Exosome-Mediated Transfer of ACE (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme) From Adventitial Fibroblasts of Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats Promotes Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Migration

Vascular remodelling in cardiovascular diseases: hypertension, oxidation, and inflammation

Optimal vascular structure and function are essential for maintaining the physiological functions of the cardiovascular system. Vascular remodelling involves changes in vessel structure, including its size, shape, cellular and molecular composition. These changes result from multiple risk factors and may be compensatory adaptations to sustain blood vessel function. They occur in diverse cardiovascular pathologies, from hypertension to heart failure and atherosclerosis. Dynamic changes in the endothelium, fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells, pericytes or other vascular wall cells underlie remodelling. In addition, immune cells, including macrophages and lymphocytes, may infiltrate vessels and initiate inflammatory signalling. They contribute to a dynamic interplay between cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, inflammation, and extracellular matrix reorganisation, all critical mechanisms of vascular remodelling. Molecular pathways underlying these processes include growth factors (e.g., vascular endothelial growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor), inflammatory cytokines (e.g., interleukin-1β and tumour necrosis factor-α), reactive oxygen species, and signalling pathways, such as Rho/ROCK, MAPK, and TGF-β/Smad, related to nitric oxide and superoxide biology. MicroRNAs and long noncoding RNAs are crucial epigenetic regulators of gene expression in vascular remodelling. We evaluate these pathways for potential therapeutic targeting from a clinical translational perspective. In summary, vascular remodelling, a coordinated modification of vascular structure and function, is crucial in cardiovascular disease pathology.

Asprosin promotes vascular inflammation via TLR4-NFκB-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation in hypertension

Objective

and design Mild vascular inflammation promotes the pathogenesis of hypertension. Asprosin, a newly discovered adipokine, is closely associated with metabolic diseases. We hypothesized that asprosin might led to vascular inflammation in hypertension via NLRP3 inflammasome formation. This study shows the importance of asprosin in the vascular inflammation of hypertension.

Methods

Primary vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were obtained from the aorta of animals, including spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY), NLRP3-/- and wild-type mice. Studies were performed in VSMCs in vitro, as well as WKY and SHR in vivo.

Results

Asprosin expressions were up-regulated in VSMCs and media of arteries in SHR. Asprosin overexpression promoted NLRP3 inflammasome activation via Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), accompanied with activation of NFκB signaling pathway in VSMCs. Exogenous asprosin protein showed similar roles in promoting NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Knockdown of asprosin restrained NLRP3 inflammasome and p65-NFκB activation in VSMCs of SHR. NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 or NFκB inhibitor BAY11-7082 attenuated asprosin-caused VSMC proliferation and migration. Asprosin-induced interleukin-1β production, proliferation and migration were attenuated in NLRP3-/- VSMCs. Local asprosin knockdown in common carotid artery of SHR attenuated inflammation and vascular remodeling.

Conclusions

Asprosin promoted NLRP3 inflammasome activation in VSMCs by TLR4-NFκB pathway, and thereby stimulates VSMCs proliferation, migration, and vascular remodeling of SHR.

Progress in extracellular vesicle homeostasis as it relates to cardiovascular diseases

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are involved in both physiological and pathological processes in many organ systems and are essential in mediating intercellular communication and maintaining organismal homeostasis. It is helpful to propose new strategies for disease treatment by elucidating the mechanisms of EV release and sorting. An increasing number of studies have shown that there is specific homeostasis in EVs, which is helpful for the human body to carry out physiological activities. In contrast, an EV homeostasis im-balance promotes or accelerates disease onset and development. Alternatively, regulating the quality of EVs can maintain homeostasis and even achieve the purpose of treating conditions. An analysis of the role of EV homeostasis in the onset and development of cardiovascular disease is presented in this review. This article also summarizes the methods that regulate EV homeostasis and their application in cardiovascular diseases. In particular, this study focuses on the connection between EV steady states and the cardiovascular system and the potential value of EVs in treating cardiovascular diseases.

Comprehensive strategy for identifying extracellular vesicle surface proteins as biomarkers for chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses a significant health burden worldwide. Especially, obesity-induced chronic kidney disease (OCKD) is associated with a lack of accuracy in disease diagnostic methods. The identification of reliable biomarkers for the early diagnosis and monitoring of CKD and OCKD is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as potential biomarkers in the context of CKD. In this review, we focused on the role of EVs as potential biomarkers in CKD and OCKD and developed a comprehensive list of EV membrane proteins that could aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of the disease. To assemble our list, we employed a multi-step strategy. Initially, we conducted a thorough review of the literature on EV protein biomarkers in kidney diseases. Additionally, we explored papers investigating circulating proteins as biomarkers in kidney diseases. To further refine our list, we utilized the EV database Vesiclepedia.org to evaluate the qualifications of each identified protein. Furthermore, we consulted the Human Protein Atlas to assess the localization of these candidates, with a particular focus on membrane proteins. By integrating the information from the reviewed literature, Vesiclepedia.org, and the Human Protein Atlas, we compiled a comprehensive list of potential EV membrane protein biomarkers for CKD and OCKD. Overall, our review underscores the potential of EVs as biomarkers in the field of CKD research, providing a foundation for future studies aimed at improving CKD and OCKD diagnosis and treatment.

Understanding exosomes: Part 2-Emerging leaders in regenerative medicine

Exosomes are the smallest subset of extracellular signaling vesicles secreted by most cells with the ability to communicate with other tissues and cell types over long distances. Their use in regenerative medicine has gained tremendous momentum recently due to their ability to be utilized as therapeutic options for a wide array of diseases/conditions. Over 5000 publications are currently being published yearly on this topic, and this number is only expected to dramatically increase as novel therapeutic strategies continue to be developed. Today exosomes have been applied in numerous contexts including neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer's disease, central nervous system, depression, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, post-traumatic stress disorders, traumatic brain injury, peripheral nerve injury), damaged organs (heart, kidney, liver, stroke, myocardial infarctions, myocardial infarctions, ovaries), degenerative processes (atherosclerosis, diabetes, hematology disorders, musculoskeletal degeneration, osteoradionecrosis, respiratory disease), infectious diseases (COVID-19, hepatitis), regenerative procedures (antiaging, bone regeneration, cartilage/joint regeneration, osteoarthritis, cutaneous wounds, dental regeneration, dermatology/skin regeneration, erectile dysfunction, hair regrowth, intervertebral disc repair, spinal cord injury, vascular regeneration), and cancer therapy (breast, colorectal, gastric cancer and osteosarcomas), immune function (allergy, autoimmune disorders, immune regulation, inflammatory diseases, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis). This scoping review is a first of its kind aimed at summarizing the extensive regenerative potential of exosomes over a broad range of diseases and disorders.

Nuclear receptor subfamily 1 group D member 1 suppresses the proliferation, migration of adventitial fibroblasts, and vascular intimal hyperplasia via mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1/β-catenin pathway

BACKGROUND

In-stent restenosis hardly limits the therapeutic effect of the percutaneous vascular intervention. Although the restenosis is significantly ameliorated after the application of new drug-eluting stents, the incidence of restenosis remains at a high level.

OBJECTIVE

Vascular adventitial fibroblasts (AFs) play an important role in intimal hyperplasia and subsequent restenosis. The current study was aimed to investigate the role of nuclear receptor subfamily 1, group D, member 1 (NR1D1) in the vascular intimal hyperplasia.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We observed increased expression of NR1D1 after the transduction of adenovirus carrying Nr1d1 gene (Ad-Nr1d1) in AFs. Ad-Nr1d1 transduction significantly reduced the numbers of total AFs, Ki-67-positive AFs, and the migration rate of AFs. NR1D1 overexpression decreased the expression level of β-catenin and attenuated the phosphorylation of the effectors of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), including mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and 4E binding protein 1 (4EBP1). Restoration of β-catenin by SKL2001 abolished the inhibitory effects of NR1D1 overexpression on the proliferation and migration of AFs. Surprisingly, the restoration of mTORC1 activity by insulin could also reverse the decreased expression of β-catenin, attenuated proliferation, and migration in AFs induced by NR1D1 overexpression. In vivo, we found that SR9009 (an agonist of NR1D1) ameliorated the intimal hyperplasia at days 28 after injury of carotid artery. We further observed that SR9009 attenuated the increased Ki-67-positive AFs, an essential part of vascular restenosis at days 7 after injury to the carotid artery.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that NR1D1 inhibits intimal hyperplasia by suppressing the proliferation and migration of AFs in a mTORC1/β-catenin-dependent manner.

