interfering with the pro-proliferative effect of Cx43 and the Akt pathway.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Aged
- Animals
- Carotid Arteries/metabolism
- Carotid Arteries/pathology
- Carotid Arteries/surgery
- Carotid Artery Injuries/genetics
- Carotid Artery Injuries/metabolism
- Carotid Artery Injuries/pathology
- Carotid Stenosis/genetics
- Carotid Stenosis/metabolism
- Carotid Stenosis/pathology
- Cell Proliferation
- Cells, Cultured
- Connexin 43/metabolism
- Connexins/deficiency
- Connexins/genetics
- Connexins/metabolism
- Disease Models, Animal
- Female
- Humans
- Hyperplasia
- Ligation
- Male
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/pathology
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/pathology
- Neointima
- Phosphorylation
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Time Factors
- Gap Junction alpha-4 Protein
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Florent Allagnat
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Céline Dubuis
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Martine Lambelet
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Loïc Le Gal
- Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, c/o Department of Physiology, Bugnon 7a, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Florian Alonso
- Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, c/o Department of Physiology, Bugnon 7a, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Marc Corpataux
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sébastien Déglise
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jacques-Antoine Haefliger
- Department of Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, c/o Department of Physiology, Bugnon 7a, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Meda P. Gap junction proteins are key drivers of endocrine function. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2017; 1860:124-140. [PMID: 28284720 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Revised: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
It has long been known that the main secretory cells of exocrine and endocrine glands are connected by gap junctions, made by a variety of connexin species that ensure their electrical and metabolic coupling. Experiments in culture systems and animal models have since provided increasing evidence that connexin signaling contributes to control the biosynthesis and release of secretory products, as well as to the life and death of secretory cells. More recently, genetic studies have further provided the first lines of evidence that connexins also control the function of human glands, which are central to the pathogenesis of major endocrine diseases. Here, we summarize the recent information gathered on connexin signaling in these systems, since the last reviews on the topic, with particular regard to the pancreatic beta cells which produce insulin, and the renal cells which produce renin. These cells are keys to the development of various forms of diabetes and hypertension, respectively, and combine to account for the exploding, worldwide prevalence of the metabolic syndrome. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Gap Junction Proteins edited by Jean Claude Herve.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Meda
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical School, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Schmidt K, Windler R, de Wit C. Communication Through Gap Junctions in the Endothelium. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2016; 77:209-40. [PMID: 27451099 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2016.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A swarm of fish displays a collective behavior (swarm behavior) and moves "en masse" despite the huge number of individual animals. In analogy, organ function is supported by a huge number of cells that act in an orchestrated fashion and this applies also to vascular cells along the vessel length. It is obvious that communication is required to achieve this vital goal. Gap junctions with their modular bricks, connexins (Cxs), provide channels that interlink the cytosol of adjacent cells by a pore sealed against the extracellular space. This allows the transfer of ions and charge and thereby the travel of membrane potential changes along the vascular wall. The endothelium provides a low-resistance pathway that depends crucially on connexin40 which is required for long-distance conduction of dilator signals in the microcirculation. The experimental evidence for membrane potential changes synchronizing vascular behavior is manifold but the functional verification of a physiologic role is still open. Other molecules may also be exchanged that possibly contribute to the synchronization (eg, Ca(2+)). Recent data suggest that vascular Cxs have more functions than just facilitating communication. As pharmacological tools to modulate gap junctions are lacking, Cx-deficient mice provide currently the standard to unravel their vascular functions. These include arteriolar dilation during functional hyperemia, hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction, vascular collateralization after ischemia, and feedback inhibition on renin secretion in the kidney.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Schmidt
