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Bhattacharyya A, Barbee KA. Vascular endothelial cell morphology and alignment regulate VEGF-induced endothelial nitric oxide synthase activation. Cytoskeleton (Hoboken) 2024. [PMID: 38775643 DOI: 10.1002/cm.21872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) production by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) inhibits platelet and leukocyte adhesion while promoting vasorelaxation in smooth muscle cells. Dysfunctional regulation of eNOS is a hallmark of various vascular pathologies, notably atherosclerosis, often associated with areas of low shear stress on endothelial cells (ECs). While the link between EC morphology and local hemodynamics is acknowledged, the specific impact of EC morphology on eNOS regulation remains unclear. Morphological differences between elongated, aligned ECs and polygonal, randomly oriented ECs correspond to variations in focal adhesion and cytoskeletal organization, suggesting differing levels of cytoskeletal prestress. However, the functional outcomes of cytoskeletal prestress, particularly in the absence of shear stress, are not extensively studied in ECs. Some evidence suggests that elongated ECs exhibit decreased immunogenicity and enhanced NO production. This study aims to elucidate the signaling pathways governing VEGF-stimulated eNOS regulation in the aligned EC phenotype characterized by elongated and aligned cells within a monolayer. Using anisotropic topographic cues, bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAECs) were elongated and aligned, followed by VEGF treatment in the presence or absence of cytoskeletal tension inhibitors. Phosphorylation of eNOS ser1179, AKT ser437 and FAK Tyr397 in response to VEGF challenge were significantly heightened in aligned ECs compared to unaligned ECs. Moreover this response proved to be robustly tied to cytoskeletal tension as evinced by the abrogation of responses in the presence of the myosin II ATPase inhibitor, blebbistatin. Notably, this work demonstrates for the first time the reliance on FAK phosphorylation in VEGF-mediated eNOS activation and the comparatively greater contribution of the cytoskeletal machinery in propagating VEGF-eNOS signaling in aligned and elongated ECs. This research underscores the importance of utilizing appropriate vascular models in drug development and sheds light on potential mechanisms underlying vascular function and pathology that can help inform vascular graft design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aparna Bhattacharyya
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science, and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kenneth A Barbee
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science, and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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2
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Mao X, Yan X, Li C, Liu Y, Zhang Y, Lin N. Extensive preclinical evaluation of combined mangiferin and glycyrrhizic acid for restricting synovial neovascularization in rheumatoid arthritis. Chin Med 2023; 18:156. [PMID: 38037139 PMCID: PMC10687849 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-023-00863-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synovial neovascularization promotes rheumatoid arthritis (RA) progression. Baihu guizhi decoction (BHGZD) has a potential in restricting this pathological change of RA. PURPOSE To identify bioactive compounds (BACs) of BHGZD and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms in restricting synovial neovascularization of RA. METHOD Through transcriptomic profiling, the chemical profiling of BHGZD and its effective transcriptomic profiling against RA were identified. Then, candidate targets and the corresponding BACs against synovial neovascularization were screened by "disease gene-drug target" interaction network analysis and in silico molecular docking. The binding affinities of candidate BAC-target pairs were verified using surface plasmon resonance, and the pharmacokinetic characteristics of BACs in vivo after BHGZD administration at different time points were detected by Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass spectrum/Mass spectrum. After that, in vivo experiments based on adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA-M) rats, and in vitro experiments based on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and arthritic synovial fibroblasts (MH7A) were carried out to evaluate the pharmacological effects of BHGZD and the two-BACs-combination, and to verify the associated mechanisms. RESULT VEGFA/VEGFR2/SRC/PI3K/AKT signal axis was screened as one of the key network targets of BHGZD against synovial neovascularization in RA. Mangiferin (MG) and glycyrrhizic acid (GA) were identified as the representative BACs of BHGZD for their strong binding affinities with components of the VEGFA/VEGFR2/SRC/PI3K/AKT signal axis, and their high exposed quantity in vivo. Both BHGZD and the two-BAC combination of MG and GA were demonstrated to be effective in restricting disease severity, reducing synovial inflammation and decreasing the formation of vascular opacities in AIA-M rats, and also reducing the migrative and invasive activities of HUVEC and MH7A cells and attenuating the lumen formation ability of HUVEC cells significantly. Mechanically, both BHGZD and the two-BAC combination markedly reduced the expression of VEGFA in synovial tissues, the serum levels of VEGF and NO, and the enzymatic activity of eNOS, increased the content of endostatin, and also reversed the abnormal alterations in the VEGFA/VEGFR2/SRC/PI3K/AKT signal axis in vivo and in vitro. CONCLUSION MG and GA may be the representative BACs of BHGZD for restricting excessive synovial vascularization in RA via regulating VEGFA/VEGFR2/SRC/PI3K/AKT signal axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Mao
- Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory and Literatures, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, No. 16, Nanxiaojie, Dongzhimennei, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Xiangying Yan
- Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory and Literatures, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, No. 16, Nanxiaojie, Dongzhimennei, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Congchong Li
- Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory and Literatures, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, No. 16, Nanxiaojie, Dongzhimennei, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Yudong Liu
- Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory and Literatures, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, No. 16, Nanxiaojie, Dongzhimennei, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Yanqiong Zhang
- Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory and Literatures, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, No. 16, Nanxiaojie, Dongzhimennei, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Na Lin
- Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory and Literatures, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, No. 16, Nanxiaojie, Dongzhimennei, Beijing, 100700, China.
