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Van Den Heuvel LJF, Peeters S, Meester JAN, Coucke PJ, Loeys BL. An exploration of alternative therapeutic targets for aortic disease in Marfan syndrome. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104023. [PMID: 38750929 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104023] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Marfan syndrome is a rare connective tissue disorder that causes aortic dissection-related sudden death. Current conventional treatments, beta-blockers, and type 1 angiotensin II receptor blockers are prescribed to slow down aortic aneurysm progression and delay (prophylactic) aortic surgery. However, neither of these treatments ceases aortic growth completely. This review focuses on potential alternative therapeutic leads in the field, ranging from widely used medication with beneficial effects on the aorta to experimental inhibitors with the potential to stop aortic growth in Marfan syndrome. Clinical trials are warranted to uncover their full potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte J F Van Den Heuvel
- Center for Medical Genetics Antwerp, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium; Center for Medical Genetics Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Silke Peeters
- Center for Medical Genetics Antwerp, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Josephina A N Meester
- Center for Medical Genetics Antwerp, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Paul J Coucke
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bart L Loeys
- Center for Medical Genetics Antwerp, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium; Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
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2
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Luo H, Li Y, Song H, Zhao K, Li W, Hong H, Wang YT, Qi L, Zhang Y. Role of EZH2-mediated epigenetic modification on vascular smooth muscle in cardiovascular diseases: A mini-review. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1416992. [PMID: 38994197 PMCID: PMC11236572 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1416992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are integral to the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a histone methyltransferase, plays a crucial role in epigenetic regulation of VSMCs gene expression. Emerging researches suggest that EZH2 has a dual role in VSMCs, contingent on the pathological context of specific CVDs. This mini-review synthesizes the current knowledge on the mechanisms by which EZH2 regulates VSMC proliferation, migration and survival in the context of CVDs. The goal is to underscore the potential of EZH2 as a therapeutic target for CVDs treatment. Modulating EZH2 and its associated epigenetic pathways in VSMCs could potentially ameliorate vascular remodeling, a key factor in the progression of many CVDs. Despite the promising outlook, further investigation is warranted to elucidate the epigenetic mechanisms mediated by EZH2 in VSMCs, which may pave the way for novel epigenetic therapies for conditions such as atherosclerosis and hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Luo
- School of Health Preservation and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yao Li
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Health Industry, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Pharmacology, Nanchang, China
| | - Honghu Song
- School of Health Preservation and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Kui Zhao
- College of Material Science and Chemical Engineering, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Wenlin Li
- Center for Quality Evaluation and Research in Higher Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Hailan Hong
- Center for Quality Evaluation and Research in Higher Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yun-Ting Wang
- Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Luming Qi
- School of Health Preservation and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
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3
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Dunn-Davies H, Dudnakova T, Nogara A, Rodor J, Thomas AC, Parish E, Gautier P, Meynert A, Ulitsky I, Madeddu P, Caporali A, Baker A, Tollervey D, Mitić T. Control of endothelial cell function and arteriogenesis by MEG3:EZH2 epigenetic regulation of integrin expression. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102173. [PMID: 38617973 PMCID: PMC11015509 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetic processes involving long non-coding RNAs regulate endothelial gene expression. However, the underlying regulatory mechanisms causing endothelial dysfunction remain to be elucidated. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is an important rheostat of histone H3K27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) that represses endothelial targets, but EZH2 RNA binding capacity and EZH2:RNA functional interactions have not been explored in post-ischemic angiogenesis. We used formaldehyde/UV-assisted crosslinking ligation and sequencing of hybrids and identified a new role for maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3). MEG3 formed the predominant RNA:RNA hybrid structures in endothelial cells. Moreover, MEG3:EZH2 assists recruitment onto chromatin. By EZH2-chromatin immunoprecipitation, following MEG3 depletion, we demonstrated that MEG3 controls recruitment of EZH2/H3K27me3 onto integrin subunit alpha4 (ITGA4) promoter. Both MEG3 knockdown or EZH2 inhibition (A-395) promoted ITGA4 expression and improved endothelial cell migration and adhesion to fibronectin in vitro. The A-395 inhibitor re-directed MEG3-assisted chromatin remodeling, offering a direct therapeutic benefit by increasing endothelial function and resilience. This approach subsequently increased the expression of ITGA4 in arterioles following ischemic injury in mice, thus promoting arteriogenesis. Our findings show a context-specific role for MEG3 in guiding EZH2 to repress ITGA4. Novel therapeutic strategies could antagonize MEG3:EZH2 interaction for pre-clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hywel Dunn-Davies
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Michael Swann Building Max Born Crescent, King’s Buildings, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Tatiana Dudnakova
- University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen’s Medical Research Institute (QMRI), The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Antonella Nogara
- University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen’s Medical Research Institute (QMRI), The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Julie Rodor
- University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen’s Medical Research Institute (QMRI), The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Anita C. Thomas
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Research and Teaching Floor Level 7, Queens Building, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol BS2 8HW, UK
| | - Elisa Parish
- University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen’s Medical Research Institute (QMRI), The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Philippe Gautier
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, MRC Institute of Genetics and Cancer, The University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, Crewe Road, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - Alison Meynert
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, MRC Institute of Genetics and Cancer, The University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, Crewe Road, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - Igor Ulitsky
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology and Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann-UK Building rm. 007, Weizmann Institute of Science Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Paolo Madeddu
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Research and Teaching Floor Level 7, Queens Building, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol BS2 8HW, UK
| | - Andrea Caporali
- University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen’s Medical Research Institute (QMRI), The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Andrew Baker
- University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen’s Medical Research Institute (QMRI), The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - David Tollervey
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Michael Swann Building Max Born Crescent, King’s Buildings, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Tijana Mitić
- University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen’s Medical Research Institute (QMRI), The University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
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Mao S, Song C, Huang H, Nie Y, Ding K, Cui J, Tian J, Tang H. Role of transcriptional cofactors in cardiovascular diseases. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 706:149757. [PMID: 38490050 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is a main cause of mortality in the world and the highest incidence of all diseases. However, the mechanism of the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease is still unclear, and we need to continue to explore its mechanism of action. The occurrence and development of cardiovascular disease is significantly associated with genetic abnormalities, and gene expression is affected by transcriptional regulation. In this complex process, the protein-protein interaction promotes the RNA polymerase II to the initiation site. And in this process of transcriptional regulation, transcriptional cofactors are responsible for passing cues from enhancers to promoters and promoting the binding of RNA polymerases to promoters, so transcription cofactors playing a key role in gene expression regulation. There is growing evidence that transcriptional cofactors play a critical role in cardiovascular disease. Transcriptional cofactors can promote or inhibit transcription by affecting the function of transcription factors. It can affect the initiation and elongation process of transcription by forming complexes with transcription factors, which are important for the stabilization of DNA rings. It can also act as a protein that interacts with other proteins to affect the expression of other genes. Therefore, the aim of this overview is to summarize the effect of some transcriptional cofactors such as BRD4, EP300, MED1, EZH2, YAP, SIRT6 in cardiovascular disease and to provide a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqing Mao
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Multi-omics and Artificial Intelligence of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; Clinical Research Center for Myocardial Injury in Hunan Province, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Chao Song
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Multi-omics and Artificial Intelligence of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Cardiovascular Lab of Big Data and Imaging Artificial Intelligence, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Hong Huang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Multi-omics and Artificial Intelligence of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; Clinical Research Center for Myocardial Injury in Hunan Province, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Yali Nie
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Multi-omics and Artificial Intelligence of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; Clinical Research Center for Myocardial Injury in Hunan Province, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Kai Ding
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Jian Cui
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Multi-omics and Artificial Intelligence of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; Clinical Research Center for Myocardial Injury in Hunan Province, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Jinwei Tian
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150086, China.
| | - Huifang Tang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Multi-omics and Artificial Intelligence of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; Clinical Research Center for Myocardial Injury in Hunan Province, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China.