- Institut für Physiologie, Universität zu Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany; Deutsches Zentrum für Herz-Kreislauf-Forschung (DZHK) e.V. (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - R Windler
- Institut für Physiologie, Universität zu Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany; Deutsches Zentrum für Herz-Kreislauf-Forschung (DZHK) e.V. (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - C de Wit
- Institut für Physiologie, Universität zu Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany; Deutsches Zentrum für Herz-Kreislauf-Forschung (DZHK) e.V. (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Nitric Oxide Deficit Drives Intimal Hyperplasia in Mouse Models of Hypertension. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2016; 51:733-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejvs.2016.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
|
16
|
Alonso F, Domingos-Pereira S, Le Gal L, Derré L, Meda P, Jichlinski P, Nardelli-Haefliger D, Haefliger JA. Targeting endothelial connexin40 inhibits tumor growth by reducing angiogenesis and improving vessel perfusion. Oncotarget 2016; 7:14015-28. [PMID: 26883111 PMCID: PMC4924695 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial connexin40 (Cx40) contributes to regulate the structure and function of vessels. We have examined whether the protein also modulates the altered growth of vessels in tumor models established in control mice (WT), mice lacking Cx40 (Cx40-/-), and mice expressing the protein solely in endothelial cells (Tie2-Cx40). Tumoral angiogenesis and growth were reduced, whereas vessel perfusion, smooth muscle cell (SMC) coverage and animal survival were increased in Cx40-/- but not Tie2-Cx40 mice, revealing a critical involvement of endothelial Cx40 in transformed tissues independently of the hypertensive status of Cx40-/- mice. As a result, Cx40-/- mice bearing tumors survived significantly longer than corresponding controls, including after a cytotoxic administration. Comparable observations were made in WT mice injected with a peptide targeting Cx40, supporting the Cx40 involvement. This involvement was further confirmed in the absence of Cx40 or by peptide-inhibition of this connexin in aorta-sprouting, matrigel plug and SMC migration assays, and associated with a decreased expression of the phosphorylated form of endothelial nitric oxide synthase. The data identify Cx40 as a potential novel target in cancer treatment.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Aorta/pathology
- Apoptosis
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- Blood Vessels/physiology
- Cell Proliferation
- Connexins/antagonists & inhibitors
- Connexins/metabolism
- Endothelium, Vascular/metabolism
- Endothelium, Vascular/pathology
- Female
- Humans
- Lung Neoplasms/blood supply
- Lung Neoplasms/pathology
- Lung Neoplasms/prevention & control
- Melanoma, Experimental/blood supply
- Melanoma, Experimental/pathology
- Melanoma, Experimental/prevention & control
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Neoplasm Invasiveness
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/prevention & control
- Perfusion
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
- Urinary Bladder Neoplasms/blood supply
- Urinary Bladder Neoplasms/pathology
- Urinary Bladder Neoplasms/prevention & control
- Gap Junction alpha-5 Protein
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Florian Alonso
- Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Loïc Le Gal
- Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Laurent Derré
- Department of Urology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Paolo Meda
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva, Medical Center, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Patrice Jichlinski
- Department of Urology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Longchamp A, Allagnat F, Alonso F, Kuppler C, Dubuis C, Ozaki CK, Mitchell JR, Berceli S, Corpataux JM, Déglise S, Haefliger JA. Connexin43 Inhibition Prevents Human Vein Grafts Intimal Hyperplasia. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0138847. [PMID: 26398895 PMCID: PMC4580578 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0138847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2015] [Accepted: 09/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Venous bypass grafts often fail following arterial implantation due to excessive smooth muscle cells (VSMC) proliferation and consequent intimal hyperplasia (IH). Intercellular communication mediated by Connexins (Cx) regulates differentiation, growth and proliferation in various cell types. Microarray analysis of vein grafts in a model of bilateral rabbit jugular vein graft revealed Cx43 as an early upregulated gene. Additional experiments conducted using an ex-vivo human saphenous veins perfusion system (EVPS) confirmed that Cx43 was rapidly increased in human veins subjected ex-vivo to arterial hemodynamics. Cx43 knock-down by RNA interference, or adenoviral-mediated overexpression, respectively inhibited or stimulated the proliferation of primary human VSMC in vitro. Furthermore, Cx blockade with carbenoxolone or the specific Cx43 inhibitory peptide 43gap26 prevented the burst in myointimal proliferation and IH formation in human saphenous veins. Our data demonstrated that Cx43 controls proliferation and the formation of IH after arterial engraftment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alban Longchamp
