Integrated Single-Cell Analysis Revealed Novel Subpopulations of Foamy Macrophages in Human Atherosclerotic Plaques

Foam cell formation is a hallmark of atherosclerosis, yet the cellular complexity within foam cells in human plaques remains unexplored. Here, we integrate published single-cell RNA-sequencing, spatial transcriptomic, and chromatin accessibility sequencing datasets of human atherosclerotic lesions across eight distinct studies. Through this large-scale integration of patient-derived information, we identified foamy macrophages enriched for genes characteristic of the foamy signature. We further re-clustered the foamy macrophages into five unique subsets with distinct potential functions: (i) pro-foamy macrophages, exhibiting relatively high inflammatory and adhesive properties; (ii) phagocytic foamy macrophages, specialized in efferocytosis; (iii) high-efflux foamy macrophages marked by high NR1H3 expression; (iv) mature foamy macrophages prone to programmed cell death; and (v) synthetic subset. Trajectory analysis elucidated a bifurcated differentiation cell fate from pro-foam macrophages toward either the programmed death (iv) or synthetic (v) phenotype. The existence of these foamy macrophage subsets was validated by immunostaining. Moreover, these foamy macrophage subsets exhibited strong potential ligand-receptor interactions. Finally, we conducted Mendelian randomization analyses to identify a possible causal relationship between key regulatory genes along the programmed death pathway in foamy macrophages and atherosclerotic diseases. This study provides a high-resolution map of foam cell diversity and a set of potential key regulatory genes in atherosclerotic plaques, offering novel insights into the multifaceted pathophysiology underlying human atherosclerosis.

IFIT2 mediates iron retention and cholesterol efflux in atherosclerosis

BACKGROUND

Abnormalities in iron and lipid metabolism are recognized as key contributors to atherosclerosis (AS). Therefore, this study proposes to characterize the biomarker related to iron and lipid metabolism in AS using bioinformatics, animal, and cell experiments.

METHODS

The limma package was utilized to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in GSE70126 and GSE70619 datasets, and biomarkers were screened using enrichment analysis and PPI networks. IFIT2 was knocked down using shRNA lentivirus in a high fat diet (HFD)-induced APOE-/- AS model to investigate its effects of IFIT2 on the pathology, iron retention, and lipid accumulation. Iron storage-related and cholesterol efflux-related proteins were evaluated following exogenous modulation of IFIT2 expression in ox-LDL-induced foamy macrophages.

RESULTS

Compared to non-foamy macrophages from the aorta, 189 and 4152 DEGs were identified in foamy macrophages within the GSE70126 and GSE70619 datasets, respectively. Moreover, intersecting DEGs may modulate immune responses, cell adhesion, vascular permeability, and oxidative stress through NF-kappa B, Wnt, TNF and HIF-1 signaling pathways. Notably, IFIT2 was significantly upregulated in foamy macrophages and AS models. In vivo, IFIT2 co-localized with foamy macrophages, and its knockdown led to reductions in plasma lipid levels, plaque area, immune infiltration, iron retention, and lipid accumulation. In vitro, IFIT2 knockdown alleviated the ox-LDL-induced increase in iron storage-related proteins (Ferritin-L and Ferritin-H) and iron (Fe2+ and Fe3+) in foamy macrophages. Furthermore, IFIT2 knockdown reduced lipid accumulation and upregulated cholesterol efflux-related proteins (PPARγ, LXRα, ABCA1, and ABCG1) in foamy macrophages.

CONCLUSION

IFIT2 knockdown attenuates iron retention and lipid accumulation in AS plaques, and facilitated cholesterol efflux from foamy macrophages via the PPARγ/LXRα/ABCA1-ABCG1 pathway.

Current targeting strategies and advanced nanoplatforms for atherosclerosis therapy

Atherosclerosis is one of the major causes of death worldwide, and it is closely related to many cardiovascular diseases, such as stroke, myocardial infraction and angina. Although traditional surgical and pharmacological interventions can effectively retard or slow down the progression of atherosclerosis, it is very difficult to prevent or even reverse this disease. In recent years, with the rapid development of nanotechnology, various nanoagents have been designed and applied to different diseases including atherosclerosis. The unique atherosclerotic microenvironment with signature biological components allows nanoplatforms to distinguish atherosclerotic lesions from normal tissue and to approach plaques specifically. Based on the process of atherosclerotic plaque formation, this review summarises the nanodrug delivery strategies for atherosclerotic therapy, trying to provide help for researchers to understand the existing atherosclerosis management approaches as well as challenges and to reasonably design anti-atherosclerotic nanoplatforms.

Research progress on the therapeutic effects of nanoparticles loaded with drugs against atherosclerosis

Presently, there are many drugs for the treatment of atherosclerosis (AS), among which lipid-lowering, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative drugs have been the most studied. These drugs have been shown to have inhibitory effects on the development of AS. Nanoparticles are suitable for AS treatment research due to their fine-tunable and modifiable properties. Compared with drug monotherapy, experimental results have proven that the effects of nanoparticle-encapsulated drugs are significantly enhanced. In addition to nanoparticles containing a single drug, there have been many studies on collaborative drug treatment, collaborative physical treatment (ultrasound, near-infrared lasers, and external magnetic field), and the integration of diagnosis and treatment. This review provides an introduction to the therapeutic effects of nanoparticles loaded with drugs to treat AS and summarizes their advantages, including increased targeting ability, sustained drug release, improved bioavailability, reduced toxicity, and inhibition of plaque and vascular stenosis.

Recent advances in proteomic analysis to study carotid artery plaques

Objective

We sought to identify differentially expressed proteins in serum, plasma, and plaque samples of patients with carotid atherosclerotic lesions.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of the proteomic profile of serum, plasma, and plaque samples of patients with carotid artery disease. We included full-length peer-reviewed studies of adult humans and reported them using PRISMA guidelines. The quality of the design and content of the articles included in the review was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale.

Results

We included six peer-reviewed articles reporting protein expression in serum, plasma, or plaque samples from patients with carotid atherosclerosis. Three were single-center cross-sectional studies, two were single-center case-control studies, and one was a single-center cohort study. Thirty-six proteins were found to be expressed differentially when comparing samples from healthy subjects and individuals with diseased carotid vessels and between patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic carotid artery atherosclerotic lesions. Some of these were shown to be related to inflammatory or anti-inflammatory pathways in atherogenesis. CD5L and S100A12 were both found to be upregulated in patients with unstable plaque, the former owing to its anti-inflammatory properties and the latter for its pro-oxidant effects in atherosclerosis. ACTB is involved in cellular structure and integrity and was found to be downregulated in patients with ruptured carotid plaques.

Conclusions

Atherosclerotic carotid disease places the patient at increased risk of ischemic neurological events. Proteomics may help to understand their pathophysiological processes and can identify differential protein expression in blood samples from healthy subjects and patients with carotid artery plaques. This patient-centered approach will allow for the timely identification of individuals at higher risk of experiencing stroke.

CD44 signaling in Müller cells impacts photoreceptor function and survival in healthy and diseased retinas

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP), an inherited retinal disease, affects 1,5 million people worldwide. The initial mutation-driven photoreceptor degeneration leads to chronic inflammation, characterized by Müller cell activation and upregulation of CD44. CD44 is a cell surface transmembrane glycoprotein and the primary receptor for hyaluronic acid. It is involved in many pathological processes, but little is known about CD44's retinal functions. CD44 expression is also increased in Müller cells from our Pde6bSTOP/STOP RP mouse model. To gain a more detailed understanding of CD44's role in healthy and diseased retinas, we analyzed Cd44-/- and Cd44-/-Pde6bSTOP/STOP mice, respectively. The loss of CD44 led to enhanced photoreceptor degeneration, reduced retinal function, and increased inflammatory response. To understand the underlying mechanism, we performed proteomic analysis on isolated Müller cells from Cd44-/- and Cd44-/-Pde6bSTOP/STOP retinas and identified a significant downregulation of glutamate transporter 1 (SLC1A2). This downregulation was accompanied by higher glutamate levels, suggesting impaired glutamate homeostasis. These novel findings indicate that CD44 stimulates glutamate uptake via SLC1A2 in Müller cells, which in turn, supports photoreceptor survival and function.

