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Lin J, Wang J, Fang J, Li M, Xu S, Little PJ, Zhang D, Liu Z. The cytoplasmic sensor, the AIM2 inflammasome: A precise therapeutic target in vascular and metabolic diseases. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:1695-1719. [PMID: 38528718 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16355] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardio-cerebrovascular diseases encompass pathological changes in the heart, brain and vascular system, which pose a great threat to health and well-being worldwide. Moreover, metabolic diseases contribute to and exacerbate the impact of vascular diseases. Inflammation is a complex process that protects against noxious stimuli but is also dysregulated in numerous so-called inflammatory diseases, one of which is atherosclerosis. Inflammation involves multiple organ systems and a complex cascade of molecular and cellular events. Numerous studies have shown that inflammation plays a vital role in cardio-cerebrovascular diseases and metabolic diseases. The absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) inflammasome detects and is subsequently activated by double-stranded DNA in damaged cells and pathogens. With the assistance of the mature effector molecule caspase-1, the AIM2 inflammasome performs crucial biological functions that underpin its involvement in cardio-cerebrovascular diseases and related metabolic diseases: The production of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-18 (IL-18) and N-terminal pore-forming Gasdermin D fragment (GSDMD-N) mediates a series of inflammatory responses and programmed cell death (pyroptosis and PANoptosis). Currently, several agents have been reported to inhibit the activity of the AIM2 inflammasome and have the potential to be evaluated for use in clinical settings. In this review, we systemically elucidate the assembly, biological functions, regulation and mechanisms of the AIM2 inflammasome in cardio-cerebrovascular diseases and related metabolic diseases and outline the inhibitory agents of the AIM2 inflammasome as potential therapeutic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiuguo Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaojiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian Fang
- Huadu District People's Hospital of Guangzhou, Guangzhou, China
| | - Meihang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Suowen Xu
- Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Peter J Little
- Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Dongmei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiping Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Ministry of Education (MOE) of China, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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2
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Pi S, Xiong S, Yuan Y, Deng H. The Role of Inflammasome in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm and Its Potential Drugs. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5001. [PMID: 38732221 PMCID: PMC11084561 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25095001] [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: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) has been recognized as a serious chronic inflammatory degenerative aortic disease in recent years. At present, there is no other effective intervention except surgical treatment for AAA. With the aging of the human population, its incidence is increasing year by year, posing a serious threat to human health. Modern studies suggest that vascular chronic inflammatory response is the core process in AAA occurrence and development. Inflammasome, a multiprotein complex located in the cytoplasm, mediates the expression of various inflammatory cytokines like interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18, and thus plays a pivotal role in inflammation regulation. Therefore, inflammasome may exert a crucial influence on the progression of AAA. This article reviews some mechanism studies to investigate the role of inflammasome in AAA and then summarizes several potential drugs targeting inflammasome for the treatment of AAA, aiming to provide new ideas for the clinical prevention and treatment of AAA beyond surgical methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyu Pi
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China; (S.P.); (S.X.); (Y.Y.)
- Aortic Abdominal Aneurysm (AAA) Translational Medicine Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Sizheng Xiong
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China; (S.P.); (S.X.); (Y.Y.)
- Aortic Abdominal Aneurysm (AAA) Translational Medicine Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Yan Yuan
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China; (S.P.); (S.X.); (Y.Y.)
- Aortic Abdominal Aneurysm (AAA) Translational Medicine Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Hongping Deng
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China; (S.P.); (S.X.); (Y.Y.)
- Aortic Abdominal Aneurysm (AAA) Translational Medicine Research Center of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430060, China
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3
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Weaver LM, Stewart MJ, Ding K, Loftin CD, Zheng F, Zhan CG. A highly selective mPGES-1 inhibitor to block abdominal aortic aneurysm progression in the angiotensin mouse model. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6959. [PMID: 38521811 PMCID: PMC10960802 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57437-9] [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: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a deadly, permanent ballooning of the aortic artery. Pharmacological and genetic studies have pointed to multiple proteins, including microsomal prostaglandin E2 synthase-1 (mPGES-1), as potentially promising targets. However, it remains unknown whether administration of an mPGES-1 inhibitor can effectively attenuate AAA progression in animal models. There are still no FDA-approved pharmacological treatments for AAA. Current research stresses the importance of both anti-inflammatory drug targets and rigor of translatability. Notably, mPGES-1 is an inducible enzyme responsible for overproduction of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)-a well-known principal pro-inflammatory prostanoid. Here we demonstrate for the first time that a highly selective mPGES-1 inhibitor (UK4b) can completely block further growth of AAA in the ApoE-/- angiotensin (Ang)II mouse model. Our findings show promise for the use of a mPGES-1 inhibitor like UK4b as interventional treatment of AAA and its potential translation into the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Weaver
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, 789 South Limestone Street, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
- Molecular Modeling and Biopharmaceutical Center, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, 789 South Limestone Street, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Madeline J Stewart
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, 789 South Limestone Street, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
- Molecular Modeling and Biopharmaceutical Center, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, 789 South Limestone Street, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Kai Ding
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, 789 South Limestone Street, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Charles D Loftin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, 789 South Limestone Street, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Fang Zheng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, 789 South Limestone Street, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
- Molecular Modeling and Biopharmaceutical Center, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, 789 South Limestone Street, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Chang-Guo Zhan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, 789 South Limestone Street, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA.
- Molecular Modeling and Biopharmaceutical Center, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, 789 South Limestone Street, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA.
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4
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Hu J, Xu J, Zhao J, Liu Y, Huang R, Yao D, Xie J, Lei Y. Colchicine ameliorates short-term abdominal aortic aneurysms by inhibiting the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome components in mice. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 964:176297. [PMID: 38135264 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176297] [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] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) are often associated with chronic inflammation and pose a significant risk to affected individuals. Colchicine, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, has shown promise in managing cardiovascular diseases. However, its specific role in the development of AAA remains poorly understood. METHODS AND RESULTS In this study, we employed a short-term AAA model induced by angiotensin II (Ang II, 1000 ng/kg/min) and calcium chloride (CaCl2, 0.5 mol/l) in male ApoE-/- and C57BL/6 mice (8-12 weeks old) to investigate the effects of colchicine on AAA progression. Colchicine (0.4 mg/kg) was administered orally once daily, starting on the same day as AAA induction. After a 4-week duration, we observed a significant reduction in AAA diameter, degradation of elastic fibers, and expression of components related to the Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in the vessel wall of colchicine-treated mice compared to the saline group. Mechanistically, colchicine (5 μm/l, for 24h) inhibited the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome components through the P38-ERK/MicroRNA145-toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) pathway in RAW264.7 cells. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates the effectiveness of colchicine in suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome components, thereby delaying AAA progression in the Ang II and CaCl2-induced short-term model. These findings suggest the potential of colchicine as a pharmacological treatment option for AAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Hu
- Cardiovascular Disease Center, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi Clinical College of Wuhan University, Enshi, Hubei, China; Department of Cardiology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China; Hubei Selenium and Human Health Institute, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, 445000, China
| | - Jiamin Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiling Zhao
- Cardiovascular Disease Center, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi Clinical College of Wuhan University, Enshi, Hubei, China
| | - Yuwei Liu
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi Clinical College of Wuhan University, Enshi, Hubei, China
| | - Rui Huang
- Cardiovascular Disease Center, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi Clinical College of Wuhan University, Enshi, Hubei, China
| | - Dejiang Yao
- Surgical Division III, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi Clinical College of Wuhan University, Enshi, Hubei, China
| | - Jun Xie
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui, China.
| | - Yuhua Lei
- Cardiovascular Disease Center, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi Clinical College of Wuhan University, Enshi, Hubei, China.