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3
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Guerra DD, Hurt KJ. Gasotransmitters in pregnancy: from conception to uterine involution. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:4-25. [PMID: 30848786 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gasotransmitters are endogenous small gaseous messengers exemplified by nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S or sulfide). Gasotransmitters are implicated in myriad physiologic functions including many aspects of reproduction. Our objective was to comprehensively review basic mechanisms and functions of gasotransmitters during pregnancy from conception to uterine involution and highlight future research opportunities. We searched PubMed and Web of Science databases using combinations of keywords nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, sulfide, placenta, uterus, labor, and pregnancy. We included English language publications on human and animal studies from any date through August 2018 and retained basic and translational articles with relevant original findings. All gasotransmitters activate cGMP signaling. NO and sulfide also covalently modify target protein cysteines. Protein kinases and ion channels transduce gasotransmitter signals, and co-expressed gasotransmitters can be synergistic or antagonistic depending on cell type. Gasotransmitters influence tubal transit, placentation, cervical remodeling, and myometrial contractility. NO, CO, and sulfide dilate resistance vessels, suppress inflammation, and relax myometrium to promote uterine quiescence and normal placentation. Cervical remodeling and rupture of fetal membranes coincide with enhanced oxidation and altered gasotransmitter metabolism. Mechanisms mediating cellular and organismal changes in pregnancy due to gasotransmitters are largely unknown. Altered gasotransmitter signaling has been reported for preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, premature rupture of membranes, and preterm labor. However, in most cases specific molecular changes are not yet characterized. Nonclassical signaling pathways and the crosstalk among gasotransmitters are emerging investigation topics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian D Guerra
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - K Joseph Hurt
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA.,Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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4
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Eyries M, Montani D, Girerd B, Favrolt N, Riou M, Faivre L, Manaud G, Perros F, Gräf S, Morrell NW, Humbert M, Soubrier F. Familial pulmonary arterial hypertension by KDR heterozygous loss of function. Eur Respir J 2020; 55:13993003.02165-2019. [PMID: 31980491 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.02165-2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Beyond the major gene BMPR2, several new genes predisposing to PAH have been identified during the last decade. Recently, preliminary evidence of the involvement of the KDR gene was found in a large genetic association study.We prospectively analysed the KDR gene by targeted panel sequencing in a series of 311 PAH patients referred to a clinical molecular laboratory for genetic diagnosis of PAH.Two index cases with severe PAH from two different families were found to carry a loss-of-function mutation in the KDR gene. These two index cases were clinically characterised by low diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide adjusted for haemoglobin (D LCOc) and interstitial lung disease. In one family, segregation analysis revealed that variant carriers are either presenting with PAH associated with low D LCOc, or have only decreased D LCOc, whereas non-carrier relatives have normal D LCOc. In the second family, a single affected carrier was alive. His carrier mother was unaffected with normal D LCOc.We provided genetic evidence for considering KDR as a newly identified PAH-causing gene by describing the segregation of KDR mutations with PAH in two families. In our study, KDR mutations are associated with a particular form of PAH characterised by low D LCOc and radiological evidence of parenchymal lung disease including interstitial lung disease and emphysema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Eyries
- Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Département de génétique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.,UMR_S1166-ICAN, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Paris, France.,Equally contributing authors
| | - David Montani
- Univ. Paris-Sud, Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France.,Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Service de Pneumologie, Centre de Référence de l'Hypertension Pulmonaire, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France.,UMR_S 999, Univ. Paris-Sud, INSERM, Hôpital Marie Lannelongue, Le Plessis Robinson, France.,Equally contributing authors
| | - Barbara Girerd
- Univ. Paris-Sud, Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France.,Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Service de Pneumologie, Centre de Référence de l'Hypertension Pulmonaire, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Nicolas Favrolt
- Service de Pneumologie et Soins Intensifs Respiratoires, Centre de référence constitutif des maladies pulmonaires rares de l'adulte, Centre de compétence de l'hypertension pulmonaire, CHU Dijon-Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Marianne Riou
- Service de pneumologie, Nouvel hôpital civil, Strasbourg, France
| | - Laurence Faivre
- Centre de génétique, FHU TRANSLAD, Institut GIMI et UMR INSERM 1231, CHU de Dijon et Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Grégoire Manaud
- UMR_S 999, Univ. Paris-Sud, INSERM, Hôpital Marie Lannelongue, Le Plessis Robinson, France
| | - Frédéric Perros
- UMR_S 999, Univ. Paris-Sud, INSERM, Hôpital Marie Lannelongue, Le Plessis Robinson, France
| | - Stefan Gräf
- NIHR Bioresource - Rare Diseases, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK.,Dept of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK.,Dept of Haematology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nicholas W Morrell
- NIHR Bioresource - Rare Diseases, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK.,Dept of Medicine, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Addenbrooke's and Royal Papworth Hospitals, Cambridge, UK
| | - Marc Humbert
- Univ. Paris-Sud, Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France.,Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Service de Pneumologie, Centre de Référence de l'Hypertension Pulmonaire, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France.,UMR_S 999, Univ. Paris-Sud, INSERM, Hôpital Marie Lannelongue, Le Plessis Robinson, France
| | - Florent Soubrier
- Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Département de génétique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France .,UMR_S1166-ICAN, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Paris, France
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Caveolin-1 Scaffolding Domain Peptide Regulates Colon Endothelial Cell Survival through JNK Pathway. Int J Inflam 2020; 2020:6150942. [PMID: 35013693 PMCID: PMC8742180 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6150942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been reported that pathological angiogenesis contributes to both experimental colitis and inflammatory bowel disease. Recently, we demonstrated that endothelial caveolin-1 plays a key role in the pathological angiogenesis of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) colitis. However, the molecular mechanism of caveolin-1 regulation of endothelial function is unknown. In this study, we examined how the antennapedia- (AP-) conjugated caveolin-1 scaffolding domain (AP-Cav) modulates vascular endothelial growth factor- (VEGF-) dependent colon endothelial cell angiogenic responses, as seen during colitis. We used mouse colon endothelial cells and found that AP-Cav significantly inhibited VEGF-mediated bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation into colon microvascular endothelial cells. AP-Cav significantly blunted VEGF-dependent extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK 1/2) phosphorylation at 10 minutes and 2 hours after stimulation, compared with the AP control peptide. AP-Cav + VEGF-A treatment also significantly increased c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation at 2 hours. AP-Cav + VEGF-A treatment significantly downregulated retinoblastoma (Rb) protein levels, upregulated cleaved caspase-3 protein levels at 4 hours, and induced apoptosis. Thus, our study suggests that disruption of endothelial caveolin-1 function via the AP-Cav diverts VEGF signaling responses away from endothelial cell proliferation and toward apoptosis through the inhibition of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase signaling and the induction of JNK-associated apoptosis.
