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Saranya I, Selvamurugan N. Regulation of TGF-β/BMP signaling during osteoblast development by non-coding RNAs: Potential therapeutic applications. Life Sci 2024; 355:122969. [PMID: 39142506 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122969] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Bone is a connective tissue that is metabolically active and serves multiple functions, including movement, structural support, and organ protection. It is comprised primarily of three types of bone cells, namely osteoblasts, osteocytes, and osteoclasts. Osteoblasts are bone-forming cells, and the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells towards osteoblasts is regulated by several growth factors, cytokines, and hormones via various signaling pathways, including TGF-β/BMP (transforming growth factor-beta/bone morphogenetic protein) signaling as a primary one. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), such as microRNAs and long ncRNAs, play crucial roles in regulating osteoblast differentiation via the TGF-β/BMP signaling cascade. Dysregulation of these ncRNAs leads to bone-pathological conditions such as osteoporosis, skeletal dysplasia, and osteosclerosis. This review provides a concise overview of the latest advancements in understanding the involvement of ncRNAs/TGF-β/BMP axis in osteoblast differentiation. These findings have the potential to identify new molecular targets for early detection of bone metabolism disorders and the development of innovative therapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iyyappan Saranya
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Nagarajan Selvamurugan
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603203, Tamil Nadu, India.
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2
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Wang KJ, Zhang YX, Mo ZW, Li ZL, Wang M, Wang R, Wang ZC, Chang GQ, Wu WB. Upregulation of Long Noncoding RNA MAGOH-DT Mediates TNF-α and High Glucose-Induced Endothelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Arteriosclerosis Obliterans. TOHOKU J EXP MED 2024; 263:227-238. [PMID: 38811212 DOI: 10.1620/tjem.2024.j031] [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] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Arteriosclerosis obliterans (ASO) is characterized by arterial narrowing and blockage due to atherosclerosis, influenced by endothelial dysfunction and inflammation. This research focuses on exploring the role of MAGOH-DT, a long noncoding RNA, in mediating endothelial cell dysfunction through endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) under inflammatory and hyperglycemic stimuli, aiming to uncover potential therapeutic targets for ASO. Differential expression of lncRNAs, including MAGOH-DT, was initially identified in arterial tissues from ASO patients compared to healthy controls through lncRNA microarray analysis. Validation of MAGOH-DT expression in response to tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and high glucose (HG) was performed in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) using RT-qPCR. The effects of MAGOH-DT and HNRPC knockdown on EndMT were assessed by evaluating EndMT markers and TGF-β2 protein expression with Western blot analysis. RNA-immunoprecipitation assays were used to explore the interaction between MAGOH-DT and HNRPC, focusing on their role in regulating TGF-β2 translation. In the results, MAGOH-DT expression is found to be upregulated in ASO and further induced in HUVECs under TNF-α/HG conditions, contributing to the facilitation of EndMT. Silencing MAGOH-DT or HNRPC is shown to inhibit the TNF-α/HG-induced increase in TGF-β2 protein expression, effectively attenuating EndMT processes without altering TGF-β2 mRNA levels. In conclusion, MAGOH-DT is identified as a key mediator in the process of TNF-α/HG-induced EndMT in ASO, offering a promising therapeutic target. Inhibition of MAGOH-DT presents a novel therapeutic strategy for ASO management, especially in cases complicated by diabetes mellitus. Further exploration into the therapeutic implications of MAGOH-DT modulation in ASO treatment is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang-Jie Wang
- Division of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Vascular Diseases Treatment, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Diagnosis and Treatment of Vascular Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
| | - Yi-Xin Zhang
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Vascular Diseases Treatment, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- Division of Hypertension and Vascular Diseases, Department of Cardiology, Heart Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
| | - Zhi-Wei Mo
- Division of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Vascular Diseases Treatment, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Diagnosis and Treatment of Vascular Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
| | - Zi-Lun Li
- Division of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Vascular Diseases Treatment, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Diagnosis and Treatment of Vascular Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
| | - Mian Wang
- Division of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Vascular Diseases Treatment, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Diagnosis and Treatment of Vascular Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
| | - Rui Wang
- Division of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Vascular Diseases Treatment, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Diagnosis and Treatment of Vascular Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
| | - Zhe-Cun Wang
- Division of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Vascular Diseases Treatment, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Diagnosis and Treatment of Vascular Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
| | - Guang-Qi Chang
- Division of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Vascular Diseases Treatment, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Diagnosis and Treatment of Vascular Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
| | - Wei-Bin Wu
- Division of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Vascular Diseases Treatment, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
- Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Diagnosis and Treatment of Vascular Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
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3