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Cho MJ, Lee MR, Park JG. Aortic aneurysms: current pathogenesis and therapeutic targets. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:2519-2530. [PMID: 38036736 PMCID: PMC10766996 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01130-w] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Aortic aneurysm is a chronic disease characterized by localized expansion of the aorta, including the ascending aorta, arch, descending aorta, and abdominal aorta. Although aortic aneurysms are generally asymptomatic, they can threaten human health by sudden death due to aortic rupture. Aortic aneurysms are estimated to lead to 150,000 ~ 200,000 deaths per year worldwide. Currently, there are no effective drugs to prevent the growth or rupture of aortic aneurysms; surgical repair or endovascular repair is the only option for treating this condition. The pathogenic mechanisms and therapeutic targets for aortic aneurysms have been examined over the past decade; however, there are unknown pathogenic mechanisms involved in cellular heterogeneity and plasticity, the complexity of the transforming growth factor-β signaling pathway, inflammation, cell death, intramural neovascularization, and intercellular communication. This review summarizes the latest research findings and current pathogenic mechanisms of aortic aneurysms, which may enhance our understanding of aortic aneurysms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Ji Cho
- Biotherapeutics Translational Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Ran Lee
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Jungwon University, 85 Munmu-ro, Goesan-eup, Goesan-gun, Chungbuk, 28024, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Gil Park
- Biotherapeutics Translational Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Bioscience, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), 125 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
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Elgohary S, Eissa RA, El Tayebi HM. Thymoquinone, a Novel Multi-Strike Inhibitor of Pro-Tumorigenic Breast Cancer (BC) Markers: CALR, NLRP3 Pathway and sPD-L1 in PBMCs of HR+ and TNBC Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14254. [PMID: 37762557 PMCID: PMC10531892 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is not only a mass of malignant cells but also a systemic inflammatory disease. BC pro-tumorigenic inflammation has been shown to promote immune evasion and provoke BC progression. The NOD-like receptor (NLR) family pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is activated when pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) sense danger signals such as calreticulin (CALR) from damaged/dying cells, leading to the secretion of interleukin-1β (IL-1β). CALR is a novel BC biological marker, and its high levels are associated with advanced tumors. NLRP3 expression is strongly correlated with an elevated proliferative index Ki67, BC progression, metastasis, and recurrence in patients with hormone receptor-positive (HR+) and triple-negative BC (TNBC). Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) secrete high levels of IL-1β promoting endocrine resistance in HR+ BC. Recently, an immunosuppressive soluble form of programmed death ligand 1 (sPD-L1) has been identified as a novel prognostic biomarker in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients. Interestingly, IL-1β induces sPD-L1 release. BC Patients with elevated IL-1β and sPD-L1 levels show significantly short progression-free survival. For the first time, this study aims to investigate the inhibitory impact of thymoquinone (TQ) on CALR, the NLRP3 pathway and sPD-L1 in HR+ and TNBC. Blood samples were collected from 45 patients with BC. The effect of differing TQ concentrations for different durations on the expression of CALR, NLRP3 complex components and IL-1β as well as the protein levels of sPD-L1 and IL-1β were investigated in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and TAMs of TNBC and HR+ BC patients, respectively. The findings showed that TQ significantly downregulated the expression of CALR, NLRP3 components and IL-1β together with the protein levels of secreted IL-1β and sPD-L1. The current findings demonstrated novel immunomodulatory effects of TQ, highlighting its potential role not only as an excellent adjuvant but also as a possible immunotherapeutic agent in HR+ and TNBC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sawsan Elgohary
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenomics Research Group, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo 11835, Egypt;
| | - Reda A. Eissa
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11591, Egypt;
| | - Hend M. El Tayebi
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenomics Research Group, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo 11835, Egypt;
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Schwendt A, Chammas JB, Maric M, Nicell JA, Leask R, Chalifour LE. Exposure to the non-phthalate plasticizer di-heptyl succinate is less disruptive to C57bl/6N mouse recovery from a myocardial infarction than DEHP, TOTM or related di-octyl succinate. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288491. [PMID: 37440506 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Phthalate plasticizers are incorporated into plastics to make them soft and malleable, but are known to leach out of the final product into their surroundings with potential detrimental effects to human and ecological health. The replacement of widely-used phthalate plasticizers, such as di-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), that are of known toxicity, by the commercially-available alternative Tris(2-ethylhexyl) tri-mellitate (TOTM) is increasing. Additionally, several newly designed "green" plasticizers, including di-heptyl succinate (DHPS) and di-octyl succinate (DOS) have been identified as potential replacements. However, the impact of plasticizer exposure from medical devices on patient recovery is unknown and, moreover, the safety of TOTM, DHPS, and DOS is not well established in the context of patient recovery. To study the direct effect of clinically based chemical exposures, we exposed C57bl/6 N male and female mice to DEHP, TOTM, DOS, and DHPS during recovery from cardiac surgery and assessed survival, cardiac structure and function, immune cell infiltration into the cardiac wound and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Male, but not female, mice treated in vivo with DEHP and TOTM had greater cardiac dilation, reduced cardiac function, increased infiltration of neutrophils, monocytes, and macrophages and increased expression of inflammasome receptors and effectors, thereby suggesting impaired recovery in exposed mice. In contrast, no impact was detected in female mice and male mice exposed to DOS and DHPS. To examine the direct effects in cells involved in wound healing, we treated human THP-1 macrophages with the plasticizers in vitro and found DEHP induced greater NLRP3 expression and activation. These results suggest that replacing current plasticizers with non-phthalate-based plasticizers may improve patient recovery, especially in the male population. In our assessment, DHPS is a promising possibility for a non-toxic biocompatible plasticizer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Schwendt
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | | | - Milan Maric
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Jim A Nicell
- Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Richard Leask
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Lorraine E Chalifour
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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8
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Wulandari S, Hartono, Wibawa T. The role of HMGB1 in COVID-19-induced cytokine storm and its potential therapeutic targets: A review. Immunology 2023; 169:117-131. [PMID: 36571562 PMCID: PMC9880760 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperinflammation characterized by elevated proinflammatory cytokines known as 'cytokine storms' is the major cause of high severity and mortality seen in COVID-19 patients. The pathology behind the cytokine storms is currently unknown. Increased HMGB1 levels in serum/plasma of COVID-19 patients were reported by many studies, which positively correlated with the level of proinflammatory cytokines. Dead cells following SARS-CoV-2 infection might release a large amount of HMGB1 and RNA of SARS-CoV-2 into extracellular space. HMGB1 is a well-known inflammatory mediator. Additionally, extracellular HMGB1 might interact with SARS-CoV-2 RNA because of its high capability to bind with a wide variety of molecules including nucleic acids and could trigger massive proinflammatory immune responses. This review aimed to critically explore the many possible pathways by which HMGB1-SARS-CoV-2 RNA complexes mediate proinflammatory responses in COVID-19. The contribution of these pathways to impair host immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 infection leading to a cytokine storm was also evaluated. Moreover, since blocking the HMGB1-SARS-CoV-2 RNA interaction might have therapeutic value, some of the HMGB1 antagonists have been reviewed. The HMGB1- SARS-CoV-2 RNA complexes might trigger endocytosis via RAGE which is linked to lysosomal rupture, PRRs activation, and pyroptotic death. High levels of the proinflammatory cytokines produced might suppress many immune cells leading to uncontrolled viral infection and cell damage with more HMGB1 released. Altogether these mechanisms might initiate a proinflammatory cycle leading to a cytokine storm. HMGB1 antagonists could be considered to give benefit in alleviating cytokine storms and serve as a potential candidate for COVID-19 therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sri Wulandari
- Doctorate Program of Medicine and Health Science, Faculty of MedicinePublic Health and Nursing Universitas Gadjah MadaYogyakartaIndonesia,Department of Physiology, Faculty of MedicineUniversitas Sebelas MaretSurakartaIndonesia