Extracellular Vesicles and Their Renin-Angiotensin Cargo as a Link between Metabolic Syndrome and Parkinson's Disease

Several studies showed an association between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and Parkinson's disease (PD). The linking mechanisms remain unclear. MetS promotes low-grade peripheral oxidative stress and inflammation and dysregulation of the adipose renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Interestingly, brain RAS dysregulation is involved in the progression of dopaminergic degeneration and PD. Circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs) from MetS fat tissue can cross the brain-blood barrier and may act as linking signals. We isolated and characterized EVs from MetS and control rats and analyzed their mRNA and protein cargo using RT-PCR and the ExoView R200 platform, respectively. Furthermore, cultures of the N27 dopaminergic cell line and the C6 astrocytic cell line were treated with EVs from MetS rats. EVs were highly increased in MetS rat serum, which was inhibited by treatment of the rats with the angiotensin type-1-receptor blocker candesartan. Furthermore, EVs from MetS rats showed increased pro-oxidative/pro-inflammatory and decreased anti-oxidative/anti-inflammatory RAS components, which were inhibited in candesartan-treated MetS rats. In cultures, EVs from MetS rats increased N27 cell death and modulated C6 cell function, upregulating markers of neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, which were inhibited by the pre-treatment of cultures with candesartan. The results from rat models suggest EVs and their RAS cargo as a mechanism linking Mets and PD.

Exosomes and the cardiovascular system: role in cardiovascular health and disease

Exosomes, which are membrane-bound extracellular vesicles (EVs), are generated in the endosomal compartment of almost all eukaryotic cells. They are formed upon the fusion of multivesicular bodies and the plasma membrane and carry proteins, nucleic acids, lipids and other cellular constituents from their parent cells. Multiple factors influence their production including cell stress and injury, humoral factors, circulating toxins, and oxidative stress. They play an important role in intercellular communication, through their ability to transfer their cargo (proteins, lipids, RNAs) from one cell to another. Exosomes have been implicated in the pathophysiology of various diseases including cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer, kidney disease, and inflammatory conditions. In addition, circulating exosomes may act as biomarkers for diagnostic and prognostic strategies for several pathological processes. In particular exosome-containing miRNAs have been suggested as biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of myocardial injury, stroke and endothelial dysfunction. They may also have therapeutic potential, acting as vectors to deliver therapies in a targeted manner, such as the delivery of protective miRNAs. Transfection techniques are in development to load exosomes with desired cargo, such as proteins or miRNAs, to achieve up-regulation in the host cell or tissue. These advances in the field have the potential to assist in the detection and monitoring progress of a disease in patients during its early clinical stages, as well as targeted drug delivery.

Label-free quantitative proteomic analysis of serum exosomes in mice with thoracic aortic aneurysm

OBJECTIVE

Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is a cardiovascular disease with high morbidity and mortality. However, the causes and mechanisms of TAA are not fully understood. Serum exosomes from mice with TAA were used to explore the markers associated with this disease.

METHODS

C57BL/6 mice were divided into three groups and given ordinary drinking water, ordinary drinking water plus a saline osmotic pump, or drinking water containing β-aminopropionitrile (BAPN) (1 g/kg/d) plus an angiotensin II (Ang II) (1 μg/kg/min) osmotic pump. Haematoxylin and eosin staining of thoracic aortic tissues was performed. The basic characteristics of exosomes were analysed. Differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified by LC‒MS/MS. Protein‒protein networks and enrichment analysis were used to explore possible molecular mechanisms.

RESULTS

The present study elucidated the protein expression profile of serum exosomes in mice with TAA induced by BAPN combined with Ang II. In this work, the expression of a total of 196 proteins was significantly dysregulated in serum exosomes of mice with TAA, with 122 proteins significantly upregulated and 74 proteins markedly downregulated. Notably, Haptoglobin (Hp) and Serum amyloid p-component (Sap) identified based on the PPI network were significantly upregulated and have been strongly linked to cardiovascular disease. Interestingly, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis showed that the upregulated and downregulated proteins were involved in the complement and coagulation cascade pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that the identified DEPs have potential as biomarkers for the diagnosis of TAA and provided a more comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms of TAA.

MiR-21-3p in extracellular vesicles from vascular fibroblasts of spontaneously hypertensive rat promotes proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells

Enhanced proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) contributes to vascular remodeling in hypertension. Adventitial fibroblasts (AFs)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) modulate vascular remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR). This study shows the important roles of EVs-mediated miR-21-3p transfer in VSMC proliferation and migration and underlying mechanisms in SHR. AFs and VSMCs were obtained from aorta of Wistar-Kyoto rat (WKY) and SHR. EVs were separated from AFs culture with ultracentrifugation method. MiR-21-3p content in the EVs of SHR was increased compared with those of WKY. MiR-21-3p mimic promoted VSMC proliferation and migration of WKY and SHR, while miR-21-3p inhibitor attenuated proliferation and migration only in the VSMCs of SHR. EVs of SHR stimulated VSMC proliferation and migration, which were attenuated by miR-21-3p inhibitor. Sorbin and SH3 domain containing 2 (SORBS2) mRNA and protein levels were reduced in the VSMCs of SHR. MiR-21-3p mimic inhibited, while miR-21-3p inhibitor promoted SORBS2 expressions in the VSMCs of both WKY and SHR. EVs of SHR reduced SORBS2 expression, which was prevented by miR-21-3p inhibitor. EVs of WKY had no significant effect on SORBS2 expressions. SORBS2 overexpression attenuated the roles of miR-21-3p mimic and EVs of SHR in promoting VSMC proliferation and migration of SHR. Overexpression of miR-21-3p in vivo promotes vascular remodeling and hypertension. These results indicate that miR-21-3p in the EVs of SHR promotes VSMC proliferation and migration via negatively regulating SORBS2 expression.

Sema3G activates YAP and promotes VSMCs proliferation and migration via Nrp2/PlexinA1

BACKGROUND

Diabetes exacerbates neointima formation after vascular procedures, manifested by accelerated proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Semaphorin 3G (Sema3G), secreted mainly from endothelial cells (ECs), regulates various cellular functions and vascular pathologies. However, the function and potential mechanism of ECs-derived Sema3G in VSMCs under diabetic condition remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role and the mechanism of ECs-derived Sema3G in the regulation of VSMCs proliferation and migration.

RESULTS

ECs-derived Sema3G promoted human aortic SMCs (HASMCs) cell cycle progression and proliferation. Sema3G upregulated the expression of MMP2 and MMP9, which might explain the increased HASMCs migration by Sema3G. Inhibition of Nrp2/PlexinA1 mitigated the effect of Sema3G on promoting HASMCs proliferation and migration. Mechanistically, Sema3G inhibited LATS1 and activated YAP via Nrp2/PlexinA1. Verteporfin, an FDA-approved YAP pathway inhibitor, counteracted Sema3G-induced cyclin E and cyclin D1 expression. Besides, Sema3G expression was upregulated in ECs of diabetic mouse aortas. Serum Sema3G level was increased in type 2 diabetic patients and mice. Moreover, compared to chow diet-fed mice, high-fat diet (HFD)-fed obese mice showed thicker neointima and higher Sema3G expression in vasculature after femoral injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicated that ECs-derived Sema3G under diabetic condition activated YAP and promoted HASMCs proliferation and migration via Nrp2/PlexinA1. Thus, inhibition of Sema3G may hold therapeutic potential against diabetes-associated intimal hyperplasia.