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Lam F, Leisegang MS, Brandes RP. LncRNAs Are Key Regulators of Transcription Factor-Mediated Endothelial Stress Responses. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9726. [PMID: 39273673 PMCID: PMC11395311 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179726] [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: 08/16/2024] [Revised: 09/04/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The functional role of long noncoding RNAs in the endothelium is highly diverse. Among their many functions, regulation of transcription factor activity and abundance is one of the most relevant. This review summarizes the recent progress in the research on the lncRNA-transcription factor axes and their implications for the vascular endothelium under physiological and pathological conditions. The focus is on transcription factors critical for the endothelial response to external stressors, such as hypoxia, inflammation, and shear stress, and their lncRNA interactors. These regulatory interactions will be exemplified by a selected number of lncRNAs that have been identified in the endothelium under physiological and pathological conditions that are influencing the activity or protein stability of important transcription factors. Thus, lncRNAs can add a layer of cell type-specific function to transcription factors. Understanding the interaction of lncRNAs with transcription factors will contribute to elucidating cardiovascular disease pathologies and the development of novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederike Lam
- Goethe University, Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, Frankfurt, Germany
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site RheinMain, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Matthias S Leisegang
- Goethe University, Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, Frankfurt, Germany
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site RheinMain, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Ralf P Brandes
- Goethe University, Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, Frankfurt, Germany
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site RheinMain, Frankfurt, Germany
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4
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Wang X, Cui L, Wang Y, Zeng Z, Wang H, Tian L, Guo J, Chen Y. Mechanistic investigation of wogonin in delaying the progression of endothelial mesenchymal transition by targeting the TGF-β1 pathway in pulmonary hypertension. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 978:176786. [PMID: 38942264 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterized by pulmonary vascular remodeling, which endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) being its main progressive phase. Wogonin, a flavonoid extracted from the root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, hinders the abnormal proliferation of cells and has been employed in the treatment of several cardiopulmonary diseases. This study was designed to investigate how wogonin affected EndMT during PH. Monocrotaline (MCT) was used to induce PH in rats. Binding capacity of TGF-β1 receptor to wogonin detected by molecular docking and molecular dynamics. EndMT model was established in pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PMVECs) by transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1). The result demonstrated that wogonin (20 mg/kg/day) attenuated right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP), right ventricular hypertrophy and pulmonary vascular thickness in PH rats. EndMT in the pulmonary vascular was inhibited after wogonin treatment as evidenced by the restored expression of CD31 and decreased expression of α-SMA. Wogonin has strong affinity for both TGFBRI and TGFBRII, and has a better binding stability for TGFBRI. In TGF-β1-treated PMVECs, wogonin (0.3, 1, and 3 μM) exhibited significant inhibitory effects on this transformation process via down-regulating the expression of p-Smad2 and Snail, while up-regulating the expression of p-Smad1/5. Additionally, results of Western blot and fluorescence shown that the expression of α-SMA were decrease with increasing level of CD31 in PMVECs. In conclusion, our research showed that wogonin suppressed EndMT via the TGF-β1/Smad pathway which may lead to its alleviated effect on PH. Wogonin may be a promising drug against PH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Lidan Cui
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yichen Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Zuomei Zeng
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Hongjuan Wang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Leiyu Tian
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Jian Guo
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Yucai Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
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5
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Zelisko N, Lesyk R, Stoika R. Structure, unique biological properties, and mechanisms of action of transforming growth factor β. Bioorg Chem 2024; 150:107611. [PMID: 38964148 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) is a ubiquitous molecule that is extremely conserved structurally and plays a systemic role in human organism. TGF-β is a homodimeric molecule consisting of two subunits joined through a disulphide bond. In mammals, three genes code for TGF-β1, TGF-β2, and TGF-β3 isoforms of this cytokine with a dominating expression of TGF-β1. Virtually, all normal cells contain TGF-β and its specific receptors. Considering the exceptional role of fine balance played by the TGF-β in anumber of physiological and pathological processes in human body, this cytokine may be proposed for use in medicine as an immunosuppressant in transplantology, wound healing and bone repair. TGFb itself is an important target in oncology. Strategies for blocking members of TGF-β signaling pathway as therapeutic targets have been considered. In this review, signalling mechanisms of TGF-β1 action are addressed, and their role in physiology and pathology with main focus on carcinogenesis are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataliya Zelisko
- Department of Pharmaceutical, Organic and Bioorganic Chemistry, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Pekarska 69, 79010 Lviv, Ukraine
| | - Roman Lesyk
- Department of Pharmaceutical, Organic and Bioorganic Chemistry, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Pekarska 69, 79010 Lviv, Ukraine.
