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Lei C, Kan H, Xian X, Chen W, Xiang W, Song X, Wu J, Yang D, Zheng Y. FAM3A reshapes VSMC fate specification in abdominal aortic aneurysm by regulating KLF4 ubiquitination. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5360. [PMID: 37660071 PMCID: PMC10475135 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41177-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Reprogramming of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) differentiation plays an essential role in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). However, the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. We explore the expression of FAM3A, a newly identified metabolic cytokine, and whether and how FAM3A regulates VSMC differentiation in AAA. We discover that FAM3A is decreased in the aortas and plasma in AAA patients and murine models. Overexpression or supplementation of FAM3A significantly attenuate the AAA formation, manifested by maintenance of the well-differentiated VSMC status and inhibition of VSMC transformation toward macrophage-, chondrocyte-, osteogenic-, mesenchymal-, and fibroblast-like cell subpopulations. Importantly, FAM3A induces KLF4 ubiquitination and reduces its phosphorylation and nuclear localization. Here, we report FAM3A as a VSMC fate-shaping regulator in AAA and reveal the underlying mechanism associated with KLF4 ubiquitination and stability, which may lead to the development of strategies based on FAM3A to restore VSMC homeostasis in AAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuxiang Lei
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Haoxuan Kan
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xiangyu Xian
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Wenlin Chen
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Wenxuan Xiang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xiaohong Song
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jianqiang Wu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Dan Yang
- Department of Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Haidian District, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Yuehong Zheng
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Yu Q, Zeng S, Hu R, Li M, Liu Q, Wang Y, Dai M. Dexmedetomidine Alleviates Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm by Activating Autophagy Via AMPK/mTOR Pathway. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2023:10.1007/s10557-023-07483-8. [PMID: 37392236 DOI: 10.1007/s10557-023-07483-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) are a critical global health issue with increasing prevalence. Dexmedetomidine (DEX) is a highly selective α2-adrenoceptor agonist that has previously been shown to play a protective role in AAA. Nevertheless, the mechanisms underlying its protection effect remain not fully understood. METHODS A rat AAA model was established via intra-aortic porcine pancreatic elastase perfusion with or without DEX administration. The abdominal aortic diameters of rats were measured. Hematoxylin-eosin and Elastica van Gieson staining were conducted for histopathological observation. TUNEL and immunofluorescence staining were utilized to detect cell apoptosis and α-SMA/LC3 expression in the abdominal aortas. Protein levels were determined using western blotting. RESULTS DEX administration repressed the dilation of aortas, alleviated pathological damage and cell apoptosis, and suppressed phenotype switching of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Moreover, DEX activated autophagy and regulated the AMP-activated protein kinase/mammalian target of the rapamycin (AMPK/mTOR) signaling pathway in AAA rats. Administration of the AMPK inhibitor attenuated the DEX-mediated ameliorative effects on AAA in rats. CONCLUSION DEX ameliorates AAA in rat models by activating autophagy via the AMPK/mTOR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Operative Medicine, Medical Center of Anesthesiology and Pain, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330052, Jiangxi, China
| | - Simin Zeng
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1519, Dongyue Avenue, Nanchang, 330052, Jiangxi, China
| | - Ruilin Hu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1519, Dongyue Avenue, Nanchang, 330052, Jiangxi, China
| | - Muqi Li
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1519, Dongyue Avenue, Nanchang, 330052, Jiangxi, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1519, Dongyue Avenue, Nanchang, 330052, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1519, Dongyue Avenue, Nanchang, 330052, Jiangxi, China
| | - Min Dai
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1519, Dongyue Avenue, Nanchang, 330052, Jiangxi, China.
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3
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Lei Y, Klionsky DJ. Transcriptional regulation of autophagy and its implications in human disease. Cell Death Differ 2023; 30:1416-1429. [PMID: 37045910 PMCID: PMC10244319 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-023-01162-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Macroautophagy/autophagy is a conserved catabolic pathway that is vital for maintaining cell homeostasis and promoting cell survival under stressful conditions. Dysregulation of autophagy is associated with a variety of human diseases, such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and metabolic disorders. Therefore, this pathway must be precisely regulated at multiple levels, involving epigenetic, transcriptional, post-transcriptional, translational, and post-translational mechanisms, to prevent inappropriate autophagy activity. In this review, we focus on autophagy regulation at the transcriptional level, summarizing the transcription factors that control autophagy gene expression in both yeast and mammalian cells. Because the expression and/or subcellular localization of some autophagy transcription factors are altered in certain diseases, we also discuss how changes in transcriptional regulation of autophagy are associated with human pathophysiologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Lei
- Life Sciences Institute and Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Daniel J Klionsky
- Life Sciences Institute and Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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4
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Wang Y, Liu X, Xu Q, Xu W, Zhou X, Lin Z. CCN2 deficiency in smooth muscle cells triggers cell reprogramming and aggravates aneurysm development. JCI Insight 2023; 8:162987. [PMID: 36625347 PMCID: PMC9870081 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.162987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular smooth muscle cell (SMC) phenotypic switching is widely recognized as a key mechanism responsible for the pathogenesis of several aortic diseases, such as aortic aneurysm. Cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2), often upregulated in human pathologies and animal disease models, exerts myriad context-dependent biological functions. However, current understanding of the role of SMC-CCN2 in SMC phenotypic switching and its function in the pathology of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is lacking. Here, we show that SMC-restricted CCN2 deficiency causes AAA in the infrarenal aorta of angiotensin II-infused (Ang II-infused) hypercholesterolemic mice at a similar anatomic location to human AAA. Notably, the resistance of naive C57BL/6 WT mice to Ang II-induced AAA formation is lost upon silencing of CCN2 in SMC. Furthermore, the pro-AAA phenotype of SMC-CCN2-KO mice is recapitulated in a different model that involves the application of elastase-β-aminopropionitrile. Mechanistically, our findings reveal that CCN2 intersects with TGF-β signaling and regulates SMC marker expression. Deficiency of CCN2 triggers SMC reprograming associated with alterations in Krüppel-like factor 4 and contractile marker expression, and this reprograming likely contributes to the development of AAA in mice. These results identify SMC-CCN2 as potentially a novel regulator of SMC phenotypic switching and AA biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Xuesong Liu
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Qian Xu
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Wei Xu
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Xianming Zhou
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhiyong Lin
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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5