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Ibarrola J, Xiang RR, Sun Z, Lu Q, Hill MA, Jaffe IZ. Inhibition of the histone methyltransferase EZH2 induces vascular stiffness. Clin Sci (Lond) 2024; 138:251-268. [PMID: 38362910 DOI: 10.1042/cs20231478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Vascular stiffness increases with aging, obesity and hypertension and predicts cardiovascular risk. The levels of histone H3-lysine-27 methylation (H3K27me) and the histone methyltransferase EZH2 both decrease in aging vessels, driving vascular stiffness. The impact of EZH2 inhibitors on vascular stiffness is unknown. We tested the hypothesis that the EZH2 inhibitor GSK126, currently in development for cancer treatment, increases vascular stiffness and explored underlying molecular mechanisms. Young (3 month) and middle-aged (12 month) male mice were treated with GSK126 for 1-2 months and primary human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) from young male and female donors were treated with GSK126 for 24-48 h. Stiffness was measured in vivo by pulse wave velocity and in vitro by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and vascular structure was quantified histologically. Extracellular matrix proteins were studied by qRT-PCR, immunoblotting, zymography and chromatin immunoprecipitation. GSK126 treatment decreased H3K27 methylation (H3K27me) and increased acetylation (H3K27ac) in mouse vessels and in HASMCs. In GSK126-treated mice, aortic stiffness increased without changes in vascular fibrosis. EZH2 inhibition enhanced elastin fiber degradation and matrix metalloprotease-2 (MMP2) expression. In HASMCs, GSK126 treatment increased synthetic phenotype markers and intrinsic HASMCs stiffness by AFM with altered cytoskeletal structure and increased nuclear actin staining. GSK126 also increased MMP2 protein expression, activity and enrichment of H3K27ac at the MMP2 promoter in HASMCs. GSK126 causes vascular stiffening, inducing MMP2 activity, elastin degradation, and modulation of SMC phenotype and cytoskeletal stiffness. These findings suggest that EZH2 inhibitors used to treat cancer could negatively impact the vasculature by enhancing stiffness and merits examination in human trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Ibarrola
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, U.S.A
| | - Rachel R Xiang
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, U.S.A
| | - Zhe Sun
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65203, U.S.A
| | - Qing Lu
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, U.S.A
| | - Michael A Hill
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65203, U.S.A
| | - Iris Z Jaffe
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, U.S.A
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Dunn-Davies H, Dudnakova T, Baker AH, Mitić T. Epigenetic control of vascular endothelial function revealed by multi-omics. Eur Heart J 2024; 45:642-644. [PMID: 38113245 PMCID: PMC10906981 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehad820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hywel Dunn-Davies
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Michael Swann Building Max Born Crescent, King’s Buildings, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Tatiana Dudnakova
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Michael Swann Building Max Born Crescent, King’s Buildings, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Andrew H Baker
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute (QMRI), University of Edinburgh, BioQuarter, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Tijana Mitić
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute (QMRI), University of Edinburgh, BioQuarter, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
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Liu H, Zhao Y, Zhao G, Deng Y, Chen YE, Zhang J. SWI/SNF Complex in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Its Implications in Cardiovascular Pathologies. Cells 2024; 13:168. [PMID: 38247859 PMCID: PMC10814623 DOI: 10.3390/cells13020168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Mature vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) exhibit a remarkable degree of plasticity, a characteristic that has intrigued cardiovascular researchers for decades. Recently, it has become increasingly evident that the chromatin remodeler SWItch/Sucrose Non-Fermentable (SWI/SNF) complex plays a pivotal role in orchestrating chromatin conformation, which is critical for gene regulation. In this review, we provide a summary of research related to the involvement of the SWI/SNF complexes in VSMC and cardiovascular diseases (CVD), integrating these discoveries into the current landscape of epigenetic and transcriptional regulation in VSMC. These novel discoveries shed light on our understanding of VSMC biology and pave the way for developing innovative therapeutic strategies in CVD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Liu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Center, University of Michigan Medical Center, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (H.L.); (Y.Z.)
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Center, University of Michigan Medical Center, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (H.L.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Guizhen Zhao
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Center, University of Michigan Medical Center, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (H.L.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Yongjie Deng
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Center, University of Michigan Medical Center, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (H.L.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Y. Eugene Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Center, University of Michigan Medical Center, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (H.L.); (Y.Z.)
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jifeng Zhang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Center, University of Michigan Medical Center, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (H.L.); (Y.Z.)
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Chakraborty A, Li Y, Zhang C, Li Y, Rebello KR, Li S, Xu S, Vasquez HG, Zhang L, Luo W, Wang G, Chen K, Coselli JS, LeMaire SA, Shen YH. Epigenetic Induction of Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotypic Alterations in Aortic Aneurysms and Dissections. Circulation 2023; 148:959-977. [PMID: 37555319 PMCID: PMC10529114 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.123.063332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Smooth muscle cell (SMC) phenotypic switching has been increasingly detected in aortic aneurysm and dissection (AAD) tissues. However, the diverse SMC phenotypes in AAD tissues and the mechanisms driving SMC phenotypic alterations remain to be identified. METHODS We examined the transcriptomic and epigenomic dynamics of aortic SMC phenotypic changes in mice with angiotensin II-induced AAD by using single-cell RNA sequencing and single-cell sequencing assay for transposase-accessible chromatin. SMC phenotypic alteration in aortas from patients with ascending thoracic AAD was examined by using single-cell RNA sequencing analysis. RESULTS Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis revealed that aortic stress induced the transition of SMCs from a primary contractile phenotype to proliferative, extracellular matrix-producing, and inflammatory phenotypes. Lineage tracing showed the complete transformation of SMCs to fibroblasts and macrophages. Single-cell sequencing assay for transposase-accessible chromatin analysis indicated that these phenotypic alterations were controlled by chromatin remodeling marked by the reduced chromatin accessibility of contractile genes and the induced chromatin accessibility of genes involved in proliferation, extracellular matrix, and inflammation. IRF3 (interferon regulatory factor 3), a proinflammatory transcription factor activated by cytosolic DNA, was identified as a key driver of the transition of aortic SMCs from a contractile phenotype to an inflammatory phenotype. In cultured SMCs, cytosolic DNA signaled through its sensor STING (stimulator of interferon genes)-TBK1 (tank-binding kinase 1) to activate IRF3, which bound and recruited EZH2 (enhancer of zeste homolog 2) to contractile genes to induce repressive H3K27me3 modification and gene suppression. In contrast, double-stranded DNA-STING-IRF3 signaling induced inflammatory gene expression in SMCs. In Sting-/- mice, the aortic stress-induced transition of SMCs into an inflammatory phenotype was prevented, and SMC populations were preserved. Finally, profound SMC phenotypic alterations toward diverse directions were detected in human ascending thoracic AAD tissues. CONCLUSIONS Our study reveals the dynamic epigenetic induction of SMC phenotypic alterations in AAD. DNA damage and cytosolic leakage drive SMCs from a contractile phenotype to an inflammatory phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhijit Chakraborty
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., S.X., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L., Y.H.S.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Texas Heart Institute, Houston (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L.)
| | - Yanming Li
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., S.X., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L., Y.H.S.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Texas Heart Institute, Houston (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L.)
| | - Chen Zhang
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., S.X., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L., Y.H.S.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Texas Heart Institute, Houston (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L.)
| | - Yang Li
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., S.X., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L., Y.H.S.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Texas Heart Institute, Houston (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L.)
| | - Kimberly R Rebello
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., S.X., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L., Y.H.S.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Texas Heart Institute, Houston (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L.)
| | - Shengyu Li
- Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Houston Methodist Research Institute, TX (S.L., G.W.)
| | - Samantha Xu
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., S.X., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L., Y.H.S.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Hernan G Vasquez
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., S.X., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L., Y.H.S.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Texas Heart Institute, Houston (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L.)
| | - Lin Zhang
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., S.X., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L., Y.H.S.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Texas Heart Institute, Houston (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L.)
| | - Wei Luo
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., S.X., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L., Y.H.S.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Texas Heart Institute, Houston (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L.)
| | - Guangyu Wang
- Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Houston Methodist Research Institute, TX (S.L., G.W.)
| | - Kaifu Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (K.C.)
| | - Joseph S Coselli
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., S.X., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L., Y.H.S.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Cardiovascular Research Institute (J.S.C., S.A.L., Y.H.S.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Texas Heart Institute, Houston (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L.)