| | - Rostyslav Stoika
- Department of Regulation of Cell Proliferation and Apoptosis, Institute of Cell Biology of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Drahomanov 14/16, 79005 Lviv, Ukraine
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Manole CG, Voiculescu VM, Soare C, Ceafalan LC, Gherghiceanu M, Hinescu ME. Skin Telocytes Could Fundament the Cellular Mechanisms of Wound Healing in Platelet-Rich Plasma Administration. Cells 2024; 13:1321. [PMID: 39195210 DOI: 10.3390/cells13161321] [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: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 07/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
For more than 40 years, autologous platelet concentrates have been used in clinical medicine. Since the first formula used, namely platelet-rich plasma (PRP), other platelet concentrates have been experimented with, including platelet-rich fibrin and concentrated growth factor. Platelet concentrates have three standard characteristics: they act as scaffolds, they serve as a source of growth factors and cytokines, and they contain live cells. PRP has become extensively used in regenerative medicine for the successful treatment of a variety of clinical (non-)dermatological conditions like alopecies, acne scars, skin burns, skin ulcers, muscle, cartilage, and bone repair, and as an adjuvant in post-surgery wound healing, with obvious benefits in terms of functionality and aesthetic recovery of affected tissues/organs. These indications were well documented, and a large amount of evidence has already been published supporting the efficacy of this method. The primordial principle behind minimally invasive PRP treatments is the usage of the patient's own platelets. The benefits of the autologous transplantation of thrombocytes are significant, representing a fast and economic method that requires only basic equipment and training, and it is biocompatible, thus being a low risk for the patient (infection and immunological reactions can be virtually disregarded). Usually, the structural benefits of applying PRP are attributed to fibroblasts only, as they are considered the most numerous cell population within the interstitium. However, this apparent simplistic explanation is still eluding those different types of interstitial cells (distinct from fibroblasts) that are residing within stromal tissue, e.g., telocytes (TCs). Moreover, dermal TCs have an already documented potential in angiogenesis (extra-cutaneous, but also within skin), and their implication in skin recovery in a few dermatological conditions was attested and described ultrastructurally and immunophenotypically. Interestingly, PRP biochemically consists of a series of growth factors, cytokines, and other molecules, to which TCs have also proven to have a positive expression. Thus, it is attractive to hypothesize and to document any tissular collaboration between cutaneous administered PRP and local dermal TCs in skin recovery/repair/regeneration. Therefore, TCs could be perceived as the missing link necessary to provide a solid explanation of the good results achieved by administering PRP in skin-repairing processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catalin G Manole
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology and Histology, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Ultrastructural Pathology Laboratory, "Victor Babeș" National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Vlad M Voiculescu
- Department of Oncological Dermatology, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristina Soare
- Department of Oncological Dermatology, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Laura Cristina Ceafalan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology and Histology, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Cell Biology, Neurosciences and Experimental Myology Laboratory, "Victor Babeș" National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Gherghiceanu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology and Histology, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Ultrastructural Pathology Laboratory, "Victor Babeș" National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihail E Hinescu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology and Histology, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- "Victor Babeș" National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
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7
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Jeong JY, Bafor AE, Freeman BH, Chen PR, Park ES, Kim E. Pathophysiology in Brain Arteriovenous Malformations: Focus on Endothelial Dysfunctions and Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1795. [PMID: 39200259 PMCID: PMC11351371 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12081795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) substantially increase the risk for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), which is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. However, the treatment options for bAVMs are severely limited, primarily relying on invasive methods that carry their own risks for intraoperative hemorrhage or even death. Currently, there are no pharmaceutical agents shown to treat this condition, primarily due to a poor understanding of bAVM pathophysiology. For the last decade, bAVM research has made significant advances, including the identification of novel genetic mutations and relevant signaling in bAVM development. However, bAVM pathophysiology is still largely unclear. Further investigation is required to understand the detailed cellular and molecular mechanisms involved, which will enable the development of safer and more effective treatment options. Endothelial cells (ECs), the cells that line the vascular lumen, are integral to the pathogenesis of bAVMs. Understanding the fundamental role of ECs in pathological conditions is crucial to unraveling bAVM pathophysiology. This review focuses on the current knowledge of bAVM-relevant signaling pathways and dysfunctions in ECs, particularly the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Eunhee Kim
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (J.Y.J.); (A.E.B.); (B.H.F.); (P.R.C.); (E.S.P.)
