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Hou H, Li J, Wang J, Hou R, Li J, Zhang K. Abnormal dermal microvascular endothelial cells in psoriatic excessive angiogenesis. Microvasc Res 2024; 155:104718. [PMID: 39019108 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2024.104718] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Psoriasis is characterized by excessive angiogenesis, with increased distortion and dilation of the dermal blood vessels. These vascular alterations are ascribed, at least in part, to the changes in dermal microvascular endothelial cell functions. However, despite the recognition of vascular normalization as an emerging strategy for the treatment of psoriasis, in-depth studies of human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HDMECs) have been missing. The difficulty of isolation and culture of HDMECs has impeded the study of endothelial dysfunction in psoriasis. Researchers have done a great deal of work to study the abnormal characteristics of keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and leukocytes in psoriatic skin tissue. Recently, with successful isolation of HDMECs from psoriasis, great progress has been made in the elucidation of the pathogenic role of these cells in psoriasis. It is of great therapeutic significance to study the molecular mechanism of HDMECs in psoriasis. We review here the abnormalities of HDMECs in psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Hou
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Stem Cell for Immunological Dermatosis, Institute of Dermatology, Taiyuan Central Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, No. 5 Dong San Dao Xiang, Jiefang Road, Taiyuan 030009, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Jiao Li
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Stem Cell for Immunological Dermatosis, Institute of Dermatology, Taiyuan Central Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, No. 5 Dong San Dao Xiang, Jiefang Road, Taiyuan 030009, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Juanjuan Wang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Stem Cell for Immunological Dermatosis, Institute of Dermatology, Taiyuan Central Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, No. 5 Dong San Dao Xiang, Jiefang Road, Taiyuan 030009, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Ruixia Hou
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Stem Cell for Immunological Dermatosis, Institute of Dermatology, Taiyuan Central Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, No. 5 Dong San Dao Xiang, Jiefang Road, Taiyuan 030009, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Junqin Li
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Stem Cell for Immunological Dermatosis, Institute of Dermatology, Taiyuan Central Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, No. 5 Dong San Dao Xiang, Jiefang Road, Taiyuan 030009, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Kaiming Zhang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Stem Cell for Immunological Dermatosis, Institute of Dermatology, Taiyuan Central Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, No. 5 Dong San Dao Xiang, Jiefang Road, Taiyuan 030009, Shanxi Province, China.
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AL-Eitan LN, Zuhair S, Khair IY, Alghamdi MA. Assessment of the proliferative and angiogenic effects of the synthetic cannabinoid (R)-5-fluoro ADB on human cerebral microvascular endothelial cells. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2024; 27:304-310. [PMID: 38333752 PMCID: PMC10849210 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2023.71819.15605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Objectives The process of vascular formation, also known as angiogenesis, primarily relies on endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. In recent years, it has been discovered that synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) may potentially impact angiogenic processes within the body. We evaluated the impact of the synthetic cannabinoid (R)-5-Fluoro-ADB on the proliferation rate and angiogenesis in Human Cerebral Microvascular Endothelial Cells (hBMECs). Materials and Methods hBMECs were treated with (R)-5-Fluoro-ADB and investigated for cell viability, migration rate, and tube-like structure formation. Furthermore, angiogenic-related proteins including Angopoitein-1 and -2, and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors (VEGF) were examined on mRNA and protein levels. Results The results showed a notable rise in the rate of proliferation (P-value<0.0001) of HBMECs induced by (R)-5-Fluoro-ADB. The angiogenic capacity of HBMECs was also enhanced between 0.001 μM to 1 μM (R)-5-Fluoro-ADB. Moreover, an increase in the levels of ANG-1, ANG-2, and VEGF mRNA and protein, as well as elevated phosphorylation rate of GSK-3β, were observed across various concentrations of (R)-5-Fluoro-ADB. Conclusion Our results suggest an innovative approach in pharmacology for addressing a range of conditions linked to angiogenesis. This approach involves precise targeting of both cannabinoid receptors type-1 and -2. To achieve this, specific agonists or antagonists of these receptors could be employed based on the particular characteristics of the diseases in question.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laith Naser AL-Eitan
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Saif Zuhair
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Iliya Yacoub Khair
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Mansour Abdullah Alghamdi
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
- Genomics and Personalized Medicine Unit, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
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Naser Al-Eitan L, Zuhair Alahmad S. The Expression Analyses of GSK3B, VEGF, ANG1, and ANG2 in Human Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells Treated with the Synthetic Cannabinoid XLR-11. Gene 2023:147585. [PMID: 37355149 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system receptors, cannabinoid receptors type-1 (CBR-1) and -2 (CBR-2), are implicated in several behavioral and cognitive processes. Many studies have indicated a correlation between cannabinoid receptors and angiogenesis. The current study aims to reveal the possible molecular signaling involved in brain angiogenesis induced by the activation of CBR-1 and CBR-2. We investigated whether the synthetic cannabinoid XLR-11, an agonist of CBR-1 and CBR-2, influences the mRNA and protein expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), angiopoietin-1 (ANG1) and -2 (ANG2) in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (hBMVEs). Furthermore, we determined the phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3B) expression. Treatment of hBMVEs cells with XLR-11 elevated the mRNA levels of VEGF, ANG1, and ANG2. The secretion of these proangiogenic factors was increased in the media. Furthermore, the intracellular expression of VEGF, ANG1, ANG2, and GSK3B was significantly increased. This current research provides a new possible approach by targeting the cannabinoid receptors to control and regulate brain angiogenesis for treating a variety of angiogenesis-related diseases. This could be achived by using different agonists or antagonists of the cannabinoid receptors based on the nature of the diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laith Naser Al-Eitan
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan.
| | - Saif Zuhair Alahmad
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan.