| | - Scott A LeMaire
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., S.X., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L., Y.H.S.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Cardiovascular Research Institute (J.S.C., S.A.L., Y.H.S.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Texas Heart Institute, Houston (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L.)
| | - Ying H Shen
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery (A.C., Y.L., C.Z., K.R.R., Y.L., S.X., W.L., H.G.V., L.Z., J.S.C., S.A.L., Y.H.S.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Cardiovascular Research Institute (J.S.C., S.A.L., Y.H.S.), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
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9
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Sun L, Li X, Luo H, Guo H, Zhang J, Chen Z, Lin F, Zhao G. EZH2 can be used as a therapeutic agent for inhibiting endothelial dysfunction. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 213:115594. [PMID: 37207700 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115594] [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: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a catalytic subunit of polycomb repressor complex 2 and plays important roles in endothelial cell homeostasis. EZH2 functionally methylates lysine 27 of histone H3 and represses gene expression through chromatin compaction. EZH2 mediates the effects of environmental stimuli by regulating endothelial functions, such as angiogenesis, endothelial barrier integrity, inflammatory signaling, and endothelial mesenchymal transition. Numerous studies have been conducted to determine the significance of EZH2 in endothelial function. The aim of this review is to provide a concise summary of the roles EZH2 plays in endothelial function and elucidate its therapeutic potential in cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Sun
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Xuefang Li
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Hui Luo
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Huige Guo
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Zhigang Chen
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Fei Lin
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China.
| | - Guoan Zhao
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China.
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10
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Zhao H, Xu Y, Cui J. CXCR2 (rs3890158 and rs2230054) and CXCL4 (rs352008 and rs1801572) gene polymorphisms in patients with thoracic aortic aneurysm. Biotechnol Genet Eng Rev 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37154009 DOI: 10.1080/02648725.2023.2210011] [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: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
We aimed to explore the correlations of C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 2 (CXCR2) and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 4 (CXCL4) gene polymorphisms with thoracic aortic aneurysm. A total of 50 patients with thoracic aortic aneurysm (disease group) and 50 healthy people in the physical examination center (control group) in our hospital were selected as the subjects. The CXCR2 and CXCL4 gene polymorphisms were detected by means of blood drawing, DNA extraction, PCR and sequencing. Moreover, the levels of serum CXCR2 and CXCL4 were measured using ELISA, and the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were determined. The study found significant differences in the distribution of genotypes and alleles of CXCR2 and CXCL4 gene polymorphisms between the disease group and control group. The frequencies of certain genotypes (AA of rs3890158, CC of rs2230054, AT of rs352008, and CT of rs1801572) were higher in the disease group, as were the frequencies of certain alleles (C of rs2230054 and rs1801572). The distribution of recessive models of rs2230054 was also different, with a lower frequency of CC+CT in the disease group. The haplotype distributions of both gene polymorphisms differed between the groups. CXCR2 rs3890158 and CXCL4 rs352008 were correlated with lower serum levels of their respective proteins, while CXCL4 rs1801572 was associated with CRP levels and CXCR2 rs2230054 with LDL levels in patients (P < 0.05). The gene polymorphisms of CXCR2 and CXCL4 probably have apparent correlations with the susceptibility to thoracic aortic aneurysm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Zhao
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Sciences (Xiangyang Central Hospital), Xiangyang, Hubei, China
| | - Yanrong Xu
- CCU, Shiyan People's Hospital affiliated to Hubei Medical College, Shiyan, China
| | - Jun Cui
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Sciences (Xiangyang Central Hospital), Xiangyang, Hubei, China
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11
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Chou EL, Chaffin M, Simonson B, Pirruccello JP, Akkad AD, Nekoui M, Cardenas CLL, Bedi KC, Nash C, Juric D, Stone JR, Isselbacher EM, Margulies KB, Klattenhoff C, Ellinor PT, Lindsay ME. Aortic Cellular Diversity and Quantitative Genome-Wide Association Study Trait Prioritization Through Single-Nuclear RNA Sequencing of the Aneurysmal Human Aorta. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2022; 42:1355-1374. [PMID: 36172868 PMCID: PMC9613617 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.122.317953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mural cells in ascending aortic aneurysms undergo phenotypic changes that promote extracellular matrix destruction and structural weakening. To explore this biology, we analyzed the transcriptional features of thoracic aortic tissue. METHODS Single-nuclear RNA sequencing was performed on 13 samples from human donors, 6 with thoracic aortic aneurysm, and 7 without aneurysm. Individual transcriptomes were then clustered based on transcriptional profiles. Clusters were used for between-disease differential gene expression analyses, subcluster analysis, and analyzed for intersection with genetic aortic trait data. RESULTS We sequenced 71 689 nuclei from human thoracic aortas and identified 14 clusters, aligning with 11 cell types, predominantly vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) consistent with aortic histology. With unbiased methodology, we found 7 vascular smooth muscle cell and 6 fibroblast subclusters. Differentially expressed genes analysis revealed a vascular smooth muscle cell group accounting for the majority of differential gene expression. Fibroblast populations in aneurysm exhibit distinct behavior with almost complete disappearance of quiescent fibroblasts. Differentially expressed genes were used to prioritize genes at aortic diameter and distensibility genome-wide association study loci highlighting the genes JUN, LTBP4 (latent transforming growth factor beta-binding protein 1), and IL34 (interleukin 34) in fibroblasts, ENTPD1, PDLIM5 (PDZ and LIM domain 5), ACTN4 (alpha-actinin-4), and GLRX in vascular smooth muscle cells, as well as LRP1 in macrophage populations. CONCLUSIONS Using nuclear RNA sequencing, we describe the cellular diversity of healthy and aneurysmal human ascending aorta. Sporadic aortic aneurysm is characterized by differential gene expression within known cellular classes rather than by the appearance of novel cellular forms. Single-nuclear RNA sequencing of aortic tissue can be used to prioritize genes at aortic trait loci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L. Chou
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery,
Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General
Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute,
Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mark Chaffin
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute,
Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Precision Cardiology Laboratory, The Broad Institute,
Cambridge, MA, USA 02142
| | - Bridget Simonson
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute,
Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Precision Cardiology Laboratory, The Broad Institute,
Cambridge, MA, USA 02142
| | - James P. Pirruccello
- Cardiology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital,
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General
Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute,
Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Precision Cardiology Laboratory, The Broad Institute,
Cambridge, MA, USA 02142
- Demoulas Center for Cardiac Arrhythmias, Massachusetts
General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Amer-Denis Akkad
- Precision Cardiology Laboratory, Bayer US LLC, Cambridge,
MA, USA 02142
| | - Mahan Nekoui
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute,
Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Demoulas Center for Cardiac Arrhythmias, Massachusetts
General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christian Lacks Lino Cardenas
- Cardiology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital,
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General
Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kenneth C. Bedi
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania,
Philadelphia, PA, USA 19104
| | - Craig Nash
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute,
Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Precision Cardiology Laboratory, The Broad Institute,
Cambridge, MA, USA 02142
| | - Dejan Juric
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston,
Massachusetts, USA
| | - James R. Stone
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General
Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Eric M. Isselbacher
- Cardiology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital,
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General
Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Thoracic Aortic Center, Massachusetts General Hospital,
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kenneth B. Margulies
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania,
Philadelphia, PA, USA 19104
| | - Carla Klattenhoff
- Precision Cardiology Laboratory, Bayer US LLC, Cambridge,
MA, USA 02142
| | - Patrick T. Ellinor
- Cardiology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital,
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General
Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute,
Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Precision Cardiology Laboratory, The Broad Institute,
Cambridge, MA, USA 02142
- Demoulas Center for Cardiac Arrhythmias, Massachusetts
General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mark E. Lindsay
- Cardiology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital,
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General
Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute,
Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Thoracic Aortic Center, Massachusetts General Hospital,
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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12
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Bramel EE, Creamer TJ, Saqib M, Camejo Nunez WA, Bagirzadeh R, Roker LA, Goff LA, MacFarlane EG. Postnatal Smad3 Inactivation in Murine Smooth Muscle Cells Elicits a Temporally and Regionally Distinct Transcriptional Response. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:826495. [PMID: 35463747 PMCID: PMC9033237 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.826495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterozygous, loss of function mutations in positive regulators of the Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) pathway cause hereditary forms of thoracic aortic aneurysm. It is unclear whether and how the initial signaling deficiency triggers secondary signaling upregulation in the remaining functional branches of the pathway, and if this contributes to maladaptive vascular remodeling. To examine this process in a mouse model in which time-controlled, partial interference with postnatal TGF-β signaling in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) could be assessed, we used a VSMC-specific tamoxifen-inducible system, and a conditional allele, to inactivate Smad3 at 6 weeks of age, after completion of perinatal aortic development. This intervention induced dilation and histological abnormalities in the aortic root, with minor involvement of the ascending aorta. To analyze early and late events associated with disease progression, we performed a comparative single cell transcriptomic analysis at 10- and 18-weeks post-deletion, when aortic dilation is undetectable and moderate, respectively. At the early time-point, Smad3-inactivation resulted in a broad reduction in the expression of extracellular matrix components and critical components of focal adhesions, including integrins and anchoring proteins, which was reflected histologically by loss of connections between VSMCs and elastic lamellae. At the later time point, however, expression of several transcripts belonging to the same functional categories was normalized or even upregulated; this occurred in association with upregulation of transcripts coding for TGF-β ligands, and persistent downregulation of negative regulators of the pathway. To interrogate how VSMC heterogeneity may influence this transition, we examined transcriptional changes in each of the four VSMC subclusters identified, regardless of genotype, as partly reflecting the proximal-to-distal anatomic location based on in situ RNA hybridization. The response to Smad3-deficiency varied depending on subset, and VSMC subsets over-represented in the aortic root, the site most vulnerable to dilation, most prominently upregulated TGF-β ligands and pro-pathogenic factors such as thrombospondin-1, angiotensin converting enzyme, and pro-inflammatory mediators. These data suggest that Smad3 is required for maintenance of focal adhesions, and that loss of contacts with the extracellular matrix has consequences specific to each VSMC subset, possibly contributing to the regional susceptibility to dilation in the aorta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily E. Bramel