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Quenneville J, Feghaly A, Tual M, Thomas K, Major F, Gagnon E. Long-term severe hypoxia adaptation induces non-canonical EMT and a novel Wilms Tumor 1 (WT1) isoform. Cancer Gene Ther 2024; 31:1237-1250. [PMID: 38977895 PMCID: PMC11327107 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-024-00795-3] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The majority of cancer deaths are caused by solid tumors, where the four most prevalent cancers (breast, lung, colorectal and prostate) account for more than 60% of all cases (1). Tumor cell heterogeneity driven by variable cancer microenvironments, such as hypoxia, is a key determinant of therapeutic outcome. We developed a novel culture protocol, termed the Long-Term Hypoxia (LTHY) time course, to recapitulate the gradual development of severe hypoxia seen in vivo to mimic conditions observed in primary tumors. Cells subjected to LTHY underwent a non-canonical epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) based on miRNA and mRNA signatures as well as displayed EMT-like morphological changes. Concomitant to this, we report production of a novel truncated isoform of WT1 transcription factor (tWt1), a non-canonical EMT driver, with expression driven by a yet undescribed intronic promoter through hypoxia-responsive elements (HREs). We further demonstrated that tWt1 initiates translation from an intron-derived start codon, retains proper subcellular localization and DNA binding. A similar tWt1 is also expressed in LTHY-cultured human cancer cell lines as well as primary cancers and predicts long-term patient survival. Our study not only demonstrates the importance of culture conditions that better mimic those observed in primary cancers, especially with regards to hypoxia, but also identifies a novel isoform of WT1 which correlates with poor long-term survival in ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Quenneville
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Molecular Biology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
| | - Albert Feghaly
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Margaux Tual
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Microbiology, Infectiology, and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Kiersten Thomas
- Department of Integrative Oncology, BC Cancer Research Center, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - François Major
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Computer Science and Operations Research, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Etienne Gagnon
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Microbiology, Infectiology, and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
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Zhao J, Sormani L, Jacquelin S, Li H, Styke C, Zhou C, Beesley J, Oon L, Kaur S, Sim SL, Wong HY, Dight J, Hashemi G, Shafiee A, Roy E, Patel J, Khosrotehrani K. Distinct roles of SOX9 in self-renewal of progenitors and mesenchymal transition of the endothelium. Angiogenesis 2024; 27:545-560. [PMID: 38733496 PMCID: PMC11303482 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-024-09927-7] [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: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Regenerative capabilities of the endothelium rely on vessel-resident progenitors termed endothelial colony forming cells (ECFCs). This study aimed to investigate if these progenitors are impacted by conditions (i.e., obesity or atherosclerosis) characterized by increased serum levels of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), a known inducer of Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EndMT). Our investigation focused on understanding the effects of EndMT on the self-renewal capabilities of progenitors and the associated molecular alterations. In the presence of oxLDL, ECFCs displayed classical features of EndMT, through reduced endothelial gene and protein expression, function as well as increased mesenchymal genes, contractility, and motility. Additionally, ECFCs displayed a dramatic loss in self-renewal capacity in the presence of oxLDL. RNA-sequencing analysis of ECFCs exposed to oxLDL validated gene expression changes suggesting EndMT and identified SOX9 as one of the highly differentially expressed genes. ATAC sequencing analysis identified SOX9 binding sites associated with regions of dynamic chromosome accessibility resulting from oxLDL exposure, further pointing to its importance. EndMT phenotype and gene expression changes induced by oxLDL in vitro or high fat diet (HFD) in vivo were reversed by the silencing of SOX9 in ECFCs or the endothelial-specific conditional knockout of Sox9 in murine models. Overall, our findings support that EndMT affects vessel-resident endothelial progenitor's self-renewal. SOX9 activation is an early transcriptional event that drives the mesenchymal transition of endothelial progenitor cells. The identification of the molecular network driving EndMT in vessel-resident endothelial progenitors presents a new avenue in understanding and preventing a range of condition where this process is involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jilai Zhao
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Experimental Dermatology Group, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Laura Sormani
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Experimental Dermatology Group, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Sebastien Jacquelin
- Mater Research, Translational Research Institute, Macrophage Biology Laboratory, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Haiming Li
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Experimental Dermatology Group, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Cassandra Styke
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Experimental Dermatology Group, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Chenhao Zhou
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Experimental Dermatology Group, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Jonathan Beesley
- Cancer Research Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, 4006, Australia
| | - Linus Oon