Serum exosomes derived from spontaneously hypertensive rats induce cardiac hypertrophy in vitro and in vivo by increasing autocrine release of angiotensin II in cardiomyocytes

Identifying the key factors mediating the progression from hypertension to cardiac hypertrophy is critically important for developing a strategy to protect against heart failure. Serum exosomes have been revealed to be involved in the development of cardiovascular disease. In the current study, we found that either serum or serum exosomes derived from SHR induced hypertrophy in H9c2 cardiomyocytes. SHR Exo injection through the tail vein for 8 weeks induced left ventricular wall thickening and decreased cardiac function in C57BL/6 mice. SHR Exo carried the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) proteins AGT, renin, and ACE into cardiomyocytes, which increased the autocrine secretion of Ang II. Moreover, the AT1-type receptor antagonist telmisartan prevented hypertrophy of H9c2 cells induced by SHR Exo.These results identified a novel role of exosomes derived from SHR serum in cardiac hypertrophy and revealed that SHR Exo induced cardiac hypertrophy by carrying AGT, renin, and ACE proteins into cardiomyocytes to increase their autocrine secretion of Ang II. The emergence of this new mechanism will help us better understand how hypertension progresses to cardiac hypertrophy.

Extracellular Vesicles and Hypertension

Hypertension implicates multiple organs and systems, accounting for the majority of cardiovascular diseases and cardiac death worldwide. Extracellular vesicles derived from various types of cells could transfer a variety of substances such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids from cells to cells, playing essential roles in both physiological and pathological processes. Extracellular vesicles are demonstrated to be closely associated with the development of essential hypertension by mediating the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and crosstalk between multiple vascular cells. Extracellular vesicles also participate in various kinds of pathogenesis of secondary hypertensions including acute kidney injury, renal parenchymal diseases, kidney transplantation, secretory diseases (primary aldosteronism, pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma, Cushing's syndrome), and obstructive sleep apnea. Extracellular vesicles have been proved to have the potential to be served as new biomarkers in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis assessment of hypertension. In the future, large multicenter cohorts are highly in demand for further verifying the sensitivity and specificity of extracellular vesicles as biomarkers.

Emerging role of exosomes in vascular diseases

Exosomes are biological small spherical lipid bilayer vesicles secreted by most cells in the body. Their contents include nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids. Exosomes can transfer material molecules between cells and consequently have a variety of biological functions, participating in disease development while exhibiting potential value as biomarkers and therapeutics. Growing evidence suggests that exosomes are vital mediators of vascular remodeling. Endothelial cells (ECs), vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), inflammatory cells, and adventitial fibroblasts (AFs) can communicate through exosomes; such communication is associated with inflammatory responses, cell migration and proliferation, and cell metabolism, leading to changes in vascular function and structure. Essential hypertension (EH), atherosclerosis (AS), and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are the most common vascular diseases and are associated with significant vascular remodeling. This paper reviews the latest research progress on the involvement of exosomes in vascular remodeling through intercellular information exchange and provides new ideas for understanding related diseases.

Genetically high angiotensin-converting enzyme concentrations causally increase asthma risk: A meta-analysis using Mendelian randomization

Objectives

This meta-analysis aimed to test the association of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene I/D polymorphism with asthma risk and circulating ACE changes.

Methods

Public literature retrieval, publication selection, and information extraction were completed independently by two investigators. Effect-size values are expressed as odds ratios (ORs) or standardized mean differences (SMDs) with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

Results

Nineteen studies (2,888 patients and 9,549 controls) fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Overall investigations demonstrated that ACE gene I/D polymorphism was significantly associated with asthma risk under allelic (OR, 95% CI: 1.26, 1.08 to 1.48), homozygous genotypic (1.50, 1.09 to 2.06), and recessive (1.53, 1.24 to 1.89) models with moderate heterogeneity (I2 statistic: 64% to 79%). Subsidiary investigations recorded that race, matched status, asthma diagnosis, sample size, and age possibly accounted for the existence of significant heterogeneity. Relative to carriers with the II genotype, those with the DD genotype, ID genotype, and the combination of DD and ID genotypes had significantly higher concentrations of circulating ACE (WMD: 3.13, 2.07, and 2.83 U/L, respectively, p < 0.05). Adoption of Mendelian randomization analyses revealed that one unit increment in circulating ACE concentrations was found to be significantly associated with a 1.14-fold increased risk of asthma (95% CI: 1.02 to 4.24).

Conclusion

We provided strong meta-analytical evidence supporting the causal implication of high circulating ACE concentrations in the development of asthma.

Extracellular vesicles in vascular remodeling

Vascular remodeling contributes to the development of a variety of vascular diseases including hypertension and atherosclerosis. Phenotypic transformation of vascular cells, oxidative stress, inflammation and vascular calcification are closely associated with vascular remodeling. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are naturally released from almost all types of cells and can be detected in nearly all body fluids including blood and urine. EVs affect vascular oxidative stress, inflammation, calcification, and lipid plaque formation; and thereby impact vascular remodeling in a variety of cardiovascular diseases. EVs may be used as biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis, and therapeutic strategies for vascular remodeling and cardiovascular diseases. This review includes a comprehensive analysis of the roles of EVs in the vascular remodeling in vascular diseases, and the prospects of EVs in the diagnosis and treatment of vascular diseases.

β‑aminoisobutyric acid ameliorates hypertensive vascular remodeling via activating the AMPK/SIRT1 pathway in VSMCs

Excessive proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of hypertension-related vascular remodeling. β-aminoisobutyric acid (BAIBA) is a nonprotein β-amino acid with multiple pharmacological actions. Recently, BAIBA has been shown to attenuate salt‑sensitive hypertension, but the role of BAIBA in hypertension-related vascular remodeling has yet to be fully clarified. This study examined the potential roles and underlying mechanisms of BAIBA in VSMC proliferation and migration induced by hypertension. Primary VSMCs were cultured from the aortas of Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Our results showed that BAIBA pretreatment obviously alleviated the phenotypic transformation, proliferation, and migration of SHR-derived VSMCs. Exogenous BAIBA significantly inhibited the release of inflammatory cytokines by diminishing phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of p65 NFκB, retarding IκBα phosphorylation and degradation, as well as erasing STAT3 phosphorylation in VSMCs. Supplementation of BAIBA triggered Nrf2 dissociation from Keap1 and inhibited oxidative stress in VSMCs from SHR. Mechanistically, activation of the AMPK/sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) axis was required for BAIBA to cube hypertension-induced VSMC proliferation, migration, oxidative damage and inflammatory response. Most importantly, exogenous BAIBA alleviated hypertension, ameliorated vascular remodeling and fibrosis, abated vascular oxidative burst and inflammation in SHR, an effect that was abolished by deficiency of AMPKα1 and SIRT1. BAIBA might serve as a novel therapeutic agent to prevent vascular remodeling in the context of hypertension.

Extracellular Vesicles and Their Emerging Roles as Cellular Messengers in Endocrinology: An Endocrine Society Scientific Statement

During the last decade, there has been great interest in elucidating the biological role of extracellular vesicles (EVs), particularly, their hormone-like role in cell-to-cell communication. The field of endocrinology is uniquely placed to provide insight into the functions of EVs, which are secreted from all cells into biological fluids and carry endocrine signals to engage in paracellular and distal interactions. EVs are a heterogeneous population of membrane-bound vesicles of varying size, content, and bioactivity. EVs are specifically packaged with signaling molecules, including lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, and are released via exocytosis into biofluid compartments. EVs regulate the activity of both proximal and distal target cells, including translational activity, metabolism, growth, and development. As such, EVs signaling represents an integral pathway mediating intercellular communication. Moreover, as the content of EVs is cell-type specific, it is a "fingerprint" of the releasing cell and its metabolic status. Recently, changes in the profile of EV and bioactivity have been described in several endocrine-related conditions including diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. The goal of this statement is to highlight relevant aspects of EV research and their potential role in the field of endocrinology.

Benefits of Curcumin in the Vasculature: A Therapeutic Candidate for Vascular Remodeling in Arterial Hypertension and Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension?