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Genetics and Complex Diseases, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Florent Allagnat
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Florian Alonso
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christopher Kuppler
- Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center and the Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Céline Dubuis
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Charles-Keith Ozaki
- Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - James R. Mitchell
- Department of Genetics and Complex Diseases, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Scott Berceli
- Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center and the Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Jean-Marc Corpataux
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sébastien Déglise
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jacques-Antoine Haefliger
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Lausanne, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Meens MJ, Kwak BR, Duffy HS. Role of connexins and pannexins in cardiovascular physiology. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:2779-92. [PMID: 26091747 PMCID: PMC11113959 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-1959-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Connexins and pannexins form connexons, pannexons and membrane channels, which are critically involved in many aspects of cardiovascular physiology. For that reason, a vast number of studies have addressed the role of connexins and pannexins in the arterial and venous systems as well as in the heart. Moreover, a role for connexins in lymphatics has recently also been suggested. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge regarding the involvement of connexins and pannexins in cardiovascular physiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Merlijn J. Meens
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Rue Michel-Servet 1, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
- Department of Medical Specializations-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Brenda R. Kwak
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Rue Michel-Servet 1, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
- Department of Medical Specializations-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Machura K, Neubauer B, Müller H, Tauber P, Kurtz A, Kurtz L. Connexin 40 is dispensable for vascular renin cell recruitment but is indispensable for vascular baroreceptor control of renin secretion. Pflugers Arch 2015; 467:1825-34. [PMID: 25241776 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-014-1615-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2014] [Revised: 09/11/2014] [Accepted: 09/12/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Defects of the gap junction protein connexin 40 (Cx40) in renin-secreting cells (RSCs) of the kidney lead to a shift of the localization of RSCs from the media layer of afferent arterioles to the periglomerular interstitium. The dislocation of RSCs goes in parallel with elevated plasma renin levels, impaired pressure control of renin secretion, and hypertension. The reasons for the extravascular shift of RSCs and the blunted pressure regulation of renin secretion caused by the absence of Cx40 are still unclear. We have therefore addressed the question if Cx40 is essential for the metaplastic transformation of preglomerular vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) into RSCs and if Cx40 is essential for the pressure control of renin secretion from RSCs located in the media layer of afferent arterioles. For our study, we used mice lacking the angiotensin II type 1A (AT1A) receptors, which display a prominent and reversible salt-sensitive metaplastic transformation of SMCs into RSCs. This mouse line was crossed with Cx40-deficient mice to obtain AT1A and Cx40 double deleted mice. The kidneys of AT1A (-/-)Cx40(-/-) mice kept on normal salt (0.3 %) displayed RSCs both in the inner media layer of preglomerular vessels and in the periglomerular interstitium. In contrast to hypotensive AT1A (-/-) (mean bp syst 112 mmHg) and hypertensive Cx40(-/-) (mean bp syst 160 mmHg) mice AT1A (-/-)Cx40(-/-) mice were normotensive(mean bp syst 130 mmHg). Pressure regulation of renin secretion from