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Wang L, Chen Q, Pang J. The effects and mechanisms of ghrelin upon angiogenesis in human coronary artery endothelial cells under hypoxia. Peptides 2023; 160:170921. [PMID: 36496009 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2022.170921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Ghrelin, an endogenous ligand of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), has been found to stimulate angiogenesis both in vivo and in vitro. However, the effect of ghrelin upon angiogenesis, and the corresponding mechanisms of ghrelin therein, in human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) under hypoxia is still unknown. Our study found that ghrelin significantly increased HCAECs proliferation, migration, in vitro angiogenesis, and microvessel sprouting from the aortic ring under hypoxic conditions. The ghrelin-induced angiogenic process was accompanied by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1), angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) and endothelial-specific receptor tyrosine kinase (Tie2) expressions. In addition, this angiogenic effect was almost completely inhibited by Ang-2 RNAi and Tie2 RNAi. Pretreatment with the GHSR1a blocker [D-Lys3]-GHRP-6 abolished ghrelin-induced VEGF, Ang-1, Ang-2 and Tie2 expressions and in vitro angiogenesis. In conclusion, this is the first demonstration that ghrelin stimulates HCAECs in vitro angiogenesis through GHSR1a-mediated VEGF, Ang-1, Ang-2 and Tie2 pathways under hypoxic conditions. It indicated that ghrelin might play an important role in myocardial angiogenesis after ischemic injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- Department of Geriatrics, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China.
| | - Qingwei Chen
- Department of Geriatrics, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Jun Pang
- Department of Geriatrics, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
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Höppner J, Bruni C, Distler O, Robson SC, Burmester GR, Siegert E, Distler JHW. Purinergic signaling in systemic sclerosis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:2770-2782. [PMID: 34849624 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune rheumatic disease that involves numerous organs and presents major management challenges. The histopathologic hallmarks of SSc include vasculopathy, fibrosis and autoimmune phenomena involving both innate and adaptive immune systems. Purinergic signalling is a pathway that may be implicated in the pathophysiology of several of these disease manifestations. Extracellular purines are potent signalling mediators, which have been shown to be dysregulated in SSc. As examples, purines can exacerbate vasculopathy and provoke platelet dysfunction; as well as contributing to immune dysregulation. Elements of purinergic signalling further promote organ and tissue fibrosis in several disease models. Here, we provide an overview of extracellular purine metabolism in purinergic signalling and link disorders of these to the molecular pathology of SSc. We also discuss targeting the purinergic signalling and explore the translational applications for new therapeutic options in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob Höppner
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cosimo Bruni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Careggi University Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Distler
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Simon C Robson
- Departments of Anesthesia and Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gerd R Burmester
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Elise Siegert
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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New mechanism-based approaches to treating and evaluating the vasculopathy of scleroderma. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2021; 33:471-479. [PMID: 34402454 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000000830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Utilizing recent insight into the vasculopathy of scleroderma (SSc), the review will highlight new opportunities for evaluating and treating the disease by promoting stabilization and protection of the microvasculature. RECENT FINDINGS Endothelial junctional signaling initiated by vascular endothelial-cadherin (VE-cadherin) and Tie2 receptors, which are fundamental to promoting vascular health and stability, are disrupted in SSc. This would be expected to not only diminish their protective activity, but also increase pathological processes that are normally restrained by these signaling mediators, resulting in pathological changes in vascular function and structure. Indeed, key features of SSc vasculopathy, from the earliest signs of edema and puffy fingers to pathological disruption of hemodynamics, nutritional blood flow, capillary structure and angiogenesis are all consistent with this altered endothelial signaling. It also likely contributes to further progression of the disease including tissue fibrosis, and organ and tissue injury. SUMMARY Restoring protective endothelial junctional signaling should combat the vasculopathy of SSc and prevent further deterioration in vascular and organ function. Indeed, this type of targeted approach has achieved remarkable results in preclinical models for other diseases. Furthermore, tracking this endothelial junctional signaling, for example by assessing vascular permeability, should facilitate insight into disease progression and its response to therapy.
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Mucopolysaccharide polysulfate promotes microvascular stabilization and barrier integrity of dermal microvascular endothelial cells via activation of the angiopoietin-1/Tie2 pathway. J Dermatol Sci 2021; 103:25-32. [PMID: 34148739 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2021.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mucopolysaccharide polysulfate (MPS) is a heparinoid and MPS-containing formulations are widely used as moisturizers for dry skin and to treat peripheral vascular insufficiency. Although MPS has therapeutic effects in skin diseases with microvascular abnormalities, the effects of MPS on microvascular function remain incompletely understood. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional activities of MPS on human pericytes (HPC) and human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HDMEC) in vitro, and on microvascular permeability of the skin. METHODS The protein expression of angiopoietin (Ang)-1 in HPC, and platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) and phosphorylated tyrosine-protein kinase receptor 2 (Tie2) in HDMEC were measured in the presence or absence of MPS. The vascular barrier was evaluated by the expressions of claudin-5 and vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin, and transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER). RESULTS In HPC, MPS dose-dependently enhanced Ang-1 secretion, which activated Tie2 in HDMEC. In HDMEC, MPS significantly increased the production of PDGF-BB, which is important for the recruitment of HPC to the vascular endothelium, and significantly increased the phosphorylation of Tie2, which results in the activation of the Ang-1/Tie2 signaling . MPS significantly increased the expression of tight junction protein claudin-5 and TEER in the HDMEC. Moreover, the intradermal injection of MPS prevented vascular endothelial growth factor-induced increase in vascular permeability in mouse skin. CONCLUSION We found that MPS promoted microvascular stabilization and barrier integrity in HDMEC via Ang-1/Tie2 activation. These results suggest that MPS might improve microvascular abnormalities in various diseases accompanied by disturbances in Ang-1/Tie2 signaling.