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Yin Y, Zhou Y, Yang X, Xu Z, Yang B, Luo P, Yan H, He Q. The participation of non-canonical autophagic proteins in the autophagy process and their potential as therapeutic targets. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:71-86. [PMID: 36735300 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2177151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Autophagy is a conserved catabolic process that helps recycle intracellular components to maintain homeostasis. The completion of autophagy requires the synergistic effect of multiple canonical autophagic proteins. Defects in autophagy machinery have been reported to promote diseases, rendering autophagy a bone fide health-modifying agent. However, the clinical implication of canonical pan-autophagic activators or inhibitors has often led to undesirable side effects, making it urgent to find a safer autophagy-related therapeutic target. The discovery of non-canonical autophagic proteins has been found to specifically affect the development of diseases without causing a universal impact on autophagy and has shed light on finding a safer way to utilize autophagy in the therapeutic context. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes recently discovered non-canonical autophagic proteins, how these proteins influence autophagy, and their potential therapeutic role in the disease due to their interaction with autophagy. EXPERT OPINION Several therapies have been studied thus far and continued research is needed to identify the potential that non-canonical autophagic proteins have for treating certain diseases. In the meantime, continue to uncover new non-canonical autophagic proteins and examine which are likely to have therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Yin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yourong Zhou
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaochun Yang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhifei Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Peihua Luo
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hao Yan
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qiaojun He
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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6
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He Z, Du J, Zhang Y, Xu Y, Huang Q, Zhou Q, Wu M, Li Y, Zhang X, Zhang H, Cai Y, Ye K, Wang X, Zhang Y, Han Q, Xiao J. Kruppel-like factor 2 contributes to blood-spinal cord barrier integrity and functional recovery from spinal cord injury by augmenting autophagic flux. Theranostics 2023; 13:849-866. [PMID: 36632224 PMCID: PMC9830435 DOI: 10.7150/thno.74324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Increasing evidence suggests that acute traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI)-induced defects in autophagy and autophagy-lysosomal pathway (ALP) may contribute to endothelial barrier disruption following injury. Recently, Kruppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) was reported as a key molecular switch on regulating autophagy. Whether KLF2 coordinates endothelial endothelial ALP in SCI is not known. Methods: Genetic manipulations of KLF2 were performed in bEnd.3 cells and SCI model. Western blot, qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence staining and Lyso-Tracker Red staining, Evans blue dye extravasation, behavioral assessment via Basso mouse scale (BMS), electrophysiology and footprint analysis were performed. Results: In SCI, autophagy flux disruption in endothelial cells contributes to TJ proteins degradation, leading to blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB) impairment. Furthermore, the KLF2 level was decreased in SCI, overexpression of which alleviated TJ proteins loss and BSCB damage, which improve motor function recovery in SCI mice, while knockdown of KLF2 displayed the opposite effects. At the molecular level, KLF2 overexpression alleviated the TJ proteins degradation and the endothelial permeability by tuning the ALP dysfunction caused by SCI and oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD). Conclusions: Endothelial KLF2 as one of the key contributors to SCI-mediated ALP dysfunction and BSCB disruption. KLF2 could be a promising pharmacological target for the management and treatment of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zili He
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Department of Orthopaedics Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.,Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Pingyang Hospital and School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Jiqing Du
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Pingyang Hospital and School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Pingyang Hospital and School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Yitie Xu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Pingyang Hospital and School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Qian Huang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Pingyang Hospital and School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Qingwei Zhou
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Pingyang Hospital and School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Pingyang Hospital and School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Yao Li
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Department of Orthopaedics Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Xie Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Ningbo Medical Treatment Center Li Huili Hospital, Ningbo, 315040, China
| | - Hongyu Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Pingyang Hospital and School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Yuepiao Cai
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Department of Orthopaedics Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.,Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Pingyang Hospital and School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Keyong Ye
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Pingyang Hospital and School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Xiangyang Wang
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Department of Orthopaedics Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Yingze Zhang
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Department of Orthopaedics Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050051 China
| | - Qi Han
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Jian Xiao
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Department of Orthopaedics Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.,Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Pingyang Hospital and School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
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Fang ZM, Feng X, Chen Y, Luo H, Jiang DS, Yi X. Targeting autophagy in aortic aneurysm and dissection. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113547. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
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8
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Filiberto AC, Spinosa MD, Elder CT, Su G, Leroy V, Ladd Z, Lu G, Mehaffey JH, Salmon MD, Hawkins RB, Ravichandran KS, Isakson BE, Upchurch GR, Sharma AK. Endothelial pannexin-1 channels modulate macrophage and smooth muscle cell activation in abdominal aortic aneurysm formation. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1521. [PMID: 35315432 PMCID: PMC8938517 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29233-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Pannexin-1 (Panx1) channels have been shown to regulate leukocyte trafficking and tissue inflammation but the mechanism of Panx1 in chronic vascular diseases like abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) is unknown. Here we demonstrate that Panx1 on endothelial cells, but not smooth muscle cells, orchestrate a cascade of signaling events to mediate vascular inflammation and remodeling. Mechanistically, Panx1 on endothelial cells acts as a conduit for ATP release that stimulates macrophage activation via P2X7 receptors and mitochondrial DNA release to increase IL-1β and HMGB1 secretion. Secondly, Panx1 signaling regulates smooth muscle cell-dependent intracellular Ca2+ release and vascular remodeling via P2Y2 receptors. Panx1 blockade using probenecid markedly inhibits leukocyte transmigration, aortic inflammation and remodeling to mitigate AAA formation. Panx1 expression is upregulated in human AAAs and retrospective clinical data demonstrated reduced mortality in aortic aneurysm patients treated with Panx1 inhibitors. Collectively, these data identify Panx1 signaling as a contributory mechanism of AAA formation. Pannexin-1 ion channels on endothelial cells regulate vascular inflammation and remodeling to mediate aortic aneurysm formation. Pharmacological blockade of Pannexin-1 channels may offer translational therapeutic mitigation of aneurysmal pathology.