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Predoctoral Training in Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Tyler J. Creamer
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Muzna Saqib
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Wendy A. Camejo Nunez
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Predoctoral Training in Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Rustam Bagirzadeh
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - LaToya Ann Roker
- School of Medicine Microscope Facility, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Loyal A. Goff
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Kavli Neuroscience Discovery Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Elena Gallo MacFarlane
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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13
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Protocol to assess the effects of dysfunctional human vascular smooth muscle cells on other brain cells using in vitro models of Alzheimer’s disease. STAR Protoc 2022; 3:101149. [PMID: 35141568 PMCID: PMC8814650 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2022.101149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we present a protocol to culture primary human vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) under Alzheimer's disease (AD)-like conditions, including steps for morphological characterization with microscopy. We then describe functional assays, including wound healing, transwell, coculture, and supernatant assays, to evaluate the effect of dysfunctional VSMCs on the induction of the AD-associated microglial phenotype. Our approach can be applied to assess the effects of dysfunctional VSMCs on other cerebral cell lines including pericytes, astrocytes, and neurons under AD-like conditions in vitro. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Aguilar-Pineda et al. (2021). Detailed protocol to induce dysfunctional human VSMCs Characterization of dysfunctional human VSMCs by PCR and fluorescence microscopy Effects of dysfunctional human VSMCs on the Alzheimer-associated microglia phenotype Applicable to study VSMC effects on other brain cells under AD-like conditions in vitro
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14
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Landis BJ, Lai D, Guo DC, Corvera JS, Idrees MT, Stadler HW, Cuevas C, Needler GU, Vujakovich CE, Milewicz DM, Hinton RB, Ware SM. Identification of a common polymorphism in COQ8B acting as a modifier of thoracic aortic aneurysm severity. HGG ADVANCES 2022; 3. [PMID: 34917985 PMCID: PMC8670066 DOI: 10.1016/j.xhgg.2021.100057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) predisposes to sudden, life-threatening aortic dissection. The factors that regulate interindividual variability in TAA severity are not well understood. Identifying a molecular basis for this variability has the potential to improve clinical risk stratification and advance mechanistic insight. We previously identified COQ8B, a gene important for biosynthesis of coenzyme Q, as a candidate genetic modifier of TAA severity. Here, we investigated the physiological role of COQ8B in human aortic smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and further tested its genetic association with TAA severity. We find COQ8B protein localizes to mitochondria in SMCs, and loss of mitochondrial COQ8B leads to increased oxidative stress, decreased mitochondrial respiration, and altered expression of SMC contractile genes. Oxidative stress and mitochondrial cristae defects were prevalent in the medial layer of human proximal aortic tissues in individuals with TAA, and COQ8B expression was decreased in TAA SMCs compared with controls. A common single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs3865452 in COQ8B (c.521A>G [p.His174Arg]) was associated with decreased rate of aortic root dilation in young individuals with TAA. In addition, the SNP was less frequent in a second cohort of early-onset thoracic aortic dissection (TAD) cases compared with controls. COQ8B protein levels in aortic SMCs were increased in TAA individuals homozygous for rs3865452 compared with those homozygous for the reference allele. Thus, COQ8B is important for aortic SMC metabolism, which is dysregulated in TAA, and rs3865452 may decrease TAA severity by increasing the COQ8B level. Genotyping rs3865452 may be useful for clinical risk stratification and tailored aortopathy management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J Landis
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, United States of America.,Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, United States of America
| | - Dongbing Lai
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, United States of America
| | - Dong-Chuan Guo
- Department of Internal Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77030, United States of America
| | - Joel S Corvera
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, United States of America
| | - Muhammad T Idrees
- Department of Pathology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, United States of America
| | - Henry W Stadler
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, United States of America
| | - Christian Cuevas
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, United States of America
| | - Gavin U Needler
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, United States of America
| | - Courtney E Vujakovich
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, United States of America
| | - Dianna M Milewicz
- Department of Internal Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77030, United States of America
| | - Robert B Hinton
- Divison of Cardiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, United States of America
| | - Stephanie M Ware
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, United States of America.,Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, United States of America
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15
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Chou EL, Lino Cardenas CL, Chaffin M, Arduini AD, Juric D, Stone JR, LaMuraglia GM, Eagleton MJ, Conrad MF, Isselbacher EM, Ellinor PT, Lindsay ME. Vascular smooth muscle cell phenotype switching in carotid atherosclerosis. JVS Vasc Sci 2021; 3:41-47. [PMID: 35128489 PMCID: PMC8802874 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvssci.2021.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Carotid plaque instability contributes to large vessel ischemic stroke. Although vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) affect atherosclerotic growth and instability, no treatments aimed at improving VSMC function are available. Large genetic studies investigating atherosclerosis and carotid disease in relation to the risk of stroke have implicated polymorphisms at the HDAC9 locus. The HDAC9 protein has been shown to affect the VSMC phenotype; however, how this might affect carotid disease is unknown. We conducted a pilot investigation using single nuclei RNA sequencing of human carotid tissue to identify cells expressing HDAC9 and specifically investigate the role of the HDAC9 in carotid atherosclerosis. We found that carotid VSMCs express HDAC9 and genes typically associated with immune characteristics. Using cellular assays, we have demonstrated that recruitment of macrophages can be modulated by HDAC9 expression. HDAC9 expression might affect carotid plaque stability and progression through its effects on the VSMC phenotype and recruitment of immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L. Chou
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
| | - Christian L. Lino Cardenas
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
- Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
| | - Mark Chaffin
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, The Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Mass
- Precision Cardiology Laboratory, The Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard and Bayer US LLC, Cambridge, Mass
| | - Alessandro D. Arduini
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, The Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Mass
- Precision Cardiology Laboratory, The Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard and Bayer US LLC, Cambridge, Mass
| | - Dejan Juric
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - James R. Stone
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Glenn M. LaMuraglia
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
- Thoracic Aortic Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Matthew J. Eagleton
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
- Thoracic Aortic Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Mark F. Conrad
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
- Thoracic Aortic Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Eric M. Isselbacher
- Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
- Thoracic Aortic Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
| | - Patrick T. Ellinor
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, The Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Mass
- Precision Cardiology Laboratory, The Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard and Bayer US LLC, Cambridge, Mass
| | - Mark E. Lindsay
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
- Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
- Thoracic Aortic Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, The Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Mass
- Precision Cardiology Laboratory, The Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard and Bayer US LLC, Cambridge, Mass
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
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16
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Mulorz J, Shayan M, Hu C, Alcazar C, Chan AHP, Briggs M, Wen Y, Walvekar AP, Ramasubramanian AK, Spin JM, Chen B, Tsao PS, Huang NF. peri-Adventitial delivery of smooth muscle cells in porous collagen scaffolds for treatment of experimental abdominal aortic aneurysm. Biomater Sci 2021; 9:6903-6914. [PMID: 34522940 PMCID: PMC8511090 DOI: 10.1039/d1bm00685a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is associated with the loss of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) within the vessel wall. Direct delivery of therapeutic cells is challenging due to impaired mechanical integrity of the vessel wall. We hypothesized that porous collagen scaffolds can be an effective vehicle for the delivery of human-derived SMCs to the site of AAA. The purpose was to evaluate if the delivery of cell-seeded scaffolds can abrogate progressive expansion in a mouse model of AAA. Collagen scaffolds seeded with either primary human aortic SMCs or induced pluripotent stem cell derived-smooth muscle progenitor cells (iPSC-SMPs) had >80% in vitro cell viability and >75% cell penetrance through the scaffold's depth, while preserving smooth muscle phenotype. The cell-seeded scaffolds were successfully transplanted onto the murine aneurysm peri-adventitia on day 7 following AAA induction using pancreatic porcine elastase infusion. Ultrasound imaging revealed that SMC-seeded scaffolds significantly reduced the aortic diameter by 28 days, compared to scaffolds seeded with iPSC-SMPs or without cells (acellular scaffold), respectively. Bioluminescence imaging demonstrated that both cell-seeded scaffold groups had cellular localization to the aneurysm but a decline in survival with time. Histological analysis revealed that both cell-seeded scaffold groups had more SMC retention and less macrophage invasion into the medial layer of AAA lesions, when compared to the acellular scaffold treatment group. Our data suggest that scaffold-based SMC delivery is feasible and may constitute a platform for cell-based AAA therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joscha Mulorz
