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Zou M, Chen W, Li J, Qi X, Wang X, Liu F, Hu J, Zhang Q. Apoptosis Signal-Regulated Kinase-1 Promotes Nucleus Pulposus Cell Senescence and Apoptosis to Regulate Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2024:S0002-9440(24)00203-7. [PMID: 38879082 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2024.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the role of apoptosis signal-regulated kinase-1 (ASK1) in intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). The nucleus pulposus (NP) tissues of non-IDD and IDD patients were subjected to hematoxylin and eosin, Safranin O-fast green, and immunohistochemical staining. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to assess the ASK1 mRNA level within NP tissue samples and cells. The Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining, and then flow cytometry were conducted, respectively, to assess the viability, senescence, and apoptosis of NP cells. The extracellular matrix-related factors were detected using Western blot analysis. Furthermore, the effect of ASK1 on the IDD rat model was evaluated through nuclear magnetic resonance imaging analysis, hematoxylin and eosin, Safranin O-fast green staining, and immunohistochemical staining. Finally, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitors were used to verify the effect of the JNK/p38 signaling on IDD. ASK1 mRNA and protein were up-regulated within NP tissue samples from the IDD group, IL-1β-stimulated NP cells, and IDD rats. ASK1 inhibition promoted cell viability and repressed the senescence and apoptosis of NP cells; promoted collagen II and aggrecan; inhibited matrix metalloproteinase 3, matrix metalloproteinase 9, a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 4, and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 5 protein levels; and increased NP cells in rat intervertebral disc tissues. ASK1 overexpression exerted the opposite effects of ASK1 inhibition on NP cells. Additionally, JNK/p38 signaling suppression could reverse the ASK1 up-regulation-induced dysfunction. In conclusion, ASK1 facilitated the senescence and apoptosis of NP cells in promoting IDD progression, which may be mediated by the JNK/p38 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxiang Zou
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Wenkang Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xin Qi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaobin Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fubing Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jiarui Hu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qianshi Zhang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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Zhou Z, Feng W, Moghadas BK, Baneshi N, Noshadi B, Baghaei S, Dehkordi DA. Review of recent advances in bone scaffold fabrication methods for tissue engineering for treating bone diseases and sport injuries. Tissue Cell 2024; 88:102390. [PMID: 38663113 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2024.102390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/17/2024]
Abstract
Despite advancements in medical care, the management of bone injuries remains one of the most significant challenges in the fields of medicine and sports medicine globally. Bone tissue damage is often associated with aging, reduced quality of life, and various conditions such as trauma, cancer, and infection. While bone tissue possesses the natural capacity for self-repair and regeneration, severe damage may render conventional treatments ineffective, and bone grafting may be limited due to secondary surgical procedures and potential disease transmission. In such cases, bone tissue engineering has emerged as a viable approach, utilizing cells, scaffolds, and growth factors to repair damaged bone tissue. This research shows a comprehensive review of the current literature on the most important and effective methods and materials for improving the treatment of these injuries. Commonly employed cell types include osteogenic cells, embryonic stem cells, and mesenchymal cells, while scaffolds play a crucial role in bone tissue regeneration. To create an effective bone scaffold, a thorough understanding of bone structure, material selection, and examination of scaffold fabrication techniques from inception to the present day is necessary. By gaining insights into these three key components, the ability to design and construct appropriate bone scaffolds can be achieved. Bone tissue engineering scaffolds are evaluated based on factors such as strength, porosity, cell adhesion, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. This article examines the diverse categories of bone scaffolds, the materials and techniques used in their fabrication, as well as the associated merits and drawbacks of these approaches. Furthermore, the review explores the utilization of various scaffold types in bone tissue engineering applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeng Zhou
- Department of Physical Education, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 4100083, China
| | - Wei Feng
- Department of Physical Education, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 4100083, China.