Novel insights into gut health: Cilostazol strengthens gut integrity by adjusting TLR-2/NF-κB/IL-23 and CD44/AKT/GSK-3β/cyclin-D1 trajectories in methotrexate-induced mucositis model

Methotrexate (MTX)-induced gastrointestinal mucositis is a common adverse effect characterized by redox imbalance and overproduction of inflammatory mediators that perturb intestinal integrity. Currently, there is no definitive treatment for this condition and its prevention is still far beyond comprehension. Because of its pleiotropic pharmacological actions, we aimed to explore the potential mechanisms through which cilostazol (CILO) can protect against MTX-induced intestinal mucositis. Wistar rats were allocated into 4 groups, control, CILO (100 mg/kg, p.o for 14 days), MTX (7.5 mg/kg for 4 successive days), and CILO + MTX. The improving effect of CILO on the morphological structure was confirmed by an upturn in the histopathological and transition electron microscope examinations evidenced by the increased jejunal villus height/width and the crypt depth besides the maintenance of tight junctions. These findings were verified biochemically; on the molecular level, CILO reduced the MTX-induced lipid peroxidation, cleaved caspase-3, p53, and the inflammatory parameters (TLR-2, NF-κB, IL-23, TNF-α, IL-1β), while increasing the anti-inflammatory marker IL-10 and the antioxidant enzyme SOD. Moreover, CILO decreased the injurious axis AKT/GSK-3β/cyclin-D1, and CD44+, but increased the immunoexpression of the cell proliferating marker PCNA. CILO also upheld the intestinal barrier by enhancing the tight junction molecules (ZO-1, claudin-4) and the E-cadherin/β-catenin complex while abating the mesenchymal marker vimentin. In conclusion, CILO protected gut integrity by reducing the epithelial-mesenchymal transition process, the MTX-induced oxidative, apoptotic, and inflammatory mediators, and turning off the CD44/AKT/GSK-3β/cyclin D1 trajectory and intensifying the expression of PCNA.

Research on the Mechanism and Material Basis of Corn (Zea mays L.) Waste Regulating Dyslipidemia

Corn (Zea mays L.) is an essential gramineous food crop. Traditionally, corn wastes have primarily been used in feed, harmless processing, and industrial applications. Except for corn silk, these wastes have had limited medicinal uses. However, in recent years, scholars have increasingly studied the medicinal value of corn wastes, including corn silk, bracts, husks, stalks, leaves, and cobs. Hyperlipidemia, characterized by abnormal lipid and/or lipoprotein levels in the blood, is the most common form of dyslipidemia today. It is a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis and can lead to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases if severe. According to the authors' literature survey, corn wastes play a promising role in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. This article reviews the mechanisms and material basis of six different corn wastes in regulating dyslipidemia, aiming to provide a foundation for the research and development of these substances.

Modeling Foam Cell Formation in A Hydrogel-Based 3D-Intimal Model: A Study of The Role of Multi-Diseases During Early Atherosclerosis

Monocyte recruitment and transmigration are crucial in atherosclerotic plaque development. The multi-disease complexities aggravate the situation and continue to be a constant concern for understanding atherosclerosis plaque development. Herein, a 3D hydrogel-based model that integrates disease-induced microenvironments is sought to be designed, allowing us to explore the early stages of atherosclerosis, specifically examining monocyte fate in multi-disease complexities. As a proof-of-concept study, murine cells are employed to develop the model. The model is constructed with collagen embedded with murine aortic smooth muscle cells and a murine endothelial monolayer lining. The model achieves in vitro disease complexities using external stimuli such as glucose and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Hyperglycemia exhibits a significant increase in monocyte adhesion but no enhancement in monocyte transmigration and foam cell conversion compared to euglycemia. Chronic infection achieved by LPS stimulation results in a remarkable augment in initial monocyte attachment and a significant increment in monocyte transmigration and foam cells in all concentrations. Moreover, the model exhibits synergistic sensitivity under multi-disease conditions such as hyperglycemia and infection, enhancing initial monocyte attachment, cell transmigration, and foam cell formation. Additionally, western blot data prove the enhanced levels of inflammatory biomarkers, indicating the model's capability to mimic disease-induced complexities during early atherosclerosis progression.

Inhibition of CD44 suppresses the formation of fibrotic scar after spinal cord injury via the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway

Fibrotic scar is one of the main impediments to axon regeneration following spinal cord injury (SCI). In this study, we found that CD44 was upregulated during the formation of fibrotic scar, and blocking CD44 by IM7 caused downregulation of fibrosis-related extracellular matrix proteins at both 2 and 12 weeks post-spinal cord injury. More Biotinylated dextran amine (BDA)-traced corticospinal tract axons crossed the scar area and extended into the distal region after IM7 administration. A recovery of motor and sensory function was observed based on Basso Mouse Scale (BMS) scores and tail-flick test. In vitro experiments revealed that inhibiting CD44 and JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway decreased the proliferation, differentiation, and migration of fibroblasts induced by the inflammatory supernatant. Collectively, these findings highlight the critical role of CD44 and its downstream JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in fibrotic scar formation, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for SCI.

Chitosan and hyaluronic acid-based nanocarriers for advanced cancer therapy and intervention

Cancer has become a major public health issue leading to one of the foremost causes of morbidity and death in the world. Despite the current advances in diagnosis using modern technologies and treatment via surgery or chemo- and radio-therapies, severe side effects or after-effects limit the application of these treatment modalities. Novel drug delivery systems have shown the potential to deliver chemotherapeutics directly to cancer cells, thus minimizing unnecessary exposure to healthy cells. Concurrently, to circumvent difficulties associated with conventional deliveries of cancer therapeutics, natural polysaccharides have gained attention for the fabrication of such deliveries owing to biocompatibility, low toxicity, and biodegradability. It has been exhibited that natural polysaccharides can deliver high therapeutic concentrations of the entrapped drug to the target cells by sustained and targeted release. Considering the immense potential of natural polymers, the present work focuses on naturally generated biopolymer carriers based on chitosan and hyaluronic acid. This review delineated on the role of chitosan and its derivation from renewable resources as a biocompatible, biodegradable, nonimmunogenic material with notable antitumor activity as a drug delivery carrier in oncotherapy. Moreover, hyaluronic acid, itself by its structure or when linked with other molecules contributes to developing promising pharmaceutical delivery systems to setback the restrictions related to conventional cancer treatment.

Constructing a competitive endogenous RNA network of EndMT-related atherosclerosis through weighted gene co-expression network analysis

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by endothelial dysfunction and plaque formation. Under pro-inflammatory conditions, endothelial cells can undergo endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), contributing to atherosclerosis development. However, the specific regulatory mechanisms by which EndMT contributes to atherosclerosis remain unclear and require further investigation. Dan-Shen-Yin (DSY), a traditional Chinese herbal formula, is commonly used for cardiovascular diseases, but its molecular mechanisms remain elusive. Emerging evidence indicates that competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks play critical roles in atherosclerosis pathogenesis. In this study, we constructed an EndMT-associated ceRNA network during atherosclerosis progression by integrating gene expression profiles from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and weighted gene co-expression network analysis. Functional enrichment analysis revealed this EndMT-related ceRNA network is predominantly involved in inflammatory responses. ROC curve analysis showed the identified hub genes can effectively distinguish between normal vasculature and atherosclerotic lesions. Furthermore, Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated that high expression of IL1B significantly predicts ischemic events in atherosclerosis. Molecular docking revealed most DSY bioactive components can bind key EndMT-related lncRNAs, including AC003092.1, MIR181A1HG, MIR155HG, WEE2-AS1, and MIR137HG, suggesting DSY may mitigate EndMT in atherosclerosis by modulating the ceRNA network.

