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Zhang Y, Dai D, Geng S, Rong C, Zou R, Leng X, Xiang J, Liu J, Ding J. PCSK9 expression in fibrous cap possesses a marker for rupture in advanced plaque. Vasc Med 2024:1358863X241252370. [PMID: 38860436 DOI: 10.1177/1358863x241252370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To date, PCSK9 inhibitors are well known for eliminating cardiac and cerebral artery ischemia events by lowering the serum lipid level. However, the pathophysiological value of in-plaque PCSK9 expression is still unclear. METHODS Advanced plaques removed by carotid endarterectomy were sectioned and stained to identify the PCSK9 expression pattern and its co-expression with rupture-relevant markers. To investigate the correlation of PCSK9 expression with regional blood shear flow, hemodynamic characteristics were analyzed using computational fluid dynamics, and representative parameters were compared between PCSK9 positive and negative staining plaques. To explore this phenomenon in vitro, human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells were used to overexpress and knock down PCSK9. The impacts of PCSK9 modulations on mechanical sensor activity were testified by western blot and immunofluorescence. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to evaluate the transcription levels of downstream rupture-prone effectors. RESULTS PCSK9 distribution in plaque preferred cap and shoulder regions, residing predominantly in smooth muscle actin-positive cells. Cap PCSK9 expression correlated with fibrous cap thickness negatively and co-expressed with MMP-9, both pointing to the direction of plaque rupture. A hemodynamic profile indicated a rupture-prone feature of cap PCSK9 expression. In vitro, overexpression and knockdown of PCSK9 in human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells has positive modulation on mechanical sensor Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP) activity and transcription levels of its downstream rupture-prone effectors. Serial section staining verified in situ colocalization among PCSK9, YAP, and downstream effectors. CONCLUSIONS Cap PCSK9 possesses a biomarker for rupture risk, and its modulation may lead to a novel biomechanical angle for plaque interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Fudan University Zhongshan Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongwei Dai
- Department of Neurovascular Center, Naval Medical University Changhai Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fudan University Huadong Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | | | | | - Rong Zou
- ArteryFlow Technology Co., Ltd, Hangzhou, China
| | | | | | - Jianmin Liu
- Department of Neurovascular Center, Naval Medical University Changhai Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Ding
- Department of Neurology, Fudan University Zhongshan Hospital, Shanghai, China
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Zhao Y, Wang Z, Chen Y, Feng M, Liu X, Chen H, Wang N, Wang Z, Cao S, Ren J, Liu X, Zhao Y, Zhang Y. Asprosin aggravates atherosclerosis via regulating the phenotype transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 268:131868. [PMID: 38677690 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Phenotype transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) plays an important role in the development of atherosclerosis. Asprosin is a newly discovered adipokine, which is critical in regulating metabolism. However, the relationship between asprosin and phenotype transformation of VSMCs in atherosclerosis remains unclear. The aim of this study is to investigate whether asprosin affects the progression of atherosclerosis by inducing phenotype transformation of VSMCs. We established an atherosclerosis model in ApoE-/- mice and administered asprosin recombinant protein and asprosin antibody to mice. Knocking down asprosin was also as an intervention. Interestingly, we found a correlation between asprosin levels and atherosclerosis. Asprosin promoted plaque formation and phenotype transformation of VSMCs. While, AspKD or asprosin antibody reduced the plaque lesion and suppressed vascular stiffness in ApoE-/- mice. Mechanistically, asprosin induced phenotype transformation of MOVAs by binding to GPR54, leading to Gαq/11 recruitment and activation of the PLC-PKC-ERK1/2-STAT3 signaling pathway. Si GPR54 or GPR54 antagonist partially inhibited the action of asprosin in MOVAs. Mutant GPR54-(267, 307) residue cancelled the binding of asprosin and GPR54. In summary, this study confirmed asprosin activated GPR54/Gαq/11-dependent ERK1/2-STAT3 signaling pathway, thereby promoting VSMCs phenotype transformation and aggravating atherosclerosis, thus providing a new target for the treatment of atherosclerosis.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Atherosclerosis/metabolism
- Atherosclerosis/pathology
- Atherosclerosis/genetics
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/pathology
- Mice
- Phenotype
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/pathology
- Fibrillin-1/metabolism
- Fibrillin-1/genetics
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/metabolism
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/genetics
- Male
- Signal Transduction
- Disease Models, Animal
- Apolipoproteins E/deficiency
- Apolipoproteins E/genetics
- Apolipoproteins E/metabolism
- Humans
- Extracellular Matrix Proteins/metabolism
- Extracellular Matrix Proteins/genetics
- Mice, Knockout
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases (SKLFZCD), Department of Pharmacology, State Key Labratoray-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; Department of Pathophysiology, Province Key Laboratory of Medicine-Food Homologous Resources and Prevention and Treatment of Metabolic Diseases, Basic Medical College, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar 161000, China