| | - Hartono
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of MedicineUniversitas Sebelas MaretSurakartaIndonesia
| | - Tri Wibawa
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of MedicinePublic Health and Nursing Universitas Gadjah MadaYogyakartaIndonesia
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Bararu Bojan (Bararu) I, Pleșoianu CE, Badulescu OV, Vladeanu MC, Badescu MC, Iliescu D, Bojan A, Ciocoiu M. Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms Involved in Aortic Wall Aneurysm Development. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13020253. [PMID: 36673063 PMCID: PMC9858209 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13020253] [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: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Aortic aneurysms represent a very common pathology that can affect any segment of the aorta. These types of aneurysms can be localized on the thoracic segment or on the abdominal portion, with the latter being more frequent. Though there are similarities between thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysms, these pathologies are distinct entities. In this article, we undertook a review regarding the different mechanisms that can lead to the development of aortic aneurysm, and we tried to identify the different manners of treatment. For a long time, aortic wall aneurysms may evolve in an asymptomatic manner, but this progressive dilatation of the aneurysm can lead to a potentially fatal complication consisting in aortic rupture. Because there are limited therapies that may delay or prevent the development of acute aortic syndromes, surgical management remains the most common manner of treatment. Even though, surgical management has improved much in the last years, thus becoming less invasive and sophisticated, the morbi-mortality linked to these therapies remains increased. The identification of the cellular and molecular networks triggering the formation of aneurysm would permit the discovery of modern therapeutic targets. Molecular and cellular mechanisms are gaining a bigger importance in the complex pathogenesis of aortic aneurysms. Future studies must be developed to compare the findings seen in human tissue and animal models of aortic aneurysm, so that clinically relevant conclusions about the aortic aneurysm formation and the pharmacological possibility of pathogenic pathways blockage can be drawn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Bararu Bojan (Bararu)
- Department of Pathophysiology, Morpho-Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, ‘Grigore T. Popa’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Unirii Street, 700115 Iași, Romania
| | - Carmen Elena Pleșoianu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, ‘Grigore T. Popa’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania
- Department of Clinical Cardiology, ‘Prof. Dr. George I.M. Georgescu’ Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, 700503 Iași, Romania
- Correspondence: (C.E.P.); (O.V.B.); (M.C.V.)
| | - Oana Viola Badulescu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Morpho-Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, ‘Grigore T. Popa’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Unirii Street, 700115 Iași, Romania
- Correspondence: (C.E.P.); (O.V.B.); (M.C.V.)
| | - Maria Cristina Vladeanu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Morpho-Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, ‘Grigore T. Popa’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Unirii Street, 700115 Iași, Romania
- Correspondence: (C.E.P.); (O.V.B.); (M.C.V.)
| | - Minerva Codruta Badescu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, ‘Grigore T. Popa’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania
| | - Dan Iliescu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, ‘Grigore T. Popa’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania
| | - Andrei Bojan
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, ‘Grigore T. Popa’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania
| | - Manuela Ciocoiu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Morpho-Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, ‘Grigore T. Popa’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Unirii Street, 700115 Iași, Romania
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10
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Forsyth CB, Voigt RM, Swanson GR, Bishehsari F, Shaikh M, Zhang L, Engen P, Keshavarzian A. Alcohol use disorder as a potential risk factor for COVID-19 severity: A narrative review. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2022; 46:1930-1943. [PMID: 36394508 PMCID: PMC9722573 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14936] [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: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In Dec. 2019-January 2020, a pneumonia illness originating in Wuhan, China, designated as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was shown to be caused by a novel RNA coronavirus designated as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). People with advanced age, male sex, and/or underlying health conditions (obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and chronic lung disease) are especially vulnerable to severe COVID-19 symptoms and death. These risk factors impact the immune system and are also associated with poor health, chronic illness, and shortened longevity. However, a large percent of patients without these known risk factors also develops severe COVID-19 disease that can result in death. Thus, there must exist risk factors that promote exaggerated inflammatory and immune response to the SARS-CoV-2 virus leading to death. One such risk factor may be alcohol misuse and alcohol use disorder because these can exacerbate viral lung infections like SARS, influenza, and pneumonia. Thus, it is highly plausible that alcohol misuse is a risk factor for either increased infection rate when individuals are exposed to SARS-CoV-2 virus and/or more severe COVID-19 in infected patients. Alcohol use is a well-known risk factor for lung diseases and ARDS in SARS patients. We propose that alcohol has three key pathogenic elements in common with other COVID-19 severity risk factors: namely, inflammatory microbiota dysbiosis, leaky gut, and systemic activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. We also propose that these three elements represent targets for therapy for severe COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher B. Forsyth
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome and Chronobiology Research, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Rush University Graduate College, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
| | - Robin M. Voigt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome and Chronobiology Research, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Rush University Graduate College, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
| | - Garth R. Swanson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome and Chronobiology Research, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Rush University Graduate College, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
| | - Faraz Bishehsari
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome and Chronobiology Research, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Rush University Graduate College, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
| | - Maliha Shaikh
- Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome and Chronobiology Research, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
| | - Lijuan Zhang
- Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome and Chronobiology Research, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
| | - Phillip Engen
- Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome and Chronobiology Research, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
| | - Ali Keshavarzian
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome and Chronobiology Research, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
- Rush University Graduate College, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
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11
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Cheng S, Liu Y, Jing Y, Jiang B, Wang D, Chu X, Jia L, Xin S. Identification of key monocytes/macrophages related gene set of the early-stage abdominal aortic aneurysm by integrated bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:950961. [PMID: 36186997 PMCID: PMC9515382 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.950961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a lethal peripheral vascular disease. Inflammatory immune cell infiltration is a central part of the pathogenesis of AAA. It’s critical to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying immune infiltration in early-stage AAA and look for a viable AAA marker. Methods In this study, we download several mRNA expression datasets and scRNA-seq datasets of the early-stage AAA models from the NCBI-GEO database. mMCP-counter and CIBERSORT were used to assess immune infiltration in early-stage experimental AAA. The scRNA-seq datasets were then utilized to analyze AAA-related gene modules of monocytes/macrophages infiltrated into the early-stage AAA by Weighted Correlation Network analysis (WGCNA). After that, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) functional enrichment analysis for the module genes was performed by ClusterProfiler. The STRING database was used to create the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. The Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) of the monocytes/macrophages were explored by Limma-Voom and the key gene set were identified. Then We further examined the expression of key genes in the human AAA dataset and built a logistic diagnostic model for distinguishing AAA patients and healthy people. Finally, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) were performed to validate the gene expression and serum protein level between the AAA and healthy donor samples in our cohort. Results Monocytes/macrophages were identified as the major immune cells infiltrating the early-stage experimental AAA. After pseudocell construction of monocytes/macrophages from scRNA-seq datasets and WGCNA analysis, four gene modules from two datasets were identified positively related to AAA, mainly enriched in Myeloid Leukocyte Migration, Collagen-Containing Extracellular matrix, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway by functional enrichment analysis. Thbs1, Clec4e, and Il1b were identified as key genes among the hub genes in the modules, and the high expression of Clec4e, Il1b, and Thbs1 was confirmed in the other datasets. Then, in human AAA transcriptome datasets, the high expression of CLEC4E, IL1B was confirmed and a logistic regression model based on the two gene expressions was built, with an AUC of 0.9 in the train set and 0.79 in the validated set. Additionally, in our cohort, we confirmed the increased serum protein levels of IL-1β and CLEC4E in AAA patients as well as the increased expression of these two genes in AAA aorta samples. Conclusion This study identified monocytes/macrophages as the main immune cells infiltrated into the early-stage AAA and constructed a logistic regression model based on monocytes/macrophages related gene set. This study could aid in the early diagnostic of AAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Cheng