Topical coapplication of hyaluronan with transdermal drug delivery enhancers attenuates inflammatory and neuropathic pain

ABSTRACT

We have previously shown that intradermal injection of high-molecular-weight hyaluronan (500-1200 kDa) produces localized antihyperalgesia in preclinical models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. In the present experiments, we studied the therapeutic effect of topical hyaluronan, when combined with each of 3 transdermal drug delivery enhancers (dimethyl sulfoxide [DMSO], protamine or terpene), in preclinical models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Topical application of 500 to 1200 kDa hyaluronan (the molecular weight range used in our previous studies employing intradermal administration), dissolved in 75% DMSO in saline, markedly reduced prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 ) hyperalgesia, in male and female rats. Although topical 500- to 1200-kDa hyaluronan in DMSO vehicle dose dependently, also markedly, attenuated oxaliplatin chemotherapy-and paclitaxel chemotherapy-induced painful peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) in male rats, it lacked efficacy in female rats. However, following ovariectomy or intrathecal administration of an oligodeoxynucleotide antisense to G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPR30) mRNA, CIPN in female rats was now attenuated by topical hyaluronan. Although topical coadministration of 150 to 300, 300 to 500, or 1500 to 1750 kDa hyaluronan with DMSO also attenuated CIPN, a slightly lower-molecular-weight hyaluronan (70-120 kDa) did not. The topical administration of a combination of hyaluronan with 2 other transdermal drug delivery enhancers, protamine and terpene, also attenuated CIPN hyperalgesia, an effect that was more prolonged than with DMSO vehicle. Repeated administration of topical hyaluronan prolonged the duration of antihyperalgesia. Our results support the use of topical hyaluronan, combined with chemically diverse nontoxic skin penetration enhancers, to induce marked antihyperalgesia in preclinical models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain.

Clinical and Biochemical Implications of Hyaluronic Acid in Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation: A Comprehensive Review

Hyaluronic acid (HA) naturally occurs as a biopolymer in the human body, primarily in connective tissues like joints and skin. Functioning as a vital element of synovial fluid, it lubricates joints, facilitating fluid movement and diminishing bone friction to protect articular well-being. Its distinctive attributes encompass notable viscosity and water retention capacities, ensuring flexibility and absorbing shock during motion. Furthermore, HA has gained significant attention for its potential benefits in various medical applications, including rehabilitation. Ongoing research explores its properties and functions, especially its biomedical applications in several clinical trials, with a focus on its role in improving rehabilitation outcomes. But the clinical and biochemical implications of HA in musculoskeletal rehabilitation have yet to be fully explored. This review thoroughly investigates the properties and functions of HA while highlighting its biomedical applications in different clinical trials, with a special emphasis on its role in rehabilitation. The presented findings provide evidence that HA, as a natural substance, enhances the outcomes of musculoskeletal rehabilitation through its exceptional mechanical and biochemical effects.

Engineering the glioblastoma microenvironment with bioactive nanoparticles for effective immunotherapy

While immunotherapies have revolutionized treatment for other cancers, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients have not shown similar positive responses. The limited response to immunotherapies is partly due to the unique challenges associated with the GBM tumor microenvironment (TME), which promotes resistance to immunotherapies, causing many promising therapies to fail. There is, therefore, an urgent need to develop strategies that make the TME immune permissive to promote treatment efficacy. Bioactive nano-delivery systems, in which the nanoparticle, due to its chemical composition, provides the pharmacological function, have recently emerged as an encouraging option for enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapeutics. These systems are designed to overcome immunosuppressive mechanisms in the TME to improve the efficacy of a therapy. This review will discuss different aspects of the TME and how they impede therapy success. Then, we will summarize recent developments in TME-modifying nanotherapeutics and the in vitro models utilized to facilitate these advances.

CD44 connects autophagy decline and ageing in the vascular endothelium

The decline of endothelial autophagy is closely related to vascular senescence and disease, although the molecular mechanisms connecting these outcomes in vascular endothelial cells (VECs) remain unclear. Here, we identify a crucial role for CD44, a multifunctional adhesion molecule, in controlling autophagy and ageing in VECs. The CD44 intercellular domain (CD44ICD) negatively regulates autophagy by reducing PIK3R4 and PIK3C3 levels and disrupting STAT3-dependent PtdIns3K complexes. CD44 and its homologue clec-31 are increased in ageing vascular endothelium and Caenorhabditis elegans, respectively, suggesting that an age-dependent increase in CD44 induces autophagy decline and ageing phenotypes. Accordingly, CD44 knockdown ameliorates age-associated phenotypes in VECs. The endothelium-specific CD44ICD knock-in mouse is shorter-lived, with VECs exhibiting obvious premature ageing characteristics associated with decreased basal autophagy. Autophagy activation suppresses the premature ageing of human and mouse VECs overexpressing CD44ICD, function conserved in the CD44 homologue clec-31 in C. elegans. Our work describes a mechanism coordinated by CD44 function bridging autophagy decline and ageing.

FUS regulates the alternative splicing of cell proliferation genes related to atherosclerosis

FUS plays a significant role as an RNA-binding protein in several cellular processes, including RNA splicing, DNA repair, and transcriptional regulation. However, the RNA-binding capacity of FUS in atherosclerosis is unclear. We aimed to study the functions of FUS in inflammatory regulation through the role of the splicing factor. We knocked down FUS with siRNA to further study the overall transcriptional level and select alternative splicing (AS) of FUS regulation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) by RNA sequencing. The results suggested that the knockdown of FUS significantly affected gene expression in HUVECs. In addition, the knockdown of FUS resulted in 200 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that were highly related to apoptotic process, signal transduction, multicellular organism development, cell adhesion and regulation of transcription, and DNA-templated pathways. Importantly, FUS extensively regulated 2870 AS events with a significant difference. Functional analysis of its modulated AS genes revealed they were highly enriched in cell cycle and cell population proliferation pathways. The qRT-PCR and RNA-seq data showed consistent results. Our findings suggested new knowledge of the mechanisms of FUS associated with atherosclerosis.

Identification of miR-143-3p as a diagnostic biomarker in gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Gastric cancer (GC) is among the most common types of gastrointestinal cancers and has a high incidence and mortality around the world. To suppress the progression of GC, it is essential to develop diagnostic markers. MicroRNAs regulate GC development, but a clearer insight into their role is needed before they can be applied as a molecular markers and targets.

METHODS

In this study, we assessed the diagnostic value of differentially expressed microRNAs as potential diagnostic biomarkers for GC using data for 389 tissue samples from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and 21 plasma samples from GC patients.

RESULTS

The expression of hsa-miR-143-3p (also known as hsa-miR-143) was significantly downregulated in GC according to the TCGA data and plasma samples. The 228 potential target genes of hsa-miR-143-3p were analyzed using a bioinformatics tool for miRNA target prediction. The target genes correlated with extracellular matrix organization, the cytoplasm, and identical protein binding. Furthermore, the pathway enrichment analysis of target genes showed that they were involved in pathways in cancer, the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathway, and proteoglycans in cancer. The hub genes in the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, were matrix metallopeptidase 2 (MMP2), CD44 molecule (CD44), and SMAD family member 3 (SMAD3).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that hsa-miR-143-3p may be used as a diagnostic marker for GC, contributing via the pathways involved in the development of GC.

An integrative review of nonobvious puzzles of cellular and molecular cardiooncology

Oncologic patients are subjected to four major treatment types: surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. All nonsurgical forms of cancer management are known to potentially violate the structural and functional integrity of the cardiovascular system. The prevalence and severity of cardiotoxicity and vascular abnormalities led to the emergence of a clinical subdiscipline, called cardiooncology. This relatively new, but rapidly expanding area of knowledge, primarily focuses on clinical observations linking the adverse effects of cancer therapy with deteriorated quality of life of cancer survivors and their increased morbidity and mortality. Cellular and molecular determinants of these relations are far less understood, mainly because of several unsolved paths and contradicting findings in the literature. In this article, we provide a comprehensive view of the cellular and molecular etiology of cardiooncology. We pay particular attention to various intracellular processes that arise in cardiomyocytes, vascular endothelial cells, and smooth muscle cells treated in experimentally-controlled conditions in vitro and in vivo with ionizing radiation and drugs representing diverse modes of anti-cancer activity.