| | - B Kamyab Moghadas
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Shiraz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Applied Researches, Chemical, Petroleum & Polymer Engineering Research Center, Shiraz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - N Baneshi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Shiraz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - B Noshadi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Eastern Mediterranean University, via Mersin 10, TR-99628 Famagusta, North Cyprus, Turkey
| | - Sh Baghaei
- Medical Doctor, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
| | - D Abasi Dehkordi
- Medical Doctor, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
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Bingnan W, Jiao T, Ghorbani A, Baghei S. Enhancing regenerative potential: A comprehensive review of stem cell transplantation for sports-related neuronal injuries, with a focus on spinal cord injuries and peripheral nervous system damage. Tissue Cell 2024; 88:102429. [PMID: 38833939 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2024.102429] [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: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Neuronal injuries, as one of the consequences of sports-related incidents, exert a profound influence on the athletes' future, potentially leading to complete immobility and impeding their athletic pursuits. In cases of severe damage inflicted upon the spinal cord (SC) and peripheral nervous systems (PNS), the regenerative process is notably compromised, rendering it essentially inefficient. Among the pivotal therapeutic approaches for the enhancement and prevention of secondary SC injuries (SCI), stem cell transplantation (SCT) stands out prominently. Stem cells, whether directly involved in replacement and reconstruction or indirectly through modification and secretion of crucial bioenvironmental factors, engage in the intricate process of tissue regeneration. Stem cells, through the secretion of neurotrophic factors (NTFs) (aiming to modulate the immune system), reduction of inflammation, axonal growth stimulation, and myelin formation, endeavor to facilitate the regeneration of damaged SC tissue. The fundamental challenges of this approach encompass the proper selection of suitable stem cell candidates for transplantation and the establishment of an appropriate microenvironment conducive to SC repair. In this article, an attempt has been made to explore sports-related injuries, particularly SCI, to comprehensively review innovative methods for treating SCI, and to address the existing challenges. Additionally, some of the stem cells used in neural injuries and the process of their utilization have been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang Bingnan
- Department of P.E, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China
| | - Tong Jiao
- The High School Attached to Hunan Normal University Bocai Experimental Middle School,Changsha 410208, China.
| | - A Ghorbani
- Biotechnology Department, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sh Baghei
- Biotechnology Department, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.
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4
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Kazemi N, Bordbar A, Bavarsad SS, Ghasemi P, Bakhshi M, Rezaeeyan H. Molecular Insights into the Relationship Between Platelet Activation and Endothelial Dysfunction: Molecular Approaches and Clinical Practice. Mol Biotechnol 2024; 66:932-947. [PMID: 38184492 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-01010-8] [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: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Platelets are one of the coagulation cells. When platelet activation occurs, many mediators are released and affect endothelial cells (ECs) and lead to endothelial dysfunction (ED). ED plays an important role in the pathogenesis of many diseases, including cardiovascular disease (CVD). Platelet are of important factors in ED. The release of mediators by platelets causes the stimulation of inflammatory pathways, oxidative stress, and apoptosis, which ultimately result in ED.On the other hand, platelet activation in CVD patients can be associated with a bad prognosis. Platelet activation can increase the level of markers such as p-selectin in the serum. Also, in this study, we have discussed the role of platelet as a diagnostic factor, as well as its use as a treatment option. In addition, we discussed some of the molecular pathways that are used to target platelet activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niloufar Kazemi
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization (IBTO), Tehran, Iran
| | - Armin Bordbar
- Department of Cardiology, Musavi Hospital, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Science, Zanjan, Iran
| | | | - Parisa Ghasemi
- Research Committee, Medical School, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Maryam Bakhshi
- Islamic Azad University of Najaf Abad, Affiliated Hospitals, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hadi Rezaeeyan
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization (IBTO), Tehran, Iran.
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5
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Huo H, Chang Y. Hemodynamic study of the ICA aneurysm evolution to attain the cerebral aneurysm rupture risk. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8984. [PMID: 38637544 PMCID: PMC11026371 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59242-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The influence of the aneurysm evolution on the hemodynamic characteristic of the blood flow inside the sac region is comprehensively investigated. By using the computational method, the blood flow through the vessel and aneurysm of the sac region is examined to find the role of aneurysm evolution on the wall shear stress, pressure, and risk of aneurysm rupture. Three different models of ICA aneurysms are chosen for the investigation of the aneurysm evolution at risk of rupture. Obtained data shows that the evolution of the aneurysm decreases the wall shear stress and pressure on the sac surface while an oscillatory index of blood increases on the aneurysm wall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaying Huo
- Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, TaiYuan, Shanxi, 030012, China
| | - Yigang Chang
- Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, TaiYuan, Shanxi, 030012, China.