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Two patterns of cytokine production by placental macrophages. Placenta 2020; 91:1-10. [PMID: 31941612 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Macrophages participate in the regulation immune and morphogenetic events in the placenta. However, these roles remain unclear for placental macrophages (Hofbauer cells). The aims of this study were to characterize the consecutive steps of cytokine production (intracellular synthesis and secretion) in placental macrophages in early and late gestation and to compare the secretory profiles of placental macrophages and villous tissue. METHODS Macrophages and villous tissue were isolated from placentas obtained from normal pregnancies at either 9-12 or 38-40 weeks of gestation. Intracellular cytokines were determined by flow cytometry after staining with monoclonal antibodies. Secreted cytokines were quantified by cytometric bead array and ELISA. RESULTS Two patterns of cytokine production were revealed in placental macrophages. Cytokines in the first group (IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNFα) demonstrated low basal production and were stimulated by bacterial endotoxin. Cytokines in the second group (IL-11, IL-17A, IL-17F, TGF-β, VEGF) were characterized by constitutive production and did not respond to stimulation. Gestational age-dependent changes were observed: basal secretion of TNFα and IL-8 increased whereas IL-11 and IL-17 secretion decreased in third-trimester macrophages compared with the first-trimester cells. Comparison of cytokine production at the cellular and tissue levels suggested the contribution of the placental macrophages both in intraplacental and extraplacental cytokine production. DISCUSSION It would be safe to assume that the two patterns of cytokine production, revealed in our study, correspond to two regulatory roles of placental macrophages: "immune" and "morphogenetic". The inflammatory phenotype of macrophages is attenuated in early gestation and increases with the progression of pregnancy. The cytokines of the first group supposedly contribute to both local and extraplacental levels, whereas the cytokine effects of the second group are more likely confined to the placental tissue.
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Zhai L, Liu Y, Zhao W, Chen Q, Guo T, Wei W, Luo Z, Huang Y, Ma C, Huang F, Dai X. Aerobic and resistance training enhances endothelial progenitor cell function via upregulation of caveolin-1 in mice with type 2 diabetes. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:10. [PMID: 31900223 PMCID: PMC6942272 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1527-z] [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: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To explore the effect of aerobic training (AT), resistance training (RT) or a combination of AT and RT (AT+RT) on the function of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in mice with type 2 diabetes and the potential effective mechanisms Methods Eight-week-old db/db male mice were used as type 2 diabetic animal models in this study. Mice were randomly assigned to the control group (n = 5), AT group (n = 5), RT group (n = 5) and AT+RT group (n = 5). Mice in the control group remained sedentary with no specific training requirement. Mice were motivated to perform AT, RT or AT+RT by a gentle pat on their body for 3 or 4 days/week for 14 days. AT was performed by treadmill running, RT was performed by ladder climbing and AT+RT involved both AT and RT. Bone-derived EPCs were isolated after 14 days of the intervention. EPC expression of CD31, CD34, CD133, CD144 and VEGFR2 was detected by immunofluorescence staining. Fluorescence detection was performed on attached mononuclear cells to detect double-positive EPCs. We then explored the effect of caveolin-1 knockdown (lentiviral vector with caveolin-1-siRNA) on the proliferation and adherence of EPCs and the concentration of caveolin-1 and PI3K/AKT via western blot analyses. Results Compared to the mice in the control group, the mice in the AT, RT and AT+RT groups presented significant increases in proliferation and adherence after 14 days of intervention. AT+RT induced an increase in EPC adherence, which was greater than that of the control, RT and AT groups. Caveolin-1 knockdown inhibited the EPC proliferative and adherent abilities. The AT+RT group showed higher levels of caveolin-1 and p-AKT than the control group, but these changes were decreased by caveolin-1-siRNA transfection. Conclusion Combined AT and RT is an effective way to improve EPC function through upregulation of caveolin-1 in mice with type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhai
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Yuhua Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Wenpiao Zhao
- Department of Nursing, Guangxi JiangBin Hospital, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Qingyun Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Tao Guo
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Zhuchun Luo
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China.,Department of Internal Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Yanfeng Huang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Cui Ma
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Feng Huang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China.
| | - Xia Dai
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China.
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Rengarajan A, Mauro AK, Boeldt DS. Maternal disease and gasotransmitters. Nitric Oxide 2020; 96:1-12. [PMID: 31911124 DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2020.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The three known gasotransmitters, nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide are involved in key processes throughout pregnancy. Gasotransmitters are known to impact on smooth muscle tone, regulation of immune responses, and oxidative state of cells and their component molecules. Failure of the systems that tightly regulate gasotransmitter production and downstream effects are thought to contribute to common maternal diseases such as preeclampsia and preterm birth. Normal pregnancy-related changes in uterine blood flow depend heavily on gasotransmitter signaling. In preeclampsia, endothelial dysfunction is a major contributor to aberrant gasotransmitter signaling, resulting in hypertension after 20 weeks gestation. Maintenance of pregnancy to term also requires gasotransmitter-mediated uterine quiescence. As the appropriate signals for parturition occur, regulation of gasotransmitter signaling must work in concert with those endocrine signals in order for appropriate labor and delivery timing. Like preeclampsia, preterm birth may have origins in abnormal gasotransmitter signaling. We review the evidence for the involvement of gasotransmitters in preeclampsia and preterm birth, as well as mechanistic and molecular signaling targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Rengarajan
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Dept Ob/ Gyn, UW - Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Amanda K Mauro
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Dept Ob/ Gyn, UW - Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Derek S Boeldt
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Dept Ob/ Gyn, UW - Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA.
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Narvaez-Sanchez R, Calderón JC, Vega G, Trillos MC, Ospina S. Skeletal muscle as a protagonist in the pregnancy metabolic syndrome. Med Hypotheses 2019; 126:26-37. [PMID: 31010495 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2019.02.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The pregnant woman normally shows clinical manifestations similar to a metabolic syndrome (MS), due to her metabolic and hemodynamic adaptations in order to share nutrients with the child. If those adjustments are surpassed, a kind of pregnancy MS (PregMS) could appear, characterized by excessive insulin resistance and vascular maladaptation. Skeletal muscle (SKM) must be a protagonist in the PregMS: SKM strength and mass have been associated inversely with MS incidence in non-pregnant patients, and in pregnant women muscular activity modulates metabolic and vascular adaptations that favor better outcomes. Of note, a sedentary lifestyle affects exactly in the other way. Those effects may be explained not only by the old paradigm of SKM being a great energy consumer and store, but because it is an endocrine organ whose chronic activity or deconditioning correspondingly releases myokines modulating insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular adaptation, by direct or indirect mechanisms not well understood. In this document, we present evidence to support the concept of a PregMS and hypothesize on the role of the SKM mass, fiber types composition and myokines in its pathophysiology. Also, we discuss some exercise interventions in pregnancy as a way to test our hypotheses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raul Narvaez-Sanchez
- Physiology and Biochemistry Research Group PHYSIS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia; Red iberoamericana de trastornos vasculares y del embarazo, RIVATREM, Colombia.