Growing evidence suggests that hypertension is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality since uncontrolled high blood pressure increases the risk of myocardial infarction, aortic dissection, hemorrhagic stroke, and chronic kidney disease. Impaired vascular homeostasis plays a critical role in the development of hypertension-induced vascular remodeling. Abnormal behaviors of vascular cells are not only a pathological hallmark of hypertensive vascular remodeling, but also an important pathological basis for maintaining reduced vascular compliance in hypertension. Targeting vascular remodeling represents a novel therapeutic approach in hypertension and its cardiovascular complications. Phytochemicals are emerging as candidates with therapeutic effects on numerous pathologies, including hypertension. An increasing number of studies have found that curcumin, a polyphenolic compound derived from dietary spice turmeric, holds a broad spectrum of pharmacological actions, such as antiplatelet, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiangiogenic effects. Curcumin has been shown to prevent or treat vascular remodeling in hypertensive rodents by modulating various signaling pathways. In the present review, we attempt to focus on the current findings and molecular mechanisms of curcumin in the treatment of hypertensive vascular remodeling. In particular, adverse and inconsistent effects of curcumin, as well as some favorable pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics profiles in arterial hypertension will be discussed. Moreover, the recent progress in the preparation of nano-curcumins and their therapeutic potential in hypertension will be briefly recapped. The future research directions and challenges of curcumin in hypertension-related vascular remodeling are also proposed. It is foreseeable that curcumin is likely to be a therapeutic agent for hypertension and vascular remodeling going forwards.

Emerging Roles of Extracellular Non-Coding RNAs in Vascular Diseases

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are secreted by cells and carry diverse components, including proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and metabolites. EVs could be found in blood and other biofluids. They vary greatly in size, function, cargo, and cellular origin. Accumulating evidence shows that extracellular non-coding RNAs, the dominant extracellular RNAs encapsulated into EVs, function as critical mediators of cell-cell communication and play critical roles in human health and disease. Blood vessels form a dense network that nourishes all of the body's tissues. These vascular networks' dysregulated functions contribute to vascular diseases, such as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), hypertension, atherosclerosis, and aneurysm. With the increase in unhealthy lifestyle-associated obesity and metabolic disorders, vascular diseases are becoming serious medical and public health issues with a profound global economic burden. The present review summarizes the latest advances on extracellular non-coding RNAs in pathological vascular remodeling-associated diseases, briefly describing vessel-associated extracellular non-coding RNAs and their mechanisms of action.

Adventitial Fibroblasts in Aortic Aneurysm: Unraveling Pathogenic Contributions to Vascular Disease

Aortic aneurysm (AA) is a degenerative vascular disease that involves aortic dilatation, and, if untreated, it can lead to rupture. Despite its significant impact on the healthcare system, its multifactorial nature and elusive pathophysiology contribute to limited therapeutic interventions that prevent the progression of AA. Thus, further research into the mechanisms underlying AA is paramount. Adventitial fibroblasts are one of the key constituents of the aortic wall, and they play an essential role in maintaining vessel structure and function. However, adventitial fibroblasts remain understudied when compared with endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells. Adventitial fibroblasts facilitate the production of extracellular matrix (ECM), providing structural integrity. However, during biomechanical stress and/or injury, adventitial fibroblasts can be activated into myofibroblasts, which move to the site of injury and secrete collagen and cytokines, thereby enhancing the inflammatory response. The overactivation or persistence of myofibroblasts has been shown to initiate pathological vascular remodeling. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanisms involved in the activation of fibroblasts and in regulating myofibroblast activation may provide a potential therapeutic target to prevent or delay the progression of AA. This review discusses mechanistic insights into myofibroblast activation and associated vascular remodeling, thus illustrating the contribution of fibroblasts to the pathogenesis of AA.

Inhibition of sphingomyelinase attenuates diet - Induced increases in aortic stiffness

Sphingomyelinases ensure ceramide production and play an integral role in cell turnover, inward budding of vesicles and outward release of exosomes. Recent data indicate a unique role for neutral sphingomyelinase (nSMase) in the control of ceramide-dependent exosome release and inflammatory pathways. Further, while inhibition of nSMase in vascular tissue attenuates the progression of atherosclerosis, little is known regarding its role on metabolic signaling and arterial vasomotor function. Accordingly, we hypothesized that nSMase inhibition with GW4869, would attenuate Western diet (WD) - induced increases in aortic stiffness through alterations in pathways which lead to oxidative stress, inflammation and vascular remodeling. Six week-old female C57BL/6L mice were fed either a WD containing excess fat (46%) and fructose (17.5%) for 16 weeks or a standard chow diet (CD). Mice were variably treated with GW4869 (2.0 μg/g body weight, intraperitoneal injection every 48 h for 12 weeks). WD feeding increased nSMase2 expression and activation while causing aortic stiffening and impaired vasorelaxation as determined by pulse wave velocity (PWV) and wire myography, respectively. Moreover, these functional abnormalities were associated with aortic remodeling and attenuated AMP-activated protein kinase, Sirtuin 1, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase activation. GW4869 treatment prevented the WD-induced increases in nSMase activation, PWV, and impaired endothelium dependent/independent vascular relaxation. GW4869 also inhibited WD-induced aortic CD36 expression, lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, as well as aortic remodeling. These findings indicate that targeting nSMase prevents diet - induced aortic stiffening and impaired vascular relaxation by attenuating oxidative stress, inflammation and adverse vascular remodeling.

Role of Extracellular Vesicles in the Pathogenesis of Vascular Damage

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanosized membrane-bound structures released by cells that are able to transfer nucleic acids, protein cargos, and metabolites to specific recipient cells, allowing cell-to-cell communications in an endocrine and paracrine manner. Endothelial, leukocyte, and platelet-derived EVs have emerged both as biomarkers and key effectors in the development and progression of different stages of vascular damage, from earliest alteration of endothelial function, to advanced atherosclerotic lesions and cardiovascular calcification. Under pathological conditions, circulating EVs promote endothelial dysfunction by impairing vasorelaxation and instigate vascular inflammation by increasing levels of adhesion molecules, reactive oxygen species, and proinflammatory cytokines. Platelets, endothelial cells, macrophages, and foam cells secrete EVs that regulate macrophage polarization and contribute to atherosclerotic plaque progression. Finally, under pathological stimuli, smooth muscle cells and macrophages secrete EVs that aggregate between collagen fibers and serve as nucleation sites for ectopic mineralization in the vessel wall, leading to formation of micro- and macrocalcification. In this review, we summarize the emerging evidence of the pathological role of EVs in vascular damage, highlighting the major findings from the most recent studies and discussing future perspectives in this research field.

Differential and targeted vesiculation: pathologic cellular responses to elevated arterial pressure

Extracellular vesicles are small membrane-enclosed particles released during cell activation or injury. They have been investigated for several decades and found to be secreted in various diseases. Their pathogenic role is further supported by the presence of several important molecules among their cargo, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Many studies have reported enhanced and targeted extracellular vesicle biogenesis in diseases that involve chronic or transient elevation of arterial pressure resulting in endothelial dysfunction, within either the general circulatory system or specific local vascular beds. In addition, several associated pathologic processes have been studied and reported. However, the role of elevated pressure as a common pathogenic trigger across vascular domains and disease chronicity has not been previously described. This review will therefore summarize our current knowledge of the differential and targeted biogenesis of extracellular vesicles in major diseases that are characterized by elevated arterial pressure leading to endothelial dysfunction and propose a unified theory of pressure-induced extracellular vesicle-mediated pathogenesis.

RND3 attenuates oxidative stress and vascular remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rat via inhibiting ROCK1 signaling

Superoxide and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) migration and proliferation play crucial roles in the vascular remodeling. Vascular remodeling contributes to the development and complications of hypertension. Rho family GTPase 3 (RND3 or RhoE), an atypical small Rho-GTPase, is known to be involved in cancer development and metastasis. However, the roles of RND3 in superoxide production and cardiovascular remodeling are unknown. Here, we uncovered the critical roles of RND3 in attenuating superoxide production, VSMCs migration and proliferation, and vascular remodeling in hypertension and its underline mechanisms. VSMCs were isolated and prepared from thoracic aorta of Male Wistar-Kyoto rat (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR). RND3 mRNA and protein expressions in arteries and VSMCs were down-regulated in SHR. RND3 overexpression in VSMCs reduced NAD(P)H oxidase (NOX) activity, NOX1 and NOX2 expressions, mitochondria superoxide generation, and H2O2 production in SHR. Moreover, the RND3 overexpression inhibited VSMCs migration and proliferation in SHR, which were similar to the effects of NOX1 inhibitor ML171 plus NOX2 inhibitor GSK2795039. Rho-associated kinase 1 (ROCK1) and RhoA expressions and myosin phosphatase targeting protein 1 (MYPT1) phosphorylation in VSMCs were increased in SHR, which were prevented by RND3 overexpression. ROCK1 overexpression promoted NOX1 and NOX2 expressions, superoxide and H2O2 production, VSMCs migration and proliferation in both WKY and SHR, which were attenuated by RND3 overexpression. Adenoviral-mediated RND3 overexpression in SHR attenuated hypertension, vascular remodeling and oxidative stress. These results indicate that RND3 attenuates VSMCs migration and proliferation, hypertension and vascular remodeling in SHR via inhibiting ROCK1-NOX1/2 and mitochondria superoxide signaling.