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Wang H, Wan J, Zhang Z, Hou R. Recent advances on 3D-bioprinted gelatin methacrylate hydrogels for tissue engineering in wound healing: A review of current applications and future prospects. Int Wound J 2024; 21:e14533. [PMID: 38069620 PMCID: PMC10961039 DOI: 10.1111/iwj.14533] [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: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Advancements in 3D bioprinting, particularly the use of gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogels, are ushering in a transformative era in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. This review highlights the pivotal role of GelMA hydrogels in wound healing and skin regeneration. Its biocompatibility, tunable mechanical properties and support for cellular proliferation make it a promising candidate for bioactive dressings and scaffolds. Challenges remain in optimizing GelMA hydrogels for clinical use, including scalability of 3D bioprinting techniques, durability under physiological conditions and the development of advanced bioinks. The review covers GelMA's applications from enhancing wound dressings, promoting angiogenesis and facilitating tissue regeneration to addressing microbial infections and diabetic wound healing. Preclinical studies underscore GelMA's potential in tissue healing and the need for further research for real-world applications. The future of GelMA hydrogels lies in overcoming these challenges through multidisciplinary collaboration, advancing manufacturing techniques and embracing personalized medicine paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Wang
- Department of OrthopedicsSuzhou Medical College of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Jiaming Wan
- Department of OrthopedicsYangzhou University Medical CollegeYangzhouChina
| | - Zhiqiang Zhang
- Department of OrthopedicsSuzhou Medical College of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
| | - Ruixing Hou
- Department of OrthopedicsSuzhou Medical College of Soochow UniversitySuzhouChina
- Department of Trauma OrthopedicsSuzhou Ruihua Orthopedic HospitalSuzhouChina
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7
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Lei X, Ye W, Safdarin F, Baghaei S. Microfluidics devices for sports: A review on technology for biomedical application used in fields such as biomedicine, drug encapsulation, preparation of nanoparticles, cell targeting, analysis, diagnosis, and cell culture. Tissue Cell 2024; 87:102339. [PMID: 38432127 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2024.102339] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Microfluidics is an interdisciplinary field that combines knowledge from various disciplines, including biology, chemistry, sports medicine, fluid dynamics, kinetic biomechanics, and microelectronics, to manipulate and control fluids and particles in micron-scale channels and chambers. These channels and chambers can be fabricated using different materials and methods to achieve various geometries and shapes. Microfluidics has numerous biomedical applications, such as drug encapsulation, nanoparticle preparation, cell targeting, analysis, diagnosis, and treatment of sports injuries in both professional and non-professional athletes. It can also be used in other fields, such as biological analysis, chemical synthesis, optics, and acceleration in the treatment of critical sports injuries. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of microfluidic technology, including its fabrication methods, current platform materials, and its applications in sports medicine. Biocompatible, biodegradable, and semi-crystalline polymers with unique mechanical and thermal properties are one of the promising materials in microfluidic technology. Despite the numerous advantages of microfluidic technology, further research and development are necessary. Although the technology offers benefits such as ease of operation and cost efficiency, it is still in its early stages. In conclusion, this review emphasizes the potential of microfluidic technology and highlights the need for continued research to fully exploit its potential in the biomedical field and sport applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuehui Lei
- Graduate School of Wuhan Institute of Physical Education, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Weiwu Ye
- National Traditional Sports College of Harbin Sports University, Harbin 150008, China.
| | - F Safdarin
- Mechanical Engineering Department, lslamic Azad University, Esfahan, Iran
| | - Sh Baghaei
- Mechanical Engineering Department, lslamic Azad University, Esfahan, Iran
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8
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Song G, Zou Y, Nie Y, Habibi M, Albaijan I, Toghroli E. Application of Hashin-Shtrikman bounds homogenization model for frequency analysis of imperfect FG bio-composite plates. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2024; 151:106321. [PMID: 38211502 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2023.106321] [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: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Despite abundant theoretical investigations on the dynamic behavior of functionally graded (FG) structures, the study on frequency analysis of FG bio-composite structures is limited. FG bio-composite materials due to their biocompatibility potentials and good material properties can be applied in biomedical applications, especially dental implants. In this investigation, a natural frequency response of the FG bio-composite plate is analyzed within the framework of the newly developed refined higher-order shear deformation plate theory. Additionally, the imperfection impact on frequency behavior is evaluated while three imperfection distribution patterns are taken into account. The constitutive materials of FG bio-composite plate are Hydroxyapatite and Titanium. The effective material properties of the structure are determined with the help of the upper Hashin-Shtrikman bounds homogenization model. In continuation, to solve the derived governing equations of imperfect FG bio-composite plate, Galerkin's analytical method is employed. Also, the precision of the used theory is validated, the obtained outcomes are compared and an acceptable matching is found. Later, the sensitivity of different considerable variables is comprehensively assessed and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanghui Song
- School of Computer and Data Engineering, Ningbo Tech University, Ningbo 315100, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yunhe Zou
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Inner Mongolia University of Technology, Hohhot 010051, Inner Mongolia, China; Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Special Service Intelligent Robotics, Hohhot 010051, Inner Mongolia, China.