Anti-CD44 antibodies grafted immunoaffinity Fe3O4@MnO2 nanozymes with highly oxidase-like catalytic activity for specific detection of triple-negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells

Cell-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (CELISA) is extensively applied for cancer diagnosis and screening because of its simple operation, high sensitivity, and intuitive color change. However, the unstable horseradish peroxidase (HRP), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and non-specificity have led to a high false negative rate, which limits its application. In this study, we have developed an innovative immunoaffinity nanozyme aided CELISA based on anti-CD44 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) bioconjugated manganese dioxide-modified magnetite nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄@MnO₂ NPs) for the specific detection of triple-negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells. The ^CD44FM nanozymes were fabricated to replace unstable HRP and H₂O₂ to counteract possible negative effects in conventional CELISA. Results suggested that ^CD44FM nanozymes displayed remarkable oxidase-like activities over an extensive pH and temperature range. The bioconjugation of CD44 mAbs enabled ^CD44FM nanozymes to enter MDA-MB-231 cells selectively via over-expressed CD44 antigens on the membrane surface of these cells, and then catalyzed oxidation of the chromogenic substrate TMB, further achieving specific detection of these cells. Additionally, this study exhibited high sensitivity and low detection limit for MDA-MB-231 cells with a quantitation range of just 186 cells. To sum up, this report developed a simple, specific and sensitive assay platform based on ^CD44FM nanozymes, which could provide a promising strategy for targeted diagnosis and screening of breast cancer.

Targeting VCAM-1: a therapeutic opportunity for vascular damage

INTRODUCTION

The vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM-1) is a transmembrane sialoglycoprotein detected in activated endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells involved in the adhesion and transmigration of inflammatory cells into damaged tissue. Widely used as a pro-inflammatory marker, its potential role as a targeting molecule has not been thoroughly explored.

AREAS COVERED

We discuss the current evidence supporting the potential targeting of VCAM-1 in atherosclerosis, diabetes, hypertension and ischemia/reperfusion injury.

EXPERT OPINION

There is emerging evidence that VCAM-1 is more than a biomarker and may be a promising therapeutic target for vascular diseases. While there are neutralizing antibodies that allow preclinical research, the development of pharmacological tools to activate or inhibit this protein are required to thoroughly assess its therapeutic potential.

Hyaluronic Acid-Guided Cerasome Nano-Agents for Simultaneous Imaging and Treatment of Advanced Atherosclerosis

Early noninvasive screening and regression therapy for vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques remain challenging. In this study, it is aimed to develop a new approach for the active targeting of atherosclerotic plaques with nano-agents to aid imaging and treatment. Biocompatible hyaluronic acid (HA)-guided cerasomes are generated to selectively target CD44-positive cells within the plaque in in vitro studies and in vivo testing in Apoe-/- mice. Rosuvastatin (RST) is encapsulated in the HA-guided cerasome nano-formulation to produce HA-CC-RST, which results in significant plaque regression as compared to treatment with the free drug. Moreover, gadodiamide-loaded HA-CC enhances magnetic resonance images of vulnerable plaques, thereby attaining the goal of improved simultaneous treatment and imaging. Transcriptomic analysis confirms plaque regression with HA-CC-RST treatment, which potentially benefits from the anti-inflammatory effect of RST. In summary, a safe and efficient nano-formulation for the targeted delivery of active agents to atherosclerotic plaques is developed and may be applicable to other diagnostic and therapeutic agents for atherosclerosis treatment.

Hyaluronan in Adipose Tissue, Metabolic Inflammation, and Diabetes: Innocent Bystander or Guilty Party?

Hyaluronic acid, or hyaluronan (HA), is a nonsulfated glucosaminoglycan that has long been recognized for its hydrophilic properties and is widely used as a dermal filler. Despite much attention given to the study of other extracellular matrix (ECM) components, in the field of ECM properties and their contribution to tissue fibroinflammation, little is known of HA's potential role in the extracellular milieu. However, recent studies suggest that it is involved in inflammatory response, diet-induced insulin resistance, adipogenesis, and autoimmunity in type 1 diabetes. Based on its unique physical property as a regulator of osmotic pressure, we emphasize underestimated implications in adipose tissue function, adipogenesis, and obesity-related dysfunction.

Targeting Theranostics of Atherosclerosis by Dual-Responsive Nanoplatform via Photoacoustic Imaging and Three-In-One Integrated Lipid Management

Atherosclerosis, as a life-threatening cardiovascular disease with chronic inflammation and abnormal lipid enrichment, is often difficult to treat timely due to the lack of obvious symptoms. In this work, a theranostic nanoplatform is constructed for the noninvasive in vivo diagnosis, plaque-formation inhibition, and the lesion reversal of atherosclerosis. A three-in-one therapeutic complex is constructed and packaged along with a polymeric photoacoustic probe into nanoparticles named as PLCDP@PMH, which indicates an atherosclerosis-targeting accumulation and a reactive oxygen species (ROS)/matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) dual-responsive degradation. The photoacoustic probe suggests a lesion-specific imaging on atherosclerotic mice with an accurate and distinct recognition of plaques. At the same time, the three-in-one complex performs an integrated lipid management through the inhibition of macrophages M1-polarization, liver X receptor (LXR)-mediated up-regulation of ATP-binding cassette transporter A1/G1 (ABCA1/G1) and the cyclodextrin-assisted lipid dissolution, which lead to the reduced lipid uptake, enhanced lipid efflux, and actuated lipid removal. The in vivo evaluations reveal that PLCDP@PMH can suppress the lesion progression and further reverse the formed plaques under a diet without high fat. Hence, PLCDP@PMH provides a candidate for the theranostics of early-stage atherosclerosis and delivers an impressive potential on the reversal of formed atherosclerotic lesions.

Hyaluronic Acid as a Modern Approach in Anticancer Therapy-Review

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a linear polysaccharide and crucial component of the extracellular matrix (ECM), maintaining tissue hydration and tension. Moreover, HA contributes to embryonic development, healing, inflammation, and cancerogenesis. This review summarizes new research on the metabolism and interactions of HA with its binding proteins, known as hyaladherins (CD44, RHAMM), revealing the molecular basis for its distinct biological function in the development of cancer. The presence of HA on the surface of tumor cells is a sign of an adverse prognosis. The involvement of HA in malignancy has been extensively investigated using cancer-free naked mole rats as a model. The HA metabolic components are examined for their potential impact on promoting or inhibiting tumor formation, proliferation, invasion, and metastatic spread. High molecular weight HA is associated with homeostasis and protective action due to its ability to preserve tissue integrity. In contrast, low molecular weight HA indicates a pathological condition in the tissue and plays a role in pro-oncogenic activity. A systematic approach might uncover processes related to cancer growth, establish novel prognostic indicators, and identify potential targets for treatment action.

Long non-coding RNAs at the crossroad of vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic modulation in atherosclerosis and neointimal formation

Despite extraordinary advances in the comprehension of the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis and the employment of very effective treatments, cardiovascular diseases are still a major cause of mortality and represent a large share of health expenditure worldwide. Atherosclerosis is a disease affecting the medium and large arteries, which consists of a progressive accumulation of fatty substances, cellular waste products and fibrous elements, which culminates in the buildup of a plaque obstructing the blood flow. Endothelial dysfunction represents an early pathological event, favoring immune cells recruitment and triggering local inflammation. The release of inflammatory cytokines and other signaling molecules stimulates phenotypic modifications in the underlying vascular smooth muscle cells, which, in physiological conditions, are responsible for the maintenance of vessels architecture while regulating vascular tone. Vascular smooth muscle cells are highly plastic and may respond to disease stimuli by de-differentiating and losing their contractility, while increasing their synthetic, proliferative, and migratory capacity. This phenotypic switching is considered a pathological hallmark of atherogenesis and is ruled by the activation of selective gene programs. The advent of genomics and the improvement of sequencing technologies deepened our knowledge of the complex gene expression regulatory networks mediated by non-coding RNAs, and favored the rise of innovative therapeutic approaches targeting the non-coding transcriptome. In the context of atherosclerosis, long non-coding RNAs have received increasing attention as potential translational targets, due to their contribution to the molecular dynamics modulating the expression of vascular smooth muscle cells contractile/synthetic gene programs. In this review, we will focus on the most well-characterized long non-coding RNAs contributing to atherosclerosis by controlling expression of the contractile apparatus and genes activated in perturbed vascular smooth muscle cells.