| | - Zhengkai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases (SKLFZCD), Department of Pharmacology, State Key Labratoray-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Yi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases (SKLFZCD), Department of Pharmacology, State Key Labratoray-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Min Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases (SKLFZCD), Department of Pharmacology, State Key Labratoray-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Xinxin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases (SKLFZCD), Department of Pharmacology, State Key Labratoray-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Huan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases (SKLFZCD), Department of Pharmacology, State Key Labratoray-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Nannan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases (SKLFZCD), Department of Pharmacology, State Key Labratoray-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Zhiqi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases (SKLFZCD), Department of Pharmacology, State Key Labratoray-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Shifeng Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases (SKLFZCD), Department of Pharmacology, State Key Labratoray-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Jing Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases (SKLFZCD), Department of Pharmacology, State Key Labratoray-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Xue Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases (SKLFZCD), Department of Pharmacology, State Key Labratoray-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Yixiu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases (SKLFZCD), Department of Pharmacology, State Key Labratoray-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Frigid Zone Cardiovascular Diseases (SKLFZCD), Department of Pharmacology, State Key Labratoray-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China.
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Hu P, Du Y, Xu Y, Ye P, Xia J. The role of transcription factors in the pathogenesis and therapeutic targeting of vascular diseases. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1384294. [PMID: 38745757 PMCID: PMC11091331 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1384294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) constitute an essential component of epigenetic regulation. They contribute to the progression of vascular diseases by regulating epigenetic gene expression in several vascular diseases. Recently, numerous regulatory mechanisms related to vascular pathology, ranging from general TFs that are continuously activated to histiocyte-specific TFs that are activated under specific circumstances, have been studied. TFs participate in the progression of vascular-related diseases by epigenetically regulating vascular endothelial cells (VECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). The Krüppel-like family (KLF) TF family is widely recognized as the foremost regulator of vascular diseases. KLF11 prevents aneurysm progression by inhibiting the apoptosis of VSMCs and enhancing their contractile function. The presence of KLF4, another crucial member, suppresses the progression of atherosclerosis (AS) and pulmonary hypertension by attenuating the formation of VSMCs-derived foam cells, ameliorating endothelial dysfunction, and inducing vasodilatory effects. However, the mechanism underlying the regulation of the progression of vascular-related diseases by TFs has remained elusive. The present study categorized the TFs involved in vascular diseases and their regulatory mechanisms to shed light on the potential pathogenesis of vascular diseases, and provide novel insights into their diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poyi Hu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yifan Du
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ping Ye
- Central Hospital of Wuhan, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiahong Xia
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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4
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Miceli G, Basso MG, Pintus C, Pennacchio AR, Cocciola E, Cuffaro M, Profita M, Rizzo G, Tuttolomondo A. Molecular Pathways of Vulnerable Carotid Plaques at Risk of Ischemic Stroke: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4351. [PMID: 38673936 PMCID: PMC11050267 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The concept of vulnerable carotid plaques is pivotal in understanding the pathophysiology of ischemic stroke secondary to large-artery atherosclerosis. In macroscopic evaluation, vulnerable plaques are characterized by one or more of the following features: microcalcification; neovascularization; lipid-rich necrotic cores (LRNCs); intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH); thin fibrous caps; plaque surface ulceration; huge dimensions, suggesting stenosis; and plaque rupture. Recognizing these macroscopic characteristics is crucial for estimating the risk of cerebrovascular events, also in the case of non-significant (less than 50%) stenosis. Inflammatory biomarkers, such as cytokines and adhesion molecules, lipid-related markers like oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and proteolytic enzymes capable of degrading extracellular matrix components are among the key molecules that are scrutinized for their associative roles in plaque instability. Through their quantification and evaluation, these biomarkers reveal intricate molecular cross-talk governing plaque inflammation, rupture potential, and thrombogenicity. The current evidence demonstrates that plaque vulnerability phenotypes are multiple and heterogeneous and are associated with many highly complex molecular pathways that determine the activation of an immune-mediated cascade that culminates in thromboinflammation. This narrative review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current knowledge on molecular biomarkers expressed by symptomatic carotid plaques. It explores the association of these biomarkers with the structural and compositional attributes that characterize vulnerable plaques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Miceli