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9
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The Role of KLF2 in the Regulation of Atherosclerosis Development and Potential Use of KLF2-Targeted Therapy. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020254. [PMID: 35203463 PMCID: PMC8869605 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Kruppel like factor 2 (KLF2) is a mechanosensitive transcription factor participating in the regulation of vascular endothelial cells metabolism. Activating KLF2 in endothelial cells induces eNOS (endothelial nitric oxide synthase) expression, subsequent NO (nitric oxide) release, and vasodilatory effect. In addition, many KLF2-regulated genes participate in the anti-thrombotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities, thereby preventing atherosclerosis development and progression. In this review, we summarise recent evidence suggesting that KLF2 plays a major role in regulating atheroprotective effects in endothelial cells. We also discuss several recently identified repurposed drugs and natural plant-based bioactive compounds with KLF2-mediated atheroprotective activities. Herein, we present a comprehensive overview of the role of KLF2 in atherosclerosis and as a pharmacological target for different drugs and natural compounds and highlight the potential application of these phytochemicals for the treatment of atherosclerosis.
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10
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Leveraging cell-type-specific regulatory networks to interpret genetic variants in abdominal aortic aneurysm. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:2115601119. [PMID: 34930827 PMCID: PMC8740683 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2115601119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a common and severe disease with major genetic risk factors. In this study we generated enhancer-promoter contact data to identify regulatory elements in AAA-relevant cell types and identified changes in their predicted chromatin accessibility between AAA patients and controls. We integrated this information with disease-associated variants in regulatory elements and gene bodies to further understand the etiology and pathogenetic mechanisms of AAA. Our study combined whole-genome sequencing data with gene regulatory relations in disease-relevant cell types to reveal the important roles of the interleukin 6 pathway and ERG and KLF regulation in AAA pathogenesis. Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a common degenerative cardiovascular disease whose pathobiology is not clearly understood. The cellular heterogeneity and cell-type-specific gene regulation of vascular cells in human AAA have not been well-characterized. Here, we performed analysis of whole-genome sequencing data in AAA patients versus controls with the aim of detecting disease-associated variants that may affect gene regulation in human aortic smooth muscle cells (AoSMC) and human aortic endothelial cells (HAEC), two cell types of high relevance to AAA disease. To support this analysis, we generated H3K27ac HiChIP data for these cell types and inferred cell-type-specific gene regulatory networks. We observed that AAA-associated variants were most enriched in regulatory regions in AoSMC, compared with HAEC and CD4+ cells. The cell-type-specific regulation defined by this HiChIP data supported the importance of ERG and the KLF family of transcription factors in AAA disease. The analysis of regulatory elements that contain noncoding variants and also are differentially open between AAA patients and controls revealed the significance of the interleukin-6-mediated signaling pathway. This finding was further validated by including information from the deleteriousness effect of nonsynonymous single-nucleotide variants in AAA patients and additional control data from the Medical Genome Reference Bank dataset. These results shed important insights into AAA pathogenesis and provide a model for cell-type-specific analysis of disease-associated variants.