| | - Juan C Calderón
- Physiology and Biochemistry Research Group PHYSIS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia. http://www.udea.edu.co/physis
| | - Gloria Vega
- Physiology and Biochemistry Research Group PHYSIS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia. http://www.udea.edu.co/physis
| | - Maria Camila Trillos
- Physiology and Biochemistry Research Group PHYSIS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia. http://www.udea.edu.co/physis
| | - Sara Ospina
- Physiology and Biochemistry Research Group PHYSIS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia. http://www.udea.edu.co/physis
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Li Y, Lorca RA, Su EJ. Molecular and cellular underpinnings of normal and abnormal human placental blood flows. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 60:R9-R22. [PMID: 29097590 PMCID: PMC5732864 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal placental function is well-established as a major cause for poor pregnancy outcome. Placental blood flow within the maternal uteroplacental compartment, the fetoplacental circulation or both is a vital factor in mediating placental function. Impairment in flow in either or both vasculatures is a significant risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcome, potentially impacting maternal well-being, affecting immediate neonatal health and even influencing the long-term health of the infant. Much remains unknown regarding the mechanistic underpinnings of proper placental blood flow. This review highlights the currently recognized molecular and cellular mechanisms in the development of normal uteroplacental and fetoplacental blood flows. Utilizing the entities of preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction as clinical phenotypes that are often evident downstream of abnormal placental blood flow, mechanisms underlying impaired uteroplacental and fetoplacental blood flows are also discussed. Deficiencies in knowledge, which limit the efficacy of clinical care, are also highlighted, underscoring the need for continued research on normal and abnormal placental blood flows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingchun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyDivision of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Ramón A Lorca
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyDivision of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Emily J Su
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyDivision of Maternal-Fetal Medicine/Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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11
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Chen DB, Feng L, Hodges JK, Lechuga TJ, Zhang H. Human trophoblast-derived hydrogen sulfide stimulates placental artery endothelial cell angiogenesis. Biol Reprod 2017; 97:478-489. [PMID: 29024947 PMCID: PMC6248441 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S), mainly synthesized by cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine γ-lyase (CTH), has been implicated in regulating placental angiogenesis; however, the underlying mechanisms are unknown. This study was to test a hypothesis that trophoblasts synthesize H2S to promote placental angiogenesis. Human choriocarcinoma-derived BeWo cells expressed both CBS and CTH proteins, while the first trimester villous trophoblast-originated HTR-8/SVneo cells expressed CTH protein only. The H2S producing ability of BeWo cells was significantly inhibited by either inhibitors of CBS (carboxymethyl hydroxylamine hemihydrochloride, CHH) or CTH (β-cyano-L-alanine, BCA) and that in HTR-8/SVneo cells was inhibited by CHH only. H2S donors stimulated cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation in ovine placental artery endothelial cells (oFPAECs) as effectively as vascular endothelial growth factor. Co-culture with BeWo and HTR-8/SVneo cells stimulated oFPAEC migration, which was inhibited by CHH or BCA in BeWo but CHH only in HTR-8/SVneo cells. Primary human villous trophoblasts (HVT) were more potent than trophoblast cell lines in stimulating oFPAEC migration that was inhibited by CHH and CHH/BCA combination in accordance with its H2S synthesizing activity linked to CBS and CTH expression patterns. H2S donors activated endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS3), v-AKT murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog 1 (AKT1), and extracellular signal-activated kinase 1/2 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 3/1, MAPK3/1) in oFPAECs. H2S donor-induced NOS3 activation was blocked by AKT1 but not MAPK3/1 inhibition. In keeping with our previous studies showing a crucial role of AKT1, MAPK3/1, and NOS3/NO in placental angiogenesis, these data show that trophoblast-derived endogenous H2S stimulates placental angiogenesis, involving activation of AKT1, NOS3/NO, and MAPK3/1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Bao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California, Irvine,
Irvine, California, USA
| | - Lin Feng
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California, Irvine,
Irvine, California, USA
| | - Jennifer K Hodges
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California, Irvine,
Irvine, California, USA
| | - Thomas J Lechuga
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California, Irvine,
Irvine, California, USA
| | - Honghai Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California, Irvine,
Irvine, California, USA
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Zhang HH, Chen JC, Sheibani L, Lechuga TJ, Chen DB. Pregnancy Augments VEGF-Stimulated In Vitro Angiogenesis and Vasodilator (NO and H2S) Production in Human Uterine Artery Endothelial Cells. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2017; 102:2382-2393. [PMID: 28398541 PMCID: PMC5505189 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2017-00437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Augmented uterine artery (UA) production of vasodilators, including nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), has been implicated in pregnancy-associated and agonist-stimulated rise in uterine blood flow that is rate-limiting to pregnancy health. OBJECTIVE Developing a human UA endothelial cell (hUAEC) culture model from main UAs of nonpregnant (NP) and pregnant (P) women for testing a hypothesis that pregnancy augments endothelial NO and H2S production and endothelial reactivity to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). DESIGN Main UAs from NP and P women were used for developing hUAEC culture models. Comparisons were made between NP- and P-hUAECs in in vitro angiogenesis, activation of cell signaling, expression of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) and H2S-producing enzymes cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine γ-lyase, and NO/H2S production upon VEGF stimulation. RESULTS NP- and P-hUAECs displayed a typical cobblestone-like shape in culture and acetylated low-density lipoprotein uptake, stained positively for endothelial and negatively for smooth muscle markers, maintained key signaling proteins during passage, and had statistically significant greater eNOS and CBS proteins in P- vs NP-hUAECs. Treatment with VEGF stimulated in vitro angiogenesis and eNOS protein and NO production only in P-hUEACs and more robust cell signaling in P- vs NP-hUAECs. VEGF stimulated CBS protein expression, accounting for VEGF-stimulated H2S production in hUAECs. CONCLUSION Comparisons between NP- and P-hUAECs reveal that pregnancy augments VEGF-stimulated in vitro angiogenesis and NO/H2S production in hUAECs, showing that the newly established hUAEC model provides a critical in vitro tool for understanding human uterine hemodynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-hai Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Jennifer C. Chen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Lili Sheibani
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Thomas J. Lechuga
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Dong-bao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
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P2Y 2 receptor modulates shear stress-induced cell alignment and actin stress fibers in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Cell Mol Life Sci 2016; 74:731-746. [PMID: 27652381 PMCID: PMC5272905 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-016-2365-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Revised: 08/28/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial cells release ATP in response to fluid shear stress, which activates purinergic (P2) receptor-mediated signaling molecules including endothelial nitric oxide (eNOS), a regulator of vascular tone. While P2 receptor-mediated signaling in the vasculature is well studied, the role of P2Y2 receptors in shear stress-associated endothelial cell alignment, cytoskeletal alterations, and wound repair remains ill defined. To address these aspects, human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) monolayers were cultured on gelatin-coated dishes and subjected to a shear stress of 1 Pa. HUVECs exposed to either P2Y2 receptor antagonists or siRNA showed impaired fluid shear stress-induced cell alignment, and actin stress fiber formation as early as 6 h. Similarly, when compared to cells expressing the P2Y2 Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) wild-type receptors, HUVECs transiently expressing the P2Y2 Arg-Gly-Glu (RGE) mutant receptors showed reduced cell alignment and actin stress fiber formation in response to shear stress as well as to P2Y2 receptor agonists in static cultures. Additionally, we observed reduced shear stress-induced phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (Y397), and cofilin-1 (S3) with receptor knockdown as well as in cells expressing the P2Y2 RGE mutant receptors. Consistent with the role of P2Y2 receptors in vasodilation, receptor knockdown and overexpression of P2Y2 RGE mutant receptors reduced shear stress-induced phosphorylation of AKT (S473), and eNOS (S1177). Furthermore, in a scratched wound assay, shear stress-induced cell migration was reduced by both pharmacological inhibition and receptor knockdown. Together, our results suggest a novel role for P2Y2 receptor in shear stress-induced cytoskeletal alterations in HUVECs.