| | - Yan Nie
- College of Science & Technology Ningbo University, Ningbo 315100, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mostafa Habibi
- Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Viet Nam; Faculty of Electrical-Electronic Engineering, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Viet Nam; Department of Biomaterials, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, 600 077, India; Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism, UTE University, Calle Rumipamba S/N and Bourgeois, Quito, Ecuador; Center of Excellence in Design, Robotics, and Automation, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Azadi Avenue, P.O. Box 11365-9567, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ibrahim Albaijan
- Mechanical Engineering Department, College of Engineering at Al Kharj, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Emad Toghroli
- Department of Civil Engineering, Calut Company Holding, Melbourne, 800, Australia
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Wang Y, Jin J, Chen J, Chen P, Abdollahi SA. Impacts of morphology parameters on the risk of rupture in intracranial aneurysms: statistical and computational analyses. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18974. [PMID: 37923845 PMCID: PMC10624915 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46211-y] [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: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The hemodynamic analysis of the blood stream inside the cerebral aneurysms reveals the risk of the aneurysm rupture. In addition, the high risk region prone to rupture would be determined by the hemodynamic analysis of the blood. In present article, computational fluid dynamic is used for the investigation of the hemodynamic effects on the aneurysm wall and risk of rupture. This study tries to find the connection between the risk of rupture with three geometrical features of aneurysm i.e., Ellipsoid Max semi-axis, Size ratio and Tortuosity. Statistical analysis is done over 30 different ruptured /unruptured ICA aneurysms to find meaningful relation between selected geometrical factors and rupture risk. The hemodynamic analysis is done over four distinct aneurysm models to attain more details on effects of chosen geometrical factors. The results of simulations indicate that the Ellipsoid Max semi-axis have meaningful impacts on the risk of rupture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujing Wang
- College of Health Informatics, Chongqing Medical University, No.1 Medial Road, 400010, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Jin
- College of Health Informatics, Chongqing Medical University, No.1 Medial Road, 400010, Chongqing, China.
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, 400000, Chongqing, China
| | - Peng Chen
- College of Health Informatics, Chongqing Medical University, No.1 Medial Road, 400010, Chongqing, China
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Pasha M, Wooldridge AL, Kirschenman R, Spaans F, Davidge ST, Cooke CLM. Altered Vascular Adaptations to Pregnancy in a Rat Model of Advanced Maternal Age. Front Physiol 2021; 12:718568. [PMID: 34393831 PMCID: PMC8356803 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.718568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced maternal age (≥35 years old) increases the risk of pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. We previously demonstrated vascular dysfunction and abnormal pregnancy outcomes in a rat model of advanced maternal age. However, vascular adaptations to pregnancy in aging were not studied. We hypothesize that advanced maternal age is associated with a more vasoconstrictive phenotype due to reduced nitric oxide (NO) and increased activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), contributing to impaired vascular adaptations to pregnancy. A rat model of advanced maternal age was used: young (4 months) and aged (9.5 months; ∼35 years in humans) non-pregnant and pregnant rats. On gestational day 20 (term = 22 days; non-pregnant rats were aged-matched), blood pressure and heart rate were measured (tail cuff plethysmography) and vascular function was assessed in mesenteric arteries (wire myography). Endothelium-dependent relaxation to methylcholine (MCh) was assessed in the presence/absence of nitric oxide synthase inhibitor (L-NAME), or inhibitors of endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization (EDH; apamin and TRAM-34). Vasoconstriction responses to big endothelin-1 (bigET-1), in the presence/absence of MMPs-inhibitor (GM6001) or endothelin converting enzyme (ECE-1) inhibitor (CGS35066), in addition, ET-1 responsiveness, were measured. Blood pressure was elevated only in aged non-pregnant rats (p < 0.001) compared to all other groups. MCh responses were not different, however, L-NAME decreased maximum vasodilation in young (p < 0.01) and aged pregnant rats (p < 0.001), and decreased MCh sensitivity in young non-pregnant rats (p < 0.01), without effects in aged non-pregnant rats. EDH contribution to relaxation was similar in young non-pregnant, and aged non-pregnant and pregnant rats, while EDH-mediated relaxation was absent in young pregnant rats (p < 0.001). BigET-1 responses were enhanced in aged non-pregnant (p < 0.01) and pregnant rats (p < 0.05). No significant changes in bigET-1 conversion occurred in the presence of MMP-inhibitor, whereas ECE-1 inhibition reduced bigET-1 constriction in aged rats (p < 0.01). No differences in ET-1 sensitivity were observed. In conclusion, contrary to our hypothesis, reduced blood pressure, and an increased EDH-dependent contribution to vasodilation suggest a compensatory mechanism that may reflect beneficial adaptations in these aged rats that were able to maintain pregnancy. These data increase our understanding of how the vascular adaptive pathways in pregnancy compensate for advanced maternal age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazhar Pasha
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Amy L. Wooldridge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Raven Kirschenman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Floor Spaans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Sandra T. Davidge
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Christy-Lynn M. Cooke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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