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE), University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (M.G.B.); (C.P.); (A.R.P.); (E.C.); (M.C.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, University Hospital, Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Basso
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE), University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (M.G.B.); (C.P.); (A.R.P.); (E.C.); (M.C.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, University Hospital, Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Chiara Pintus
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE), University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (M.G.B.); (C.P.); (A.R.P.); (E.C.); (M.C.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, University Hospital, Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Andrea Roberta Pennacchio
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE), University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (M.G.B.); (C.P.); (A.R.P.); (E.C.); (M.C.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, University Hospital, Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Elena Cocciola
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE), University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (M.G.B.); (C.P.); (A.R.P.); (E.C.); (M.C.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, University Hospital, Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Mariagiovanna Cuffaro
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE), University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (M.G.B.); (C.P.); (A.R.P.); (E.C.); (M.C.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, University Hospital, Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Martina Profita
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE), University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (M.G.B.); (C.P.); (A.R.P.); (E.C.); (M.C.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, University Hospital, Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuliana Rizzo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE), University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (M.G.B.); (C.P.); (A.R.P.); (E.C.); (M.C.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, University Hospital, Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonino Tuttolomondo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE), University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.M.); (M.G.B.); (C.P.); (A.R.P.); (E.C.); (M.C.); (M.P.); (G.R.)
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, University Hospital, Policlinico “P. Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy
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Jiang Y, Qian HY. Transcription factors: key regulatory targets of vascular smooth muscle cell in atherosclerosis. Mol Med 2023; 29:2. [PMID: 36604627 PMCID: PMC9817296 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-022-00586-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS), leading to gradual occlusion of the arterial lumen, refers to the accumulation of lipids and inflammatory debris in the arterial wall. Despite therapeutic advances over past decades including intervention or surgery, atherosclerosis is still the most common cause of cardiovascular diseases and the main mechanism of death and disability worldwide. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play an imperative role in the occurrence of atherosclerosis and throughout the whole stages. In the past, there was a lack of comprehensive understanding of VSMCs, but the development of identification technology, including in vivo single-cell sequencing technology and lineage tracing with the CreERT2-loxP system, suggests that VSMCs have remarkable plasticity and reevaluates well-established concepts about the contribution of VSMCs. Transcription factors, a kind of protein molecule that specifically recognizes and binds DNA upstream promoter regions or distal enhancer DNA elements, play a key role in the transcription initiation of the coding genes and are necessary for RNA polymerase to bind gene promoters. In this review, we highlight that, except for environmental factors, VSMC genes are transcriptionally regulated through complex interactions of multiple conserved cis-regulatory elements and transcription factors. In addition, through a series of transcription-related regulatory processes, VSMCs could undergo phenotypic transformation, proliferation, migration, calcification and apoptosis. Finally, enhancing or inhibiting transcription factors can regulate the development of atherosclerotic lesions, and the downstream molecular mechanism of transcriptional regulation has also been widely studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Jiang
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Center for Coronary Heart Disease, Department of Cardiology, Fu Wai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases of China, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 167 Beilishi Rd, Beijing, 100037 China
| | - Hai-Yan Qian
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Center for Coronary Heart Disease, Department of Cardiology, Fu Wai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases of China, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 167 Beilishi Rd, Beijing, 100037 China