The state of CD44 activation in cancer progression and therapeutic targeting

CD44, a non-kinase transmembrane glycoprotein, is ubiquitously expressed on various types of cells, especially cancer stem cells (CSCs), and has been implicated in cancer onset and aggressiveness. The major ligand for the CD44, hyaluronan (HA), binds to and interacts with CD44, which in turn triggers downstream signaling cascades, thereby promoting cellular behaviors such as proliferation, motility, invasiveness and chemoresistance. The CD44-HA interaction is cell-specific and strongly affected by the state of CD44 activation. Therefore, the binding of HA to CD44 is essential for the activation of CD44 during which the detailed regulatory mechanism needs to be clarified. Different CD44 activation states distribute in human carcinoma and normal tissue; however, whether CD44 activation is a critical requirement for tumor initiation, progression and notorious CSC properties remains to be clarified. A deeper understanding of the regulation of CD44 activation may facilitate the development of novel targeted drugs in the future. Here, we review the current findings concerning the states of CD44 activation on the cell surface, the underlying regulatory mechanisms of CD44 activation, the known role for CD44 activation in tumor progression and CSC hallmarks, as well as the potential of HA-coated nanoparticle for targeting activated CD44 for cancer therapy.

Blockade of the pentraxin 3/CD44 interaction attenuates lung injury-induced fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Fibrosing interstitial lung diseases (fILD) are potentially fatal with limited therapeutic options and no effective strategies to reverse fibrogenesis. Myofibroblasts are chief effector cells in fibrosis that excessively deposit collagen in the pulmonary interstitium and lead to progressive impairment of gaseous exchange.

METHODS

Plasma and lung specimens from patients with fILD were applied for detecting pentraxin 3 (PTX3) abundance by ELISA and Immunohistochemistry. Masson's trichrome and Sirius red stains and hydroxyproline assay were performed for assessing collagen accumulation in the lungs of bleomycin-exposed conditional Ptx3-deficient and PTX3-neutralizing antibody (αPTX3i)-treated mice. Downstream effectors including signaling pathways and fibrotic genes were examined for assessing CD44-involved PTX3-induced fibrosis in HFL1 and primary mouse fibroblasts.

RESULTS

PTX3 was upregulated in the lungs and plasma of bleomycin-exposed mice and correlated with disease severity and adverse outcomes in fILD patients. Decreased collagen accumulation, attenuation of alveolar fibrosis and fibrotic markers, and improved lung function were observed in bleomycin-exposed conditional Ptx3-deficient mice. PTX3 activates lung fibroblasts to differentiate towards migrative and highly collagen-expressing myofibroblasts. Lung fibroblasts with CD44 inactivation attenuated the PI3K-AKT1, NF-κB, and JNK signaling pathways and fibrotic markers. αPTX3i mimic-based therapeutic studies demonstrated abrogation of the migrative fibroblast phenotype and myofibroblast activation in vitro. Notably, αPTX3i inhibited lung fibrosis, reduced collagen deposition, increased mouse survival, and improved lung function in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study reveals new insights into the involvement of the PTX3/CD44 axis in fibrosis and suggests PTX3 as a promising therapeutic target in fILD patients.

Second messengers mediating high-molecular-weight hyaluronan-induced antihyperalgesia in rats with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy

ABSTRACT

High-molecular-weight hyaluronan (HMWH) is an agonist at cluster of differentiation (CD)44, the cognate hyaluronan receptor, on nociceptors, where it acts to induce antihyperalgesia in preclinical models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. In the present experiments, we studied the CD44 second messengers that mediate HMWH-induced attenuation of pain associated with oxaliplatin and paclitaxel chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). While HMWH attenuated CIPN only in male rats, after ovariectomy or intrathecal administration of an oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) antisense to G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPR30) mRNA, female rats were also sensitive to HMWH. Intrathecal administration of an ODN antisense to CD44 mRNA markedly attenuated HMWH-induced antihyperalgesia in male rats with CIPN induced by oxaliplatin or paclitaxel. Intradermal administration of inhibitors of CD44 second messengers, RhoA (member of the Rho family of GTPases), phospholipase C, and phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase gamma (PI3Kγ), attenuated HMWH-induced antihyperalgesia as does intrathecal administration of an ODN antisense to PI3Kγ. Our results demonstrated that HMWH induced antihyperalgesia in CIPN, mediated by its action at CD44 and downstream signaling by RhoA, phospholipase C, and PI3Kγ.

Influenza A virus elicits peri-vascular adipose tissue inflammation and vascular dysfunction of the aorta in pregnant mice

Influenza A virus (IAV) infection during pregnancy initiates significant aortic endothelial and vascular smooth muscle dysfunction, with inflammation and T cell activation, but the details of the mechanism are yet to be clearly defined. Here we demonstrate that IAV disseminates preferentially into the perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) of the aorta in mice. IAV mRNA levels in the PVAT increased at 1–3 days post infection (d.p.i) with the levels being ~4–8 fold higher compared with the vessel wall. IAV infection also increased Ly6C^low patrolling monocytes and Ly6C^high pro-inflammatory monocytes in the vessel wall at 3 d.p.i., which was then followed by a greater homing of these monocytes into the PVAT at 6 d.p.i. The vascular immune phenotype was characteristic of a “vascular storm”- like response, with increases in neutrophils, pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers in the PVAT and arterial wall, which was associated with an impairment in endothelium-dependent relaxation to acetylcholine. IAV also triggered a PVAT compartmentalised elevation in CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ activated T cells. In conclusion, the PVAT of the aorta is a niche that supports IAV dissemination and a site for perpetuating a profound innate inflammatory and adaptive T cell response. The manifestation of this inflammatory response in the PVAT following IAV infection may be central to the genesis of cardiovascular complications arising during pregnancy.

Influenza A virus (IAV) infection remains a major cause of significant disease during pregnancy. IAV infection in pregnancy results in virus dissemination from the lung to the systemic vasculature, thereby initiating profound vascular inflammation and T cell activation that leads to vascular damage. Currently, the details of the mechanism that facilitates this vascular pathology and the influence of IAV dissemination to the vasculature on the perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) is not clearly defined. Here, we show that IAV disseminates to the PVAT compartment of the vessel at a much larger rate than the vessel wall. We found that IAV infection increased PVAT inflammation characterised by immune cell infiltration, oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines. This was accompanied by a preferential immune T cell activation in the PVAT. We also found that this vascular inflammatory burden results in vascular endothelial dysfunction that is characterised by an impairment in endothelium dependent relaxation. Our study provides new insights into how IAV utilises the PVAT to promote the vascular inflammatory pathology that disrupts the vasculature in pregnancy and lead to pregnancy complications.