Extracellular vesicles: Potential impact on cardiovascular diseases

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have received considerable attention in biological and clinical research due to their ability to mediate cell-to-cell communication. Based on their size and secretory origin, EVs are categorized as exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies. Increasing number of studies highlight the contribution of EVs in the regulation of a wide range of normal cellular physiological processes, including waste scavenging, cellular stress reduction, intercellular communication, immune regulation, and cellular homeostasis modulation. Altered circulating EV level, expression pattern, or content in plasma of patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) may serve as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in diverse cardiovascular pathologies. Due to their inherent characteristics and physiological functions, EVs, in turn, have become potential candidates as therapeutic agents. In this review, we discuss the evolving understanding of the role of EVs in CVD, summarize the current knowledge of EV-mediated regulatory mechanisms, and highlight potential strategies for the diagnosis and therapy of CVD. We also attempt to look into the future that may advance our understanding of the role of EVs in the pathogenesis of CVD and provide novel insights into the field of translational medicine.

Inhibition of miR-135a-5p attenuates vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and vascular remodeling in hypertensive rats

Proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) greatly contributes to vascular remodeling in hypertension. This study is to determine the roles and mechanisms of miR-135a-5p intervention in attenuating VSMC proliferation and vascular remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). MiR-135a-5p level was raised, while fibronectin type III domain-containing 5 (FNDC5) mRNA and protein expressions were reduced in VSMCs of SHRs compared with those of Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKYs). Enhanced VSMC proliferation in SHRs was inhibited by miR-135a-5p knockdown or miR-135a-5p inhibitor, but exacerbated by miR-135a-5p mimic. VSMCs of SHRs showed reduced myofilaments, increased or even damaged mitochondria, increased and dilated endoplasmic reticulum, which were attenuated by miR-135a-5p inhibitor. Dual-luciferase reporter assay shows that FNDC5 was a target gene of miR-135a-5p. Knockdown or inhibition of miR-135a-5p prevented the FNDC5 downregulation in VSMCs of SHRs, while miR-135a-5p mimic inhibited FNDC5 expressions in VSMCs of both WKYs and SHRs. FNDC5 knockdown had no significant effects on VSMC proliferation of WKYs, but aggravated VSMC proliferation of SHRs. Exogenous FNDC5 or FNDC5 overexpression attenuated VSMC proliferation of SHRs, and prevented miR-135a-5p mimic-induced enhancement of VSMC proliferation of SHR. MiR-135a-5p knockdown in SHRs attenuated hypertension, normalized FNDC5 expressions and inhibited vascular smooth muscle proliferation, and alleviated vascular remodeling. These results indicate that miR-135a-5p promotes while FNDC5 inhibits VSMC proliferation in SHRs. Silencing of miR-135a-5p attenuates VSMC proliferation and vascular remodeling in SHRs via disinhibition of FNDC5 transcription. Either inhibition of miR-135a-5p or upregulation of FNDC5 may be a therapeutically strategy in attenuating vascular remodeling and hypertension.

Angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory peptide: an emerging candidate for vascular dysfunction therapy

Abnormal vasoconstriction, inflammation, and vascular remodeling can be promoted by angiotensin II (Ang II) in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), leading to vascular dysfunction diseases such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. Researchers have recently focused on angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory peptides (ACEIPs), that have desirable efficacy in vascular dysfunction therapy due to Ang II reduction by inhibiting ACE activity. Promising methods for the large-scale preparation of ACEIPs include selective enzymatic hydrolysis and microbial fermentation. Thus far, ACEIPs have been widely reported to be hydrolyzed from protein-rich sources, including animals, plants, and marine organisms, while many emerging microorganism-derived ACEIPs are theoretically biosynthesized through the nonribosomal peptide synthase (NRPS) pathway. Notably, vasodilatation, anti-inflammation, and vascular reconstruction reversal of ACEIPs are strongly correlated. However, the related molecular mechanisms underlying signal transduction regulation in vivo remain unclear. We provide a comprehensive update of the ACE-Ang II-G protein-coupled type 1 angiotensin receptor (AT1R) axis signaling and its functional significance for potential translation into therapeutic strategies, particularly targeting AT1R by ACEIPs, as well as specific related signaling pathways. Future studies are expected to verify the biosynthetic regulatory mechanism of ACEIPs via the NRPS pathway, the effect of gut microbiota metabolism on vascular dysfunction and rigorous studies of ACE-Ang II-AT1R signaling pathways mediated by ACEIPs in large animals and humans.

Bioinspired therapeutic platform based on extracellular vesicles for prevention of arterial wall remodeling in hypertension

Arterial stiffness due to the vessel remodeling is closely linked to raised blood pressure, and its physiopathologic mechanism is still not fully understood. We here aimed to explore whether extracellular vesicle (EV) mediated intercellular communication between endothelium and smooth muscle cell contribute to the blood vessel remodeling under hypertension. We here revealed that the arterial endothelial cells robustly secreted EV, which in turn could be circulated and/or directly taken up by the subendothelial smooth muscle cells (SMC). Under hypertension, the EV secretion increased and the miRNA profile changed significantly mainly due to the raised mechanical force and subsequent enhanced reactive oxygen species generation. Among the miRNA cargos in the EV, miR-320d/423-5p were found increased most significantly. In vivo delivery of miR-320d/423-5p mimics via engineered EV increased their expression in arterial vessels, recapitulating the phenotype in hypertension. In contrast, therapeutic delivery of miR-320d/423-5p inhibitors via engineered EV alleviated the phenotype in spontaneous hypertension rat model. Together, we have found that the injured endothelium due to the raised mechanical force in hypertension contributes to the arterial wall remodeling via the secreted EV. Our study has not only provided novel insights on the mechanism of hypertension associated blood vessel wall remodeling, but also shed light on therapeutic intervention of hypertension associated vascular diseases.

miR-31-5p Promotes Oxidative Stress and Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Migration in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats via Inhibiting FNDC5 Expression

Oxidative stress and the migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are important for vascular remodeling in a variety of vascular diseases. miR-31-5p promotes cell migration in colorectal cancer cells but inhibits cell migration in renal cell carcinoma. However, whether miR-31-5p is involved in oxidative stress and VSMC migration remains unknown. This study shows the crucial roles of miR-31-5p in oxidative stress and VSMC migration, as well as underlying mechanisms. Experiments were carried out in primary VSMCs from aortic media of Wistar–Kyoto rats (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), as well as the A7r5 cell line. Oxidative stress was assessed by NADPH oxidase (NOX) expression, NOX activity, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Cell migration was evaluated with a Boyden chamber assay and a wound healing assay. The miR-31-5p mimic and inhibitor promoted and attenuated oxidative stress and cell migration in the VSMCs of SHR, respectively. A dual-luciferase reporter assay indicated that miR-31-5p targeted the 3’UTR domain of FNDC5. The miR-31-5p level was raised and FNDC5 expression was reduced in the VSMCs of SHR compared with those of WKY. The miR-31-5p mimic reduced FNDC5 expression in the A7r5 cells and the VSMCs of both WKY and SHR, while the miR-31-5p inhibitor only increased FNDC5 expression in the VSMCs of SHR. Exogenous FNDC5 attenuated not only the oxidative stress and VSMC migration in SHR but also the roles of the miR-31-5p mimic in inducing oxidative stress and VSMC migration. These results indicate that miR-31-5p promotes oxidative stress and VSMC migration in SHR via inhibiting FNDC5 expression. The increased miR-31-5p and reduced FNDC5 in the VSMCs of SHR contribute to enhanced oxidative stress and cell migration.