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11
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Hawkins RB, Salmon M, Su G, Lu G, Leroy V, Bontha SV, Mas VR, Jr GRU, Ailawadi G, Sharma AK. Mesenchymal Stem Cells Alter MicroRNA Expression and Attenuate Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Formation. J Surg Res 2021; 268:221-231. [PMID: 34371281 PMCID: PMC11044812 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2021.06.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) are a progressive disease characterized by inflammation, smooth muscle cell activation and matrix degradation. We hypothesized that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can immunomodulate vascular inflammation and remodeling via altered microRNA (miRNAs) expression profile to attenuate TAA formation. MATERIALS AND METHODS C57BL/6 mice underwent topical elastase application to form descending TAAs. Mice were also treated with MSCs on days 1 and 5 and aortas were analyzed on day 14 for aortic diameter. Cytokine array was performed in aortic tissue and total RNA was tagged and hybridized for miRNAs microarray analysis. Immunohistochemistry was performed for elastin degradation and leukocyte infiltration. RESULTS Treatment with MSCs significantly attenuated aortic diameter and TAA formation compared to untreated mice. MSC administration also attenuated T-cell, neutrophil and macrophage infiltration and prevented elastic degradation to mitigate vascular remodeling. MSC treatment also attenuated aortic inflammation by decreasing proinflammatory cytokines (CXCL13, IL-27, CXCL12 and RANTES) and upregulating anti-inflammatory interleukin-10 expression in aortic tissue of elastase-treated mice. TAA formation demonstrated activation of specific miRNAs that are associated with aortic inflammation and vascular remodeling. Our results also demonstrated that MSCs modulate a different set of miRNAs that are associated with decrease leukocyte infiltration and vascular inflammation to attenuate the aortic diameter and TAA formation. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that MSCs immunomodulate specific miRNAs that are associated with modulating hallmarks of aortic inflammation and vascular remodeling of aortic aneurysms. Targeted therapies designed using MSCs and miRNAs have the potential to regulate the growth and development of TAAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Hawkins
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Morgan Salmon
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Gang Su
- Department of Surgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Guanyi Lu
- Department of Surgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Victoria Leroy
- Department of Surgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Sai Vineela Bontha
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Valeria R Mas
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Gorav Ailawadi
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Ashish K Sharma
- Department of Surgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
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12
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Aschacher T, Schmidt K, Aschacher O, Eichmair E, Baranyi U, Winkler B, Grabenwoeger M, Spittler A, Enzmann F, Messner B, Riebandt J, Laufer G, Bergmann M, Ehrlich M. Telocytes in the human ascending aorta: Characterization and exosome-related KLF-4/VEGF-A expression. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:9697-9709. [PMID: 34562312 PMCID: PMC8505852 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Telocytes (TCs), a novel interstitial cell entity promoting tissue regeneration, have been described in various tissues. Their role in inter‐cellular signalling and tissue remodelling has been reported in almost all human tissues. This study hypothesizes that TC also contributes to tissue remodelling and regeneration of the human thoracic aorta (HTA). The understanding of tissue homeostasis and regenerative potential of the HTA is of high clinical interest as it plays a crucial role in pathogenesis from aortic dilatation to lethal dissection. Therefore, we obtained twenty‐five aortic specimens of heart donors during transplantation. The presence of TCs was detected in different layers of aortic tissue and characterized by immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy. Further, we cultivated and isolated TCs in highly differentiated form identified by positive staining for CD34 and c‐kit. Aortic‐derived TC was characterized by the expression of PDGFR‐α, PDGFR‐β, CD29/integrin β‐1 and αSMA and the stem cell markers Nanog and KLF‐4. Moreover, TC exosomes were isolated and characterized for soluble angiogenic factors by Western blot. CD34+/c‐kit+ TCs shed exosomes containing the soluble factors VEGF‐A, KLF‐4 and PDGF‐A. In summary, TC occurs in the aortic wall. Correspondingly, exosomes, derived from aortic TCs, contain vasculogenesis‐relevant proteins. Understanding the regulation of TC‐mediated aortic remodelling may be a crucial step towards designing strategies to promote aortic repair and prevent adverse remodelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Aschacher
- Department of Cardio-Vascular Surgery, Clinic Floridsdorf and Karl Landsteiner Institute for Cardio-Vascular Research, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katy Schmidt
- Centre for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Olivia Aschacher
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Eva Eichmair
- Cardiac Surgery Research Laboratory, Department of Cardiac Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ulrike Baranyi
- Cardiac Surgery Research Laboratory, Department of Cardiac Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bernhard Winkler
- Department of Cardio-Vascular Surgery, Clinic Floridsdorf and Karl Landsteiner Institute for Cardio-Vascular Research, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Grabenwoeger
- Department of Cardio-Vascular Surgery, Clinic Floridsdorf and Karl Landsteiner Institute for Cardio-Vascular Research, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andreas Spittler
- Department of General Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Florian Enzmann
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Barbara Messner
- Cardiac Surgery Research Laboratory, Department of Cardiac Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Riebandt
- Cardiac Surgery Research Laboratory, Department of Cardiac Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Guenther Laufer
- Cardiac Surgery Research Laboratory, Department of Cardiac Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Bergmann
- Department of General Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marek Ehrlich
- Cardiac Surgery Research Laboratory, Department of Cardiac Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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13
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Marek-Iannucci S, Ozdemir AB, Moreira D, Gomez AC, Lane M, Porritt RA, Lee Y, Shimada K, Abe M, Stotland A, Zemmour D, Parker S, Sanchez-Lopez E, Van Eyk J, Gottlieb RA, Fishbein M, Karin M, Crother TR, Noval Rivas M, Arditi M. Autophagy-mitophagy induction attenuates cardiovascular inflammation in a murine model of Kawasaki disease vasculitis. JCI Insight 2021; 6:e151981. [PMID: 34403365 PMCID: PMC8492304 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.151981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Kawasaki disease (KD) is the leading cause of acquired heart disease among children. Murine and human data suggest that the NLRP3-IL-1β pathway is the main driver of KD pathophysiology. NLRP3 can be activated during defective autophagy/mitophagy. We used the Lactobacillus casei cell wall extract (LCWE) murine model of KD vasculitis, to examine the role of autophagy/mitophagy on cardiovascular lesion development. LCWE-injected mice had impaired autophagy/mitophagy and increased levels of ROS in cardiovascular lesions, together with increased systemic 8-OHdG release. Enhanced autophagic flux significantly reduced cardiovascular lesions in LCWE-injected mice, whereas autophagy blockade increased inflammation. Vascular smooth muscle cell specific deletion of Atg16l1 and global Parkin-/- significantly increased disease formation, supporting the importance of autophagy/mitophagy in this model. Ogg1-/- mice had significantly increased lesions with increased NLRP3 activity, whereas treatment with MitoQ, reduced vascular tissue inflammation, ROS production and systemic 8-OHdG release. Treatment with MN58b or Metformin (increasing AMPK and reducing ROS), resulted in decreased disease formation. Our results demonstrate that impaired autophagy/mitophagy and ROS-dependent damage exacerbate the development of murine KD vasculitis. This pathway can be efficiently targeted to reduce disease severity. These findings enhance our understanding of KD pathogenesis and identify novel therapeutic avenues for KD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Marek-Iannucci