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Mahdis Shayan
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Caroline Hu
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
| | - Cynthia Alcazar
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
| | - Alex H P Chan
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Mason Briggs
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Yan Wen
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ankita P Walvekar
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, San Jose State University, San Jose, CA, USA
| | - Anand K Ramasubramanian
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, San Jose State University, San Jose, CA, USA
| | - Joshua M Spin
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Bertha Chen
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Philip S Tsao
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ngan F Huang
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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17
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Long Non-Coding RNA Regulation of Epigenetics in Vascular Cells. Noncoding RNA 2021; 7:ncrna7040062. [PMID: 34698214 PMCID: PMC8544676 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna7040062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The vascular endothelium comprises the interface between the circulation and the vessel wall and, as such, is under the dynamic regulation of vascular signalling, nutrients, and hypoxia. Understanding the molecular drivers behind endothelial cell (EC) and vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) function and dysfunction remains a pivotal task for further clinical progress in tackling vascular disease. A newly emerging era in vascular biology with landmark deep sequencing approaches has provided us with the means to profile diverse layers of transcriptional regulation at a single cell, chromatin, and epigenetic level. This review describes the roles of major vascular long non-coding RNA (lncRNAs) in the epigenetic regulation of EC and VSMC function and discusses the recent progress in their discovery, detection, and functional characterisation. We summarise new findings regarding lncRNA-mediated epigenetic mechanisms—often regulated by hypoxia—within the vascular endothelium and smooth muscle to control vascular homeostasis in health and disease. Furthermore, we outline novel molecular techniques being used in the field to delineate the lncRNA subcellular localisation and interaction with proteins to unravel their biological roles in the epigenetic regulation of vascular genes.
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18
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Maternal High-Fat Diet Promotes Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Expansion in Adult Offspring by Epigenetic Regulation of IRF8-Mediated Osteoclast-like Macrophage Differentiation. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092224. [PMID: 34571873 PMCID: PMC8466477 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal high-fat diet (HFD) modulates vascular remodeling in adult offspring. Here, we investigated the impact of maternal HFD on abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) development. Female wild-type mice were fed an HFD or normal diet (ND). AAA was induced in eight-week-old pups using calcium chloride. Male offspring of HFD-fed dams (O-HFD) showed a significant enlargement in AAA compared with the offspring of ND-fed dams (O-ND). Positive-staining cells for tartrate-resistant acid phosphate (TRAP) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity were significantly increased in O-HFD. The pharmacological inhibition of osteoclastogenesis abolished the exaggerated AAA development in O-HFD. The in vitro tumor necrosis factor-α-induced osteoclast-like differentiation of bone marrow-derived macrophages showed a higher number of TRAP-positive cells and osteoclast-specific gene expressions in O-HFD. Consistent with an increased expression of nuclear factor of activated T cells 1 (NFATc1) in O-HFD, the nuclear protein expression of interferon regulatory factor 8 (IRF8), a transcriptional repressor, were much lower, with significantly increased H3K27me3 marks at the promoter region. The enhancer of zeste homolog 2 inhibitor treatment restored IRF8 expression, resulting in no difference in NFATc1 and TRAP expressions between the two groups. Our findings demonstrate that maternal HFD augments AAA expansion, accompanied by exaggerated osteoclast-like macrophage accumulation, suggesting the possibility of macrophage skewing via epigenetic reprogramming.
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19
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Deleeuw V, De Clercq A, De Backer J, Sips P. An Overview of Investigational and Experimental Drug Treatment Strategies for Marfan Syndrome. J Exp Pharmacol 2021; 13:755-779. [PMID: 34408505 PMCID: PMC8366784 DOI: 10.2147/jep.s265271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a heritable connective tissue disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the gene coding for the extracellular matrix protein fibrillin-1. While the disease affects multiple organ systems, the most life-threatening manifestations are aortic aneurysms leading to dissection and rupture. Other cardiovascular complications, including mitral valve prolapse, primary cardiomyopathy, and arrhythmia, also occur more frequently in patients with MFS. The standard medical care relies on cardiovascular imaging at regular intervals, along with pharmacological treatment with β-adrenergic receptor blockers aimed at reducing the aortic growth rate. When aortic dilatation reaches a threshold associated with increased risk of dissection, prophylactic surgical aortic replacement is performed. Although current clinical management has significantly improved the life expectancy of patients with MFS, no cure is available and fatal complications still occur, underscoring the need for new treatment options. In recent years, preclinical studies have identified a number of potentially promising therapeutic targets. Nevertheless, the translation of these results into clinical practice has remained challenging. In this review, we present an overview of the currently available knowledge regarding the underlying pathophysiological processes associated with MFS cardiovascular pathology. We then summarize the treatment options that have been developed based on this knowledge and are currently in different stages of preclinical or clinical development, provide a critical review of the limitations of current studies and highlight potential opportunities for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Violette Deleeuw
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Adelbert De Clercq
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Julie De Backer
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium.,Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Patrick Sips
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
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20
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Yang X, Yang Y, Guo J, Meng Y, Li M, Yang P, Liu X, Aung LHH, Yu T, Li Y. Targeting the epigenome in in-stent restenosis: from mechanisms to therapy. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2021; 23:1136-1160. [PMID: 33664994 PMCID: PMC7896131 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the most common causes of death worldwide. The introduction of percutaneous revascularization has revolutionized the therapy of patients with CAD. Despite the advent of drug-eluting stents, restenosis remains the main challenge in treating patients with CAD. In-stent restenosis (ISR) indicates the reduction in lumen diameter after percutaneous coronary intervention, in which the vessel's lumen re-narrowing is attributed to the aberrant proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and dysregulation of endothelial cells (ECs). Increasing evidence has demonstrated that epigenetics is involved in the occurrence and progression of ISR. In this review, we provide the latest and comprehensive analysis of three separate but related epigenetic mechanisms regulating ISR, namely, DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs. Initially, we discuss the mechanism of restenosis. Furthermore, we discuss the biological mechanism underlying the diverse epigenetic modifications modulating gene expression and functions of VSMCs, as well as ECs in ISR. Finally, we discuss potential therapeutic targets of the small molecule inhibitors of cardiovascular epigenetic factors. A more detailed understanding of epigenetic regulation is essential for elucidating this complex biological process, which will assist in developing and improving ISR therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Yang
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Road No. 59 Haier, Qingdao 266100, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanyan Yang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, No. 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junjie Guo
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Road No. 59 Haier, Qingdao 266100, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Meng
- Department of Cardiac Ultrasound, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao 266000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Min Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 38 Dengzhou Road, Qingdao 266021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Panyu Yang
- Department of Cardiac Ultrasound, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao 266000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Road No. 59 Haier, Qingdao 266100, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lynn Htet Htet Aung
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 38 Dengzhou Road, Qingdao 266021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Yu
- Department of Cardiac Ultrasound, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao 266000, People’s Republic of China
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 38 Dengzhou Road, Qingdao 266021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yonghong Li
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Road No. 59 Haier, Qingdao 266100, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
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21
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Creamer TJ, Bramel EE, MacFarlane EG. Insights on the Pathogenesis of Aneurysm through the Study of Hereditary Aortopathies. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:183. [PMID: 33514025 PMCID: PMC7912671 DOI: 10.3390/genes12020183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) are permanent and localized dilations of the aorta that predispose patients to a life-threatening risk of aortic dissection or rupture. The identification of pathogenic variants that cause hereditary forms of TAA has delineated fundamental molecular processes required to maintain aortic homeostasis. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) elaborate and remodel the extracellular matrix (ECM) in response to mechanical and biochemical cues from their environment. Causal variants for hereditary forms of aneurysm compromise the function of gene products involved in the transmission or interpretation of these signals, initiating processes that eventually lead to degeneration and mechanical failure of the vessel. These include mutations that interfere with transduction of stimuli from the matrix to the actin-myosin cytoskeleton through integrins, and those that impair signaling pathways activated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). In this review, we summarize the features of the healthy aortic wall, the major pathways involved in the modulation of VSMC phenotypes, and the basic molecular functions impaired by TAA-associated mutations. We also discuss how the heterogeneity and balance of adaptive and maladaptive responses to the initial genetic insult might contribute to disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler J. Creamer
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (T.J.C.); (E.E.B.)