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Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Biology and Its Potential as a Therapeutic Target in Rheumatic Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22105387. [PMID: 34065409 PMCID: PMC8161097 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatic diseases constitute a diversified group of diseases distinguished by arthritis and often involve other organs. The affected individual has low quality of life, productivity even life-threatening in some severe conditions. Moreover, they impose significant economic and social burdens. In recent years, the patient outcome has been improved significantly due to clearer comprehension of the pathology of rheumatic diseases and the effectiveness of "treat to target" therapies. However, the high cost and the adverse effects are the concerns and full remissions are not often observed. One of the main processes that contributes to the pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases is angiogenesis. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a central mediator that regulates angiogenesis, has different isoforms and functions in various physiological processes. Increasing evidence suggests an association between the VEGF system and rheumatic diseases. Anti-VEGF and VEGF receptor (VEGFR) therapies have been used to treat several cancers and eye diseases. This review summarizes the current understanding of VEGF biology and its role in the context of rheumatic diseases, the contribution of VEGF bioavailability in the pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases, and the potential implications of therapeutic approaches targeting VEGF for these diseases.
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Mendoza FA, Piera-Velazquez S, Jimenez SA. Tyrosine kinases in the pathogenesis of tissue fibrosis in systemic sclerosis and potential therapeutic role of their inhibition. Transl Res 2021; 231:139-158. [PMID: 33422651 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2021.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an idiopathic autoimmune disease with a heterogeneous clinical phenotype ranging from limited cutaneous involvement to rapidly progressive diffuse SSc. The most severe SSc clinical and pathologic manifestations result from an uncontrolled fibrotic process involving the skin and various internal organs. The molecular mechanisms responsible for the initiation and progression of the SSc fibrotic process have not been fully elucidated. Recently it has been suggested that tyrosine protein kinases play a role. The implicated kinases include receptor-activated tyrosine kinases and nonreceptor tyrosine kinases. The receptor kinases are activated following specific binding of growth factors (platelet-derived growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, or vascular endothelial growth factor). Other receptor kinases are the discoidin domain receptors activated by binding of various collagens, the ephrin receptors that are activated by ephrins and the angiopoetin-Tie-2s receptors. The nonreceptor tyrosine kinases c-Abl, Src, Janus, and STATs have also been shown to participate in SSc-associated tissue fibrosis. Currently, there are no effective disease-modifying therapies for SSc-associated tissue fibrosis. Therefore, extensive investigation has been conducted to examine whether tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) may exert antifibrotic effects. Here, we review the role of receptor and nonreceptor tyrosine kinases in the pathogenesis of the frequently progressive cutaneous and systemic fibrotic alterations in SSc, and the potential of TKIs as SSc disease-modifying antifibrotic therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian A Mendoza
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sonsoles Piera-Velazquez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sergio A Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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Shigesawa T, Suda G, Kimura M, Maehara O, Tokuchi Y, Kubo A, Yamada R, Furuya K, Baba M, Kitagataya T, Suzuki K, Ohara M, Kawagishi N, Nakai M, Sho T, Natsuizaka M, Morikawa K, Ogawa K, Sakamoto N. Baseline serum angiopoietin-2 and VEGF levels predict the deterioration of the liver functional reserve during lenvatinib treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247728. [PMID: 33647018 PMCID: PMC7920365 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A deteriorated liver functional reserve during systemic therapy for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) causes poor patient outcomes. We aimed to identify predictive factors associated with the deterioration of Child-Pugh score at 8 weeks after lenvatinib initiation. Patients with adequate clinical data and baseline preserved serum samples available were included. Baseline fibroblast growth factor (FGF)19 and 21, angiopoietin (ANG)2, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels were evaluated. Thirty-seven patients were included, and 6, 15, 14, and 2 experienced complete response, partial response, stable disease, and progressive disease, respectively. Twenty-four (65%) and 13 (35%) patients showed a maintained/improved and deteriorated Child-Pugh-score, respectively. While baseline clinical data, treatment response, and laboratory data were similar between these two patient groups, baseline ANG2 and VEGF levels were significantly higher (P = 0.0017) and lower (P = 0.0231), respectively, in patients with deteriorated Child-Pugh score than in those without. Based on receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, cut-off values for ANG2 and VEGF were found to be 3,108 pg/mL and 514.9 pg/mL, respectively. Among patients with low VEGF and high ANG2, 89% (8/9) exhibited a deteriorated Child-Pugh score, whereas none of the patients (0/9) with high VEGF and low ANG2 did. The deterioration of the Child-Pugh score in patients with unresectable HCC who are treated with lenvatinib may be predictable based on combined baseline serum ANG2 and VEGF levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taku Shigesawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Goki Suda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Megumi Kimura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Osamu Maehara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yoshimasa Tokuchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Akinori Kubo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Ren Yamada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Ken Furuya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Japan Community Health Care Organization (JCHO) Hokkaido Hospital, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Masaru Baba