Biomimetic and immunomodulatory therapeutics as an alternative to natural exosomes for vascular and cardiac applications

Inflammation is a central mechanism in cardiovascular diseases (CVD), where sustained oxidative stress and immune responses contribute to cardiac remodeling and impairment. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles released by cells to communicate with their surroundings and to modulate the tissue microenvironment. Recent evidence indicates their potential as cell-free immunomodulatory therapeutics for CVD, preventing cell death and fibrosis while inducing wound healing and angiogenesis. Biomimetic exosomes are semi-synthetic particles engineered using essential moieties present in natural exosomes (lipids, RNA, proteins) to reproduce their therapeutic effects while improving on scalability and standardization due to the ample range of moieties available to produce them. In this review, we provide an up-to-date description of the use of exosomes for CVD and offer our vision on the areas of opportunity for the development of biomimetic strategies. We also discuss the current limitations to overcome in the process towards their translation into clinic.

Extracellular vesicle-mediated miR135a-5p transfer in hypertensive rat contributes to vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation via targeting FNDC5

Background Extracellular vesicles (EVs) from vascular adventitial fibroblasts (AFs) contribute to the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and vascular remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR). This study shows the crucial roles of EVs-mediated miR135a-5p transfer in VSMC proliferation and the underlying mechanisms in hypertension. Methods AFs and VSMCs were obtained from the aorta of Wistar-Kyoto rat (WKY) and SHR. EVs were isolated from the culture of AFs with ultracentrifugation method. Results MiR135a-5p level in SHR-EVs was significantly increased. MiR135a-5p inhibitor prevented the SHR-EVs-induced VSMC proliferation. Fibronectin type III domain containing 5 (FNDC5) was a target gene of miR135a-5p. FNDC5 level was lower in VSMCs of SHR. MiR135a-5p inhibitor not only increased FNDC5 expression, but reversed the SHR-EVs-induced FNDC5 downregulation in VSMCs of SHR. MiR135a-5p mimic inhibited FNDC5 expression, but failed to promote the SHR-EVs-induced FNDC5 downregulation in VSMCs of SHR. Exogenous FNDC5 prevented the SHR-EVs-induced VSMC proliferation of both WKY and SHR. Knockdown of miR135a-5p in fibroblasts completely prevented the upregulation of miR135a-5p in the EVs. The SHR-EVs from the miR135a-5p knockdown-treated fibroblasts lost their roles in inhibiting FNDC5 expression and promoting proliferation in VSMCs of both WKY and SHR. Conclusions Increased miR135a-5p in the SHR-EVs promoted VSMC proliferation of WKY and SHR via inhibiting FNDC5 expression. MiR135a-5p and FNDC5 are crucial targets for intervention of VSMC proliferation in hypertension.

An Optimal Combination of Chemically Pure Compounds from Salvia Miltiorrhiza for Inhibiting Cell Proliferation

OBJECTIVE

Salvia Miltiorrhiza (SM) is a traditional Chinese medicine used clinically to treat cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction. Its therapeutic effect has been confirmed by many clinical and pharmacological studies. However, the optimal formulation of active ingredients in SM for treating cardiovascular diseases remains unclear. In this study, we determined the ratio of the optimal compatibility of SM ingredients DSS, Sal-A, Sal-B, and PAL (SABP）with a uniform and orthogonal optimized experimental design. In addition, we determined the anti-oxidation effect of SABP using Adventitial Fibroblasts (AFs).

METHODS

By using a combination of uniform and orthogonal designs, we determined the optimal formulation of aqueous extract from SM. MTT assay was used to determine the inhibitory effects of these 4 components of SM on the AFs, which were isolated and cultured from aorta. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in AFs was compared before and after SABP treatment.

RESULTS

The optimal formulation of these 4 aqueous extracts from SM were 150︰7︰300︰500, and their concentrations were S(1.5×10-4 mol/L), A(7×10-6 mol/L), B(3×10-4 mol/L), and P(5×10-4 mol/L). There were some synergies between these 4 components. Moreover, SABP decreased ROS production in AFs.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that SABP inhibits the proliferation and oxidation stress in AFs. The present study provides a new evidence that the efficacy and function generated from optimal formulation of active ingredients in SM are better than lyophilized powder of SM.

Importance of extracellular vesicles in hypertension

Hypertension affects approximately 1.13 billion adults worldwide and is the leading global risk factor for cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and kidney diseases. There is emerging evidence that extracellular vesicles participate in the development and progression of hypertension. Extracellular vesicles are membrane-enclosed structures released from nearly all types of eukaryotic cells. During their formation, extracellular vesicles incorporate various parent cell components, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids that can be transferred to recipient cells. Extracellular vesicles mediate cell-to-cell communication in a variety of physiological and pathophysiological processes. Therefore, studying the role of circulating and urinary extracellular vesicles in hypertension has the potential to identify novel noninvasive biomarkers and therapeutic targets of different hypertension phenotypes. This review discusses the classification and biogenesis of three EV subcategories (exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies) and provides a summary of recent discoveries in the potential impact of extracellular vesicles on hypertension with a specific focus on their role in the blood pressure regulation by organs-artery and kidney, as well as renin-angiotensin-system.

p38/JNK Is Required for the Proliferation and Phenotype Changes of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Induced by L3MBTL4 in Essential Hypertension

Aim

Hypertension is a complicated disorder with multifactorial etiology and high heritability. Our previous work has identified L3MBTL4 as a novel susceptibility gene for the development of essential hypertension, accompanied with activation of p38/JNK. Yet, little evidence has been reported whether p38/JNK contributed directly to L3MBTL4-induced vascular remodeling and exploring the potential mechanism of L3MBTL4 in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs).

Methods

We evaluated the contribution of L3MBTL4 on proliferation, migration, and phenotype changes of VSMCs and further explored the critical role of p38 and JNK signaling pathway underlying.

Results

In L3MBTL4 transgenic rats, we found that the elevated blood pressure, increased left ventricular hypertrophy, and thickened vascular media layer were significantly relieved by both p38 and JNK inhibitors. Meanwhile, increased cell proliferation, advanced cell cycle progression, greater migratory capability, and synthetic phenotype were observed in L3MBTL4 overexpressed VSMCs, which could be blocked by either p38 or JNK inhibitor.

Conclusions

Our findings pinpointed that p38 and JNK were required for the proliferation and phenotype changes of VSMCs induced by L3MBTL4 in hypertension. These novel findings yield new insights into the genetic and biological basis of hypertension and are fundamental for further studies to explore the intervention strategies targeting L3MBTL4 and p38/JNK to counteract the progression of hypertension.

The role of extracellular vesicles in neointima formation post vascular injury

Pathological neointimal growth can develop in patients as a result of vascular injury following percutaneous coronary intervention and coronary artery bypass grafting using autologous saphenous vein, leading to arterial or vein graft occlusion. Neointima formation driven by intimal hyperplasia occurs as a result of a complex interplay between molecular and cellular processes involving different cell types including endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells and various inflammatory cells. Therefore, understanding the intercellular communication mechanisms underlying this process remains of fundamental importance in order to develop therapeutic strategies to preserve endothelial integrity and vascular health post coronary interventions. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including microvesicles and exosomes, are membrane-bound particles secreted by cells which mediate intercellular signalling in physiological and pathophysiological states, however their role in neointima formation is not fully understood. The purification and characterization techniques currently used in the field are associated with many limitations which significantly hinder the ability to comprehensively study the role of specific EV types and make direct functional comparisons between EV subpopulations. In this review, the current knowledge focusing on EV signalling in neointima formation post vascular injury is discussed.

The Protective Effects of Tripeptides VPP and IPP against Small Extracellular Vesicles from Angiotensin II-Induced Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Mediating Endothelial Dysfunction in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells

Endothelial dysfunction is a common disorder of vascular homeostasis in hypertension characterized by oxidative stress, malignant migration, inflammatory response, and active adhesion response of endothelial cells. The extracellular vesicles (EVs), a vital participant in vascular cell communication, have been considered responsible for vascular disease progression. However, the potential mechanism of antihypertensive peptides against the EVs-induced endothelial dysfunction is still unclear. In this study, we investigated whether the antihypertensive peptides Val-Pro-Pro (VPP) and Ile-Pro-Pro (IPP) ameliorate the effects of EVs from Ang II-induced vascular smooth muscles (VSMCs) on the endothelial dysfunction. The dihydroethidium staining, wound healing assay, 3D cell culture, and co-culture with U937 monocyte were used to investigate the oxidant/antioxidant balance, migration, tube formation, and cell adhesion in EV-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells. VPP and IPP treatment reduced the level of reactive oxygen species and EV-induced expression of adhesion molecules and restored the ability of tube formation by upregulating endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression. VPP and IPP reduced the protein levels of IL-6 to 227.34 ± 10.56 and 273.84 ± 22.28 pg/mL, of IL-1β protein to 131.56 ± 23.18 and 221.14 ± 13.8 pg/mL, and of MCP-1 to 301.48 ± 19.75 and 428.68 ± 9.59 pg/mL. These results suggested that the VPP and IPP are potential agents that can improve the endothelial dysfunction caused by EVs from Ang II-induced VSMCs.