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Emily E. Bramel
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (T.J.C.); (E.E.B.)
- Predoctoral Training in Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Elena Gallo MacFarlane
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (T.J.C.); (E.E.B.)
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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22
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Du Q, Zhang D, Zhuang Y, Xia Q, Wen T, Jia H. The Molecular Genetics of Marfan Syndrome. Int J Med Sci 2021; 18:2752-2766. [PMID: 34220303 PMCID: PMC8241768 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.60685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a complex connective tissue disease that is primarily characterized by cardiovascular, ocular and skeletal systems disorders. Despite its rarity, MFS severely impacts the quality of life of the patients. It has been shown that molecular genetic factors serve critical roles in the pathogenesis of MFS. FBN1 is associated with MFS and the other genes such as FBN2, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) receptors (TGFBR1 and TGFBR2), latent TGF-β-binding protein 2 (LTBP2) and SKI, amongst others also have their associated syndromes, however high overlap may exist between these syndromes and MFS. Abnormalities in the TGF-β signaling pathway also contribute to the development of aneurysms in patients with MFS, although the detailed molecular mechanism remains unclear. Mutant FBN1 protein may cause unstableness in elastic structures, thereby perturbing the TGF-β signaling pathway, which regulates several processes in cells. Additionally, DNA methylation of FBN1 and histone acetylation in an MFS mouse model demonstrated that epigenetic factors play a regulatory role in MFS. The purpose of the present review is to provide an up-to-date understanding of MFS-related genes and relevant assessment technologies, with the aim of laying a foundation for the early diagnosis, consultation and treatment of MFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu Du
- Marfan Research Group, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan, China
| | - Dingding Zhang
- Marfan Research Group, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan, China.,Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Disease, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, Sichuan, China
| | - Yue Zhuang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, Sichuan, China
| | - Qiongrong Xia
- Marfan Research Group, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan, China
| | - Taishen Wen
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Disease, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, Sichuan, China
| | - Haiping Jia
- Department of Immunology, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637100, Sichuan, China
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23
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Shin SJ, Hang HT, Thang BQ, Shimoda T, Sakamoto H, Osaka M, Hiramatsu Y, Yamashiro Y, Yanagisawa H. Role of PAR1-Egr1 in the Initiation of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm in Fbln4-Deficient Mice. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2020; 40:1905-1917. [DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.120.314560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Objective:
Remodeling of the extracellular matrix plays a vital role in cardiovascular diseases. Using a mouse model of postnatal ascending aortic aneurysms (termed
Fbln4
SMKO
), we have reported that abnormal mechanosensing led to aneurysm formation in
Fbln4
SMKO
with an upregulation of the mechanosensitive transcription factor, Egr1 (Early growth response 1). However, the role of Egr1 and its upstream regulator(s) in the initiation of aneurysm development and their relationship to an aneurysmal microenvironment are unknown.
Approach and Results:
To investigate the contribution of Egr1 in the aneurysm development, we deleted
Egr1
in
Fbln4
SMKO
mice and generated double knockout mice (
DKO
,
Fbln4
SMKO
;
Egr1
−/−
). Aneurysms were prevented in
DKO
mice (42.8%) and
Fbln4
SMKO
;
Egr1
+/−
mice (26%). Ingenuity Pathway Analysis identified PAR1 (protease-activated receptor 1) as a potential Egr1 upstream gene. Protein and transcript levels of PAR1 were highly increased in
Fbln4
SMKO
aortas at postnatal day 1 before aneurysm formed, together with active thrombin and MMP (matrix metalloproteinase)-9, both of which serve as a PAR1 activator. Concordantly, protein levels of PAR1, Egr1, and thrombin were significantly increased in human thoracic aortic aneurysms. In vitro cyclic stretch assays (1.0 Hz, 20% strain, 8 hours) using mouse primary vascular smooth muscle cells induced marked expression of PAR1 and secretion of prothrombin in response to mechanical stretch. Thrombin was sufficient to induce Egr1 expression in a PAR1-dependent manner.
Conclusions:
We propose that thrombin, MMP-9, and mechanical stimuli in the
Fbln4
SMKO
aorta activate PAR1, leading to the upregulation of Egr1 and initiation of ascending aortic aneurysms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Jae Shin
- From the Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA) (S.J.S., H.T.H., T.S., Y.Y., H.Y.), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences (S.J.S.), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Huynh Thuy Hang
- From the Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA) (S.J.S., H.T.H., T.S., Y.Y., H.Y.), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences (H.T.H.), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Bui Quoc Thang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (B.Q.T., H.S., M.O., Y.H.), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Tomonari Shimoda
- From the Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA) (S.J.S., H.T.H., T.S., Y.Y., H.Y.), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- School of Medicine (T.S.), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Sakamoto
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (B.Q.T., H.S., M.O., Y.H.), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Motoo Osaka
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (B.Q.T., H.S., M.O., Y.H.), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yuji Hiramatsu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (B.Q.T., H.S., M.O., Y.H.), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yoshito Yamashiro
- From the Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA) (S.J.S., H.T.H., T.S., Y.Y., H.Y.), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hiromi Yanagisawa
- From the Life Science Center for Survival Dynamics, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA) (S.J.S., H.T.H., T.S., Y.Y., H.Y.), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- Division of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine (H.Y.), University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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24
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Gong J, Zhou D, Jiang L, Qiu P, Milewicz DM, Chen YE, Yang B. In Vitro Lineage-Specific Differentiation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells in Response to SMAD3 Deficiency: Implications for SMAD3-Related Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2020; 40:1651-1663. [PMID: 32404006 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.120.313033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE SMAD3 pathogenic variants are associated with the development of thoracic aortic aneurysms. We sought to determine the role of SMAD3 in lineage-specific vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) differentiation and function. Approach and Results: SMAD3 c.652delA, a frameshift mutation and nonsense-mediated decay, was introduced in human-induced pluripotent stem cells using CRISPR-Cas9. The wild-type and SMAD3-/- (c.652delA) human-induced pluripotent stem cells were differentiated into cardiovascular progenitor cells or neural crest stem cells and then to lineage-specific VSMCs. Differentiation, contractility, extracellular matrix synthesis, and TGF-β (transforming growth factor-β) signaling of the differentiated VSMCs were analyzed. The homozygous frameshift mutation resulted in SMAD3 deficiency and was confirmed in human-induced pluripotent stem cells by Sanger sequencing and immunoblot analysis. In cardiovascular progenitor cell-VSMCs, SMAD3 deletion significantly disrupted canonical TGF-β signaling and decreased gene expression of VSMC markers, including SM α-actin, myosin heavy chain 11, calponin-1, SM22α, and key controlling factors, SRF and myocardin, but increased collagen expression. The loss of SMAD3 significantly decreased VSMC contractility. In neural crest stem cells-VSMCs, SMAD3 deficiency did not significantly affect the VSMC differentiation but decreased ELN (elastin) expression and increased phosphorylated SMAD2. Expression of mir-29 was increased in SMAD3-/- VSMCs, and inhibition of mir-29 partially rescued ELN expression. CONCLUSIONS SMAD3-dependent TGF-β signaling was essential for the differentiation of cardiovascular progenitor cell-VSMCs but not for the differentiation of neural crest stem cell-VSMCs. The lineage-specific TGF-β responses in human VSMCs may potentially contribute to the development of aortic root aneurysms in patients with SMAD3 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Gong
- From the Department of Cardiac Surgery, North Campus Research Complex, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (J.G., D.Z., L.J., P.Q., Y.E.C., B.Y.).,The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China (J.G., D.Z., L.J.)