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Japan Community Health Care Organization (JCHO) Hokkaido Hospital, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Takashi Kitagataya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kazuharu Suzuki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Masatsugu Ohara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Naoki Kawagishi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Masato Nakai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Takuya Sho
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Mitsuteru Natsuizaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kenichi Morikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Koji Ogawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Naoya Sakamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
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Didriksen H, Molberg Ø, Fretheim H, Gude E, Jordan S, Brunborg C, Palchevskiy V, Garen T, Midtvedt Ø, Andreassen AK, Distler O, Belperio J, Hoffmann-Vold AM. Association of Lymphangiogenic Factors With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Systemic Sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2021; 73:1277-1287. [PMID: 33497027 DOI: 10.1002/art.41665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a major complication in systemic sclerosis (SSc), a disease marked by vascular and lymphatic vessel abnormalities. This study was undertaken to assess the role of the lymphangiogenic factors vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C) and angiopoietin 2 (Ang-2) and the soluble forms of their respective cognate receptors, soluble VEGF receptor 3 (sVEGFR-3) and soluble TIE-2, in patients with SSc, and to evaluate their predictive ability as markers for PAH development in SSc. METHODS In this cohort study, we used multiplex bead assays to assess serum levels of lymphangiogenic factors in 2 well-characterized SSc cohorts: an unselected identification cohort of SSc patients from Oslo University Hospital (n = 371), and a PAH-enriched validation cohort of SSc patients from Zurich University Hospital and Oslo University Hospital (n = 149). As controls for the identification and validation cohorts, we obtained serum samples from 100 healthy individuals and 68 healthy individuals, respectively. Patients in whom SSc-related PAH was identified by right-sided heart catheterization (RHC) in both cohorts were studied in prediction analyses. PAH was defined according to the European Society of Cardiology/European Respiratory Society 2015 guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of PAH. Associations of serum levels of lymphangiogenic factors with the risk of PAH development were assessed in logistic regression and Cox regression analyses. Associations in Cox regression analyses were expressed as the hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI). RESULTS In the identification cohort, SSc patients had lower mean serum levels of VEGF-C and higher mean serum levels of Ang-2 compared to healthy controls (for VEGF-C, mean ± SD 2.1 ± 0.5 ng/ml in patients versus 2.5 ± 0.4 ng/ml in controls; for Ang-2, mean ± SD 6.1 ± 7.6 ng/ml in patients versus 2.8 ± 1.8 ng/ml in controls; each P < 0.001); these same trends were observed in SSc patients with PAH compared to those without PAH. The association of serum VEGF-C levels with SSc-PAH was confirmed in the PAH-enriched RHC validation cohort. For prediction analyses, we assembled all 251 cases of SSc-PAH identified by RHC from the identification and validation cohorts. In multivariable Cox regression analyses adjusted for age and sex, the mean serum levels of VEGF-C and sVEGFR-3 were predictive of PAH development in patients with SSc (for VEGF-C, HR 0.53 [95% CI 0.29-0.97], P = 0.04; for sVEGFR-3, HR 1.21 [95% CI 1.01-1.45], P = 0.042). CONCLUSION These findings support the notion that lymphangiogenesis is deregulated during PAH development in SSc, and indicate that VEGF-C could be a promising marker for early PAH detection in patients with SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Øyvind Molberg
- Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, and Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Einar Gude
- Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | | | | | | | - Torhild Garen
- Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
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Angiopoietin-2 Promotes Inflammatory Activation in Monocytes of Systemic Sclerosis Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249544. [PMID: 33333969 PMCID: PMC7765391 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2), a ligand of the tyrosine kinase receptor Tie2, is essential for vascular development and blood vessel stability and is also involved in monocyte activation. Here, we examined the role of Ang-2 on monocyte activation in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Ang-2 levels were measured in serum and skin of healthy controls (HCs) and SSc patients by ELISA and array profiling, respectively. mRNA expression of ANG2 was analyzed in monocytes, dermal fibroblasts, and human pulmonary arterial endothelial cells (HPAECs) by quantitative PCR. Monocytes were stimulated with Ang-2, or with serum from SSc patients in the presence of a Tie2 inhibitor or an anti-Ang2 neutralizing antibody. Interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 production was analyzed by ELISA. Ang-2 levels were elevated in the serum and skin of SSc patients compared to HCs. Importantly, serum Ang-2 levels correlated with clinical disease parameters, such as skin involvement. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) LPS, R848, and interferon alpha2a (IFN-α) stimulation up-regulated the mRNA expression of ANG2 in monocytes, dermal fibroblasts, and HPAECs. Finally, Ang-2 induced the production of IL-6 and IL-8 in monocytes of SSc patients, while the inhibition of Tie2 or the neutralization of Ang-2 reduced the production of both cytokines in HC monocytes stimulated with the serum of SSc patients. Therefore, Ang-2 induces inflammatory activation of SSc monocytes and neutralization of Ang-2 might be a promising therapeutic target in the treatment of SSc.