isolated kidneys was normal in AT1A (-/-) mice, but was absent in AT1A (-/-)Cx40(-/-) mice alike in Cx40(-/-) mice. Low-salt diet (0.02 %) increased RSC numbers in the media layer, whilst high-salt diet (4 %) caused disappearance of RSCs in the media layer but not in the periglomerular interstitium. Blood pressure was clearly salt sensitive both in AT1A (-/-) and in AT1A (-/-)Cx40(-/-) mice but was shifted to higher pressure values in the latter genotype. Our data indicate that Cx40 is not a requirement for intramural vascular localization of RSCs nor for reversible metaplastic transformation of SMCs into RSCs. Therefore, the ectopic localization of RSCs in Cx40(-/-) kidneys is more likely due to a disturbed intercellular communication rather than being the result of chronic overactivation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system or hypertension. Moreover, our findings suggest that Cx40 is a requirement for the pressure control of renin secretion irrespective of the localization of RSCs.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Baroreflex
- Blood Pressure
- Cell Movement
- Connexins/deficiency
- Connexins/genetics
- Connexins/metabolism
- Diet, Sodium-Restricted
- Female
- Genotype
- Hypertension/genetics
- Hypertension/metabolism
- Hypertension/physiopathology
- Hypotension/genetics
- Hypotension/metabolism
- Hypotension/physiopathology
- Kidney/blood supply
- Kidney/metabolism
- Mechanotransduction, Cellular
- Mice, 129 Strain
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Phenotype
- Pressoreceptors/metabolism
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1/genetics
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1/metabolism
- Renin/genetics
- Renin/metabolism
- Renin-Angiotensin System
- Sodium Chloride, Dietary
- Gap Junction alpha-5 Protein
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Machura
- Institut für Physiologie, Universität Regensburg, 93053, Regensburg, Germany,
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Le Gal L, Alonso F, Mazzolai L, Meda P, Haefliger JA. Interplay between connexin40 and nitric oxide signaling during hypertension. Hypertension 2015; 65:910-5. [PMID: 25712722 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.114.04775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) contribute to the adaptation of endothelial and smooth muscle cells to hemodynamic changes. To decipher the in vivo interplay between these proteins, we studied Cx40-null mice, a model of renin-dependent hypertension which displays an altered endothelium-dependent relaxation of the aorta because of reduced eNOS levels. These mice, which were either untreated or subjected to the 1-kidney, 1-clip (1K1C) procedure, a model of volume-dependent hypertension, were compared with control mice submitted to either the 1K1C or the 2-kidney, 1-clip (2K1C) procedure, a model of renin-dependent hypertension. All operated mice became hypertensive and featured hypertrophy and altered Cx expression of the aorta. The combination of volume- and renin-dependent hypertension in Cx40-/- 1K1C mice raised blood pressure and cardiac weight index. Under these conditions, all aortas showed increased levels of Cx40 in endothelial cells and of both Cx37 and Cx45 in smooth muscle cells. In the wild-type 1K1C mice, the interactions between Cx40 and Cx37 with eNOS were enhanced, resulting in increased NO release. The Cx40-eNOS interaction could not be observed in mice lacking Cx40, which also featured decreased levels of eNOS. In these animals, the volume overload caused by the 1K1C procedure resulted in increased phosphorylation of eNOS and in a higher NO release. The findings provide evidence that Cx40 and Cx37 play an in vivo role in the regulation of eNOS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Loïc Le Gal
- From the Departments of Medicine (L.L.G., F.A., J.-A.H.) and Angiology (L.M.), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; and Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva, Medical Center, Geneva, Switzerland (P.M.)
| | - Florian Alonso
- From the Departments of Medicine (L.L.G., F.A., J.-A.H.) and Angiology (L.M.), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; and Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva, Medical Center, Geneva, Switzerland (P.M.)
| | - Lucia Mazzolai
- From the Departments of Medicine (L.L.G., F.A., J.-A.H.) and Angiology (L.M.), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; and Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva, Medical Center, Geneva, Switzerland (P.M.)
| | - Paolo Meda
- From the Departments of Medicine (L.L.G., F.A., J.-A.H.) and Angiology (L.M.), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; and Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva, Medical Center, Geneva, Switzerland (P.M.)
| | - Jacques-Antoine Haefliger
- From the Departments of Medicine (L.L.G., F.A., J.-A.H.) and Angiology (L.M.), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; and Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva, Medical Center, Geneva, Switzerland (P.M.).