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - A Beyza Ozdemir
- Department of Pediatrics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Debbie Moreira
- Department of Pediatrics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Angela C Gomez
- Department of Pediatrics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Malcolm Lane
- Department of Pediatrics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Rebecca A Porritt
- Department of Pediatrics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Youngho Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Kenichi Shimada
- Department of Pediatrics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Masanori Abe
- Department of Pediatrics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Aleksandr Stotland
- Advanced Clinical Biosystems Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - David Zemmour
- Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, United States of America
| | - Sarah Parker
- Advanced Clinical Biosystems Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | | | - Jennifer Van Eyk
- Advanced Clinical Biosystems Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Roberta A Gottlieb
- Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Michael Fishbein
- Department of Pathology, UCLA, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Michael Karin
- Department of Pathology, UCSD, San Diego, United States of America
| | - Timothy R Crother
- Department of Pediatrics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Magali Noval Rivas
- Department of Pediatrics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Moshe Arditi
- Department of Pediatrics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, United States of America
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14
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SDF-1α/CXCR4 Pathway Mediates Hemodynamics-Induced Formation of Intracranial Aneurysm by Modulating the Phenotypic Transformation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells. Transl Stroke Res 2021; 13:276-286. [PMID: 34173205 DOI: 10.1007/s12975-021-00925-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study is to explore the role of the SDF-1α/CXCR4 pathway in the development of intracranial aneurysm (IA) induced by hemodynamic forces. We collected 12 IA and six superficial temporal artery samples for high-throughput sequencing, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and immunohistochemistry to examine vascular remodeling and determine the expression of the components of the SDF-1α/CXCR4 pathway, structural proteins (α-SMA and calponin) of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), and inflammatory factors (MMP-2 and TNF-α). Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used for hemodynamic analysis. Mouse IA model and dynamic co-culture model were established to explore the mechanism through which the SDF-1α/CXCR4 pathway regulates the phenotypic transformation of VSMCs in vivo and in vitro. We detected a significant elevation of SDF-1α and CXCR4 in IA, which was accompanied by vascular remodeling in the aneurysm wall (i.e., the upregulation of inflammatory factors, MMP-2 and TNF-α, and the downregulation of contractile markers, α-SMA and calponin). In addition, hemodynamic analysis revealed that compared with unruptured aneurysms, ruptured aneurysms were associated with lower wall shear stress and higher MMP-2 expression. In vivo and in vitro experiments showed that abnormal hemodynamics could activate the SDF-1α/CXCR4, P38, and JNK signaling pathways to induce the phenotypic transformation of VSMCs, leading to IA formation. Hemodynamics can induce the phenotypic transformation of VSMCs and cause IA by activating the SDF-1α/CXCR4 signaling pathway.
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15
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Xiong JM, Liu H, Chen J, Zou QQ, Wang YYJ, Bi GS. Curcumin nicotinate suppresses abdominal aortic aneurysm pyroptosis via lncRNA PVT1/miR-26a/KLF4 axis through regulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2021; 10:651-661. [PMID: 34141179 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfab041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a chronic dilated disease of the aorta that is characterized by chronic inflammation. Curcumin (Cur) is previously showed to attenuate AAA by inhibiting inflammatory response in ApoE -/- mice. Since Cur has the limitations of aqueous solubility and instability. Here, we focus on the role of curcumin nicotinate (CurTn), a Cur derivative is derived from Cur and nicotinate. An in vitro model of AAA was established by treating vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) with II (Ang-II). Gene and protein expressions were examined by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) or western blotting. Cell migration and pyroptosis were determined by transwell assay and flow cytometry. The interaction between plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1), miR-26a and krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) was predicted by online prediction tool and confirmed by luciferase reporter assay. CurTn reduced Ang-II-induced AAA-associated proteins, inflammatory cytokine expressions, and attenuated pyroptosis in VSMCs. PVT1 overexpression suppressed the inhibitory effect of CurTn on AngII-induced pyroptosis and inflammatory in VSMCs by sponging miR-26a. miR-26a directly targeted KLF4 and suppressed its expression, which eventually led to the deactivation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Besides, the regulatory effect of CurTn on pyroptosis of VSMCs induced by Ang-II was reversed through the PVT1/miR-26a/KLF4 pathway. In short, CurTn suppressed VSMCs pyroptosis and inflammation though mediation PVT1/miR-26a/KLF4 axis by regulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, CurTn might consider as a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of AAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Ming Xiong
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Yiyang Central Hospital, Yiyang 413000, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Yiyang Central Hospital, Yiyang 413000, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang 421000, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Qing-Qing Zou
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang 421000, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Yang-Yi-Jing Wang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang 421000, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Guo-Shan Bi
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang 421000, Hunan Province, P.R. China
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16
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Different types of cell death in vascular diseases. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:4687-4702. [PMID: 34013393 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06402-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
In a mature organism, tissue homeostasis is regulated by cell division and cell demise as the two major physiological procedures. There is increasing evidence that deregulation of these processes is important in the pathogenicity of main diseases, including myocardial infarction, stroke, atherosclerosis, and inflammatory diseases. Therefore, there are ongoing efforts to discover modulating factors of the cell cycle and cell demise planners aiming at shaping innovative therapeutically modalities to the therapy of such diseases. Although the life of a cell is terminated by several modes of action, a few cell deaths exist-some of which resemble apoptosis and/or necrosis, and most of them are different from one another-that contribute to a wide range of functions to either support or disrupt the homoeostasis. Even in normal physiological conditions, cell life is severe within the cardiovascular system. Cells are persistently undergoing stretch, contraction, injurious metabolic byproducts, and hemodynamic forces, and a few of cells sustain decade-long lifetimes. The duration of vascular disease causes further exposure of vascular cells to a novel range of offences, most of which induce cell death. There is growing evidence on consequences of direct damage to a cell, as well as on responses of adjacent and infiltrating cells, which also have an effect on the pathology. In this study, by focusing on different pathways of cell death in different vascular diseases, an attempt is made to open a new perspective on the therapeutic goals associated with cell death in these diseases.