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13
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Koch PD, Ahmed MS, Kohler RH, Li R, Weissleder R. Imaging of Tie2 with a Fluorescently Labeled Small Molecule Affinity Ligand. ACS Chem Biol 2020; 15:151-157. [PMID: 31809013 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.9b00724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, Tie2, has significant roles in endothelial signaling and angiogenesis and is relevant in the pathophysiology of several diseases. However, there are relatively few small molecule probes available to study Tie2, making the evaluation of its activity in vivo difficult. Recently, it was discovered that the small molecule rebastinib (DCC-2036) is a potent Tie2 inhibitor. We hypothesized that fluorescent derivatives of rebastinib could be used as imaging agents for Tie2. On the basis of crystallography structures, we synthesized three fluorescent derivatives, which we then evaluated in both in vitro and in vivo assays. We found that the Rebastinib-BODIPY TMR (Reb-TMR) derivative has superior imaging characteristics in vitro, and we successfully labeled endothelial cells in vivo. We propose that this probe could be further used in in vivo applications for studying the role of Tie2 in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter David Koch
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Maaz S. Ahmed
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Rainer H. Kohler
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Ran Li
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Ralph Weissleder
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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14
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Zhang Y, Kontos CD, Annex BH, Popel AS. Angiopoietin-Tie Signaling Pathway in Endothelial Cells: A Computational Model. iScience 2019; 20:497-511. [PMID: 31655061 PMCID: PMC6806670 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2019.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 09/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The angiopoietin-Tie signaling pathway is an important vascular signaling pathway involved in angiogenesis, vascular stability, and quiescence. Dysregulation in the pathway is linked to the impairments in vascular function associated with many diseases, including cancer, ocular diseases, systemic inflammation, and cardiovascular diseases. The present study uses a computational signaling pathway model validated against experimental data to quantitatively study various mechanistic aspects of the angiopoietin-Tie signaling pathway, including receptor activation, trafficking, turnover, and molecular mechanisms of its regulation. The model provides mechanistic insights into the controversial role of Ang2 and its regulators vascular endothelial protein tyrosine phosphatase (VE-PTP) and Tie1 and predicts synergistic effects of inhibition of VE-PTP, Tie1, and Tie2 cleavage on enhancing the vascular protective actions of Tie2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Christopher D Kontos
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Brian H Annex
- Department of Medicine and the Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Aleksander S Popel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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15
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Frauchiger DA, Tekari A, May RD, Džafo E, Chan SCW, Stoyanov J, Bertolo A, Zhang X, Guerrero J, Sakai D, Schol J, Grad S, Tryfonidou M, Benneker LM, Gantenbein B. Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting Is More Potent to Fish Intervertebral Disk Progenitor Cells Than Magnetic and Beads-Based Methods. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2019; 25:571-580. [PMID: 31154900 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2018.0375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain related to intervertebral disk (IVD) degeneration has a major socioeconomic impact on our aging society. Therefore, stem cell therapy to activate self-repair of the IVD remains an exciting treatment strategy. In this respect, tissue-specific progenitors may play a crucial role in IVD regeneration, as these cells are perfectly adapted to this niche. Such a rare progenitor cell population residing in the nucleus pulposus (NP) (NP progenitor cells [NPPCs]) was found positive for the angiopoietin-1 receptor (Tie2+), and was demonstrated to possess self-renewal capacity and in vitro multipotency. Here, we compared three sorting protocols; that is, fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS), and a mesh-based label-free cell sorting system (pluriSelect), with respect to cell yield, potential to form colonies (colony-forming units), and in vitro functional differentiation assays for tripotency. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the efficiency of three widespread cell sorting methods for picking rare cells (<5%) and how these isolated cells then behave in downstream functional differentiation in adipogenesis, osteogenesis, and chondrogenesis. The cell yields among the isolation methods differed widely, with FACS presenting the highest yield (5.0% ± 4.0%), followed by MACS (1.6% ± 2.9%) and pluriSelect (1.1% ± 1.0%). The number of colonies formed was not significantly different between Tie2+ and Tie2- NPPCs. Only FACS was able to separate into two functionally different populations that showed trilineage multipotency, while MACS and pluriSelect failed to maintain a clear separation between Tie2+ and Tie2- populations in differentiation assays. To conclude, the isolation of NPPCs was possible with all three sorting methods, while FACS was the preferred technique for separation of functional Tie2+ cells. Impact Statement Tissue-specific progenitor cells such as nucleus pulposus progenitor cells of the IVD could become an ultimate cell source for tissue engineering strategies as these cells are presumably best adapted to the tissue's microenvironment. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting seemed to outcompete magnetic-activated cell sorting and pluriSelect concerning selecting a rare cell population from IVD tissue as could be demonstrated by improved cell yield and functional differentiation assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela A Frauchiger
- Tissue Engineering, Orthopeadic Research & Mechanobiology, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Adel Tekari
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Screening Processes, Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Rahel D May
- Tissue Engineering, Orthopeadic Research & Mechanobiology, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Emina Džafo
- Tissue Engineering, Orthopeadic Research & Mechanobiology, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Samantha C W Chan
- Tissue Engineering, Orthopeadic Research & Mechanobiology, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Xingshuo Zhang
- Tissue Engineering, Orthopeadic Research & Mechanobiology, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Julien Guerrero
- Tissue Engineering, Orthopeadic Research & Mechanobiology, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Daisuke Sakai
- Department for Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan
| | - Jordy Schol
- Department for Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan
| | | | - Marianna Tryfonidou
- Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lorin M Benneker
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin Gantenbein
- Tissue Engineering, Orthopeadic Research & Mechanobiology, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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16
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Shin JY, Beckett JD, Bagirzadeh R, Creamer TJ, Shah AA, McMahan Z, Paik JJ, Sampedro MM, MacFarlane EG, Beer MA, Warren D, Wigley FM, Dietz HC. Epigenetic activation and memory at a TGFB2 enhancer in systemic sclerosis. Sci Transl Med 2019; 11:eaaw0790. [PMID: 31217334 PMCID: PMC6995475 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aaw0790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