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Abstract
Intrarenal autoregulatory mechanisms maintain renal blood flow (RBF) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) independent of renal perfusion pressure (RPP) over a defined range (80-180 mmHg). Such autoregulation is mediated largely by the myogenic and the macula densa-tubuloglomerular feedback (MD-TGF) responses that regulate preglomerular vasomotor tone primarily of the afferent arteriole. Differences in response times allow separation of these mechanisms in the time and frequency domains. Mechanotransduction initiating the myogenic response requires a sensing mechanism activated by stretch of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and coupled to intracellular signaling pathways eliciting plasma membrane depolarization and a rise in cytosolic free calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)]i). Proposed mechanosensors include epithelial sodium channels (ENaC), integrins, and/or transient receptor potential (TRP) channels. Increased [Ca(2+)]i occurs predominantly by Ca(2+) influx through L-type voltage-operated Ca(2+) channels (VOCC). Increased [Ca(2+)]i activates inositol trisphosphate receptors (IP3R) and ryanodine receptors (RyR) to mobilize Ca(2+) from sarcoplasmic reticular stores. Myogenic vasoconstriction is sustained by increased Ca(2+) sensitivity, mediated by protein kinase C and Rho/Rho-kinase that favors a positive balance between myosin light-chain kinase and phosphatase. Increased RPP activates MD-TGF by transducing a signal of epithelial MD salt reabsorption to adjust afferent arteriolar vasoconstriction. A combination of vascular and tubular mechanisms, novel to the kidney, provides for high autoregulatory efficiency that maintains RBF and GFR, stabilizes sodium excretion, and buffers transmission of RPP to sensitive glomerular capillaries, thereby protecting against hypertensive barotrauma. A unique aspect of the myogenic response in the renal vasculature is modulation of its strength and speed by the MD-TGF and by a connecting tubule glomerular feedback (CT-GF) mechanism. Reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide are modulators of myogenic and MD-TGF mechanisms. Attenuated renal autoregulation contributes to renal damage in many, but not all, models of renal, diabetic, and hypertensive diseases. This review provides a summary of our current knowledge regarding underlying mechanisms enabling renal autoregulation in health and disease and methods used for its study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mattias Carlström
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension and Hypertension, Kidney and Vascular Research Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; and Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, UNC Kidney Center, and McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Christopher S Wilcox
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension and Hypertension, Kidney and Vascular Research Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; and Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, UNC Kidney Center, and McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - William J Arendshorst
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension and Hypertension, Kidney and Vascular Research Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; and Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, UNC Kidney Center, and McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Gerl M, Vöckl J, Kurt B, van Veen TAB, Kurtz A, Wagner C. Inducible deletion of connexin 40 in adult mice causes hypertension and disrupts pressure control of renin secretion. Kidney Int 2015; 87:557-63. [PMID: 25229336 DOI: 10.1038/ki.2014.303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2014] [Revised: 07/17/2014] [Accepted: 07/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Genetic loss-of-function defects of connexin 40 in renal juxtaglomerular cells are associated with renin-dependent hypertension. The dysregulation of renin secretion results from an intrarenal displacement of renin cells and an interruption of the negative feedback control of renin secretion by blood pressure. It is unknown whether this phenotype is secondary to developmental defects of juxtaglomerular renin cells due to connexin 40 malfunction, or whether acute functional defects of connexin 40 in the normal adult kidney can also lead to a similar dysregulation of renin secretion and hypertension. To address this question, we generated mice with an inducible deletion of connexin 40 in the adult kidney by crossing connexin 40-floxed mice with mice harboring a ubiquitously expressed tamoxifen-inducible Cre recombinase. Tamoxifen treatment in these mice strongly reduced connexin 40 mRNA and protein expression in the kidneys. These mice displayed persistent hypertension with renin expression shifted from the media layer of afferent arterioles to juxtaglomerular periglomerular cells. Control of renin secretion by the perfusion pressure was abolished in vitro, whereas in vivo plasma renin concentrations were increased. Thus, interruption of the connexin 40 gene in the adult kidney produced very similar changes in the renin system as had embryonic deletion. Hence, impairments of connexin 40 function in the normal adult kidney can cause renin-dependent hypertension.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Gerl
- Department of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Josef Vöckl
- Department of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Birgül Kurt
- Department of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Toon A B van Veen
- Department of Medical Physiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Armin Kurtz
- Department of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Charlotte Wagner
- Department of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Morton SK, Chaston DJ, Howitt L, Heisler J, Nicholson BJ, Fairweather S, Bröer S, Ashton AW, Matthaei KI, Hill CE. Loss of functional endothelial connexin40 results in exercise-induced hypertension in mice. Hypertension 2015; 65:662-9. [PMID: 25547341 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.114.04578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
During activity, coordinated vasodilation of microcirculatory networks with upstream supply vessels increases blood flow to skeletal and cardiac muscles and reduces peripheral resistance. Endothelial dysfunction in humans attenuates activity-dependent vasodilation, resulting in exercise-induced hypertension in otherwise normotensive individuals. Underpinning activity-dependent hyperemia is an ascending vasodilation in which the endothelial gap junction protein, connexin (Cx)40, plays an essential role. Because exercise-induced hypertension is proposed as a forerunner to clinical hypertension, we hypothesized that endothelial disruption of Cx40 function in mice may create an animal model of this condition. To this end, we created mice in which a mutant Cx40T152A was expressed alongside wildtype Cx40 selectively in the endothelium. Expression of the Cx40T152A transgene in Xenopus oocytes and mouse coronary endothelial cells in vitro impaired both electric and chemical conductance and acted as a dominant-negative against wildtype Cx40, Cx43, and Cx45, but not Cx37. Endothelial expression of Cx40T152A in Cx40T152ATg mice attenuated ascending vasodilation, without effect on radial coupling through myoendothelial gap junctions. Using radiotelemetry, Cx40T152ATg mice showed an activity-dependent increase in blood pressure, which was significantly greater than in wildtype mice, but significantly less than in chronically hypertensive, Cx40knockout mice. The increase in heart rate with activity was also greater than in wildtype or Cx40knockout mice. We conclude that the endothelial Cx40T152A mutation attenuates activity-dependent vasodilation, producing a model of exercise-induced hypertension. These data highlight the importance of endothelial coupling through Cx40 in regulating blood pressure during activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan K Morton
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Daniel J Chaston
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Lauren Howitt
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Jillian Heisler
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Bruce J Nicholson
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Stephen Fairweather
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Stefan Bröer
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Anthony W Ashton
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Klaus I Matthaei
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.)