- Department of Vascular and Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, and Therapeutics of Aortic Aneurysm in Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuanlin Liu
- Department of Vascular and Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, and Therapeutics of Aortic Aneurysm in Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuchen Jing
- Department of Vascular and Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, and Therapeutics of Aortic Aneurysm in Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Bo Jiang
- Department of Vascular and Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, and Therapeutics of Aortic Aneurysm in Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ding Wang
- Department of Vascular and Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, and Therapeutics of Aortic Aneurysm in Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiangyu Chu
- Department of Vascular and Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, and Therapeutics of Aortic Aneurysm in Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Longyuan Jia
- Department of Vascular and Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, and Therapeutics of Aortic Aneurysm in Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shijie Xin
- Department of Vascular and Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, and Therapeutics of Aortic Aneurysm in Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- *Correspondence: Shijie Xin,
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Sun C, Zhao H, Han Y, Wang Y, Sun X. The Role of Inflammasomes in COVID-19: Potential Therapeutic Targets. J Interferon Cytokine Res 2022; 42:406-420. [PMID: 35984324 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2022.0061] [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: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19) pandemic has caused massive morbidity and mortality worldwide. In severe cases, it is mainly associated with acute pneumonia, cytokine storm, and multi-organ dysfunction. Inflammasomes play a primary role in various pathological processes such as infection, injury, and cancer. However, their role in COVID-19-related complications has not been explored. In addition, the role of underlying medical conditions on COVID-19 disease severity remains unclear. Therefore, this review expounds on the mechanisms of inflammasomes following COVID-19 infection and provides recent evidence on the potential double-edged sword effect of inflammasomes during COVID-19 pathogenesis. The assembly and activation of inflammasomes are critical for inducing effective antiviral immune responses and disease resolution. However, uncontrolled activation of inflammasomes causes excessive production of proinflammatory cytokines (cytokine storm), increased risk of acute respiratory distress syndrome, and death. Therefore, discoveries in the role of the inflammasome in mediating organ injury are key to identifying therapeutic targets and treatment modifications to prevent or reduce COVID-19-related complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Sun
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hangyuan Zhao
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yunze Han
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yiqing Wang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiao Sun
- Department of Basic Medical Research Center, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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13
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Puchenkova OA, Soldatov VO, Belykh AE, Bushueva O, Piavchenko GA, Venediktov AA, Shakhpazyan NK, Deykin AV, Korokin MV, Pokrovskiy MV. Cytokines in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Master Regulators With Clinical Application. Biomark Insights 2022; 17:11772719221095676. [PMID: 35492378 PMCID: PMC9052234 DOI: 10.1177/11772719221095676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a potentially life-threatening disorder with a mostly asymptomatic course where the abdominal aorta is weakened and bulged. Cytokines play especially important roles (both positive and negative) among the molecular actors of AAA development. All the inflammatory cascades, extracellular matrix degradation and vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis are driven by cytokines. Previous studies emphasize an altered expression and a changed epigenetic regulation of key cytokines in AAA tissue samples. Such cytokines as IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-17, IL-33, IL-1β, TGF-β, TNF-α, IFN-γ, and CXCL10 seem to be crucial in AAA pathogenesis. Some data obtained in animal studies show a protective function of IL-10, IL-33, and canonical TGF-β signaling, as well as a dual role of IL-4, IFN-γ and CXCL10, while TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12/IL-23, IL-17, CCR2, CXCR2, CXCR4 and the TGF-β noncanonical pathway are believed to aggravate the disease. Altogether data highlight significance of cytokines as informative markers and predictors of AAA. Pathologic serum/plasma concentrations of IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, IL-8, IL-17, IFN-γ, and PDGF have been already found in AAA patients. Some of the changes correlate with the size of aneurysms. Moreover, the risk of AAA is associated with polymorphic variants of genes encoding cytokines and their receptors: CCR2 (rs1799864), CCR5 (Delta-32), IL6 (rs1800796 and rs1800795), IL6R (rs12133641), IL10 (rs1800896), TGFB1 (rs1800469), TGFBR1 (rs1626340), TGFBR2 (rs1036095, rs4522809, rs1078985), and TNFA (rs1800629). Finally, 5 single-nucleotide polymorphisms in gene coding latent TGF-β-binding protein (LTBP4) and an allelic variant of TGFB3 are related to a significantly slower AAA annual growth rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olesya A Puchenkova
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Belgorod State National Research University, Belgorod, Russia
| | - Vladislav O Soldatov
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Belgorod State National Research University, Belgorod, Russia
| | - Andrei E Belykh
- Department of Pathophysiology, Research Institute of General Pathology, Kursk State Medical University, Kursk, Russia
- Dioscuri Centre for Metabolic Diseases, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS, Warsaw, Poland
| | - OlgaYu Bushueva
- Department of Biology, Medical Genetics and Ecology, Laboratory of Genomic Research at the Research Institute for Genetic and Molecular Epidemiology, Kursk State Medical University, Kursk, Russia
| | - Gennadii A Piavchenko
- Department of Histology, Cytology and Embryology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
- Laboratory of Cell Pathology in Critical State, State Research Institute of General Reanimatology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Artem A Venediktov
- Department of Histology, Cytology and Embryology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Alexey V Deykin
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Belgorod State National Research University, Belgorod, Russia
| | - Mikhail V Korokin
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Belgorod State National Research University, Belgorod, Russia
| | - Mikhail V Pokrovskiy
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Belgorod State National Research University, Belgorod, Russia
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14