In systemic sclerosis (SSc), previously healthy adults develop an inflammatory prodrome with subsequent progressive fibrosis of the skin and viscera. SSc has a weak signature for genetic contribution, and there are few pathogenic insights or targeted treatments for this condition. Here, chromatin accessibility and transcriptome profiling coupled with targeted epigenetic editing revealed constitutive activation of a previously unannotated transforming growth factor-β2 (TGFB2) enhancer maintained through epigenetic memory in SSc. The resulting autocrine TGFβ2 signaling enforced a profibrotic synthetic state in ex vivo fibroblasts from patients with SSc. Inhibition of NF-κB or BRD4 achieved sustained inhibition of TGFB2 enhancer activity, mitigated profibrotic gene expression, and reversed dermal fibrosis in patient skin explants. These findings suggest a potential epigenetic mechanism of fibrosis in SSc and inform a regulatory mechanism of TGFB2, a major profibrotic cytokine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Yusup Shin
- McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - James Daniel Beckett
- McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Rustam Bagirzadeh
- McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Tyler J Creamer
- McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Ami A Shah
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Zsuzsanna McMahan
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Julie J Paik
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Margaret M Sampedro
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Elena G MacFarlane
- McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Michael A Beer
- McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Daniel Warren
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Fredrick M Wigley
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Harry C Dietz
- McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA
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Nicolosi PA, Tombetti E, Giovenzana A, Donè E, Pulcinelli E, Meneveri R, Tirone M, Maugeri N, Rovere-Querini P, Manfredi AA, Brunelli S. Macrophages Guard Endothelial Lineage by Hindering Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition: Implications for the Pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 203:247-258. [PMID: 31127033 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1800883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The signals that control endothelial plasticity in inflamed tissues have only been partially characterized. For example, it has been shown that inadequate vasculogenesis in systemic sclerosis (SSc) has been associated with an endothelial defect. We used a genetic lineage tracing model to investigate whether endothelial cells die or change phenotypically after fibrosis induction and whether signals released by cells of the innate immune system and in the blood of patients influence their commitment. We observed that in the lineage-tracing transgenic mice Cdh5-CreERT2::R26R-EYFP, endothelial-derived cells (EdCs) underwent fibrosis after treatment with bleomycin, and EdCs retrieved from the lung showed expression of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) markers. Liposome-encapsulated clodronate was used to assess macrophage impact on EdCs. Clodronate treatment affected the number of alternatively activated macrophages in the lung, with upregulated expression of EndoMT markers in lung EdCs. Endothelial fate and function were investigated in vitro upon challenge with serum signals from SSc patients or released by activated macrophages. Sera of SSc patients with anti-Scl70 Abs, at higher risk of visceral organ fibrosis, induced EndoMT and jeopardized endothelial function. In conclusion, EdCs in SSc might be defective because of commitment to a mesenchymal fate, which is sustained by soluble signals in the patient's blood. Macrophages contribute to preserve the endothelial identity of precursor cells. Altered macrophage-dependent plasticity of EdCs could contribute to link vasculopathy with fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pier Andrea Nicolosi
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Enrico Tombetti
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Disease, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Giovenzana
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Eleonora Donè
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Eleonora Pulcinelli
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Raffaella Meneveri
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Mario Tirone
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy.,Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; and
| | - Norma Maugeri
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Disease, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Patrizia Rovere-Querini
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Disease, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.,Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Angelo A Manfredi
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Disease, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy; .,Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Brunelli
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy;
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18
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Flower VA, Barratt SL, Ward S, Pauling JD. The Role of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Systemic Sclerosis. Curr Rheumatol Rev 2019; 15:99-109. [DOI: 10.2174/1573397114666180809121005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The pathological hallmarks of Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) constitute an inter-related triad of autoimmunity, vasculopathy and tissue remodeling. Many signaling mediators have been implicated in SSc pathology; most focusing on individual components of this pathogenic triad and current treatment paradigms tend to approach management of such as distinct entities. The present review shall examine the role of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in SSc pathogenesis. We shall outline potential mechanisms whereby differential Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A (VEGF-A) isoform expression (through conventional and alternative VEGF-A splicing,) may influence the relevant burden of vasculopathy and fibrosis offering novel insight into clinical heterogeneity and disease progression in SSc. Emerging therapeutic approaches targeting VEGF signaling pathways might play an important role in the management of SSc, and differential VEGF-A splice isoform expression may provide a tool for personalized medicine approaches to disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria A. Flower
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Shaney L. Barratt
- Academic Respiratory Unit, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS10 5NB, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Ward
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - John D. Pauling
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
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19