Therapeutic Potential of Extracellular Vesicles in Hypertension-Associated Kidney Disease

Hypertension-mediated organ damage frequently includes renal function decline in which several mechanisms are involved. The present review outlines the state of the art on extracellular vesicles in hypertension and hypertension-related renal damage. Emerging evidence indicates that extracellular vesicles, small vesicles secreted by most cell types and body fluids, are involved in cell-to-cell communication and are key players mediating biological processes such as inflammation, endothelial dysfunction or fibrosis, mechanisms present the onset and progression of hypertension-associated kidney disease. We address the potential use of extracellular vesicles as markers of hypertension-mediated kidney damage severity and their application as therapeutic agents in hypertension-associated renal damage. The capacity of exosomes to deliver a wide variety of cargos to the target cell efficiently makes them a potential drug delivery system for treatment of renal diseases.

Identification of Transcriptional Variation in Aortic Remodeling Using a Murine Transverse Aortic Constriction (TAC) Model

Arterial remodeling is a major pathological consequence of hypertension, which is recognized as the most common chronic non-communicable disease. However, the detailed mechanism of how arterial remodeling is induced by hypertension has not yet been fully elucidated. Evaluating the transcriptional changes in arterial tissue in response to elevated blood pressure at an early stage may provide new insights and identify novel therapeutic candidates in preventing arterial remodeling. Here, we used the ascending aorta of the transverse aortic constriction (TAC) model to induce arterial remodeling in C57BL/6 male mice. Age-matched mice were subjected to sham surgery as controls. The TAC model was only considered successful if the mice conformed to the criteria (RC/LC blood flow velocity with 5–10-fold change) 1 week after the surgery. Two weeks after surgery, the ascending aorta developed severe remodeling in TAC mice as compared to the sham group. High throughput sequencing was then applied to identify differentially expressed (DE) transcripts. In silicon analysis were then performed to systematically network transcriptional changes. A total of 1,019 mRNAs were significantly changed between TAC and the sham group at the transcriptional level. GO (Gene Ontology) and KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) analysis revealed that stress/stimulus/immune-related biological processes played a crucial role during arterial remodeling. Our data provide a comprehensive understanding of global gene expression changes in the TAC model, which suggests that targeting inflammation and vascular smooth cell transformation are potential therapeutic strategies to interfere with the aortic remodeling at an early stage in the development of hypertension.

Roles of exosomal miRNA in vascular aging

Aging is a major risk factor for human diseases. As global average life expectancy has lengthened, delaying or reducing aging and age-related diseases has become an urgent issue for improving the quality of life. The vascular aging process represents an important link between aging and age-related diseases. Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles (EV) that can be secreted by almost all eukaryotic cells, and they deliver characteristic biological information about donor cells to regulate the cellular microenvironment, mediate signal transmission between neighboring or distant cells, and affect the expression of target genes in recipient cells. Many recent studies have shown that exosomal microribonucleic acids (miRNA) are involved in the regulation of vascular aging by participating in the physiological functions of vascular cells and the destruction and remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM). This review summarizes the regulatory functions of exosomal miRNA in vascular aging because they interact with the ECM, and participate in vascular cell senescence, and the regulation of senescence-related functions such as proliferation, migration, apoptosis, inflammation, and differentiation.

Extracellular Vesicle-Mediated Vascular Cell Communications in Hypertension: Mechanism Insights and Therapeutic Potential of ncRNAs

Hypertension, a chronic and progressive disease, is an outstanding public health issue that affects nearly 40% of the adults worldwide. The increasing prevalence of hypertension is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Despite of the available treatment medications, an increasing number of hypertensive individuals continues to have uncontrolled blood pressure. In the vasculature, endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), and adventitial fibroblasts play a fundamental role in vascular homeostasis. The aberrant interactions between vascular cells might lead to hypertension and vascular remodeling. Identification of the precise mechanisms of vascular remodeling may be highly required to develop effective therapeutic approaches for hypertension. Recently, extracellular vesicle-mediated transfer of proteins or noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) between vascular cells holds promise for the treatment of hypertension. Especially, extracellular vesicle-packaging ncRNAs have gained enormous attention of basic and clinical scientists because of their tremendous potential to act as novel clinical biomarkers and therapeutic targets of hypertension. Here we will discuss the current findings focusing on the emerging roles of extracellular vesicle-carrying ncRNAs in the pathologies of hypertension and its associated vascular remodeling. Furthermore, we will highlight the potential of extracellular vesicles and ncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for hypertension. The future research directions on the challenges and perspectives of extracellular vesicles and ncRNAs in hypertensive vascular remodeling are also proposed.

Extracellular Vesicles in Essential Hypertension: Hidden Messengers

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Hypertension affects about half of all Americans, yet in the vast majority of cases, the factors causing the hypertension cannot be clearly delineated. Developing a more precise understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of HTN and its various phenotypes is therefore a pressing priority. Circulating and urinary extracellular vesicles (EVs) are potential novel candidates as biomarkers and bioactivators in HTN. EVs are a heterogeneous population of small membrane fragments shed from various cell types into various body fluids. As EVs carry protein, RNA, and lipids, they also play a role as effectors and novel cell-to-cell communicators. In this review, we discuss the diagnostic, functional, and regenerative role of EVs in essential HTN and focus on EV protein and RNA cargo as the most extensively studied EV cargo.

RECENT FINDINGS

The field of EVs in HTN is still a young one and earlier studies have not used the novel EV detection tools currently available. More rigor and transparency in EV research are needed. Current data suggest that EVs represent potential novel biomarkers in HTN. EVs correlate with HTN severity and possibly end-organ damage. However, it has yet to be discerned which specific subtype(s) of EV reflects best HTN pathophysiology. Evolving studies are also showing that EVs might be novel regulators in vascular and renal tubular function and also be therapeutic. RNA in EVs has been studied in the context of hypertension, largely in the form of studies of miRNA, which are reviewed herein. Beyond miRNAs, mRNA in urinary EVs changed in response to sodium loading in humans. EVs represent promising novel biomarkers and bioactivators in essential HTN. Novel tools are being developed to apply more rigor in EV research including more in vivo models and translation to humans.

Tripeptides Val-Pro-Pro (VPP) and Ile-Pro-Pro (IPP) Regulate the Proliferation and Migration of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells by Interfering Ang II-Induced Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells Derived EVs Delivering RNAs to VSMCs in the Co-culture Model

Angiotensin II (Ang II), a vasoactive factor in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), can regulate vasoconstriction and promote multiple vascular diseases. In this study, the effects of potent antihypertensive peptide Val-Pro-Pro (VPP) and Ile-Pro-Pro (IPP) on the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) by extracellular vesicles (EVs) from vascular endothelial cells (VECs) were studied using a cell co-culture model. The VEC-derived EVs were isolated, characterized, and investigated. The present study demonstrated that the EVs from Ang II-induced VECs could promote proliferation, migration, and inflammatory factors (IL-6 increased to 40.75 ± 4.33 pg/mL and IL-1β increased to 28.62 ± 5.42 pg/mL) generation of VSMCs, VPP and IPP exerted discrepant inhibitory effects on this pathway. The EVs with RNase treatment lost the effects on VSMCs, indicating that the RNAs packed into vesicles may be a critical component. These results implied that VPP and IPP could alleviate Ang II-induced vascular dysfunction by modulating the EV-mediated transmission of RNAs between VECs and VSMCs.