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Wortmann M, Klotz R, Kalkum E, Dihlmann S, Böckler D, Peters AS. Inflammasome Targeted Therapy as Novel Treatment Option for Aortic Aneurysms and Dissections: A Systematic Review of the Preclinical Evidence. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 8:805150. [PMID: 35127865 PMCID: PMC8811141 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.805150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Both aortic aneurysm and dissection are life threatening pathologies. In the lack of a conservative medical treatment, the only therapy consists of modifying cardiovascular risk factors and either surgical or endovascular treatment. Like many other cardiovascular diseases, in particular atherosclerosis, aortic aneurysm and dissection have a strong inflammatory phenotype. Inflammasomes are part of the innate immune system. Upon stimulation they form multi protein complexes resulting mainly in activation of interleukin-1β and other cytokines. Considering the gathering evidence, that inflammasomes are decisively involved in the emergence and progression of aortic diseases, inflammasome targeted therapy provides a promising new treatment approach. A systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines on the current preclinical data regarding the potential role of inflammasome targeted drug therapy as novel treatment option for aortic aneurysms and dissections was performed. Included were all rodent models of aortic disease (aortic aneurysm and dissection) evaluating a drug therapy with direct or indirect inhibition of inflammasomes and a suitable control group with the use of the same aortic model without the inflammasome targeted therapy. Primary and secondary outcomes were incidence of aortic disease, aortic rupture, aortic related death, and the maximum aortic diameter. The literature search of MEDLINE (via PubMed), the Web of Science, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Registry of Registered Trials (CENTRAL) resulted in 8,137 hits. Of these, four studies met the inclusion criteria and were therefore eligible for data analysis. In all of them, targeting of the NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome effectively reduced the incidence of aortic disease and aortic rupture, and additionally reduced destruction of the aortic wall. Treatment strategies aiming at other inflammasomes could not be identified. In conclusion, inflammasome targeted therapies, more precisely targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome, have shown promising results in rodent models and deserve further investigation in preclinical research to potentially translate them into clinical research for the treatment of human patients with aortic disease. Regarding other inflammasomes, more preclinical research is needed to investigate their role in the pathophysiology of aortic disease. Protocol Registration: PROSPERO 2021 CRD42021279893, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021279893
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Wortmann
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Markus Wortmann
| | - Rosa Klotz
- Study Center of the German Surgical Society (SDGC), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Eva Kalkum
- Study Center of the German Surgical Society (SDGC), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Susanne Dihlmann
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dittmar Böckler
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas S. Peters
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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15
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Aksoyalp ZŞ, Nemutlu-Samur D. Sex-related susceptibility in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19): Proposed mechanisms. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 912:174548. [PMID: 34606834 PMCID: PMC8486578 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The importance of sex differences is increasingly acknowledged in the incidence and treatment of disease. Accumulating clinical evidence demonstrates that sex differences are noticeable in COVID-19, and the prevalence, severity, and mortality rate of COVID-19 are higher among males than females. Sex-related genetic and hormonal factors and immunological responses may underlie the sex bias in COVID-19 patients. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane protease/serine subfamily member 2 (TMPRSS2) are essential proteins involved in the cell entry of SARS-CoV-2. Since ACE2 is encoded on the X-chromosome, a double copy of ACE2 in females may compensate for virus-mediated downregulation of ACE2, and thus ACE2-mediated cellular protection is greater in females. The X chromosome also contains the largest immune-related genes leading females to develop more robust immune responses than males. Toll-like receptor-7 (TLR-7), one of the key players in innate immunity, is linked to sex differences in autoimmunity and vaccine efficacy, and its expression is greater in females. Sex steroids also affect immune cell function. Estrogen contributes to higher CD4+ and CD8+ T cell activation levels, and females have more B cells than males. Sex differences not only affect the severity and progression of the disease, but also alter the efficacy of pharmacological treatment and adverse events related to the drugs/vaccines used against COVID-19. Administration of different drugs/vaccines in different doses or intervals may be useful to eliminate sex differences in efficacy and side/adverse effects. It should be noted that studies should include sex-specific analyses to develop further sex-specific treatments for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zinnet Şevval Aksoyalp
- Izmir Katip Celebi University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology, 35620, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Dilara Nemutlu-Samur
- Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, 07450, Antalya, Turkey.
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16
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Wortmann M, Peters AS, Erhart P, Körfer D, Böckler D, Dihlmann S. Inflammasomes in the Pathophysiology of Aortic Disease. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092433. [PMID: 34572082 PMCID: PMC8468335 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Aortic diseases comprise aneurysms, dissections, and several other pathologies. In general, aging is associated with a slow but progressive dilation of the aorta, along with increased stiffness and pulse pressure. The progression of aortic disease is characterized by subclinical development or acute presentation. Recent evidence suggests that inflammation participates causally in different clinical manifestations of aortic diseases. As of yet, diagnostic imaging and surveillance is mainly based on ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Little medical therapy is available so far to prevent or treat the majority of aortic diseases. Endovascular therapy by the introduction of covered stentgrafts provides the main treatment option, although open surgery and implantation of synthetic grafts remain necessary in many situations. Because of the risks associated with surgery, there is a need for identification of pharmaceutical targets interfering with the pathophysiology of aortic remodeling. The participation of innate immunity and inflammasome activation in different cell types is common in aortic diseases. This review will thus focus on inflammasome activities in vascular cells of different chronic and acute aortic diseases and discuss their role in development and progression. We will also identify research gaps and suggest promising therapeutic targets, which may be used for future medical interventions.
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17
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Al-Daghri NM, Wani K, AlHarthi H, Alghamdi A, Alnaami AM, Yakout SM. Sex-Specific Signature in the Circulating NLRP3 Levels of Saudi Adults with Metabolic Syndrome. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10153288. [PMID: 34362072 PMCID: PMC8347773 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10153288] [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: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, inflammasomes such as NLRP3 as cytosolic pattern-recognition receptors have been implicated in the development of inflammation; however, limited investigations report the circulating levels of this protein. The objective, thus, was to investigative circulating NLRP3 levels in Saudi patients with a low-grade inflammatory disorder called metabolic syndrome (MetS). Two hundred Saudi adults aged 30–65, with or without MetS diagnosed on the basis of National Cholesterol Education Programme Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III) criteria, were randomly recruited. Five MetS components were established according to the diagnostic criteria in the study subjects. Circulating levels of NLRP3 and known inflammation markers, such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukins (IL-1β and IL-18), were measured in the blood samples taken from the study subjects. Gender-based analysis showed a significant elevated circulating levels of NLRP3 in non-MetS men compared to non-MetS females (p < 0.001). Moreover, an increase in circulating levels of NLRP3 with a number of MetS components (p = 0.038) was observed only in females. A significant positive correlation of NLRP3 levels with age (r = 0.20, p = 0.04), BMI (r = 0.32, p < 0.01) and waist (r = 0.24, p = 0.02) and a significant negative correlation between NLRP3 and HDL-cholesterol (r= −0.21, p = 0.03) were also observed in females. Logistic regression analysis also yielded a sex-specific positive association of NLRP3 with MetS in females, with this association influenced mostly by central obesity and dyslipidemia components of MetS. In conclusion, this study suggests a sexual disparity in the circulating levels of NLRP3, with a trend of increasing circulating NLRP3 levels with increasing MetS components observed only in females, influenced mostly by adiposity and dyslipidemia components of MetS. Longitudinal studies with a larger sample size and investigating sex-specific hormones with NLRP3 would be needed to establish a causal relationship of NLRP3 with MetS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasser M. Al-Daghri
- Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (H.A.); (A.A.)
- Chair for Biomarkers of Chronic Diseases, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (K.W.); (A.M.A.); (S.M.Y.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +966-14675939
| | - Kaiser Wani
- Chair for Biomarkers of Chronic Diseases, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (K.W.); (A.M.A.); (S.M.Y.)
| | - Hind AlHarthi
- Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (H.A.); (A.A.)
| | - Amani Alghamdi
- Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (H.A.); (A.A.)
| | - Abdullah M. Alnaami
- Chair for Biomarkers of Chronic Diseases, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (K.W.); (A.M.A.); (S.M.Y.)
| | - Sobhy M. Yakout
- Chair for Biomarkers of Chronic Diseases, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (K.W.); (A.M.A.); (S.M.Y.)