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van Sleen Y, Sandovici M, Abdulahad WH, Bijzet J, van der Geest KSM, Boots AMH, Brouwer E. Markers of angiogenesis and macrophage products for predicting disease course and monitoring vascular inflammation in giant cell arteritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2019; 58:kez034. [PMID: 30805622 PMCID: PMC6649803 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE GCA, a systemic vasculitis, is characterized by an IL-6-dependent acute-phase response. This response is typically suppressed by treatment rendering CRP/ESR unreliable for monitoring vascular inflammation. Also, there are no accurate biomarkers predicting a non-favourable disease course. Here we investigated macrophage products and markers of angiogenesis as biomarkers for prognosis and monitoring of vascular inflammation. METHODS Forty-one newly diagnosed, glucocorticoid-naive GCA patients were prospectively followed for relapses and glucocorticoid requirement for a median of 30 months (range 0-71). Serum markers at baseline and during follow-up were compared with 33 age-matched healthy controls and 13 infection controls. Concentrations of IL-6, serum amyloid A, soluble CD163, calprotectin, YKL-40, VEGF, angiopoietin-1 and -2 and sTie2 were determined by ELISA/Luminex assay. RESULTS Serum concentrations of all markers, but not angiopoietin-1, were elevated in GCA patients at baseline when compared with healthy controls. High VEGF (P = 0.0025) and angiopoietin-1 (P = 0.0174) and low YKL-40 (P = 0.0369) levels at baseline were predictive of a short time to glucocorticoid-free remission. Elevated angiopoietin-2 levels were associated with an imminent relapse during treatment (P < 0.05). IL-6 correlated strongly with acute-phase markers and soluble CD163 but not with markers of angiogenesis, YKL-40 or calprotectin. Glucocorticoid treatment down-modulated all markers except for calprotectin and YKL-40. Tissue expression of markers in temporal arteries was confirmed. CONCLUSION Markers of angiogenesis at baseline and during treatment predict GCA disease course, suggesting utility in patient stratification for glucocorticoid-sparing therapy. Calprotectin and YKL-40 are candidate markers for monitoring vessel wall inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick van Sleen
- Vasculitis Expertise Center Groningen, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Sandovici
- Vasculitis Expertise Center Groningen, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Wayel H Abdulahad
- Vasculitis Expertise Center Groningen, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Johan Bijzet
- Vasculitis Expertise Center Groningen, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Kornelis S M van der Geest
- Vasculitis Expertise Center Groningen, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Annemieke M H Boots
- Vasculitis Expertise Center Groningen, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth Brouwer
- Vasculitis Expertise Center Groningen, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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20
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Leblond A, Pezet S, Trouvin AP, Elhai M, Gonzalez V, Allanore Y, Avouac J. Linking systemic angiogenic markers to synovial vascularization in rheumatoid arthritis. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203607. [PMID: 30188942 PMCID: PMC6126858 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neoangiogenesis is a crucial event to promote the development of the hyperplasic proliferative pathologic synovium in Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Ultrasound (US) is sensitive for detection of power Doppler (PD) vascularization. Objective To explore the associations between a set of complementary circulating angiogenic markers and a comprehensive US assessment in patients with RA. Patients and methods Serum levels of eight angiogenic markers were measured by quantitative ELISAs in a total of 125 patients with RA, who were all systematically assessed in parallel by PDUS, performed on 32 joints. Results Serum levels of soluble Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) and Tie-2 were more likely to be increased in patients with synovial hyperemia detected on at least one joint (Power Doppler grade ≥1). sVCAM-1, Tie-2 and Angiostatin concentrations gradually increased together with the grade of the semiquantitative PDUS scale and concentrations of these three markers were markedly increased in patients with moderate to marked hyperemia (Power Doppler grade 2 and 3). Levels of sVCAM-1, Tie-2, and Angiostatin correlated with a global arthritis sum score, defined by the sum of the semiquantitative PDUS scores for all joints examined. Levels of Tie-2 and Placenta Growth Factor (PlGF) were associated with PDUS features indicating residual disease activity. Conclusion Our results support the relevance of measuring serum levels of vascular markers to evaluate the intensity and extent of synovial vascularization. Angiogenic markers, and particularly Tie-2, could be a valuable surrogate of active synovitis and their place in relation to PDUS in clinical practice deserve further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agathe Leblond
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Sonia Pezet
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Anne Priscille Trouvin
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Service de Rhumatologie A, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Muriel Elhai
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Service de Rhumatologie A, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Virginie Gonzalez
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Yannick Allanore
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Service de Rhumatologie A, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Avouac
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Service de Rhumatologie A, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
- * E-mail:
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21
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Raman MR, Himali JJ, Conner SC, DeCarli C, Vasan RS, Beiser AS, Seshadri S, Maillard P, Satizabal CL. Circulating Vascular Growth Factors and Magnetic Resonance Imaging Markers of Small Vessel Disease and Atrophy in Middle-Aged Adults. Stroke 2018; 49:2227-2229. [PMID: 30354979 PMCID: PMC6101979 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.118.022613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background and Purpose- Little is known about associations between vascular growth factors and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) markers in midlife. We investigated the association of serum VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), Ang2 (angiopoietin 2), sTie2 (soluble tyrosine kinase with immunoglobulin-like and EGF-like domains 2), and HGF (hepatocyte growth factor) concentrations with MRI markers of brain aging in middle-aged adults. Methods- We evaluated 1853 participants (mean age, 46±9 years; 46% men) from the Framingham Heart Study. Serum growth factor concentrations were measured using standardized immunoassays. Outcomes included total brain, cortical and subcortical gray matter, white matter, cerebrospinal fluid, and white matter hyperintensity volumes derived from MRI; as well as fractional anisotropy in white matter tracts from diffusion tensor imaging. We related VEGF, Ang2, sTie2, and HGF to MRI measures using multivariable regression models adjusting for vascular risk factors. We tested for interactions with APOE (apolipoprotein E) genotype and CRP (C-reactive protein). Results were corrected for multiple comparisons. Results- Higher sTie2 was associated with smaller total brain (estimate by SD unit±SE=-0.08±0.02, P=0.002) and larger white matter hyperintensity (0.08±0.02, P=0.002) volumes. Furthermore, higher Ang2 (0.06±0.02, P=0.049) and HGF (0.09±0.02, P=0.001) were associated with larger cerebrospinal fluid volumes. Finally, higher Ang2 was associated with decreased fractional anisotropy, in APOE-ε4 carriers only. Conclusions- Vascular growth factors are associated with early MRI markers of small vessel disease and neurodegeneration in middle-aged adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mekala R Raman
- From the Department of Neurology (M.R.R., J.J.H., A.S.B., S.S., C.L.S.)
- Boston University School of Medicine, MA; Framingham Heart Study, MA (M.R.R., J.J.H., S.C.C., R.S.V., A.S.B., S.S., C.L.S.)
| | - Jayandra J Himali
- From the Department of Neurology (M.R.R., J.J.H., A.S.B., S.S., C.L.S.)
- Boston University School of Medicine, MA; Framingham Heart Study, MA (M.R.R., J.J.H., S.C.C., R.S.V., A.S.B., S.S., C.L.S.)
- Department of Biostatistics (J.J.H., S.C.C., A.S.B.)
| | - Sarah C Conner
- Boston University School of Medicine, MA; Framingham Heart Study, MA (M.R.R., J.J.H., S.C.C., R.S.V., A.S.B., S.S., C.L.S.)
- Department of Biostatistics (J.J.H., S.C.C., A.S.B.)
| | - Charles DeCarli
- Boston University School of Public Health, MA; Department of Neurology, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA (C.D., P.M.)
| | - Ramachandran S Vasan
- Department of Medicine (R.S.V.)