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Zhang HH, Lechuga TJ, Chen Y, Yang Y, Huang L, Chen DB. Quantitative Proteomics Analysis of VEGF-Responsive Endothelial Protein S-Nitrosylation Using Stable Isotope Labeling by Amino Acids in Cell Culture (SILAC) and LC-MS/MS. Biol Reprod 2016; 94:114. [PMID: 27075618 PMCID: PMC4939742 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.139337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2016] [Revised: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Adduction of a nitric oxide moiety (NO•) to cysteine(s), termed S-nitrosylation (SNO), is a novel mechanism for NO to regulate protein function directly. However, the endothelial SNO-protein network that is affected by endogenous and exogenous NO is obscure. This study was designed to develop a quantitative proteomics approach using stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture for comparing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGFA)- and NO donor-responsive endothelial nitroso-proteomes. Primary placental endothelial cells were labeled with "light" (L-(12)C6 (14)N4-Arg and L-(12)C6 (14)N2-Lys) or "heavy" (L-(13)C6 (15)N4-Arg and L-(13)C6 (15)N2-Lys) amino acids. The light cells were treated with an NO donor nitrosoglutathione (GSNO, 1 mM) or VEGFA (10 ng/ml) for 30 min, while the heavy cells received vehicle as control. Equal amounts of cellular proteins from the light (GSNO or VEGFA treated) and heavy cells were mixed for labeling SNO-proteins by the biotin switch technique and then trypsin digested. Biotinylated SNO-peptides were purified for identifying SNO-proteins by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Ratios of light to heavy SNO-peptides were calculated for determining the changes of the VEGFA- and GSNO-responsive endothelial nitroso-proteomes. A total of 387 light/heavy pairs of SNO-peptides were identified, corresponding to 213 SNO-proteins that include 125 common and 27 VEGFA- and 61 GSNO-responsive SNO-proteins. The specific SNO-cysteine(s) in each SNO-protein were simultaneously identified. Pathway analysis revealed that SNO-proteins are involved in various endothelial functions, including proliferation, motility, metabolism, and protein synthesis. We collectively conclude that endogenous NO on VEGFA stimulation and exogenous NO from GSNO affect common and different SNO-protein networks, implicating SNO as a critical mechanism for VEGFA stimulation of angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Hai Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Thomas J Lechuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Yuezhou Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Yingying Yang
- Department of Biophysics and Physiology, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Lan Huang
- Department of Biophysics and Physiology, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Dong-Bao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Irvine, California
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Wang H, Wang X, Qu J, Yue Q, Hu Y, Zhang H. VEGF Enhances the Migration of MSCs in Neural Differentiation by Regulating Focal Adhesion Turnover. J Cell Physiol 2015; 230:2728-42. [PMID: 25820249 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) hold great promise in neural regeneration, due to their intrinsic neuronal potential and migratory tropism to damaged nervous tissues. However, the chemotactic signals mediating the migration of MSCs remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the regulatory roles for focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Rac1 in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-stimulated migration of MSCs in neural differentiation. We found that MSCs in various differentiation states show significant different chemotactic responses to VEGF and cells in 24-h preinduction state possess the highest migration speed and efficiency. FAK, as the downstream signaling molecule, is involved in the VEGF-induced migration by regulating the assembly and distribution of focal adhesions (FAs) and reorganization of F-actin. The features of FAs and cytoskeletons and the ability of lamellipodia formation are closely related to the neural differentiation states of MSCs. VEGF promotes FA formation with an asymmetric distribution of FAs and induces the activation of Y397-FAK and Y31/118-paxillin of undifferentiated and 24-h preinduced MSCs in a time-dependent manner. Inhibition of FAK by PF-228 or expressing FAK-Y397F mutant impairs the dynamics of FAs in MSCs during VEGF-induced migration. Furthermore, Rac1 regulates FA formation in a FAK-dependent manner. Overexpression of constitutive activated mutants of Rac1 increases the number of FAs in undifferentiated and 24-h preinduced MSCs, while VEGF-induced increase of FA formation is decreased by inhibiting FAK by PF-228. Collectively, these results demonstrate that FAK and Rac1 signalings coordinately regulate the dynamics of FAs during VEGF-induced migration of MSCs in varying neural differentiation states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huihui Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Stem Cell Research, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xingkai Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Stem Cell Research, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jing Qu
- Department of Cell Biology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Stem Cell Research, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Qing Yue
- Department of Cell Biology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Stem Cell Research, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Ya'nan Hu
- Department of Cell Biology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Stem Cell Research, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Huanxiang Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Stem Cell Research, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Su EJ. Role of the fetoplacental endothelium in fetal growth restriction with abnormal umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2015; 213:S123-30. [PMID: 26428491 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.06.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Revised: 06/12/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Growth-restricted fetuses with absent or reversed end-diastolic velocities in the umbilical artery are at substantially increased risk for adverse perinatal and long-term outcome, even in comparison to growth-restricted fetuses with preserved end-diastolic velocities. Translational studies show that this Doppler velocimetry correlates with fetoplacental blood flow, with absent or reversed end-diastolic velocities signifying abnormally elevated resistance within the placental vasculature. The fetoplacental vasculature is unique in that it is not subject to autonomic regulation, unlike other vascular beds. Instead, humoral mediators, many of which are synthesized by local endothelial cells, regulate placental vascular resistance. Existing data demonstrate that in growth-restricted pregnancies complicated by absent or reversed umbilical artery end-diastolic velocities, an imbalance in production of these vasoactive substances occurs, favoring vasoconstriction. Morphologically, placentas from these pregnancies also demonstrate impaired angiogenesis, whereby vessels within the terminal villi are sparsely branched, abnormally thin, and elongated. This structural deviation from normal placental angiogenesis restricts blood flow and further contributes to elevated fetoplacental vascular resistance. Although considerable work has been done in the field of fetoplacental vascular development and function, much remains unknown about the mechanisms underlying impaired development and function of the human fetoplacental vasculature, especially in the context of severe fetal growth restriction with absent or reversed umbilical artery end-diastolic velocities. Fetoplacental endothelial cells are key regulators of angiogenesis and vasomotor tone. A thorough understanding of their role in placental vascular biology carries the significant potential of discovering clinically relevant and innovative approaches to prevention and treatment of fetal growth restriction with compromised umbilical artery end-diastolic velocities.