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17
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Zhao G, Lu H, Chang Z, Zhao Y, Zhu T, Chang L, Guo Y, Garcia-Barrio MT, Chen YE, Zhang J. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals the cellular heterogeneity of aneurysmal infrarenal abdominal aorta. Cardiovasc Res 2021; 117:1402-1416. [PMID: 32678909 PMCID: PMC8064434 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvaa214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The artery contains numerous cell types which contribute to multiple vascular diseases. However, the heterogeneity and cellular responses of these vascular cells during abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) progression have not been well characterized. METHODS AND RESULTS Single-cell RNA sequencing was performed on the infrarenal abdominal aortas (IAAs) from C57BL/6J mice at Days 7 and 14 post-sham or peri-adventitial elastase-induced AAA. Unbiased clustering analysis of the transcriptional profiles from >4500 aortic cells identified 17 clusters representing nine-cell lineages, encompassing vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), fibroblasts, endothelial cells, immune cells (macrophages, T cells, B cells, and dendritic cells), and two types of rare cells, including neural cells and erythrocyte cells. Seurat clustering analysis identified four smooth muscle cell (SMC) subpopulations and five monocyte/macrophage subpopulations, with distinct transcriptional profiles. During AAA progression, three major SMC subpopulations were proportionally decreased, whereas the small subpopulation was increased, accompanied with down-regulation of SMC contractile markers and up-regulation of pro-inflammatory genes. Another AAA-associated cellular response is immune cell expansion, particularly monocytes/macrophages. Elastase exposure induced significant expansion and activation of aortic resident macrophages, blood-derived monocytes and inflammatory macrophages. We also identified increased blood-derived reparative macrophages expressing anti-inflammatory cytokines suggesting that resolution of inflammation and vascular repair also persist during AAA progression. CONCLUSION Our data identify AAA disease-relevant transcriptional signatures of vascular cells in the IAA. Furthermore, we characterize the heterogeneity and cellular responses of VSMCs and monocytes/macrophages during AAA progression, which provide insights into their function and the regulation of AAA onset and progression.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Aorta, Abdominal/metabolism
- Aorta, Abdominal/pathology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/chemically induced
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/genetics
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/metabolism
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/pathology
- Cell Lineage
- Cluster Analysis
- Disease Models, Animal
- Gene Expression Profiling
- Macrophages/metabolism
- Macrophages/pathology
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Monocytes/metabolism
- Monocytes/pathology
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/pathology
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/pathology
- Pancreatic Elastase
- Phenotype
- RNA-Seq
- Single-Cell Analysis
- Transcriptome
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Guizhen Zhao
- Frankel Cardiovascular Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical Center, NCRC Bldg26, Room 357S. 2800 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Haocheng Lu
- Frankel Cardiovascular Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical Center, NCRC Bldg26, Room 357S. 2800 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ziyi Chang
- Frankel Cardiovascular Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical Center, NCRC Bldg26, Room 357S. 2800 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, PR China
| | - Yang Zhao
- Frankel Cardiovascular Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical Center, NCRC Bldg26, Room 357S. 2800 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Tianqing Zhu
- Frankel Cardiovascular Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical Center, NCRC Bldg26, Room 357S. 2800 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Lin Chang
- Frankel Cardiovascular Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical Center, NCRC Bldg26, Room 357S. 2800 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Yanhong Guo
- Frankel Cardiovascular Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical Center, NCRC Bldg26, Room 357S. 2800 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Minerva T Garcia-Barrio
- Frankel Cardiovascular Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical Center, NCRC Bldg26, Room 357S. 2800 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Y Eugene Chen
- Frankel Cardiovascular Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical Center, NCRC Bldg26, Room 357S. 2800 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jifeng Zhang
- Frankel Cardiovascular Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical Center, NCRC Bldg26, Room 357S. 2800 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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18
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Blum A, Mostow K, Jackett K, Kelty E, Dakpa T, Ryan C, Hagos E. KLF4 Regulates Metabolic Homeostasis in Response to Stress. Cells 2021; 10:830. [PMID: 33917010 PMCID: PMC8067718 DOI: 10.3390/cells10040830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancerous cells are detrimental to the human body and can be incredibly resilient against treatments because of the complexities of molecular carcinogenic pathways. In particular, cancer cells are able to sustain increased growth under metabolic stress due to phenomena like the Warburg effect. Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4), a context-dependent transcription factor that can act as both a tumor suppressor and an oncogene, is involved in many molecular pathways that respond to low glucose and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS), raising the question of its role in metabolic stress as a result of increased proliferation of tumor cells. In this study, metabolic assays were performed, showing enhanced efficiency of energy production in cells expressing KLF4. Western blotting showed that KLF4 increases the expression of essential glycolytic proteins. Furthermore, we used immunostaining to show that KLF4 increases the localization of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) to the cellular membrane. 2',7'-Dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (H2DCF-DA) was used to analyze the production of ROS, and we found that KLF4 reduces stress-induced ROS within cells. Finally, we demonstrated increased autophagic death in KLF4-expressing cells in response to glucose starvation. Collectively, these results relate KLF4 to non-Warburg metabolic behaviors that support its role as a tumor suppressor and could make KLF4 a target for new cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Engda Hagos
- Department of Biology, Colgate University, Hamilton, NY 13346, USA; (A.B.); (K.M.); (K.J.); (E.K.); (T.D.); (C.R.)