Targeting the Microenvironment of Vulnerable Atherosclerotic Plaques: An Emerging Diagnosis and Therapy Strategy for Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is considered one of the primary causes of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Unpredictable rupture of the vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques triggers adverse cardiovascular events such as acute myocardial syndrome and even sudden cardiac death. Therefore, assessing the vulnerability of atherosclerotic plaques and early intervention are of significance in reducing CVD mortality. Nanomedicine possesses tremendous advantages in achieving the integration of the diagnosis and therapy of atherosclerotic plaques because of its magnetic, optical, thermal, and catalytic properties. Based on the pathological characteristics of vulnerable plaques, stimuli-responsive nanoplatforms and surface-functionalized nanoagents are designed and have drawn great attention for accomplishing the precise imaging and treatment of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques due to their superior properties, such as high bioavailability, lesion-targeting specificity, on-demand cargo release, and low off-target damage. Here, the characteristics of vulnerable plaques are generalized, and some targeted strategies for boosting the accuracy of plaque vulnerability evaluation by imaging and the efficacy of plaque stabilization therapy (including antioxidant therapy, macrophage depletion therapy, regulation of lipid metabolism therapy, anti-inflammation therapy, etc.) are systematically summarized. In addition, existing challenges and prospects in this field are discussed, and it is believed to provide new thinking for the diagnosis and treatment of CVDs in the near future.

The hyaluronan-related genes HAS2, HYAL1-4, PH20 and HYALP1 are associated with prognosis, cell viability and spheroid formation capacity in ovarian cancer

Purpose

Hyaluronan modulates tumour progression, including cell adhesion, cohesion, proliferation and invasion, and the cancer stem cell phenotype. In ovarian cancer, high levels of stromal hyaluronan are associated with poor prognosis. In this work, hyaluronan synthases (HAS1-3) and hyaluronidases (HYAL1-4, PH-20, HYALP1) were examined with regard to different levels of gene expression and its influence on ovarian cancer patients’ survival. The impact of a siRNA depletion of HAS2 was investigated in vitro.

Methods

Using the Kaplan–Meier Plotter tool, we investigated the influence of hyaluronic synthases and hyaluronidases on the survival of a collective of 1435 ovarian cancer patients. Differences in gene expression between normal (n = 46) and cancerous (n = 744) ovarian tissue were examined using the TNMplot database. Following an evaluation of hyaluronan-related gene expression in the ATCC ovarian cancer panel, we studied SKOV3 and SW 626 ovarian cancer cells subjected to HAS2 siRNA or control siRNA treatment in terms of HAS1-3, HYAL2 and HYAL3 mRNA expression. We investigated the ability to form spheroids using the Hanging Drop method and the response to chemotherapy at different concentrations using the MTT Assay. By STRING analysis, interactions within the enzymes of the hyaluronic acid system and with binding partners were visualized.

Results

HAS1, HYAL1 and HYAL4 mRNA expression is significantly upregulated, whereas HAS2, HYAL2 and HYAL3 mRNA expression is significantly downregulated in ovarian cancer tissue compared to controls. HAS2 improves cell viability, the capability to form tumour spheroids and has a negative prognostic value regarding overall survival. Lower HAS2 expression and high expression of HYAL2 and HYAL3 favours the survival of ovarian cancer patients. HAS2 knockdown cells and control cells showed a moderate response to combinatorial in vitro chemotherapy with taxol and cisplatin.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study shows that the hyaluronic acid system has a relevant influence on the survival of ovarian cancer patients and could therefore be considered as a possible prognostic factor.

Circulating inflammatory cell profiling and periodontitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Inflammation is a key driver of common noncommunicable diseases. Among common triggers of inflammation, chronic gingival inflammation (periodontitis) triggers a consistent humoral host inflammatory response, but little is known on its impact on circulating inflammatory cell profiles. We aimed to systematically appraise all the evidence linking periodontitis and its treatment to circulating inflammatory cell profiles. From 6 databases, 157 studies were eligible for qualitative synthesis and 29 studies for meta-analysis. Our meta-analysis showed that participants with periodontitis exhibited a significant mean increase in circulating CD4⁺ , CD4⁺ CD45RO⁺ , IFNγ-expressing CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells, CD19⁺ CD27⁺ and CD5⁺ B cells, CD14⁺ CD16⁺ monocytes, and CD16⁺ neutrophils but decrease in CD8⁺ T and CD14⁺⁺ CD16^- monocytes. Our qualitative synthesis revealed that peripheral blood neutrophils of patients with periodontitis consistently showed elevated production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) when compared with those of healthy controls. Some evidence suggested that the treatment of periodontitis reversed the exaggerated ROS production, but limited and inconclusive data were found on several circulating inflammatory cell profiling. We conclude that periodontitis and its treatment are associated with minor but consistent alterations in circulating inflammatory cell profiles. These changes could represent key mechanisms explaining the association of periodontitis with other comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Progerin mislocalizes myocardin-related transcription factor in Hutchinson-Guilford Progeria syndrome

Hutchinson-Guilford Progeria syndrome (HGPS) is a rare genetic disease of premature aging and early death due to cardiovascular disease. The arteries of HGPS children and mice are pathologically stiff, and HGPS mice also display reduced arterial contractility. We recently showed that reduced contractility is an early event in HGPS and linked to an aberrantly low expression of smooth muscle myosin heavy chain (smMHC). Here, we have explored the basis for reduced smMHC abundance and asked whether it is a direct effect of progerin expression or a longer-term adaptive response. Myh11, the gene encoding for smMHC, is regulated by myocardin-related transcription factors (MRTFs), and we show that HGPS aortas have a reduced MRTF signature. Additionally, smooth muscle cells (SMCs) isolated from HGPS mice display reduced MRTF nuclear localization. Acute progerin expression in WT SMCs phenocopied both the decrease in MRTF nuclear localization and expression of Myh11 seen in HGPS. Interestingly, RNA-mediated depletion of MRTF-A in WT SMCs reproduced the preferential inhibitory effect of progerin on Myh11 mRNA relative to Acta2 mRNA. Our results show that progerin expression acutely disrupts MRTF localization to the nucleus and suggest that the consequent decrease in nuclear coactivator activity can help to explain the reduction in smMHC abundance and SMC contractility seen in HGPS.

SMC-Derived Hyaluronan Modulates Vascular SMC Phenotype in Murine Atherosclerosis

[Figure: see text].

Sexually Dimorphic Role of Toll-like Receptor 4 (TLR4) in High Molecular Weight Hyaluronan (HMWH)-induced Anti-hyperalgesia

High molecular weight hyaluronan (HMWH), a prominent component of the extracellular matrix binds to and signals via multiple receptors, including cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44) and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). We tested the hypothesis that, in the setting of inflammation, HMWH acts at TLR4 to attenuate hyperalgesia. We found that the attenuation of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)-induced hyperalgesia by HMWH was attenuated by a TLR4 antagonist (NBP2-26245), but only in male and ovariectomized female rats. In this study we sought to evaluated the role of the TLR4 signaling pathway in anti-hyperalgesia induced by HMWH in male rats. Decreasing expression of TLR4 in nociceptors, by intrathecal administration of an oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) antisense to TLR4 mRNA, also attenuated HMWH-induced anti-hyperalgesia, in male and ovariectomized female rats. Estrogen replacement in ovariectomized females reconstituted the gonad-intact phenotype. The administration of an inhibitor of myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), a TLR4 second messenger, attenuated HMWH-induced anti-hyperalgesia, while an inhibitor of the MyD88-independent TLR4 signaling pathway did not. Since it has previously been shown that HMWH-induced anti-hyperalgesia is also mediated, in part by CD44 we evaluated the effect of the combination of ODN antisense to TLR4 and CD44 mRNA. This treatment completely reversed HMWH-induced anti-hyperalgesia in male rats. Our results demonstrate a sex hormone-dependent, sexually dimorphic involvement of TLR4 in HMWH-induced anti-hyperalgesia, that is MyD88 dependent. PERSPECTIVE: The role of TLR4 in anti-hyperalgesia induced by HMWH is a sexually dimorphic, TLR4 dependent inhibition of inflammatory hyperalgesia that provides a novel molecular target for the treatment of inflammatory pain.