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17
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Zhang HH, Lechuga TJ, Tith T, Wang W, Wing DA, Chen DB. S-nitrosylation of cofilin-1 mediates estradiol-17β-stimulated endothelial cytoskeleton remodeling. Mol Endocrinol 2015; 29:434-44. [PMID: 25635941 DOI: 10.1210/me.2014-1297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid nitric oxide (NO) production via endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) activation represents a major signaling pathway for the cardiovascular protective effects of estrogens; however, the pathways after NO biosynthesis that estrogens use to function remain largely unknown. Covalent adduction of a NO moiety to cysteines, termed S-nitrosylation (SNO), has emerged as a key route for NO to directly regulate protein function. Cofilin-1 (CFL1) is a small actin-binding protein essential for actin dynamics and cytoskeleton remodeling. Despite being identified as a major SNO protein in endothelial cells, whether SNO regulates CFL-1 function is unknown. We hypothesized that estradiol-17β (E2β) stimulates SNO of CFL1 via eNOS-derived NO and that E2β-induced SNO-CFL1 mediates cytoskeleton remodeling in endothelial cells. Point mutation studies determined Cys80 as the primary SNO site among the 4 cysteines (Cys39/80/139/147) in CFL1. Substitutions of Cys80 with Ala or Ser were used to prepare the SNO-mimetic/deficient (C80A/S) CFL1 mutants. Recombinant wild-type (wt) and mutant CFL1 proteins were prepared; their actin-severing activity was determined by real-time fluorescence imaging analysis. The activity of C80A CFL1 was enhanced to that of the constitutively active S3/A CFL1, whereas the other mutants had no effects. C80A/S mutations lowered Ser3 phosphorylation. Treatment with E2β increased filamentous (F)-actin and filopodium formation in endothelial cells, which were significantly reduced in cells overexpressing wt-CFL. Overexpression of C80A, but not C80S, CFL1 decreased basal F-actin and further suppressed E2β-induced F-actin and filopodium formation compared with wt-CFL1 overexpression. Thus, SNO(Cys80) of cofilin-1 via eNOS-derived NO provides a novel pathway for mediating estrogen-induced endothelial cell cytoskeleton remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-hai Zhang
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (H-h.Z., T.J.L., T.T., W.W., D.A.W., D-b.C.) and Pathology (T.J.L., D-b.C.), University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California 92697
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Zhang HH, Wang W, Feng L, Yang Y, Zheng J, Huang L, Chen DB. S-nitrosylation of Cofilin-1 Serves as a Novel Pathway for VEGF-Stimulated Endothelial Cell Migration. J Cell Physiol 2014; 230:406-17. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/16/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hong-hai Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University of California; Irvine California
| | - Wen Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University of California; Irvine California
| | - Lin Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University of California; Irvine California
| | - Yingying Yang
- Department of Biophysics and Physiology; University of California; Irvine California
| | - Jing Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University of Wisconsin-Madison; Madison Wisconsin
| | - Lan Huang
- Department of Biophysics and Physiology; University of California; Irvine California
| | - Dong-bao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University of California; Irvine California
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Chen DB, Zheng J. Regulation of placental angiogenesis. Microcirculation 2014; 21:15-25. [PMID: 23981199 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2013] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Ample interest has been evoked in using placental angiogenesis as a target for the development of diagnosis tools and potential therapeutics for pregnancy complications based on the knowledge of placental angiogenesis in normal and aberrant pregnancies. Although these goals are still far from reach, one would expect that two complementary processes should be balanced for therapeutic angiogenesis to be successful in restoring a mature and functional vascular network in the placenta in any pregnancy complication: (i) pro-angiogenic stimulation of new vessel growth and (ii) anti-angiogenic inhibition of vessel overgrowth. As the best model of physiological angiogenesis, investigations of placental angiogenesis provide critical insights not only for better understanding of normal placental endothelial biology but also for the development of diagnosis tools for pregnancy complications. Such investigations will potentially identify novel pro-angiogenic factors for therapeutic intervention for tissue damage in various obstetric complications or heart failure or anti-angiogenic factors to target on cancer or vision loss in which circulation needs to be constrained. This review summarizes the genetic and molecular aspects of normal placental angiogenesis as well as the signaling mechanisms by which the dominant angiogenic factor vascular endothelial growth factor regulates placental angiogenesis with a focus on placental endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Bao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
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Chen H, Suo K, Cheng Y, Zheng B, Xu L. Vascular endothelial growth factor C enhances cervical cancer migration and invasion via activation of focal adhesion kinase. Gynecol Endocrinol 2013; 29:20-4. [PMID: 22817694 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2012.705387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C) is correlated positively with clinical cervical cancer metastasis and survival. Previously we showed that VEGF-C directly activated actin-binding protein moesin, leading to the formation of membrane protrusions. However, whether VEGF-C alters cervical cancer cell adhesion to the extra-cellular matrix is currently unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of VEGF-C on the formation of focal adhesion complexes, which provide anchoring sites for cell attachment to the extracellular matrix. On cultured cervical carcinoma cell line SiHa cells, VEGF-C enhanced focal adhesion kinase (FAK) phosphorylation. As a result, VEGF-C led to increased formation of focal adhesion complexes and enhanced migration and