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18
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Zhang H, Tang Y, Tao J. Sex-Related Overactivation of NLRP3 Inflammasome Increases Lethality of the Male COVID-19 Patients. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:671363. [PMID: 34150848 PMCID: PMC8212049 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.671363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection, remains a dramatic threat to human life and economic well-being worldwide. Significant heterogeneity in the severity of disease was observed for patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 ranging from asymptomatic to severe cases. Moreover, male patients had a higher probability of suffering from high mortality and severe symptoms linked to cytokine storm and excessive inflammation. The NLRP3 inflammasome is presumably critical to this process. Sex differences may directly affect the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome, impacting the severity of observed COVID-19 symptoms. To elucidate the potential mechanisms underlying sex based differences in NLRP3 activation during SARS-CoV-2 infection, this review summarizes the reported mechanisms and identifies potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jinhui Tao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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Shi J, Guo J, Li Z, Xu B, Miyata M. Importance of NLRP3 Inflammasome in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms. J Atheroscler Thromb 2021; 28:454-466. [PMID: 33678767 PMCID: PMC8193780 DOI: 10.5551/jat.rv17048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a chronic inflammatory degenerative aortic disease, which particularly affects older people. Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a multi-protein complex and mediates inflammatory responses by activating caspase 1 for processing premature interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18. In this review, we first summarize the principle of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and the functionally distinct classes of small molecule NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors. Next, we provide a comprehensive literature review on the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome effector mediators (IL-1β and IL-18) and components (caspase 1, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC) and NLRP3) in clinical and experimental AAAs. Finally, we discuss the influence of genetic deficiency or pharmacological inhibition of individual effector mediators and components of NLRP3 inflammasome on experimental AAAs. Accumulating clinical and experimental evidence suggests that NLRP3 inflammasome may be a promise therapeutic target for developing pharmacological strategies for clinical AAA management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyun Shi
- Center for Hypertension Care, Shanxi Medical University First Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, P. R. China
| | - Jia Guo
- Center for Hypertension Care, Shanxi Medical University First Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, P. R. China
| | - Zhidong Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, P. R. China
| | - Baohui Xu
- Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Masaaki Miyata
- School of Health Science, Faculty of Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
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20
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Abstract
Atherosclerosis and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) are multifactorial diseases characterized by inflammatory cell infiltration, matrix degradation, and thrombosis in the arterial wall. Although there are some differences between atherosclerosis and AAA, inflammation is a prominent common feature of these disorders. The nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a cytosolic multiprotein complex that activates caspase-1 and regulates the release of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18, as well as the induction of lytic cell death, termed pyroptosis, thereby leading to inflammation. Previous experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated that inflammation in atherosclerosis and AAA is mediated primarily through the NLRP3 inflammasome. Furthermore, recent results of the Canakinumab Anti-inflammatory Thrombosis and Outcome Study (CANTOS) showed that IL-1β inhibition reduces systemic inflammation and prevents atherothrombotic events; this supports the concept that the NLRP3 inflammasome is a promising therapeutic target for cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis and AAA. This review summarizes current knowledge with a focus on the role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in atherosclerosis and AAA, and discusses the prospects of NLRP3 inflammasome-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masafumi Takahashi
- Division of Inflammation Research, Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University
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21
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Takahashi M. NLRP3 inflammasome as a key driver of vascular disease. Cardiovasc Res 2021; 118:372-385. [PMID: 33483732 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvab010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
NLRP3 (nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3) is an intracellular innate immune receptor that recognizes a diverse range of stimuli derived from pathogens, damaged or dead cells, and irritants. NLRP3 activation causes the assembly of a large multiprotein complex termed the NLRP3 inflammasome, and leads to the secretion of bioactive interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 as well as the induction of inflammatory cell death termed pyroptosis. Accumulating evidence indicates that NLRP3 inflammasome plays a key role in the pathogenesis of sterile inflammatory diseases, including atherosclerosis and other vascular diseases. Indeed, the results of the Canakinumab Anti-inflammatory Thrombosis Outcome Study (CANTOS) trial demonstrated that IL-1β-mediated inflammation plays an important role in atherothrombotic events and suggested that NLRP3 inflammasome is a key driver of atherosclerosis. In this review, we will summarize the current state of knowledge regarding the role of NLRP3 inflammasome in vascular diseases, in particular in atherosclerosis, vascular injury, aortic aneurysm, and Kawasaki disease vasculitis, and discuss NLRP3 inflammasome as a therapeutic target for these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masafumi Takahashi
- Division of Inflammation Research, Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
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22
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Wu AG, Zhou XG, Qiao G, Yu L, Tang Y, Yan L, Qiu WQ, Pan R, Yu CL, Law BYK, Qin DL, Wu JM. Targeting microglial autophagic degradation in NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated neurodegenerative diseases. Ageing Res Rev 2021; 65:101202. [PMID: 33161129 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2020.101202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is considered as a detrimental factor in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), etc. Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-, leucine-rich repeat- and pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3), the most well-studied inflammasome, is abundantly expressed in microglia and has gained considerable attention. Misfolded proteins are characterized as the common hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases due to not only their induced neuronal toxicity but also their effects in over-activating microglia and the NLRP3 inflammasome. The activated NLRP3 inflammasome aggravates the pathology and accelerates the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Emerging evidence indicates that microglial autophagy plays an important role in the maintenance of brain homeostasis and the negative regulation of NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated neuroinflammation. The excessive activation of NLRP3 inflammasome impairs microglial autophagy and further aggravates the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. In this review article, we summarize and discuss the NLRP3 inflammasome and its specific inhibitors in microglia. The crucial role of microglial autophagy and its inducers in the removal of misfolded proteins, the clearance of damaged mitochondria and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the degradation of the NLRP3 inflammasome or its components in neurodegenerative diseases are summarized. Understanding the underlying mechanisms behind the sex differences in NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated neurodegenerative diseases will help researchers to develop more targeted therapies and increase our diagnostic and prognostic abilities. In addition, the superiority of the combined use of microglial autophagy inducers with the specific inhibitors of the NLRP3 inflammasome in the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated neuroinflammation requires further preclinical and clinical validations in the future.
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23
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Zhang J, Pei L, Zang D, Xue Y, Wang X, Chen Y, Li J, Yu J, Gao Q, Di W, Cui C, Su W, Wang X. Gender Differences of NLRP1 Inflammasome in Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 12:512097. [PMID: 33328952 PMCID: PMC7710982 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2020.512097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There is a significant gender difference in the incidence and symptoms of Alzheimer's disease (AD), but its mechanisms are not completely understood. Recent studies showed that NLRP1 inflammasome was overexpressed in females under some pathological conditions such as nodular melanoma. Whether NLRP1 signals have a gender difference in AD has not been elucidated. This study was designed to investigate gender difference on the expressions of NLRP1 signals including NLRP1, Capase-1 and IL-1β in the brains of APP/PS1+/- mice. Methods: Female and male APP/PS1+/- mice (30-weeks-old) were used in this study. Amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques were stained with Congo red dye and cell apoptosis was detected by TUNEL staining. Expressions of NLRP1, Capase-1 and IL-1β were measured by immunofluorescent staining and Western blotting assay. Results: The numbers of Aβ plaques in cortex and hippocampus and neuronal apoptosis in cortex were 4 and 2-folds in females than males, respectively (P < 0.001). The average size of Aβ plaques in both cortex (females: 3527.11 ± 539.88 μm2 vs. males: 1920.44 ± 638.49 μm2) and hippocampus (females: 1931 ± 308.61 μm2 vs. males: 1038.55 ± 220.40 μm2) were also larger in females than males (P < 0.01). More interestingly, expressions of NLRP1, Caspase-1, and IL-1β were markedly increased in the cortex of females as compared with males. Conclusions: These findings show that NLRP1 signals are higher in brains of female APP/PS1+/- mice than males, which may be related to the gender differences of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghang Zhang
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Key Laboratory of Lymphohematopoietic Tumor in Xinxiang, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Lihong Pei
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Dan Zang
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yun Xue
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yiyang Chen
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Jinsong Li
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Jian Yu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Qingzu Gao
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Wenyu Di
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Chaochu Cui
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Wei Su
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Xianwei Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
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Zhao ZZ, Zheng XL, Jiang ZS. Emerging roles of absent in melanoma 2 in cardiovascular diseases. Clin Chim Acta 2020; 511:14-23. [PMID: 32946794 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2020.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) is a member of the PYHIN (pyrin and HIN domain-containing protein) family with important roles in sensing double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and assembling the AIM2 inflammasome, which has wide-ranging, pro-inflammatory and pro-pyroptotic properties. The AIM2 inflammasome can become activated in atherosclerotic plaque, abdominal aortic aneurysm wall and injured myocardium, and its activation is tightly regulated by a variety of atherogenic factors. Activation of the AIM2 inflammasome has close links to the progression of several cardiovascular diseases. This review will summarize the current knowledge of AIM2 biology, providing the latest insights into the mechanisms and contributions of atherogenic factors to AIM2 inflammasome activation. In addition, we will also explore crosstalk between AIM2 and the pathologies of atherosclerosis, abdominal aortic aneurysm, myocardial infarction and heart failure. A better understanding of the pathological roles of AIM2 in these disorders will be helpful in developing novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhan-Zhi Zhao
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N4N1, Canada
| | - Xi-Long Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N4N1, Canada
| | - Zhi-Sheng Jiang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China.