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19
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Increased Serum KLF4 in Severe Atheromatosis and Extensive Aneurysmal Disease. Ann Vasc Surg 2020; 68:338-343. [DOI: 10.1016/j.avsg.2020.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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20
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Lusini M, Nenna A, Chello C, Greco SM, Gagliardi I, Nappi F, Chello M. Role of autophagy in aneurysm and dissection of the ascending aorta. Future Cardiol 2020; 16:517-526. [PMID: 32524854 DOI: 10.2217/fca-2019-0076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Maintenance of physiologically balanced levels of autophagy is crucial for cellular homeostasis and in the normal vessel wall, balanced autophagy can be considered a cytoprotective mechanism that preserves endothelial function and prevents cardiovascular disease. Recent studies pointed out the importance of the modulation of the autophagic flux in the pathogenesis of aortic dissection and aneurysms of the ascending aorta. Notably, shear stress (and its receptor p62), IL-6, Rab7 and Atg5/IRE1α pathways of autophagy may be considered the novel super-selective therapeutic target for the preventive and postoperative treatment of aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection. This review intends to summarize current evidences in this field trying to enlighten new avenues for future researches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Lusini
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Nenna
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Camilla Chello
- Department of Dermatology, Università La Sapienza di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Ilaria Gagliardi
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Nappi
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Centre Cardiologique du Nord, Paris, France
| | - Massimo Chello
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
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21
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Endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial biogenesis are potential therapeutic targets for abdominal aortic aneurysm. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 133:2023-2028. [PMID: 31654572 DOI: 10.1042/cs20190648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria are crucial organelles for cell homeostasis and alterations of these organelles have been implicated in cardiovascular disease. However, their roles in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) pathogenesis remain largely unknown. In a recent issue of Clinical Science, Navas-Madronal et al. ((2019), 133(13), 1421-1438) reported that enhanced ER stress and dysregulation of mitochondrial biogenesis are associated with AAA pathogenesis in humans. The authors also proposed that disruption in oxysterols network such as an elevated concentration of 7-ketocholestyerol in plasma is a causative factor for AAA progression. Their findings highlight new insights into the underlying mechanism of AAA progression through ER stress and dysregulation of mitochondrial biogenesis. Here, we will discuss the background, significance of the study, and future directions.
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22
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Liu S, Huang T, Liu R, Cai H, Pan B, Liao M, Yang P, Wang L, Huang J, Ge Y, Xu B, Wang W. Spermidine Suppresses Development of Experimental Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms. J Am Heart Assoc 2020; 9:e014757. [PMID: 32308093 PMCID: PMC7428527 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.119.014757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background The protective effects of polyamines on cardiovascular disease have been demonstrated in many studies. However, the roles of spermidine, a natural polyamine, in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) disease have not been studied. In this study, we investigated the influence and potential mechanisms of spermidine treatment on experimental AAA disease. Methods and Results Experimental AAAs were induced in 8‐ to 10‐week‐old male C57BL/6J mice by transient intra‐aortic infusion of porcine pancreatic elastase. Spermidine was administered via drinking water at a concentration of 3 mmol/L. Spermidine treatment prevented experimental AAA formation with preservation of medial elastin and smooth muscle cells. In immunostaining, macrophages, T cells, neutrophils, and neovessels were significantly reduced in aorta of spermidine‐treated, as compared with vehicle‐treated elastase‐infused mice. Additionally, flow cytometric analysis showed that spermidine treatment reduced aortic leukocyte infiltration and circulating inflammatory cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that spermidine treatment promoted autophagy‐related proteins in experimental AAAs using Western blot analysis, immunostaining, and transmission electron microscopic examination. Autophagic function was evaluated for human abdominal aneurysmal and nonaneurysmal adjacent aortae from AAA patients using Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry. Dysregulated autophagic function, as evidenced by increased SQSTM1/p62 protein and phosphorylated mTOR, was found in aneurysmal, as compared with nonaneurysmal, aortic segments. Conclusions Our results suggest that spermidine supplementation limits experimental AAA formation associated with preserved aortic structural integrity, attenuated aortic inflammatory infiltration, reduced circulating inflammatory monocytes, and increased autophagy‐related proteins. These findings suggest that spermidine may be a promising treatment for AAA disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Liu
- Department of General & Vascular Surgery Xiangya Hospital Central South University Changsha Hunan China
| | - Tingting Huang
- Department of General & Vascular Surgery Xiangya Hospital Central South University Changsha Hunan China
| | - Rui Liu
- Department of General & Vascular Surgery Xiangya Hospital Central South University Changsha Hunan China
| | - Huoying Cai