Implications for the role of lipopolysaccharide in the development of atherosclerosis

Mounting scientific evidence over decades has established that atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disorder. Among the potentially critical sources of vascular inflammation during atherosclerosis are the components of pathogenic bacteria, especially lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Toll-like receptor (TLR)-4, expressed on different inflammatory cells involved with the recognition of bacterial LPS, has been recognized to have mutations that are prevalent in a number of ethnic groups. Such mutations have been associated with a decreased risk of atherosclerosis. In addition, epidemiological investigations have proposed that LPS confers a risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis. Gram-negative bacteria are the major source of LPS in an individual's serum, which may be generated during subclinical infections. The major cell receptors on inflammatory cells involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, like macrophages, monocytes, and dendritic cells (DCs), are CD14, MD-2, and LPS binding protein (LBP). These receptors have been blamed for the development of atherosclerosis through dysregulated activation following LPS recognition. Lipoproteins may also play a role in modulating the LPS-induced inflammatory events during atherosclerosis development. In this review article, we attempt to clarify the role of LPS in the initiation and progression of atherosclerotic lesion development.

Immunomodulatory Nanomedicine for the Treatment of Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is the main underlying cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which remain the number one contributor to mortality worldwide. Although current therapies can slow down disease progression, no treatment is available that can fully cure or reverse atherosclerosis. Nanomedicine, which is the application of nanotechnology in medicine, is an emerging field in the treatment of many pathologies, including CVDs. It enables the production of drugs that interact with cellular receptors, and allows for controlling cellular processes after entering these cells. Nanomedicine aims to repair, control and monitor biological and physiological systems via nanoparticles (NPs), which have been shown to be efficient drug carriers. In this review we will, after a general introduction, highlight the advantages and limitations of the use of such nano-based medicine, the potential applications and targeting strategies via NPs. For example, we will provide a detailed discussion on NPs that can target relevant cellular receptors, such as integrins, or cellular processes related to atherogenesis, such as vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. Furthermore, we will underline the (ongoing) clinical trials focusing on NPs in CVDs, which might bring new insights into this research field.

Benzo(α)pyrene induces oxidative stress and inflammation in human vascular endothelial cells through AhR and NF-κB pathways

Exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) contributes to development and exacerbation of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. In the current study, the effect of benzo(α)pyrene (BaP) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was investigated, including its impact on apoptosis, cell viability, oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokine release. The role of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and NF-κB signaling pathways involved in BaP-induced oxidative stress and inflammation was further investigated. Exposure to BaP induced cell apoptosis and terminal oxidative stress and inflammation responses in HUVECs. BaP also increased the expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1. Furthermore, BaP treatment of HUVECs activated AhR and NF-κB signaling pathways, and promoted reactive oxygen species generation and inflammatory cytokine release. The current findings suggest that BaP induced inflammatory cytokine release from HUVECs through oxidative stress accompanied with AhR and NF-κB pathway activation.

Decreased vascular smooth muscle contractility in Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome linked to defective smooth muscle myosin heavy chain expression

Children with Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS) suffer from multiple cardiovascular pathologies due to the expression of progerin, a mutant form of the nuclear envelope protein Lamin A. Progerin expression has a dramatic effect on arterial smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and results in decreased viability and increased arterial stiffness. However, very little is known about how progerin affects SMC contractility. Here, we studied the LaminAG609G/G609G mouse model of HGPS and found reduced arterial contractility at an early age that correlates with a decrease in smooth muscle myosin heavy chain (SM-MHC) mRNA and protein expression. Traction force microscopy on isolated SMCs from these mice revealed reduced force generation compared to wild-type controls; this effect was phenocopied by depletion of SM-MHC in WT SMCs and overcome by ectopic expression of SM-MHC in HGPS SMCs. Arterial SM-MHC levels are also reduced with age in wild-type mice and humans, suggesting a common defect in arterial contractility in HGPS and normal aging.

Stabilization of Endothelial Receptor Arrays by a Polarized Spectrin Cytoskeleton Facilitates Rolling and Adhesion of Leukocytes

Multivalent complexes of endothelial adhesion receptors (e.g., selectins) engage leukocytes to orchestrate their migration to inflamed tissues. Proper anchorage and sufficient density (clustering) of endothelial receptors are required for efficient leukocyte capture and rolling. We demonstrate that a polarized spectrin network dictates the stability of the endothelial cytoskeleton, which is attached to the apical membrane, at least in part, by the abundant transmembrane protein CD44. Single-particle tracking revealed that CD44 undergoes prolonged periods of immobilization as it tethers to the cytoskeleton. The CD44-spectrin "picket fence" alters the behavior of bystander molecules-notably, selectins-curtailing their mobility, inducing their apical accumulation, and favoring their clustering within caveolae. Accordingly, depletion of either spectrin or CD44 virtually eliminated leukocyte rolling and adhesion to the endothelium. Our results indicate that a unique spectrin-based apical cytoskeleton tethered to transmembrane pickets-notably, CD44-is essential for proper extravasation of leukocytes in response to inflammation.

Mechanosensitive smooth muscle cell phenotypic plasticity emerging from a null state and the balance between Rac and Rho

Reversible differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) plays a critical role in vascular biology and disease. Changes in VSMC differentiation correlate with stiffness of the arterial extracellular matrix (ECM), but causal relationships remain unclear. We show that VSMC plasticity is mechanosensitive and that both the de-differentiated and differentiated fates are promoted by the same ECM stiffness. Differential equations developed to model this behavior predicted that a null VSMC state generates the dual fates in response to ECM stiffness. Direct measurements of cellular forces, proliferation, and contractile gene expression validated these predictions and showed that fate outcome is mediated by Rac-Rho homeostasis. Rac, through distinct effects on YAP and TAZ, is required for both fates. Rho drives the contractile state alone, so its level of activity, relative to Rac, drives phenotypic choice. Our results show how the cellular response to a single ECM stiffness generates bi-stability and VSMC plasticity.

Reversible differentiation/de-differentiation of smooth muscle cells plays a critical role in vascular biology and disease. Talwar et al. show that these differentiated and de-differentiated phenotypes emerge from a null state that is regulated by ECM stiffness and bidirectional effects of Rac on YAP and TAZ transcriptional coregulators.

CD44 as a tumor biomarker and therapeutic target

CD44, a complex transmembrane glycoprotein, exists in multiple molecular forms, including the standard isoform CD44s and CD44 variant isoforms. CD44 participates in multiple physiological processes, and aberrant expression and dysregulation of CD44 contribute to tumor initiation and progression. CD44 represents a common biomarker of cancer stem cells, and promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition. CD44 is involved in the regulation of diverse vital signaling pathways that modulate cancer proliferation, invasion, metastasis and therapy-resistance, and it is also modulated by a variety of molecules in cancer cells. In addition, CD44 can serve as an adverse prognostic marker among cancer population. The pleiotropic roles of CD44 in carcinoma potentially offering new molecular target for therapeutic intervention. Preclinical and clinical trials for evaluating the pharmacokinetics, efficacy and drug-related toxicity of CD44 monoclonal antibody have been carried out among tumors with CD44 expression. In this review, we focus on current data relevant to CD44, and outline CD44 structure, the regulation of CD44, functional properties of CD44 in carcinogenesis and cancer progression as well as the potential CD44-targeting therapy for cancer management.

A Comparative Analysis of the Lipoprotein(a) and Low-Density Lipoprotein Proteomic Profiles Combining Mass Spectrometry and Mendelian Randomization

Background

Lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]), which consists of a low-density lipoprotein (LDL) bound to apolipoprotein(a), is one of the strongest genetic risk factors for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. Few studies have performed hypothesis-free direct comparisons of the Lp(a) and the LDL proteomes. Our objectives were to compare the Lp(a) and the LDL proteomic profiles and to evaluate the effect of lifelong exposure to elevated Lp(a) or LDL cholesterol levels on the plasma proteomic profile.

Methods

We performed a label-free analysis of the Lp(a) and LDL proteomic profiles of healthy volunteers in a discovery (n = 6) and a replication (n = 9) phase. We performed inverse variance weighted Mendelian randomization to document the effect of lifelong exposure to elevated Lp(a) or LDL cholesterol levels on the plasma proteomic profile of participants of the INTERVAL study.