| | - Caryl E Hill
- From the Eccles Institute of Neuroscience (S.K.M, D.J.C., L.H., C.E.H.) and Department of Molecular Bioscience (K.I.M.), The John Curtin School of Medical Research and Division of Biomedical Science and Biochemistry, Research School of Biology (S.F., S.B.), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Sciences Centre, San Antonio, Texas (J.H., B.J.N.); and Division of Perinatal Research, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia (A.W.A.).
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Hills CE, Price GW, Squires PE. Mind the gap: connexins and cell-cell communication in the diabetic kidney. Diabetologia 2015; 58:233-41. [PMID: 25358446 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-014-3427-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Connexins, assembled as a hexameric connexon, form a transmembrane hemichannel that provides a conduit for paracrine signalling of small molecules and ions to regulate the activity and function of adjacent cells. When hemichannels align and associate with similar channels on opposing cells, they form a continuous aqueous pore or gap junction, allowing the direct transmission of metabolic and electrical signals between coupled cells. Regulation of gap junction synthesis and channel activity is critical for cell function, and a number of diseases can be attributed to changes in the expression/function of these important proteins. Diabetic nephropathy is associated with several complex metabolic and inflammatory responses characterised by defects at the molecular, cellular and tissue level. In both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, glycaemic injury of the kidney is the leading cause of end-stage renal failure, a consequence of multiple aetiologies, including increased deposition of extracellular matrix, glomerular hyperfiltration, albuminuria and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. In diabetic nephropathy, loss of connexin mediated cell-cell communication within the nephron may represent an early sign of disease; however, our current knowledge of the role of connexins in the diabetic kidney is sparse. This review highlights recent evidence demonstrating that maintenance of connexin-mediated cell-cell communication could benefit region-specific renal function in diabetic nephropathy and suggests that these proteins should be viewed as a tantalising novel target for therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire E Hills
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, UK,
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kurtz A. Connexins, renin cell displacement and hypertension. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2014; 21:1-6. [PMID: 25483714 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2014.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2014] [Revised: 11/25/2014] [Accepted: 11/25/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Vascular gap junctions formed by specific connexins proteins Cx37, 40, 43 and 45 are important for proper vascular function. This review outlines that defects of the connexin 40 protein leads to hypertension because of dysfunction of renin secreting cells of the kidney. Thus defects of Cx40 but not of other vascular connexins blunt the negative feedback control of renin secretion by the blood pressure, and moreover, lead to a shift of renin expression from the juxtaglomerular vessels walls into the periglomerular interstitium. Evidence exists to indicate that those findings which were primarily obtained with mice are also relevant for humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Armin Kurtz
- Institute of Physiology, University of Regensburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
de Wit C. Restoring a critical element in renin-producing cells: connexin40 hits the brakes on renin release. Hypertension 2014; 63:1161-2. [PMID: 24614211 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.114.03182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cor de Wit
- Institut für Physiologie, Universität zu Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Lübeck, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|