- Department of General & Vascular Surgery Xiangya Hospital Central South University Changsha Hunan China
| | - Baihong Pan
- Department of General & Vascular Surgery Xiangya Hospital Central South University Changsha Hunan China
| | - Mingmei Liao
- Department of General & Vascular Surgery Xiangya Hospital Central South University Changsha Hunan China
| | - Pu Yang
- Department of General & Vascular Surgery Xiangya Hospital Central South University Changsha Hunan China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of General & Vascular Surgery Xiangya Hospital Central South University Changsha Hunan China
| | - Jianhua Huang
- Department of General & Vascular Surgery Xiangya Hospital Central South University Changsha Hunan China
| | - Yingbin Ge
- Department of Physiology Nanjing Medical University Nanjing Jiangsu China
| | - Baohui Xu
- Department of Surgery Stanford University School of Medicine Stanford CA
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of General & Vascular Surgery Xiangya Hospital Central South University Changsha Hunan China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders Xiangya Hospital Central South University Changsha Hunan China
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Wu QY, Cheng Z, Zhou YZ, Zhao Y, Li JM, Zhou XM, Peng HL, Zhang GS, Liao XB, Fu XM. A novel STAT3 inhibitor attenuates angiotensin II-induced abdominal aortic aneurysm progression in mice through modulating vascular inflammation and autophagy. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:131. [PMID: 32071300 PMCID: PMC7028955 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-2326-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Abdominal Aortic aneurysm (AAA) is associated with chronic inflammation, cells apoptosis, and impairment of autophagy. BP-1-102, a novel potent STAT3 inhibitor, has been recently reported to significantly block inflammation-related signaling pathways of JAK2/STAT3 and NF-κB, as well as regulate autophagy. However, its role in vascular inflammation and AAA progression remains to be elucidated. In the present study, the effect and potential mechanisms of BP-1-102 on angiotensin II (AngII) induced AAA in ApoE−/− mice were investigated. AAA was induced in ApoE−/− mice with infusion of AngII for 28 days. BP-1-102 was administrated orally to mice every other day. Mice were sacrificed on day 7, day 14, and day 28 to evaluate the treatment effects. BP-1-102 markedly decreased AAA incidence and aortic diameter, maintained elastin structure and volume, reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and MMPs, and inhibited inflammatory cells infiltration. Moreover, BP-1-102 dramatically reduced the expression of JAK2, p-STAT3, p-NF-κB, and Bcl-xL but maintained the expression of LC3B and Beclin in AAA tissues. In vitro, vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were treated with AngII and/or BP-1-102 at indicated time and concentration. BP-1-102 inhibited AngII-induced JAK2/STAT3 and NF-κB signaling activation and maintained autophagy-related proteins expression in VSMCs. Taken together, our findings suggest that BP-1-102 inhibits vascular inflammation and AAA progression through decreasing JAK2/STAT3 and NF-κB activation and maintaining autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Ying Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Zhao Cheng
- Department of Hematology, The Second Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Yang-Zhao Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Zhao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Jian-Ming Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Xin-Min Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Ling Peng
- Department of Hematology, The Second Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Guang-Sheng Zhang
- Department of Hematology, The Second Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Bo Liao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Xian-Ming Fu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China.
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24
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Rabiee Motmaen S, Tavakol S, Joghataei MT, Barati M. Acidic pH derived from cancer cells as a double-edged knife modulates wound healing through DNA repair genes and autophagy. Int Wound J 2019; 17:137-148. [PMID: 31714008 DOI: 10.1111/iwj.13248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Wound healing is a sequester program that involves diverse cell signalling cascades. Notwithstanding, complete signal transduction pathways underpinning acidic milieu derived from cancer cells is not clear, yet. MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay, fluorescein diacetate/propidium iodide staining, and cell cycle flow cytometry revealed that acidic media decreased cell viability and cell number along with enhanced dead cells and S-phase arrest in normal fibroblasts. Notably, the trends of intracellular reactive oxygen species production and lactate dehydrogenase release significantly increased with time. It seems the downregulation of Klf4 is in part due to acidosis-induced DNA damage. It promoted cells towards S-phase arrest and diminished cell proliferation. Klf4 downregulation had a direct correlation with the P53 level while acidic microenvironment promotes cells towards cell death mechanisms including apoptosis and autophagy. Noteworthily, the unchanged levels of Rb and Mlh1 indicated in those genes had no dominant role in the repairing of DNA damage in fibroblasts treated with the acidic microenvironment. Therefore, cells owing to not entering to mitosis and accumulation of DNA damage were undergone cell death to preserve cell homeostasis. Since acidic media decreased the level of tumour suppressor and DNA repair genes and altered the normal survival pathways in fibroblasts, caution should be exercised to not lead to cancer rather than wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shima Tavakol
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad T Joghataei
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Barati
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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