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Yuan X, Xiao H, Hu Q, Shen G, Qin X. RGMa promotes dedifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells into a macrophage-like phenotype in vivo and in vitro. J Lipid Res 2022; 63:100276. [PMID: 36089003 PMCID: PMC9587411 DOI: 10.1016/j.jlr.2022.100276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Repulsive guidance molecule a (RGMa) is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored glycoprotein that has been demonstrated to influence inflammatory-related diseases in addition to regulating neuronal differentiation and survival during brain development. However, any function or mechanism of RGMa in dedifferentiation of contractile vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) during inflammatory-related atherosclerosis is poorly understood. In the current study, we found that RGMa is expressed in VSMCs-derived macrophage-like cells from the fibrous cap of type V atherosclerotic plaques and the neointima of ligated carotid artery in ApoE-/- mice. We determined levels of RGMa mRNA and protein increased in oxidized LDL (ox-LDL)-induced VSMCs. Knockdown of RGMa, both in vivo and in vitro, inhibited the dedifferentiation of ox-LDL-induced VSMCs and their ability to proliferate and migrate, reduced the thickness of the neointima after ligation of the left common carotid artery in ApoE-/- mice. Additionally, we show RGMa promoted the dedifferentiation of VSMCs via enhancement of the role of transcription factor Slug. Slug knockdown reversed the dedifferentiation of ox-LDL-induced VSMCs promoted by RGMa overexpression. Thus, inhibition of RGMa may constitute a therapeutic strategy for atherosclerotic plaques prone to rupture and restenosis following mechanical injury.
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Li T, Wang B, Ding H, Chen S, Cheng W, Li Y, Wu X, Wang L, Jiang Y, Lu Z, Teng Y, Su S, Han X, Zhao M. Effect of Extracellular Vesicles From Multiple Cells on Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells in Atherosclerosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:857331. [PMID: 35620296 PMCID: PMC9127356 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.857331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS)-related diseases are still the main cause of death in clinical patients. The phenotype switching, proliferation, migration, and secretion of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) have a pivotal role in atherosclerosis. Although numerous research studies have elucidated the role of VSMCs in AS, their potential functional regulations continue to be explored. The formation of AS involves various cells, such as endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and macrophages. Therefore, intercellular communication of blood vessels cannot be ignored due to closely connected endothelia, media, and adventitia. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), as the vectors of cell-to-cell communication, can deliver proteins and nucleic acids of parent cells to the recipient cells. EVs have emerged as being central in intercellular communication and play a vital role in the pathophysiologic mechanisms of AS. This review summarizes the effects of extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from multiple cells (endothelial cells, macrophages, mesenchymal stem cells, etc.) on VSMCs in AS. The key findings of this review are as follows: 1) endothelial cell–derived EVs (EEVs) have anti- or pro-atherogenic effects on VSMCs; 2) macrophage-derived EVs (MEVs) aggravate the proliferation and migration of VSMCs; 3) mesenchymal stem cells can inhibit VSMCs; and 4) the proliferation and migration of VSMCs can be inhibited by the treatment of EVs with atherosclerosis-protective factors and promoted by noxious stimulants. These results suggested that EVs have the same functional properties as treated parent cells, which might provide vital guidance for treating AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Li
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Baofu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Ding
- Department of Oncology, Shanxi Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital, Taiyuan, China
| | - Shiqi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Weiting Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Li
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yangyang Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ziwen Lu
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Teng
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Sha Su
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaowan Han
- Department of Cardiac Rehabilitation, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Mingjing Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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The Circulating Biomarker Fractalkine and Platelet-Derived Growth Factor BB are Correlated with Carotid Plaque Vulnerability Assessed by Computed Tomography Angiography. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2022; 31:106422. [PMID: 35255286 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2022.106422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although studies have demonstrated that inflammatory and lipid/ lipoproteins-related biomarkers, genetic mutations, and epigenetic mechanisms could be candidates for diagnosis and prognosis of ischemic stroke, there is still no consensus on how to identify vulnerable plaques based on circulating biomarkers. MATERIALS AND METHODS Histological and immunohistochemical staining were performed in the aorta sections of ApoE-/- and WT mice. Eighty-nine patients who underwent CTA were included in this study. The degree of carotid stenosis and the wall features of plaque components were quantitatively analyzed. And the serum concentration of FKN and PDGF-BB were measured. RESULTS (1) The type V vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques deposited on the aortas of ApoE-/- mice after feeding with western diet for 16 weeks. And the expression of CX3CR1 and PDGFR-β increased in the areas of atherosclerotic plaques, especially inside the fibrous cap of plaque. (2) Patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis showed larger LNRC, smaller calcified plaques and more plaque ulceration detected by CTA than asymptomatic stenosis patients. Plaque ulceration and size of LNRC were high risk factors for stroke while plaque calcification was less frequently associated with cerebrovascular ischemia. (3) The serum concentration of FKN was lower and of PDGF-BB was higher in the patients with carotid artery stenosis. Correlation analysis suggested that FKN and PDGF-BB correlated positively with carotid plaque calcification and LNRC respectively. CONCLUSIONS For prediction it is recommended to combine circulating biomarkers (FKN and PDGF-BB) and imaging biomarkersfor comprehensive diagnosis and risk stratification in carotid atherosclerotic stroke.
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Jiang H, Zhao Y, Feng P, Liu Y. Sulfiredoxin-1 Inhibits PDGF-BB-Induced Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation and Migration by Enhancing the Activation of Nrf2/ARE Signaling. Int Heart J 2022; 63:113-121. [PMID: 35034915 DOI: 10.1536/ihj.21-213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Sulfiredoxin1 (Srxn1), an endogenous antioxidant protein, is involved in cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of Srxn1 in VSMCs and its molecular mechanism. The murine vascular smooth muscle cells MOVAS were treated with different doses of platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB); then, Srxn1 expression was detected using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. MTT and wound healing assay were used to examine the effect of Srxn1 on MOVAS cell proliferation and migration. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in MOVAS cells were detected using corresponding commercial kits. Moreover, the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), and nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) /antioxidant response element (ARE) signaling-related proteins was detected using western blot analysis. In our study, PDGF-BB dose-dependently increased Srxn1 expression in MOVAS cells, and Srxn1 expression was increased with time dependence in PDGF-BB-treated MOVAS cells. The knockdown of Srxn1 increased PDGF-BB-induced the proliferation, migration, ROS production, MDA level, and the protein expression of PCNA and MMP-2, as well as decreased SOD activity and the expression of Nrf2/ARE signaling-related proteins in PDGF-BB-stimulated MOVAS cells. However, the overexpression of Srxn1 showed the opposite results to those of knockdown of Srxn1. Moreover, the inhibitory effects of Srxn1 overexpression on PDGF-BB induced proliferation, migration, ROS production, and MDA level and the promotion of Srxn1 overexpression on PDGF-BB induced SOD activity were partially reversed by the knockdown of Nrf2. Srxn1 inhibited PDGF-BB-induced proliferation, migration, and oxidative stress through activating Nrf2/ARE signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haijie Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University
| | - Yueyan Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University
| | - Panyang Feng
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University
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Salnikova D, Orekhova V, Grechko A, Starodubova A, Bezsonov E, Popkova T, Orekhov A. Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Vascular Wall Cells and Its Role in Atherosclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:8990. [PMID: 34445694 PMCID: PMC8396504 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Altered mitochondrial function is currently recognized as an important factor in atherosclerosis initiation and progression. Mitochondrial dysfunction can be caused by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations, which can be inherited or spontaneously acquired in various organs and tissues, having more or less profound effects depending on the tissue energy status. Arterial wall cells are among the most vulnerable to mitochondrial dysfunction due to their barrier and metabolic functions. In atherosclerosis, mitochondria cause alteration of cellular metabolism and respiration and are known to produce excessive amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) resulting in oxidative stress. These processes are involved in vascular disease and chronic inflammation associated with atherosclerosis. Currently, the list of known mtDNA mutations associated with human pathologies is growing, and many of the identified mtDNA variants are being tested as disease markers. Alleviation of oxidative stress and inflammation appears to be promising for atherosclerosis treatment. In this review, we discuss the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in atherosclerosis development, focusing on the key cell types of the arterial wall involved in the pathological processes. Accumulation of mtDNA mutations in isolated arterial wall cells, such as endothelial cells, may contribute to the development of local inflammatory process that helps explaining the focal distribution of atherosclerotic plaques on the arterial wall surface. We also discuss antioxidant and anti-inflammatory approaches that can potentially reduce the impact of mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Salnikova
- Faculty of Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia;
- Laboratory of Oncoproteomics, Institute of Carconigenesis, N. N. Blokhin Cancer Research Centre, 115478 Moscow, Russia
| | - Varvara Orekhova
- Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315 Moscow, Russia; (E.B.); (A.O.)