| | - Dong Zhou
- From the Department of Cardiac Surgery, North Campus Research Complex, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (J.G., D.Z., L.J., P.Q., Y.E.C., B.Y.).,The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China (J.G., D.Z., L.J.)
| | - Longtan Jiang
- From the Department of Cardiac Surgery, North Campus Research Complex, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (J.G., D.Z., L.J., P.Q., Y.E.C., B.Y.).,The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China (J.G., D.Z., L.J.)
| | - Ping Qiu
- From the Department of Cardiac Surgery, North Campus Research Complex, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (J.G., D.Z., L.J., P.Q., Y.E.C., B.Y.)
| | - Dianna M Milewicz
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (D.M.M.)
| | - Y Eugene Chen
- From the Department of Cardiac Surgery, North Campus Research Complex, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (J.G., D.Z., L.J., P.Q., Y.E.C., B.Y.)
| | - Bo Yang
- From the Department of Cardiac Surgery, North Campus Research Complex, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (J.G., D.Z., L.J., P.Q., Y.E.C., B.Y.)
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25
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Milewicz DM, Ramirez F. Therapies for Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms and Acute Aortic Dissections. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2019; 39:126-136. [PMID: 30651002 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.118.310956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Thoracic aortic aneurysms that progress to acute aortic dissections are often fatal. Thoracic aneurysms have been managed with treatment with β-adrenergic blocking agents (β-blockers) and routine surveillance imaging, followed by surgical repair of the aneurysm when the risk of dissection exceeds the risk for repair. Thus, there is a window to initiate therapies to slow aortic enlargement and delay or ideally negate the need for surgical repair of the aneurysm to prevent a dissection. Mouse models of Marfan syndrome-a monogenic disorder predisposing to thoracic aortic disease-have been used extensively to identify such therapies. The initial finding that TGFβ (transformation growth factor-β) signaling was increased in the aortic media of a Marfan syndrome mouse model and that its inhibition via TGFβ neutralization or At1r (Ang II [angiotensin II] type I receptor) antagonism prevented aneurysm development was generally viewed as a groundbreaking discovery that could be translated into the first cure of thoracic aortic disease. However, several large randomized trials of pediatric and adult patients with Marfan syndrome have subsequently yielded no evidence that At1r antagonism by losartan slows aortic enlargement more effectively than conventional treatment with β-blockers. Subsequent studies in mouse models have begun to resolve the complex molecular pathophysiology underlying onset and progression of aortic disease and have emphasized the need to preserve TGFβ signaling to prevent aneurysm formation. This review describes critical experiments that have influenced the evolution of our understanding of thoracic aortic disease, in addition to discussing old controversies and identifying new therapeutic opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dianna M Milewicz
- From the Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (D.M.M.)
| | - Francesco Ramirez
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Institute for Systems Biomedicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York (F.R.)
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26
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MiR-574-5p: A Circulating Marker of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20163924. [PMID: 31409059 PMCID: PMC6720007 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20163924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) can lead to fatal complications such as aortic dissection. Since aneurysm dimension poorly predicts dissection risk, microRNAs (miRNAs) may be useful to diagnose or risk stratify TAA patients. We aim to identify miRNAs associated with TAA pathogenesis and that are possibly able to improve TAA diagnosis. MiRNA microarray experiments of aortic media tissue samples from 19 TAA patients and 19 controls allowed identifying 232 differentially expressed miRNAs. Using interaction networks between these miRNAs and 690 genes associated with TAA, we identified miR-574-5p as a potential contributor of TAA pathogenesis. Interestingly, miR-574-5p was significantly down-regulated in the TAA tissue compared to the controls, but was up-regulated in serum samples from a separate group of 28 TAA patients compared to 20 controls (p < 0.001). MiR-574-5p serum levels discriminated TAA patients from controls with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.87. In the Fbn1C1041G/+ mouse model, miR-574-5p was down-regulated in aortic tissue compared to wild-type (p < 0.05), and up-regulated in plasma extracellular vesicles from Fbn1C1041G/+ mice compared to wild-type mice (p < 0.05). Furthermore, in vascular smooth muscle cells, angiotensin II appears to induce miR-574-5p secretion in extracellular vesicles. In conclusion, miR-574-5p is associated with TAA pathogenesis and may help in diagnosing this disease.
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27
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Liang J, Li Q, Cai W, Zhang X, Yang B, Li X, Jiang S, Tian S, Zhang K, Song H, Ai D, Zhang X, Wang C, Zhu Y. Inhibition of polycomb repressor complex 2 ameliorates neointimal hyperplasia by suppressing trimethylation of H3K27 in vascular smooth muscle cells. Br J Pharmacol 2019; 176:3206-3219. [PMID: 31162630 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The increased proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) after arterial injury contributes greatly to the pathogenesis of neointimal hyperplasia. As a major component of epigenetics, histone methylation plays an important role in several cardiovascular diseases. However, its role in restenosis is still unclear. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Human aortic VSMCs were challenged with PDGF-BB, and total histones were extracted and analysed by HPLC/MS. For the in vivo study, rats were subjected to wire-guided common carotid injury. KEY RESULTS PDGF-BB markedly increased the H3K27me3 level, as demonstrated by use of HPLC/MS and confirmed by western blot analysis. Enhancer of zeste homologue 2 (EZH2), the histone H3K27 methyltransferase component of polycomb repressive complex 2, was also up-regulated by PDGF-BB in VSMCs, and in the neointimal hyperplasia induced by wire injury of the rat carotid artery. Furthermore, inhibiting H3K27me3 by treatment with 3-μM UNC1999, an EZH2/1 inhibitor, significantly suppressed PDGF-BB-induced VSMC proliferation compared with the PDGF-BB-treated group. Consistently, neointimal formation was significantly attenuated by oral or perivascular administration of UNC1999 compared with the sham group. Mechanistically, the increase in H3K27me3 inhibited the transcription of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p16INK4A and thus promoted VSMC proliferation. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Vascular injury elevated the expression of EZH2 and the downstream target H3K27me3, which suppressed p16INK4A expression in VSMCs and promoted VSMC proliferation and neointimal hyperplasia. EZH2 inhibition might be a potential therapeutic target for restenosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Liang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, and Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qi Li
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, and Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenbin Cai
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, and Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xuejiao Zhang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, and Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Bing Yang
- Department of Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuai Jiang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, and Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shanshan Tian
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hao Song
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, and Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Ding Ai
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, and Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, and Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Chunjiong Wang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, and Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yi Zhu
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, and Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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28
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Stratton MS, Farina FM, Elia L. Epigenetics and vascular diseases. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2019; 133:148-163. [PMID: 31211956 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2019.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease remains the number one cause of death and disability worldwide despite significant improvements in diagnosis, prevention, and early intervention efforts. There is an urgent need for improved understanding of cardiovascular processes responsible for disease development in order to develop more effective therapeutic strategies. Recent knowledge gleaned from the study of epigenetic mechanisms in the vasculature has uncovered new potential targets for intervention. Herein, we provide an overview of epigenetic mechanism, and review recent findings related to epigenetics in vascular diseases, highlighting classical epigenetic mechanism such as DNA methylation and histone modification as well as the newly discovered non-coding RNA mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S Stratton
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States of America.
| | - Floriana Maria Farina
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Via Manzoni 113, 20089 Rozzano, MI, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Italy
| | - Leonardo Elia
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Via Manzoni 113, 20089 Rozzano, MI, Italy; Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Italy.