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Experimental Dermatology Group, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Simranpreet Kaur
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Experimental Dermatology Group, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
- Mater Research, Translational Research Institute, Macrophage Biology Laboratory, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Seen-Ling Sim
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Experimental Dermatology Group, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Ho Yi Wong
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Experimental Dermatology Group, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - James Dight
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Experimental Dermatology Group, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Ghazaleh Hashemi
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Experimental Dermatology Group, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Abbas Shafiee
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Experimental Dermatology Group, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Edwige Roy
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Experimental Dermatology Group, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Jatin Patel
- Centre for Ageing Research Program, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Kiarash Khosrotehrani
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Experimental Dermatology Group, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia.
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10
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Larionov A, Hammer CM, Fiedler K, Filgueira L. Dynamics of Endothelial Cell Diversity and Plasticity in Health and Disease. Cells 2024; 13:1276. [PMID: 39120307 PMCID: PMC11312403 DOI: 10.3390/cells13151276] [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: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) are vital structural units of the cardiovascular system possessing two principal distinctive properties: heterogeneity and plasticity. Endothelial heterogeneity is defined by differences in tissue-specific endothelial phenotypes and their high predisposition to modification along the length of the vascular bed. This aspect of heterogeneity is closely associated with plasticity, the ability of ECs to adapt to environmental cues through the mobilization of genetic, molecular, and structural alterations. The specific endothelial cytoarchitectonics facilitate a quick structural cell reorganization and, furthermore, easy adaptation to the extrinsic and intrinsic environmental stimuli, known as the epigenetic landscape. ECs, as universally distributed and ubiquitous cells of the human body, play a role that extends far beyond their structural function in the cardiovascular system. They play a crucial role in terms of barrier function, cell-to-cell communication, and a myriad of physiological and pathologic processes. These include development, ontogenesis, disease initiation, and progression, as well as growth, regeneration, and repair. Despite substantial progress in the understanding of endothelial cell biology, the role of ECs in healthy conditions and pathologies remains a fascinating area of exploration. This review aims to summarize knowledge and concepts in endothelial biology. It focuses on the development and functional characteristics of endothelial cells in health and pathological conditions, with a particular emphasis on endothelial phenotypic and functional heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey Larionov
- Faculty of Science and Medicine, Anatomy, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland; (C.M.H.); (L.F.)
| | - Christian Manfred Hammer
- Faculty of Science and Medicine, Anatomy, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland; (C.M.H.); (L.F.)
| | - Klaus Fiedler
- Independent Researcher, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland;
| | - Luis Filgueira
- Faculty of Science and Medicine, Anatomy, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland; (C.M.H.); (L.F.)
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11
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Udugampolage NS, Frolova S, Taurino J, Pini A, Martelli F, Voellenkle C. Coding and Non-Coding Transcriptomic Landscape of Aortic Complications in Marfan Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7367. [PMID: 39000474 PMCID: PMC11242319 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a rare congenital disorder of the connective tissue, leading to thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) and dissection, among other complications. Currently, the most efficient strategy to prevent life-threatening dissection is preventive surgery. Periodic imaging applying complex techniques is required to monitor TAA progression and to guide the timing of surgical intervention. Thus, there is an acute demand for non-invasive biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis, as well as for innovative therapeutic targets of MFS. Unraveling the intricate pathomolecular mechanisms underlying the syndrome is vital to address these needs. High-throughput platforms are particularly well-suited for this purpose, as they enable the integration of different datasets, such as transcriptomic and epigenetic profiles. In this narrative review, we summarize relevant studies investigating changes in both the coding and non-coding transcriptome and epigenome in MFS-induced TAA. The collective findings highlight the implicated pathways, such as TGF-β signaling, extracellular matrix structure, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Potential candidates as biomarkers, such as miR-200c, as well as therapeutic targets emerged, like Tfam, associated with mitochondrial respiration, or miR-632, stimulating endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. While these discoveries are promising, rigorous and extensive validation in large patient cohorts is indispensable to confirm their clinical relevance and therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Svetlana Frolova
- Molecular Cardiology Laboratory, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy; (S.F.); (C.V.)