| | - Andrey Grechko
- Federal Scientific Clinical Center for Resuscitation and Rehabilitation, 109240 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Antonina Starodubova
- Federal Research Centre for Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety, 109240 Moscow, Russia;
- Therapy Faculty, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Evgeny Bezsonov
- Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315 Moscow, Russia; (E.B.); (A.O.)
- Institute of Human Morphology, 117418 Moscow, Russia
| | - Tatyana Popkova
- V. A. Nasonova Institute of Rheumatology, 115522 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Alexander Orekhov
- Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315 Moscow, Russia; (E.B.); (A.O.)
- Institute of Human Morphology, 117418 Moscow, Russia
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11
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Song HT, Cui Y, Zhang LL, Cao G, Li L, Li G, Jia XJ. Ruxolitinib attenuates intimal hyperplasia via inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway activation induced by PDGF-BB in vascular smooth muscle cells. Microvasc Res 2020; 132:104060. [PMID: 32818511 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2020.104060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular diseases are associated with proliferation and phenotypic switch. Platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) is a major initiating factor for proliferative vascular diseases, such as neointimal lesion formation, restenosis after angioplasty, and atherosclerosis. Ruxolitinib, a potent Janus kinase (JAK) 1 and 2 inhibitor, has been reported to significantly block the proliferation-related signaling pathway of JAK2/signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3) and harbor a broad spectrum of anti-cancer activities, including proliferation inhibition, apoptosis induction, and anti-inflammation. However, the role of ruxolitinib in regulating PDGF-BB-induced VSMC proliferation remains to be elucidated. Thus, this study investigates the role of ruxolitinib in regulating PDGF-BB-induced VSMC proliferation and its underlying mechanisms. METHODS In vivo, the medial thickness of the carotid artery was evaluated using a mouse carotid ligation model, ruxolitinib was administered orally to the mice every other day, and the mice were euthanized on day 28 to evaluate the therapeutic effects of ruxolitinib. Cell proliferation markers were measured using real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting. In vitro, VSMCs were treated with ruxolitinib with or without PDGF-BB at an indicated time and concentration. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were measured using Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, MTS assays and flow cytometry. The JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway involved in the effects of ruxolitinib on VSMCs was detected by western blotting with the specific pathway inhibitor AG490. RESULTS In vivo, ruxolitinib significantly decreased the ratio-of-intima ratio (I/M ratio) by inhibiting the expression of PCNA and cyclinD1 (p <0.05). In vitro, ruxolitinib inhibited PDGF-BB-induced VSMC proliferation compared with the PDGF-BB treatment group (p <0.05). In addition, ruxolitinib inhibited the PDGF-BB-induced activation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway and decreased the expression of proliferation related-proteins cyclinD1 and PCNA in VSMCs (p <0.05). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that ruxolitinib inhibits VSMC proliferation in vivo and in vitro by suppressing the activation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Therefore, ruxolitinib has a therapeutic potential for proliferative vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Tao Song
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yuan Cui
- Department of Internal Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei Academy of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Li-Li Zhang
- Department of Endocrine, The Second Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Guang Cao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Administrative Office, District Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Jizhou, Tianjin, China
| | - Gang Li
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xin-Ju Jia
- Department of Endocrine, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.