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29
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Hansen J, Galatioto J, Caescu CI, Arnaud P, Calizo RC, Spronck B, Murtada SI, Borkar R, Weinberg A, Azeloglu EU, Bintanel-Morcillo M, Gallo JM, Humphrey JD, Jondeau G, Boileau C, Ramirez F, Iyengar R. Systems pharmacology-based integration of human and mouse data for drug repurposing to treat thoracic aneurysms. JCI Insight 2019; 4:127652. [PMID: 31167969 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.127652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Marfan syndrome (MFS) is associated with mutations in fibrillin-1 that predispose afflicted individuals to progressive thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) leading to dissection and rupture of the vessel wall. Here we combined computational and experimental approaches to identify and test FDA-approved drugs that may slow or even halt aneurysm progression. Computational analyses of transcriptomic data derived from the aortas of MFS patients and MFS mice (Fbn1mgR/mgR mice) predicted that subcellular pathways associated with reduced muscle contractility are key TAA determinants that could be targeted with the GABAB receptor agonist baclofen. Systemic administration of baclofen to Fbn1mgR/mgR mice validated our computational prediction by mitigating arterial disease progression at the cellular and physiological levels. Interestingly, baclofen improved muscle contraction-related subcellular pathways by upregulating a different set of genes than those downregulated in the aorta of vehicle-treated Fbn1mgR/mgR mice. Distinct transcriptomic profiles were also associated with drug-treated MFS and wild-type mice. Thus, systems pharmacology approaches that compare patient- and mouse-derived transcriptomic data for subcellular pathway-based drug repurposing represent an effective strategy to identify potential new treatments of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Hansen
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Institute for Systems Biomedicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Josephine Galatioto
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Institute for Systems Biomedicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Cristina I Caescu
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Institute for Systems Biomedicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Pauline Arnaud
- Département de Génétique et Centre de Référence Maladies Rares Syndrome de Marfan et Pathologies Apparentées, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bichat, Paris, France.,LVTS, INSERM U1148, Université Paris Diderot, Hôpital Bichat, Paris, France
| | - Rhodora C Calizo
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Institute for Systems Biomedicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Bart Spronck
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sae-Il Murtada
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Roshan Borkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Alan Weinberg
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Evren U Azeloglu
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Institute for Systems Biomedicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Maria Bintanel-Morcillo
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Institute for Systems Biomedicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - James M Gallo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Jay D Humphrey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Guillaume Jondeau
- Département de Génétique et Centre de Référence Maladies Rares Syndrome de Marfan et Pathologies Apparentées, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bichat, Paris, France.,LVTS, INSERM U1148, Université Paris Diderot, Hôpital Bichat, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Boileau
- Département de Génétique et Centre de Référence Maladies Rares Syndrome de Marfan et Pathologies Apparentées, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bichat, Paris, France.,LVTS, INSERM U1148, Université Paris Diderot, Hôpital Bichat, Paris, France
| | - Francesco Ramirez
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Institute for Systems Biomedicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ravi Iyengar
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Institute for Systems Biomedicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
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30
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Xu S, Kamato D, Little PJ, Nakagawa S, Pelisek J, Jin ZG. Targeting epigenetics and non-coding RNAs in atherosclerosis: from mechanisms to therapeutics. Pharmacol Ther 2019; 196:15-43. [PMID: 30439455 PMCID: PMC6450782 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2018.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, the principal cause of cardiovascular death worldwide, is a pathological disease characterized by fibro-proliferation, chronic inflammation, lipid accumulation, and immune disorder in the vessel wall. As the atheromatous plaques develop into advanced stage, the vulnerable plaques are prone to rupture, which causes acute cardiovascular events, including ischemic stroke and myocardial infarction. Emerging evidence has suggested that atherosclerosis is also an epigenetic disease with the interplay of multiple epigenetic mechanisms. The epigenetic basis of atherosclerosis has transformed our knowledge of epigenetics from an important biological phenomenon to a burgeoning field in cardiovascular research. Here, we provide a systematic and up-to-date overview of the current knowledge of three distinct but interrelated epigenetic processes (including DNA methylation, histone methylation/acetylation, and non-coding RNAs), in atherosclerotic plaque development and instability. Mechanistic and conceptual advances in understanding the biological roles of various epigenetic modifiers in regulating gene expression and functions of endothelial cells (vascular homeostasis, leukocyte adhesion, endothelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, and mechanotransduction), smooth muscle cells (proliferation, migration, inflammation, hypertrophy, and phenotypic switch), and macrophages (differentiation, inflammation, foam cell formation, and polarization) are discussed. The inherently dynamic nature and reversibility of epigenetic regulation, enables the possibility of epigenetic therapy by targeting epigenetic "writers", "readers", and "erasers". Several Food Drug Administration-approved small-molecule epigenetic drugs show promise in pre-clinical studies for the treatment of atherosclerosis. Finally, we discuss potential therapeutic implications and challenges for future research involving cardiovascular epigenetics, with an aim to provide a translational perspective for identifying novel biomarkers of atherosclerosis, and transforming precision cardiovascular research and disease therapy in modern era of epigenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suowen Xu
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Danielle Kamato
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Wooloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia; Department of Pharmacy, Xinhua College of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510520, China
| | - Peter J Little
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Wooloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia; Department of Pharmacy, Xinhua College of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510520, China
| | - Shinichi Nakagawa
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Kita 12-jo Nishi 6-chome, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Jaroslav Pelisek
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar der Technischen Universitaet Muenchen, Germany
| | - Zheng Gen Jin
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.
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31
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Lino Cardenas CL, Kessinger CW, Chou EL, Ghoshhajra B, Yeri AS, Das S, Weintraub NL, Malhotra R, Jaffer FA, Lindsay ME. HDAC9 complex inhibition improves smooth muscle-dependent stenotic vascular disease. JCI Insight 2019; 4:124706. [PMID: 30674723 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.124706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with heterozygous missense mutations in the ACTA2 or MYH11 gene are known to exhibit thoracic aortic aneurysm and a risk of early-onset aortic dissection. However, less common phenotypes involving arterial obstruction are also observed, including coronary and cerebrovascular stenotic disease. Herein we implicate the HDAC9 complex in transcriptional silencing of contractile protein-associated genes, known to undergo downregulation in stenotic lesions. Furthermore, neointimal formation was inhibited in HDAC9- or MALAT1-deficient mice with preservation of contractile protein expression. Pharmacologic targeting of the HDAC9 complex through either MALAT1 antisense oligonucleotides or inhibition of the methyltransferase EZH2 (catalytic mediator recruited by the HDAC9 complex) reduced neointimal formation. In conclusion, we report the implication of the HDAC9 complex in stenotic disease and demonstrate that pharmacologic therapy targeting epigenetic complexes can ameliorate arterial obstruction in an experimental system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chase W Kessinger
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiology Division, Department of Medicine
| | - Elizabeth L Chou
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, and
| | - Brian Ghoshhajra
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ashish S Yeri
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiology Division, Department of Medicine
| | - Saumya Das
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiology Division, Department of Medicine
| | | | - Rajeev Malhotra
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiology Division, Department of Medicine
| | - Farouc A Jaffer
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiology Division, Department of Medicine
| | - Mark E Lindsay
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiology Division, Department of Medicine.,Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, and.,Cardiovascular Genetics Program, Cardiology Division, Department of Medicine, and.,Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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