Migrasome and Tetraspanins in Vascular Homeostasis: Concept, Present, and Future

Cell migration plays a critical role in vascular homeostasis. Under noxious stimuli, endothelial cells (ECs) migration always contributes to vascular repair, while enhanced migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) will lead to pathological vascular remodeling. Moreover, vascular activities are involved in communication between ECs and VSMCs, between ECs and immune cells, et al. Recently, Ma et al. (2015) discovered a novel migration-dependent organelle “migrasome,” which mediated release of cytoplasmic contents, and this process was defined as “migracytosis.” The formation of migrasome is precisely regulated by tetraspanins (TSPANs), cholesterol and integrins. Migrasomes can be taken up by neighboring cells, and migrasomes are distributed in many kinds of cells and tissues, such as in blood vessel, human serum, and in ischemic brain of human and mouse. In addition, the migrasome elements TSPANs are wildly expressed in cardiovascular system. Therefore, TSPANs, migrasomes and migracytosis might play essential roles in regulating vascular homeostasis. In this review, we will discuss the discoveries of migration-dependent migrasome and migracytosis, migrasome formation, the basic differences between migrasomes and exosomes, the distributions and functions of migrasome, the functions of migrasome elements TSPANs in vascular biology, and discuss the possible roles of migrasomes and migracytosis in vascular homeostasis.

Tumor-associated macrophage-derived exosomal microRNA-155-5p stimulates intracranial aneurysm formation and macrophage infiltration

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a regulatory role in inflammation and cancer. Exosomes derived from macrophages carrying microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) are of great value for cancer therapy. Gremlin 1 (GREM1), a member of the antagonists of secreted bone morphogenetic protein, has been implicated in the pathophysiology of multiple diseases or cancers. Based on the predictions of miRNA-mRNA interaction, GREM1 was found to be a target gene of miR-155-5p. Here, the present study aims to explore the role of TAM-derived exosomal miR-155-5p by regulating GREM1 in intracranial aneurysm (IA). The collected results showed that GREM1 was down-regulated in IA, while miR-155-5p was up-regulated in TAM-derived exosomes. Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) were co-cultured with TAMs or exposed to exosomes derived from TAMs transfected with either miR-155-5p mimic or miR-155-5p inhibitor for exploring their roles in proliferation and migration of SMCs in vitro. Accordingly, in vitro experiments showed that TAM-derived exosomal miR-155-5p could promote proliferation and migration of SMCs by targeting GREM1. The effects of TAM-derived exosomal miR-155-5p on IA formation and TAM activation and infiltration by regulation of GREM1 in vivo were measured in IA rats injected with exosomes or those from TAMs transfected with miR-155-5p inhibitor. In vivo experimental results consistently confirmed that TAM-derived exosomes carrying miR-155-5p promoted IA formation and TAM activation and infiltration. In conclusion, TAM-derived exosomal miR-155-5p promotes IA formation via GREM1, which points to miR-155-5p as a possible therapeutic target for IA.

MiR155-5p Inhibits Cell Migration and Oxidative Stress in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells of Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats

Migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is essential for vascular reconstruction in hypertension and several vascular diseases. Our recent study showed that extracellular vesicles derived from vascular adventitial fibroblasts of normal rats inhibited VSMC proliferation by delivering miR155-5p to VSMCs. It is unknown whether miR155-5p inhibits cell migration and oxidative stress in VSMCs of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and in angiotensin II (Ang II)-treated VSMCs. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of miR155-5p in VSMC migration and its underlying mechanisms. Primary VSMCs were isolated from the aortic media of Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) and SHR. Wound healing assay and Boyden chamber assay were used to evaluate VSMC migration. A miR155-5p mimic inhibited, and a miR155-5p inhibitor promoted the migration of VSMC of SHR but had no significant effect on the migration of VSMC of WKY. The miR155-5p mimic inhibited angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) mRNA and protein expression in VSMCs. It also reduced superoxide anion production, NAD(P)H oxidase (NOX) activity, as well as NOX2, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) expression levels in VSMCs of SHR but not in VSMCs of WKY rats. Overexpression of miR155-5p inhibited VSMC migration and superoxide anion and IL-1β production in VSMCs of SHR but had no impact on exogenous Ang II-induced VSMC migration and on superoxide anion and IL-1β production in WKY rats and SHR. These results indicate that miR155-5p inhibits VSMC migration in SHR by suppressing ACE expression and its downstream production of Ang II, superoxide anion, and inflammatory factors. However, miR155-5p had no effects on exogenous Ang II-induced VSMC migration.

Circulating exosomes from patients with peripheral artery disease influence vascular cell migration and contain distinct microRNA cargo

Objective

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation. Emerging literature suggests that circulating exosomes and their microRNA (miRNA) contents may influence atherosclerosis and vascular remodeling. We hypothesize that circulating exosomes in patients with PAD directly modulate vascular cell phenotype and contain proinflammatory miRNAs.

Methods

Exosomes (particle size, 30-150 nm) were isolated from plasma of healthy individuals (n = 6), patients with mild PAD (mPAD; median Rutherford class, 2.5; n = 6), and patients with severe PAD (sPAD; median Rutherford class, 4; n = 5). Exosome identity, size, and concentration were determined by Western blot and nanoparticle tracking analysis. Human vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) and endothelial cell (EC) migration was assessed by a standard wound closure assay after exposure to exosome preparations. Monocyte-derived macrophages isolated from healthy volunteers were exposed to exosome preparations, and targeted gene expression was analyzed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Exosome miRNA cargos were isolated, and a panel of defined, vascular-active miRNAs was assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results

There was no difference in overall exosome particle concentration or size between the three groups (one-way analysis of variance [ANOVA], P > .05). Compared with exosomes from healthy individuals, exosomes from mPAD and sPAD patients increased VSMC migration (1.0 ± 0.09-fold vs 1.5 ± 0.09-fold vs 2.0 ± 0.12-fold wound closure; ANOVA, P < .0001) and inhibited EC migration (1.8 ± 0.07-fold vs 1.5 ± 0.04-fold vs 1.3 ± 0.02-fold wound closure; ANOVA, P < .01) in a stepwise fashion. Exosomes also induced changes in monocyte-derived macrophage gene expression that did not appear PAD specific. Hierarchical analysis of exosome miRNA revealed distinct clustering of vascular-active miRNAs between the three groups. Several miRNAs that promote inflammatory pathways in vascular cells were expressed at higher levels in exosomes from sPAD patients.

Conclusions

Circulating exosomes from individuals with PAD exert in vitro functional effects on VSMCs and ECs that may promote adverse vessel remodeling. Exosomes from healthy individuals, mPAD patients, and sPAD patients contain distinct signatures of immune-regulatory miRNA. Together these data suggest that the proinflammatory cargo of circulating exosomes correlates with atherosclerosis severity in PAD patients and could influence vascular injury and repair.

Exosomes and their cargo have been implicated in several vascular remodeling processes including atherosclerosis, angiogenesis, and neointimal hyperplasia. In this study, we demonstrate that circulating exosomes from individuals with peripheral artery disease exert in vitro effects on vascular cells that may adversely affect vessel remodeling. Moreover, these exosomes contain elevated levels of vascular-active microRNA. Our results suggest that exosomes may serve as both biomarkers and effectors of vascular disease in patients with peripheral artery disease and motivate further investigation into the role of exosomes and their contents in aberrant remodeling in vascular diseases.

Small extracellular vesicles from rat plasma promote migration and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells

Small extracellular vesicles (sEV) contain various molecules and mediate cell-to-cell communication under both physiological and pathological conditions. We have recently reported that sEV isolated from plasma of normotensive Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) regulate systemic blood pressure. The initiation and development of hypertension partly rely on proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) followed by the structural remodeling of vascular wall. In the present study, we examined the effects of plasma sEV in WKY and SHR on the proliferative and migratory functions of primary rat aortic SMCs. There was no difference in the concentration and size distribution of plasma sEV between WKY and SHR, while the protein expression of CD81 in plasma sEV from SHR was lower than that from WKY. Both plasma sEV from WKY and SHR were internalized into SMCs and stimulated the migration and proliferation with a similar potency. In summary, we, for the first time, demonstrated that plasma sEV in WKY and SHR are physiologically active in terms of proliferative and migratory functions, however, these effects do not seem to be related to the pathogenesis of hypertension development.