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Jacopo Taurino
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy; (N.S.U.); (J.T.); (A.P.)
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Cardiovascular-Genetic Center, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy; (N.S.U.); (J.T.); (A.P.)
| | - Fabio Martelli
- Molecular Cardiology Laboratory, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy; (S.F.); (C.V.)
| | - Christine Voellenkle
- Molecular Cardiology Laboratory, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 Milan, Italy; (S.F.); (C.V.)
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12
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Horvat Mercnik M, Schliefsteiner C, Sanchez-Duffhues G, Wadsack C. TGFβ signalling: a nexus between inflammation, placental health and preeclampsia throughout pregnancy. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:442-471. [PMID: 38519450 PMCID: PMC11215164 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae007] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The placenta is a unique and pivotal organ in reproduction, controlling crucial growth and cell differentiation processes that ensure a successful pregnancy. Placental development is a tightly regulated and dynamic process, in which the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) superfamily plays a central role. This family of pleiotropic growth factors is heavily involved in regulating various aspects of reproductive biology, particularly in trophoblast differentiation during the first trimester of pregnancy. TGFβ signalling precisely regulates trophoblast invasion and the cell transition from cytotrophoblasts to extravillous trophoblasts, which is an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-like process. Later in pregnancy, TGFβ signalling ensures proper vascularization and angiogenesis in placental endothelial cells. Beyond its role in trophoblasts and endothelial cells, TGFβ signalling contributes to the polarization and function of placental and decidual macrophages by promoting maternal tolerance of the semi-allogeneic foetus. Disturbances in early placental development have been associated with several pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia (PE) which is one of the severe complications. Emerging evidence suggests that TGFβ is involved in the pathogenesis of PE, thereby offering a potential target for intervention in the human placenta. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This comprehensive review aims to explore and elucidate the roles of the major members of the TGFβ superfamily, including TGFβs, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), activins, inhibins, nodals, and growth differentiation factors (GDFs), in the context of placental development and function. The review focusses on their interactions within the major cell types of the placenta, namely trophoblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells, in both normal pregnancies and pregnancies complicated by PE throughout pregnancy. SEARCH METHODS A literature search was carried out using PubMed and Google Scholar, searching terms: 'TGF signalling preeclampsia', 'pregnancy TGF signalling', 'preeclampsia tgfβ', 'preeclampsia bmp', 'preeclampsia gdf', 'preeclampsia activin', 'endoglin preeclampsia', 'endoglin pregnancy', 'tgfβ signalling pregnancy', 'bmp signalling pregnancy', 'gdf signalling pregnancy', 'activin signalling pregnancy', 'Hofbauer cell tgfβ signalling', 'placental macrophages tgfβ', 'endothelial cells tgfβ', 'endothelium tgfβ signalling', 'trophoblast invasion tgfβ signalling', 'trophoblast invasion Smad', 'trophoblast invasion bmp', 'trophoblast invasion tgfβ', 'tgfβ preeclampsia', 'tgfβ placental development', 'TGFβ placental function', 'endothelial dysfunction preeclampsia tgfβ signalling', 'vascular remodelling placenta TGFβ', 'inflammation pregnancy tgfβ', 'immune response pregnancy tgfβ', 'immune tolerance pregnancy tgfβ', 'TGFβ pregnancy NK cells', 'bmp pregnancy NK cells', 'bmp pregnancy tregs', 'tgfβ pregnancy tregs', 'TGFβ placenta NK cells', 'TGFβ placenta tregs', 'NK cells preeclampsia', 'Tregs preeclampsia'. Only articles published in English until 2023 were used. OUTCOMES A comprehensive understanding of TGFβ signalling and its role in regulating interconnected cell functions of the main placental cell types provides valuable insights into the processes essential for successful placental development and growth of the foetus during pregnancy. By orchestrating trophoblast invasion, vascularization, immune tolerance, and tissue remodelling, TGFβ ligands contribute to the proper functioning of a healthy maternal-foetal interface. However, dysregulation of TGFβ signalling has been implicated in the pathogenesis of PE, where the shallow trophoblast invasion, defective vascular remodelling, decreased uteroplacental perfusion, and endothelial cell and immune dysfunction observed in PE, are all affected by an altered TGFβ signalling. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The dysregulation of TGFβ signalling in PE has important implications for research and clinical practice. Further investigation is required to understand the underlying mechanisms, including the role of different ligands and their regulation under pathophysiological conditions, in order to discover new therapeutic targets. Distinguishing between clinically manifested subtypes of PE and studying TGFβ signalling in different placental cell types holistically is an important first step. To put this knowledge into practice, pre-clinical animal models combined with new technologies are needed. This may also lead to improved human research models and identify potential therapeutic targets, ultimately improving outcomes for affected pregnancies and reducing the burden of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gonzalo Sanchez-Duffhues
- Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Center (CINN-CSIC), Tissue-Specific BMP Signalling ISPA-HUCA, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Christian Wadsack
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
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13
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Joshi P, Mohr F, Rumig C, Kliemank E, Krenning G, Kopf S, Hecker M, Wagner AH. Impact of the -1T>C single-nucleotide polymorphism of the CD40 gene on the development of endothelial dysfunction in a pro-diabetic microenvironment. Atherosclerosis 2024; 394:117386. [PMID: 38030458 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2023.117386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hyperglycemia reinforces pro-inflammatory conditions that enhance CD40 expression in endothelial cells (EC). Thymine to cytosine transition (-1T > C) in the promoter of the CD40 gene (rs1883832) further increases the abundance of CD40 protein on the EC surface. This study examines potential associations of the -1T > C SNP of the CD40 gene with type 1 (T1D) or type 2 (T2D) diabetes. Moreover, it investigates the impact of a pro-inflammatory diabetic microenvironment on gene expression in human cultured umbilical vein EC (HUVEC) derived from CC- vs. TT-genotype donors. METHODS Tetra-ARMS-PCR was used to compare genotype distribution in 252 patients with diabetes. Soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) and soluble CD40 receptor (sCD40) plasma levels were monitored using ELISA. RNA-sequencing was performed with sCD40L-stimulated CC- and TT-genotype HUVEC. Quantitative PCR, Western blot, multiplex-sandwich ELISA array, and immunocytochemistry were used to analyse changes in gene expression in these cells. RESULTS Homozygosity for the C-allele was associated with a significant 4.3-fold higher odds of developing T2D as compared to individuals homozygous for the T-allele. Inflammation and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) driving genes were upregulated in CC-genotype but downregulated in TT-genotype HUVEC when exposed to sCD40L. Expression of EndMT markers significantly increased while that of endothelial markers decreased in HUVEC following exposure to hyperglycemia, tumour necrosis factor-α and sCD40L. CONCLUSIONS The -1T > C SNP of the CD40 gene is a risk factor for T2D. Depending on the genotype, it differentially affects gene expression in human cultured EC. CC-genotype HUVEC adopt a pro-inflammatory and intermediate EndMT-like phenotype in a pro-diabetic microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Joshi
- Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Heidelberg University, Germany
| | - Franziska Mohr
- Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Heidelberg University, Germany
| | - Cordula Rumig
- Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Heidelberg University, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Kliemank
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Heidelberg University Hospital, Germany
| | - Guido Krenning
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Stefan Kopf
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Heidelberg University Hospital, Germany
| | - Markus Hecker
- Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Heidelberg University, Germany
| | - Andreas H Wagner
- Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Heidelberg University, Germany.