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Ledard N, Liboz A, Blondeau B, Babiak M, Moulin C, Vallin B, Guillas I, Mateo V, Jumeau C, Blirando K, Meilhac O, Limon I, Glorian M. Slug, a Cancer-Related Transcription Factor, is Involved in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Transdifferentiation Induced by Platelet-Derived Growth Factor-BB During Atherosclerosis. J Am Heart Assoc 2020; 9:e014276. [PMID: 31959031 PMCID: PMC7033846 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.119.014276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Heart attacks and stroke often result from occlusive thrombi following the rupture of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play a pivotal role in plaque vulnerability because of their switch towards a proinflammatory/macrophage-like phenotype when in the context of atherosclerosis. The prometastatic transcription factor Slug/Snail2 is a critical regulator of cell phenotypic transition. Here, we aimed to investigate the role of Slug in the transdifferentiation process of VSMCs occurring during atherogenesis. Methods and Results In rat and human primary aortic smooth muscle cells, Slug protein expression is strongly and rapidly increased by platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB). PDGF-BB increases Slug protein without affecting mRNA levels indicating that this growth factor stabilizes Slug protein. Immunocytochemistry and subcellular fractionation experiments reveal that PDGF-BB triggers a rapid accumulation of Slug in VSMC nuclei. Using pharmacological tools, we show that the PDGF-BB-dependent mechanism of Slug stabilization in VSMCs involves the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 pathway. Immunohistochemistry experiments on type V and type VI atherosclerotic lesions of human carotids show smooth muscle-specific myosin heavy chain-/Slug-positive cells surrounding the prothrombotic lipid core. In VSMCs, Slug siRNAs inhibit prostaglandin E2 secretion and prevent the inhibition of cholesterol efflux gene expression mediated by PDGF-BB, known to be involved in plaque vulnerability and/or thrombogenicity. Conclusions Our results highlight, for the first time, a role of Slug in aortic smooth muscle cell transdifferentiation and enable us to consider Slug as an actor playing a role in the atherosclerotic plaque progression towards a life-threatening phenotype. This also argues for common features between acute cardiovascular events and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahéma Ledard
- Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS) Biological Adaptation and Ageing UMR 8256 Sorbonne Université Paris France
| | - Alexandrine Liboz
- INSERM Saint-Antoine Research Center Sorbonne Université Paris France
| | - Bertrand Blondeau
- INSERM Saint-Antoine Research Center Sorbonne Université Paris France
| | - Mégane Babiak
- Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS) Biological Adaptation and Ageing UMR 8256 Sorbonne Université Paris France
| | - Célia Moulin
- Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS) Biological Adaptation and Ageing UMR 8256 Sorbonne Université Paris France
| | - Benjamin Vallin
- Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS) Biological Adaptation and Ageing UMR 8256 Sorbonne Université Paris France
| | - Isabelle Guillas
- National Institute for Health and Medical Research (INSERM) Faculté de Médecine Pitié Salpétrière UMR-S 1166 ICAN Sorbonne Université Paris France
| | - Véronique Mateo
- CIMI-Paris INSERM U1135 Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne-Université Site Pitié-Salpêtrière Sorbonne Université Paris France
| | | | - Karl Blirando
- Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS) Biological Adaptation and Ageing UMR 8256 Sorbonne Université Paris France
| | - Olivier Meilhac
- Université de La Réunion Diabète, Athérothrombose, Thérapies, Réunion, Océan Indien (UMR DéTROI U1188) - -CYROI- Sainte Clotilde La Réunion
| | - Isabelle Limon
- Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS) Biological Adaptation and Ageing UMR 8256 Sorbonne Université Paris France
| | - Martine Glorian
- Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS) Biological Adaptation and Ageing UMR 8256 Sorbonne Université Paris France
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13
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella M Grumbach
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine Department of Internal Medicine Abboud Cardiovascular Research Center Carver College of Medicine Iowa City IA.,Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program Department of Radiation Oncology Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center University of Iowa Iowa City IA.,Department of Veterans Affairs Iowa City Health Care System Iowa City IA
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