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25
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Wortmann M, Arshad M, Hakimi M, Böckler D, Dihlmann S. Deficiency in Aim2 affects viability and calcification of vascular smooth muscle cells from murine aortas and angiotensin-II induced aortic aneurysms. Mol Med 2020; 26:87. [PMID: 32933486 PMCID: PMC7493160 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-020-00212-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Phenotypic transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells is a key element in vascular remodeling and aortic aneurysm growth. Previously, deletion of several inflammasome components decreased formation of aortic aneurysm (AA) in the Angiotensin II (AngII) -induced mouse model. We hypothesized that the inflammasome sensor Absent in melanoma 2 (Aim2) might affect the phenotype of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC), thereby reducing AA formation. Methods Aim2−/− mice and wild-type (WT) C57Bl/6 J mice were used as an animal model. VSMC were isolated from 6 months old mice and grown in vitro. Young (passage 3–5) and senescent (passage 7–12) cells were analyzed in vitro for calcification in mineralization medium by Alizarin Red S staining. Expression of calcification and inflammatory markers were studied by real-time RT-PCR and Western blotting, release of cytokines was determined by ELISA. To induce AA, osmotic mini-pumps loaded with AngII (1500 ng/kg bodyweight/min) were implanted for 28 days in male mice at 6 months of age. Results Compared with VSMC from WT mice, VSMC isolated from Aim2−/− mice were larger, less viable, and underwent stronger calcification in mineralization medium, along with induction of Bmp4 and repression of Tnfsf11/Rankl gene expression. In addition, Aim2 deficiency was associated with reduced inflammasome gene expression and release of Interleukin-6. Using the mouse model of AngII induced AA, Aim2 deficiency reduced AA incidence to 48.4% (15/31) in Aim2−/− mice versus 76.5% (13/17) in WT mice. In contrast to Aim2−/− mice, AA from WT mice expressed significantly increased levels of alpha-smooth muscle actin/Acta2, indicating tissue remodeling. Reduced cell proliferation in Aim2−/− mice was indicated by significantly increased p16ink4a/Cdkn2a expression in untreated and AngII-infused aortas, and by significantly lower amounts of proliferating (Ki67 positive) VSMC in AngII-infused Aim2−/− mice. Conclusions Our results suggest a role for Aim2 in regulating VSMC proliferation and transition to an osteoblast-like or osteoclast-like phenotype, thereby modulating the response of VSMC in aortic remodeling and AA formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Wortmann
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Muhammad Arshad
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maani Hakimi
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Present Address: Department of Vascular Surgery, Luzerner Kantonsspital, Spitalstrasse, 6000, Luzern 16, Switzerland
| | - Dittmar Böckler
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Susanne Dihlmann
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
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26
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Wang H, Wei G, Cheng S, Wang D, Ma J, Xin S. Circulatory CD4-Positive T-Lymphocyte Imbalance Mediated by Homocysteine-Induced AIM2 and NLRP1 Inflammasome Upregulation and Activation Is Associated with Human Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm. J Vasc Res 2020; 57:276-290. [DOI: 10.1159/000508077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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27
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van den Berg DF, Te Velde AA. Severe COVID-19: NLRP3 Inflammasome Dysregulated. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1580. [PMID: 32670297 PMCID: PMC7332883 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 might directly activate NLRP3 inflammasome resulting in an endogenous adjuvant activity necessary to mount a proper adaptive immune response against the virus. Heterogeneous response of COVID-19 patients could be attributed to differences in not being able to properly downregulate NLRP3 inflammasome activation. This relates to the fitness of the immune system of the individual challenged by the virus. Patients with a reduced immune fitness can demonstrate a dysregulated NLRP3 inflammasome activity resulting in severe COVID-19 with tissue damage and a cytokine storm. We sketch the outlines of five possible scenarios for COVID-19 in medical practice and provide potential treatment options targeting dysregulated endogenous adjuvant activity in severe COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daan F van den Berg
- Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Anje A Te Velde
- Amsterdam UMC, Academic Medical Center, Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Sex-Specific Effects of the Nlrp3 Inflammasome on Atherogenesis in LDL Receptor-Deficient Mice. JACC Basic Transl Sci 2020; 5:582-598. [PMID: 32613145 PMCID: PMC7315187 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2020.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
In this study we observed sex-specific effects of the NLRP3 inflammasome on atherogenesis in LDLR-deficient mice, with NLRP3 inflammasome playing a more prominent role in atherosclerosis in female mice than in males. Sex hormones may be involved in NLRP3 inflammasome–mediated atherogenesis and may underlie differential responses to anti-NLRP3 therapy between males and females. Testosterone may play an inhibitory role by blocking NLRP3 inflammasome and inflammation in atherogenesis, whereas female sex hormones may promote NLRP3 inflammasome–mediated atherosclerosis. The results of the present study may help design future clinical trials, with the objective to personalize cardiovascular care for men and women.
In the Ldlr-/- mouse model of atherosclerosis, female Nlrp3-/- bone marrow chimera and Nlrp3-/- mice developed significantly smaller lesions in the aortic sinus and decreased lipid content in aorta en face, but a similar protection was not observed in males. Ovariectomized female mice lost protection from atherosclerosis in the setting of NLRP3 deficiency, whereas atherosclerosis showed a greater dependency on NLRP3 in castrated males. Thus, castration increased the dependency of atherosclerosis on the NLRP3 inflammasome, suggesting that testosterone may block inflammation in atherogenesis. Conversely, ovariectomy reduced the dependency on NLRP3 inflammasome components for atherogenesis, suggesting that estrogen may promote inflammasome-mediated atherosclerosis.