Results

We identified 15 proteins that were more abundant on Lp(a) compared with LDL (serping1, pi16, itih1, itih2, itih3, pon1, podxl, cd44, cp, ptprg, vtn, pcsk9, igfals, vcam1, and ttr). We found no proteins that were more abundant on LDL compared with Lp(a). After correction for multiple testing, lifelong exposure to elevated LDL cholesterol levels was associated with the variation of 18 plasma proteins whereas Lp(a) did not appear to influence the plasma proteome.

Conclusions

Results of this study highlight marked differences in the proteome of Lp(a) and LDL as well as in the effect of lifelong exposure to elevated LDL cholesterol or Lp(a) on the plasma proteomic profile.

Roles of Endovascular Calyx Related Enzymes in Endothelial Dysfunction and Diabetic Vascular Complications

In recent years, the number of diabetic patients has rapidly increased. Diabetic vascular complications seriously affect people’s quality of life. Studies found that endothelial dysfunction precedes the vascular complications of diabetes. Endothelial dysfunction is related to glycocalyx degradation on the surface of blood vessels. Heparanase (HPSE), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), hyaluronidase (HYAL), hyaluronic acid synthase (HAS), and neuraminidase (NEU) are related to glycocalyx degradation. Therefore, we reviewed the relationship between endothelial dysfunction and the vascular complications of diabetes from the perspective of enzymes.

Nanoparticle-Based Approaches towards the Treatment of Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, being an inflammation-associated disease, represents a considerable healthcare problem. Its origin remains poorly understood, and at the same time, it is associated with extensive morbidity and mortality worldwide due to myocardial infarctions and strokes. Unfortunately, drugs are unable to effectively prevent plaque formation. Systemic administration of pharmaceuticals for the inhibition of plaque destabilization bears the risk of adverse effects. At present, nanoscience and, in particular, nanomedicine has made significant progress in both imaging and treatment of atherosclerosis. In this review, we focus on recent advances in this area, discussing subjects such as nanocarriers-based drug targeting principles, approaches towards the treatment of atherosclerosis, utilization of theranostic agents, and future prospects of nanoformulated therapeutics against atherosclerosis and inflammatory diseases. The focus is placed on articles published since 2015 with additional attention to research completed in 2019-2020.

Effective atherosclerotic plaque inflammation inhibition with targeted drug delivery by hyaluronan conjugated atorvastatin nanoparticles

Atherosclerosis is associated with inflammation in the arteries, which is a major cause of heart attacks and strokes. Reducing the extent of local inflammation at atherosclerotic plaques can be an attractive strategy to combat atherosclerosis. While statins can exhibit direct anti-inflammatory activities, the high dose required for such a therapy renders it unrealistic due to their low systemic bioavailabilities and potential side effects. To overcome this, a new hyaluronan (HA)-atorvastatin (ATV) conjugate was designed with the hydrophobic statin ATV forming the core of the nanoparticle (HA-ATV-NP). The HA on the NPs can selectively bind with CD44, a cell surface receptor overexpressed on cells residing in atherosclerotic plaques and known to play important roles in plaque development. HA-ATV-NPs exhibited significantly higher anti-inflammatory effects on macrophages compared to ATV alone in vitro. Furthermore, when administered in an apolipoprotein E (ApoE)-knockout mouse model of atherosclerosis following a 1-week treatment regimen, HA-ATV-NPs markedly decreased inflammation in advanced atherosclerotic plaques, which were monitored through contrast agent aided magnetic resonance imaging. These results suggest CD44 targeting with HA-ATV-NPs is an attractive strategy to reduce harmful inflammation in atherosclerotic plaques.

Tranexamic Acid Protects Ovary and Testis Functions and Ameliorates Osteoporosis in Mice

INTRODUCTION

In a rapidly aging society, the number of people suffering from osteoporosis keeps increasing. However, effective prevention strategies for osteoporosis are not yet currently available.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we examined the ameliorative effects of tranexamic acid on osteoporosis in 24-month-old mice.

METHODS

During the study period, mice were orally administered tranexamic acid 3 times per week.

RESULTS

Bone mineral density, which is a parameter of osteoporosis, was improved following tranexamic acid administration. In addition, female mice evidenced a stronger phenotypic improvement than male mice. In female mice treated with tranexamic acid, ovary abnormalities were reduced. Furthermore, the levels of transforming growth factor-β, hyaluronic acid, CD44, reactive oxygen species, and apoptosis, as well as the number of infiltrated neutrophils and macrophages in the ovary were lower than those in the control or solvent-administered mice. In addition, 17β-estradiol levels in blood increased when compared with the control or solvent-treated mice. In addition, administration of tranexamic acid to 24-month-old male mice decreased the level of apoptosis in the testis. However, the levels of 17β-estradiol and testosterone in blood increased compared with the control or solvent-administered mice.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of tranexamic acid had an ameliorative effect on osteoporosis, possibly by protecting ovaries and testes.

Fibroblast Activation Protein Regulates Lesion Burden and the Fibroinflammatory Response in Apoe-Deficient Mice in a Sexually Dimorphic Manner

Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) has been established as an inducible and mesenchymal cell-specific mediator of disease progression in cancer and fibrosis. Atherosclerosis is a fibroinflammatory disease, and FAP was previously reported to be up-regulated in human atherosclerotic plaques compared with normal vessel. We investigated the spatial and temporal distribution of Fap-expressing cells in a murine model of atherosclerosis and used a genetic approach to determine if and how Fap affected disease progression. Fap was found to be expressed predominantly on vascular smooth muscle cells in lesions of athero-prone Apoe^-/- mice. Global deletion of Fap (Fap^-/-) in Apoe^-/- mice accelerated atherosclerotic disease progression in both males and females, with the effect observed earlier in males. Sex-specific effects on lesion morphology were observed. Relative levels of extracellular matrix, fibrotic, and inflammatory cell content were comparable in lesions in male mice regardless of Fap status. In contrast, lesions in Fap^-/- female mice were characterized by a more fibrotic composition due to a reduction in inflammation, specifically a reduction in Mox macrophages. Combined, these data suggest that Fap restrains the progression of atherosclerosis and may contribute to the sexually dimorphic susceptibility to atherosclerosis by regulating the balance between inflammation (an indicator of vulnerability to plaque rupture) and fibrosis (an indicator of plaque stability).

Sirtuin 1 reduces hyaluronan synthase 2 expression by inhibiting nuclear translocation of NF-κB and expression of the long-noncoding RNA HAS2-AS1

Hyaluronan (HA) is one of the most prevalent glycosaminoglycans of the vascular extracellular matrix (ECM). Abnormal HA accumulation within blood vessel walls is associated with tissue inflammation and is prominent in most vascular pathological conditions such as atherosclerosis and restenosis. Hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2) is the main hyaluronan synthase enzyme involved in HA synthesis and uses cytosolic UDP-glucuronic acid and UDP-GlcNAc as substrates. The synthesis of UDP-glucuronic acid can alter the NAD⁺/NADH ratio via the enzyme UDP-glucose dehydrogenase, which oxidizes the alcohol group at C6 to the COO^- group. Here, we show that HAS2 expression can be modulated by sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), the master metabolic sensor of the cell, belonging to the class of NAD⁺-dependent deacetylases. Our results revealed the following. 1) Treatments of human aortic smooth muscle cells (AoSMCs) with SIRT1 activators (SRT1720 and resveratrol) inhibit both HAS2 expression and accumulation of pericellular HA coats. 2) Tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) induced HA-mediated monocyte adhesion and AoSMC migration, whereas SIRT1 activation prevented immune cell recruitment and cell motility by reducing the expression levels of the receptor for HA-mediated motility, RHAMM, and the HA-binding protein TNF-stimulated gene 6 protein (TSG6). 3) SIRT1 activation prevented nuclear translocation of NF-κB (p65), which, in turn, reduced the levels of HAS2-AS1, a long-noncoding RNA that epigenetically controls HAS2 mRNA expression. In conclusion, we demonstrate that both HAS2 expression and HA accumulation by AoSMCs are down-regulated by the metabolic sensor SIRT1.