invasion, which was reversed by siRNA abrogating FAK. VEGF-C resulted in increased interaction of its receptor Flt-4 with non-receptor tyrosine kinase c-Src, leading to c-Src phosphorylation. The specific inhibitor of c-Src kinase, PP2, or the transfection with specific c-Src siRNA largely impaired VEGF-C-enhanced FAK phosphorylation, suggesting that Flt-4/c-Src cascade plays a central role in these processes. These results implied that VEGF-C promotes cervical cancer metastasis by activation of FAK protein through Flt-4/c-Src pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huayun Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Guangzhou First Municipal People's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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Autocrine CCL2 promotes cell migration and invasion via PKC activation and tyrosine phosphorylation of paxillin in bladder cancer cells. Cytokine 2012; 59:423-32. [PMID: 22617682 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2012.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2012] [Revised: 03/27/2012] [Accepted: 04/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The amount of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1/CCL2) produced by a transitional cell carcinoma is directly correlated with high recurrence and poor prognosis in bladder cancer. However, the mechanisms underlying the effects of CCL2 on tumor progression remain unexplored. To investigate the role played by CCL2, we examined cell migration in various bladder cancer cell lines. We found that high-grade cancer cells expressing high levels of CCL2 showed more migration activity than low-grade bladder cancer cells expressing low levels of the chemokine. Although the activation of CCL2/CCR2 signals did not appreciably affect cell growth, it mediated cell migration and invasion via the activation of protein kinase C and phosphorylation of tyrosine in paxillin. Blocking CCL2 and CCR2 with small hairpin RNA (shCCL2) or a specific inhibitor reduced CCL2/CCR2-mediated cell migration. The antagonist of CCR2 promoted the survival of mice bearing MBT2 bladder cancer cells, and CCL2-depleted cells showed low tumorigenicity compared with shGFP cells. In addition to observing high-levels of CCL2 in high-grade human bladder cancer cells, we showed that the CCL2/CCR2 signaling pathway mediated migratory and invasive activity, whereas blocking the pathway decreased migration and invasion. In conclusion, high levels of CCL2 expressed in bladder cancer mediates tumor invasion and is involved with advanced tumorigenesis. Our findings suggest that this CCL2/CCR2 pathway is a potential candidate for the attenuation of bladder cancer metastases.
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Feng L, Liao WX, Luo Q, Zhang HH, Wang W, Zheng J, Chen DB. Caveolin-1 orchestrates fibroblast growth factor 2 signaling control of angiogenesis in placental artery endothelial cell caveolae. J Cell Physiol 2012; 227:2480-91. [PMID: 21830216 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.22984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptor 1 (FGFR1) protein was expressed as the long and short as well as some truncated forms in ovine fetoplacental artery ex vivo and in vitro. Upon FGF2 stimulation, both the long and short FGFR1s were tyrosine phosphorylated and the PI3K/AKT1 and ERK1/2 pathways were activated in a concentration- and time- dependent manner in ovine fetoplacental artery endothelial (oFPAE) cells. Blockade of the PI3K/AKT1 pathway attenuated FGF2-stimulated cell proliferation and migration as well as tube formation; blockade of the ERK1/2 pathway abolished FGF2-stimulated tube formation and partially inhibited cell proliferation and did not alter cell migration. Both AKT1 and ERK1/2 were co-fractionated with caveolin-1 and activated by FGF2 in the caveolae. Disruption of caveolae by methyl-β-cyclodextrin inhibited FGF2 activation of AKT1 and ERK1/2. FGFR1 was found in the caveolae where it physically binds to caveolin-1. FGF2 stimulated dissociation of FGFR1 from caveolin-1. Downregulation of caveolin-1 significantly attenuated the FGF2-induced activation of AKT1 and ERK1/2 and inhibited FGF2-induced cell proliferation, migration and tube formation in oFPAE cells. Pretreatment with a caveolin-1 scaffolding domain peptide to mimic caveolin-1 overexpression also inhibited these FGF2-induced angiogenic responses. These data demonstrate that caveolae function as a platform for regulating FGF2-induced angiogenesis through spatiotemporally compartmentalizing FGFR1 and the AKT1 and ERK1/2 signaling modules; the major caveolar structural protein caveolin-1 interacts with FGFR1 and paradoxically regulates FGF2-induced activation of PI3K/AKT1 and ERK1/2 pathways that coordinately regulate placental angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Feng
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
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Abstract
During normal pregnancy, dramatically increased placental blood flow is critical for fetal growth and survival as well as neonatal birth weights and survivability. This increased blood flow results from angiogenesis, vasodilatation, and vascular remodeling. Locally produced growth factors including fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) are key regulators of placental endothelial functions including cell proliferation, migration, and vasodilatation. However, the precise signaling mechanisms underlying such regulation in fetoplacental endothelium are less well defined, specifically with regard to the interactions amongst protein kinases (PKs), protein phosphatase, and nitric oxide (NO). Recently, we and other researchers have obtained solid evidence showing that different signaling mechanisms participate in FGF2- and VEGFA-regulated fetoplacental endothelial cell proliferation and migration as well as NO production. This review will briefly summarize currently available data on signaling mediating fetoplacental angiogenesis with a specific emphasis on PKs, ERK1/2, AKT1, and p38 MAPK and protein phosphatases, PPP2 and PPP3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Jing Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53715
- Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Jing Zheng, Ph.D., Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perinatal Research Laboratories, University of Wisconsin, PAB1 Meriter Hospital, 202 S Park St., Madison, WI 53715. Phone: (608) 417-6314 Fax: (608) 257-1304.