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29
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Porritt RA, Markman JL, Maruyama D, Kocaturk B, Chen S, Lehman TJA, Lee Y, Fishbein MC, Rivas MN, Arditi M. Interleukin-1 Beta-Mediated Sex Differences in Kawasaki Disease Vasculitis Development and Response to Treatment. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2020; 40:802-818. [PMID: 31996019 PMCID: PMC7047651 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.119.313863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Kawasaki disease (KD) is the leading cause of acute vasculitis and acquired heart disease in children in developed countries. Notably, KD is more prevalent in males than females. We previously established a key role for IL (interleukin)-1 signaling in KD pathogenesis, but whether this pathway underlies the sex-based difference in susceptibility is unknown. Approach and Results: The role of IL-1 signaling was investigated in the Lactobacillus casei cell wall extract-induced experimental mouse model of KD vasculitis. Five-week-old male and female mice were injected intraperitoneally with PBS, Lactobacillus caseicell wall extract, or a combination of Lactobacillus caseicell wall extract and the IL-1 receptor antagonist Anakinra. Aortitis, coronary arteritis inflammation score and abdominal aorta dilatation, and aneurysm development were assessed. mRNA-seq (messenger RNA sequencing) analysis was performed on abdominal aorta tissue. Publicly available human transcriptomics data from patients with KD was analyzed to identify sex differences and disease-associated genes. Male mice displayed enhanced aortitis and coronary arteritis as well as increased incidence and severity of abdominal aorta dilatation and aneurysm, recapitulating the increased incidence in males that is observed in human KD. Gene expression data from patients with KD and abdominal aorta tissue of Lactobacillus caseicell wall extract-injected mice showed enhanced Il1b expression and IL-1 signaling genes in males. Although the more severe IL-1β-mediated disease phenotype observed in male mice was ameliorated by Anakinra treatment, the milder disease phenotype in female mice failed to respond. CONCLUSIONS IL-1β may play a central role in mediating sex-based differences in KD, with important implications for the use of anti-IL-1β therapies to treat male and female patients with KD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A. Porritt
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
| | - Janet L. Markman
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
| | - Daisuke Maruyama
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
| | - Begum Kocaturk
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
| | - Shuang Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Infectious and Immunologic Disease Research Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Science, Research Division of Immunology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Thomas J. A. Lehman
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, Weill Cornell Medical School, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Youngho Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
| | - Michael C Fishbein
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Magali Noval Rivas
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Infectious and Immunologic Disease Research Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Science, Research Division of Immunology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Moshe Arditi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Infectious and Immunologic Disease Research Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Science, Research Division of Immunology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
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30
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Li Z, Kong W. Cellular signaling in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm. Cell Signal 2020; 70:109575. [PMID: 32088371 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are highly lethal cardiovascular diseases without effective medications. However, the molecular and signaling mechanisms remain unclear. A series of pathological cellular processes have been shown to contribute to AAA formation, including vascular extracellular matrix remodeling, inflammatory and immune responses, oxidative stress, and dysfunction of vascular smooth muscle cells. Each cellular process involves complex cellular signaling, such as NF-κB, MAPK, TGFβ, Notch and inflammasome signaling. In this review, we discuss how cellular signaling networks function in various cellular processes during the pathogenesis and progression of AAA. Understanding the interaction of cellular signaling networks with AAA pathogenesis as well as the crosstalk of different signaling pathways is essential for the development of novel therapeutic approaches to and personalized treatments of AAA diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqing Li
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Wei Kong
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China.
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31
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Davis FM, Daugherty A, Lu HS. Updates of Recent Aortic Aneurysm Research. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2020; 39:e83-e90. [PMID: 30811252 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.119.312000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Frank M Davis
- From the Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (F.M.D.)
| | - Alan Daugherty
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center (A.D., H.S.L.), University of Kentucky, Lexington.,Department of Physiology (A.D., H.S.L.), University of Kentucky, Lexington
| | - Hong S Lu
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center (A.D., H.S.L.), University of Kentucky, Lexington.,Department of Physiology (A.D., H.S.L.), University of Kentucky, Lexington
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32
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Wortmann M, Skorubskaya E, Peters AS, Hakimi M, Böckler D, Dihlmann S. Necrotic cell debris induces a NF-κB-driven inflammasome response in vascular smooth muscle cells derived from abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA-SMC). Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 511:343-349. [PMID: 30782482 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.02.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a multi-factorial progressive vascular disease with life-threatening complications. Increasing evidence suggests that smooth muscle cell (SMC) dysfunction and cell death contribute to dilatation and rupture of the aorta by inducing an inflammatory response. The exact mechanism of this response however, is incompletely understood. We here investigated in vitro the capacity of autologous necrotic cell debris (CD) to induce inflammasome components and inflammatory mediators in aortic SMC (AAA-SMC) isolated from patients with AAA undergoing surgical repair. AAA-SMCs were additionally primed with Interferon- γ (IFN-γ) before treatment with CD in order to mimic the proinflammatory status caused by higher IFN-γ concentrations that have been demonstrated in the wall of AAAs. Real-time RT-PCR revealed that CD significantly increased NLRP3 and IL1B mRNA expression in different SMC cultures within 6 h of exposure. Priming of the AAA-SMC with IFN-γ significantly increased expression of NLRP3, AIM2, IFI16 and CASP1 mRNAs, whereas IL1B mRNA was reduced. Additional exposure of IFN-γ-primed AAA-SMC to CD for 6-24 h, further augmented expression of AIM2, NLRP3, and Caspase-1 protein levels. Analysis of the SMC supernatants by ELISA revealed CD-induced release of the senescence-associated cytokines IL-6 and MCP-1 in native and IFN-γ-primed SMC, whereas no secretion of Interleukin-(IL) 1α and IL-1β secretion were observed. Our results implicate a role of necrotic cell debris derived from dead neighboring cells in SMC dysfunction and in inflammatory response of AAA tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Wortmann
- Universitaetsklinik Heidelberg, Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ekaterina Skorubskaya
- Universitaetsklinik Heidelberg, Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas S Peters
- Universitaetsklinik Heidelberg, Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maani Hakimi
- Universitaetsklinik Heidelberg, Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dittmar Böckler
- Universitaetsklinik Heidelberg, Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Susanne Dihlmann
- Universitaetsklinik Heidelberg, Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Im Neuenheimer Feld 110, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Wortmann M, Xiao X, Wabnitz G, Samstag Y, Hakimi M, Böckler D, Dihlmann S. AIM2 levels and DNA-triggered inflammasome response are increased in peripheral leukocytes of patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm. Inflamm Res 2019; 68:337-345. [DOI: 10.1007/s00011-019-01212-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
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Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one cause of death worldwide. The pathogenesis of various disease entities that comprise the area of CVD is complex and multifactorial. Inflammation serves a central role in these complex aetiologies. The inflammasomes are intracellular protein complexes activated by danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) present in CVD such as atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction (MI). After a two-step process of priming and activation, inflammasomes are responsible for the formation of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β and interleukin-18, inducing a signal transduction cascade resulting in a strong immune response that culminates in disease progression. In the past few years, increased interest has been raised regarding the inflammasomes in CVD. Inflammasome activation is thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of various disease entities such as atherosclerosis, MI and heart failure (HF). Interference with inflammasome-mediated signalling could reduce inflammation and attenuate the severity of disease. In this chapter we provide an overview of the current literature available on the role of inflammasome inhibition as a therapeutic intervention and the possible clinical implications for CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardus P J van Hout
- Department of Cardiology, Utrecht University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Lena Bosch
- Department of Experimental Cardiology, Utrecht University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Aorta, Abdominal/metabolism
- Aorta, Abdominal/pathology
- Aorta, Abdominal/physiopathology
- Aorta, Thoracic/metabolism
- Aorta, Thoracic/pathology
- Aorta, Thoracic/physiopathology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/epidemiology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/metabolism
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/pathology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/physiopathology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic/epidemiology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic/metabolism
- Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic/pathology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic/physiopathology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Humans
- Risk Factors
- Signal Transduction
- Vascular Remodeling
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Lu
- From the Department of Physiology, Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington.
| | - Alan Daugherty
- From the Department of Physiology, Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington
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