- Boston University School of Medicine, MA; Framingham Heart Study, MA (M.R.R., J.J.H., S.C.C., R.S.V., A.S.B., S.S., C.L.S.)
- Department of Epidemiology (R.S.V.)
| | - Alexa S Beiser
- From the Department of Neurology (M.R.R., J.J.H., A.S.B., S.S., C.L.S.)
- Boston University School of Medicine, MA; Framingham Heart Study, MA (M.R.R., J.J.H., S.C.C., R.S.V., A.S.B., S.S., C.L.S.)
- Department of Biostatistics (J.J.H., S.C.C., A.S.B.)
| | - Sudha Seshadri
- From the Department of Neurology (M.R.R., J.J.H., A.S.B., S.S., C.L.S.)
- Boston University School of Medicine, MA; Framingham Heart Study, MA (M.R.R., J.J.H., S.C.C., R.S.V., A.S.B., S.S., C.L.S.)
- Department of Neurology (S.S.)
- Department of Psychiatry (S.S.)
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology (S.S.)
- Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases, UT Health San Antonio, TX (S.S., C.L.S.)
| | - Pauline Maillard
- Boston University School of Public Health, MA; Department of Neurology, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA (C.D., P.M.)
| | - Claudia L Satizabal
- From the Department of Neurology (M.R.R., J.J.H., A.S.B., S.S., C.L.S.)
- Boston University School of Medicine, MA; Framingham Heart Study, MA (M.R.R., J.J.H., S.C.C., R.S.V., A.S.B., S.S., C.L.S.)
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics (C.L.S.)
- Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases, UT Health San Antonio, TX (S.S., C.L.S.)
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22
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Frech TM, Machin DR, Murtaugh MA, Stoddard GJ, Bloom SI, Phibbs JV, Donato AJ. Implications of endothelial shear stress on systemic sclerosis vasculopathy and treatment. Clin Exp Rheumatol 2018; 36 Suppl 113:175-182. [PMID: 30277867 PMCID: PMC6542469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
There are no Federal Drug Administration approved drugs for the treatment of systemic sclerosis vascular digital ulcers (DU) in the United States, which are thought to be an end-stage result of prolonged ischaemia due to severe, prolonged Raynaud's phenomenon. Most therapeutics for vasodilation used in SSc work different pathways to target the smooth muscle to induce vessel relaxation. Longitudinal studies of vascular function allow insight into the effects of medications used for Raynaud's phenomenon in the SSc patient population. In this review, we discuss vascular tone, the function of the endothelium in SSc, and provide the rationale for longitudinal studies of vascular function and therapeutics that target the endothelial shear stress in addition to vasodilation for treatment and prevention of DU. This review provides the rationale for vasodilatory medication use for treatment of SSc-related DU and justifies access to non-FDA approved medications for this indication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy M Frech
- University of Utah, Department of Internal Medicine; University of Utah Hospitals and Clinics; and VAMC Salt Lake City, GRECC, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Daniel R Machin
- University of Utah, Department of Internal Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Maureen A Murtaugh
- University of Utah, Department of Internal Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Gregory J Stoddard
- University of Utah, Department of Internal Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Samuel I Bloom
- University of Utah, Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jessica V Phibbs
- University of Utah Hospitals and Clinics, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Anthony J Donato
- University of Utah, Department of Internal Medicine; University of Utah, Department of Exercise and Sport Science; University of Utah, Dept. of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, University of Utah; and VAMC Salt Lake City, GRECC, Salt Lake City, USA
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23
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Miwa K, Okazaki S, Sakaguchi M, Mochizuki H, Kitagawa K. Interleukin-6, interleukin-6 receptor gene variant, small-vessel disease and incident dementia. Eur J Neurol 2016; 23:656-63. [PMID: 26725994 DOI: 10.1111/ene.12921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Mixed neurogenerative and vascular dementia has emerged as the leading cause of dementia in the elderly. Inflammation is implicated in atherosclerosis, cerebral small-vessel disease (SVD) as well as cognitive impairment. However, longitudinal data on the predictive value of circulating inflammatory markers including gene variants and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in incident dementia are scarce. It was investigated whether circulating interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP) and gene variants increase dementia risk. METHODS In a cohort of Japanese participants with vascular risk factors in an observational study from 2001, the association between baseline IL-6, CRP levels, gene variants [interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R), rs2228145; IL-6, rs2097677; CRP, rs3093059] and incident all-cause dementia was evaluated. Baseline MRI was used to determine SVD (lacuna, white matter hyperintensities) and atrophy (medial-temporal lobe atrophy, bicaudate ratio). Cox proportional hazards analyses were performed for predictors of dementia, adjusting for age, sex, apolipoprotein Eε4, education, cerebrovascular events, vascular risk factors and MRI findings. RESULTS Of 803 subjects (mean 67.0 ± 8.5 years, males 59%), during a mean of 7.5 ± 3.2 years follow-up, 60 incident dementia patients (Alzheimer's disease 31; vascular dementia 17; mixed-type six; other six) were diagnosed. In multivariable analyses adjusted for age, sex, cerebrovascular events, MRI findings and IL-6R variant (rs2228145), IL-6 levels (relative risk 1.68, P = 0.048) or highest tertile (relative risk 2.38, P = 0.031) for all-cause dementia remained significant. Although subjects with rs2228145 carrier had significantly higher IL-6 levels, a significant association between rs2228145 and dementia was not observed. Conversely, CRP and remaining gene variants were not associated with dementia. CONCLUSIONS The deleterious effect of higher IL-6 on dementia remains consistent irrespective of conventional risk factors, MRI findings and IL-6R variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Miwa
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - S Okazaki
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - M Sakaguchi
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - H Mochizuki
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - K Kitagawa
- Department of Neurology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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