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Dai CF, Jiang YZ, Li Y, Wang K, Liu PS, Patankar MS, Zheng J. Expression and roles of Slit/Robo in human ovarian cancer. Histochem Cell Biol 2011; 135:475-85. [PMID: 21465248 PMCID: PMC3280508 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-011-0806-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/16/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The Slit glycoproteins and their Roundabout (Robo) receptors regulate migration and growth of many types of cells including human cancer cells. However, little is known about the expression and roles of Slit/Robo in human ovarian cancer. Herein, we examined the expression of Slit/Robo in human normal and malignant ovarian tissues and its potential participation in regulating migration and proliferation of human ovarian cancer cells using two ovarian cancer cell lines, OVCAR-3 and SKOV-3. We demonstrated that Slit2/3 and Robo1 were immunolocalized primarily in stromal cells in human normal ovaries and in cancer cells in many histotypes of ovarian cancer tissues. Protein expression of Slit2/3 and Robo1/4 was also identified in OVCAR-3 and SKOV-3 cells. However, recombinant human Slit2 did not significantly affect SKOV-3 cell migration, and OVCAR-3 and SKOV-3 cell proliferation. Slit2 also did not induce ERK1/2 and AKT1 phosphorylation in OVCAR-3 and SKOV-3 cells. The current findings indicate that three major members (Slit2/3 and Robo1) of Slit/Robo family are widely expressed in the human normal and malignant ovarian tissues and in OVCAR-3 and SKOV-3 cells. However, Slit/Robo signaling may not play an important role in regulating human ovarian cancer cell proliferation and migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cai Feng Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, PAB1 Meriter Hospital, 202 S. Park St, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Yi Zhou Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, PAB1 Meriter Hospital, 202 S. Park St, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, PAB1 Meriter Hospital, 202 S. Park St, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, PAB1 Meriter Hospital, 202 S. Park St, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Pei Shu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Manish S. Patankar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, PAB1 Meriter Hospital, 202 S. Park St, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Jing Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, PAB1 Meriter Hospital, 202 S. Park St, Madison, WI 53715, USA
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Liu J, Wei Y, Chen Y, Xu X, Zhang H. Differentiation of neural stem cells influences their chemotactic responses to vascular endothelial growth factor. J Neurosci Res 2011; 89:1173-84. [PMID: 21538456 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.22623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2010] [Revised: 01/04/2011] [Accepted: 01/19/2011] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Although much effort has been devoted to the delineation of factors involved in the migration of neural stem/progenitor cells (NSCs), the relationship between the chemotactic response and the differentiation status of these cells remains elusive. In the present study, we found that NSCs in varying differentiation states possess different chemotactic responses to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF): first, the number of chemotaxing NSCs and the optimal concentrations of VEGF that induced the peak migration vary greatly; second, time-lapse video analysis shows that NSCs at certain differentiation states migrate more efficiently toward VEGF, although the migration speed remains unchanged irrespective of cell states; third, the phosphorylation status of Akt, ERK1/2, SAPK/JNK, and p38MAPK is closely related to the differentiation levels of NSCs subjected to VEGF; and, finally, although inhibition of ERK1/2 signaling significantly attenuates VEGF-stimulated transfilter migration of both undifferentiated and differentiating NSCs, NSCs show normal chemotactic response after treatment with inhibitors of SAPK/JNK or p38MAPK. Meanwhile, interference with PI3K/Akt signaling prevents only NSCs of 12 hr differentiation, but not NSCs of 1 day or 3 days differentiation, from migrating in response to VEGF. Moreover, blocking of PI3K/Akt or MAPK signaling impairs the migration efficiency and/or speed, the extent of which depends on the cell differentiation status. Collectively, these results demonstrate that differentiation of NSCs influences their chemotactic responses to VEGF: NSCs in varying differentiation states have different migratory capacities, thereby shedding light on optimization of the therapeutic potential of NSCs to be employed for neural regeneration after injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Liu
- Department of Cell Biology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Stem Cell Research, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
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26
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Lee J, Borboa AK, Chun HB, Baird A, Eliceiri BP. Conditional deletion of the focal adhesion kinase FAK alters remodeling of the blood-brain barrier in glioma. Cancer Res 2011; 70:10131-40. [PMID: 21159635 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-10-2740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Gliomas generally infiltrate the surrounding normal brain parenchyma, a process associated with increased vascular permeability (VP) and dysregulation of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying glioma-induced VP in the brain remain poorly understood. Using a conditional, endothelium-specific deletion of the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) in the mouse (FAK CKO), we show that FAK is critical for destabilization of the tumor endothelium in tumor-bearing mice, with mutant mice exhibiting a relatively normalized vasculature compared with wild-type mice (FAK WT). Tumor vessels in the FAK CKO mice displayed reduced VP compared with FAK WT mice, resulting in reduced tumor growth. Additionally, FAK CKO mice displayed partial restoration of cell-cell junction proteins in the tumor vessels and astrocyte-endothelium interactions in tumors, revealing an additional role of astrocytes in mediating tumor-induced VP. Together, these results provide genetic evidence that FAK is a mediator of tumor-induced VP in the brain. Our findings may help understand how therapeutics might be used to regulate specific cell-type interactions to restore BBB structure/function in cancer and perhaps other pathologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jisook Lee
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Diego, California 92103-8236, USA
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27
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Li SM, Zeng LW, Feng L, Chen DB. Rac1-dependent intracellular superoxide formation mediates vascular endothelial growth factor-induced placental angiogenesis in vitro. Endocrinology 2010; 151:5315-25. [PMID: 20844008 PMCID: PMC2954717 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-0178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the best characterized angiogenic factors controlling placental angiogenesis; however, how VEGF regulates placental angiogenesis has not yet completely understood. In this study, we found that all the components of assembling a functional NADPH oxidase (NOX2, p22(phox), p47(phox), p67(phox), and Rac1) are expressed in ovine fetoplacental artery endothelial cells (oFPAECs) in vitro and ex vivo. Treatment with VEGF (10 ng/ml) rapidly and transiently activated Rac1 in oFPAECs in vitro and increased Rac1 association with p67(phox) in 5 min. Intracellular superoxide formation began to significantly increase after 25-30 min of VEGF stimulation, which was mediated by both VEGFR1 and VEGFR2. VEGF also stimulated oFPAE cell proliferation and migration and enhanced the formation of tube-like structures on Matrigel matrix. In oFAPEC transfected with specific Rac1 small interfering RNA (siRNA, 40 nm), VEGF-induced intracellular superoxide formation was completely abrogated in association with a 78% reduction of endogenous Rac1. In oFPAE cells transfected with the specific Rac1 siRNA, but not with transfection reagent alone or scrambled control siRNA, VEGF-induced cell proliferation, migration, and tube-like structure formation were dramatically inhibited. Pretreatment of an NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin also abrogates the VEGF-stimulated intracellular superoxide production and DNA synthesis in oFPAECs. Taken together, our results demonstrated that a Rac1/Nox2-based NADPH oxidase system is present in placental endothelial cells. This NADPH oxidase system appears to generate the second messenger superoxide that plays a critical role in the signaling control of the VEGF-induced placental angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-min Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
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