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14
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Dorry S, Perla S, Bennett AM. MAPK Phosphatase-5 is required for TGF-β signaling through a JNK-dependent pathway. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.27.600976. [PMID: 38979264 PMCID: PMC11230413 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.27.600976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphatases (MKPs) constitute members of the dual-specificity family of protein phosphatases that dephosphorylate the MAPKs. MKP-5 dephosphorylates the stress-responsive MAPKs, p38 MAPK and JNK, and has been shown to promote tissue fibrosis. Here, we provide insight into how MKP-5 regulates the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) pathway, a well-established driver of fibrosis. We show that MKP-5-deficient fibroblasts in response to TGF-β are impaired in SMAD2 phosphorylation at canonical and non-canonical sites, nuclear translocation, and transcriptional activation of fibrogenic genes. Consistent with this, pharmacological inhibition of MKP-5 is sufficient to block TGF-β signaling, and that this regulation occurs through a JNK-dependent pathway. By utilizing RNA sequencing and transcriptomic analysis, we identify TGF-β signaling activators regulated by MKP-5 in a JNK-dependent manner, providing mechanistic insight into how MKP-5 promotes TGF-β signaling. This study elucidates a novel mechanism whereby MKP-5-mediated JNK inactivation is required for TGF-β signaling and provides insight into the role of MKP-5 in fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Dorry
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sravan Perla
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Anton M. Bennett
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale Center for Molecular and Systems Metabolism, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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15
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Ahuja S, Sureka N, Zaheer S. Unraveling the intricacies of cancer-associated fibroblasts: a comprehensive review on metabolic reprogramming and tumor microenvironment crosstalk. APMIS 2024. [PMID: 38873945 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are crucial component of tumor microenvironment (TME) which undergo significant phenotypic changes and metabolic reprogramming, profoundly impacting tumor growth. This review delves into CAF plasticity, diverse origins, and the molecular mechanisms driving their continuous activation. Emphasis is placed on the intricate bidirectional crosstalk between CAFs and tumor cells, promoting cancer cell survival, proliferation, invasion, and immune evasion. Metabolic reprogramming, a cancer hallmark, extends beyond cancer cells to CAFs, contributing to the complex metabolic interplay within the TME. The 'reverse Warburg effect' in CAFs mirrors the Warburg effect, involving the export of high-energy substrates to fuel cancer cells, supporting their rapid proliferation. Molecular regulations by key players like p53, Myc, and K-RAS orchestrate this metabolic adaptation. Understanding the metabolic symbiosis between CAFs and tumor cells opens avenues for targeted therapeutic strategies to disrupt this dynamic crosstalk. Unraveling CAF-mediated metabolic reprogramming provides valuable insights for developing novel anticancer therapies. This comprehensive review consolidates current knowledge, shedding light on CAFs' multifaceted roles in the TME and offering potential targets for future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Ahuja
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Niti Sureka
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Sufian Zaheer
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
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16
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Chao CL, Applewhite B, Reddy NK, Matiuto N, Dang C, Jiang B. Advances and challenges in regenerative therapies for abdominal aortic aneurysm. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1369785. [PMID: 38895536 PMCID: PMC11183335 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1369785] [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: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a significant source of mortality worldwide and carries a mortality of greater than 80% after rupture. Despite extensive efforts to develop pharmacological treatments, there is currently no effective agent to prevent aneurysm growth and rupture. Current treatment paradigms only rely on the identification and surveillance of small aneurysms, prior to ultimate open surgical or endovascular repair. Recently, regenerative therapies have emerged as promising avenues to address the degenerative changes observed in AAA. This review briefly outlines current clinical management principles, characteristics, and pharmaceutical targets of AAA. Subsequently, a thorough discussion of regenerative approaches is provided. These include cellular approaches (vascular smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, and mesenchymal stem cells) as well as the delivery of therapeutic molecules, gene therapies, and regenerative biomaterials. Lastly, additional barriers and considerations for clinical translation are provided. In conclusion, regenerative approaches hold significant promise for in situ reversal of tissue damages in AAA, necessitating sustained research and innovation to achieve successful and translatable therapies in a new era in AAA management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calvin L. Chao
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Brandon Applewhite
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University McCormick School of Engineering, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Nidhi K. Reddy
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Natalia Matiuto
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Caitlyn Dang
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Bin Jiang
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University McCormick School of Engineering, Chicago, IL, United States
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17
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Lorente-Herraiz L, Cuesta AM, Recio-Poveda L, Botella LM, Albiñana V. Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in an Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia-like Pediatric Case of Multiple Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformations. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6163. [PMID: 38892351 PMCID: PMC11172626 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116163] [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: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) are vascular anomalies resulting in abnormal connections between pulmonary arteries and veins. In 80% of cases, PAVMs are present from birth, but clinical manifestations are rarely seen in childhood. These congenital malformations are typically associated with Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT), a rare disease that affects 1 in 5000/8000 individuals. HHT disease is frequently caused by mutations in genes involved in the TGF-β pathway. However, approximately 15% of patients do not have a genetic diagnosis and, among the genetically diagnosed, more than 33% do not meet the Curaçao criteria. This makes clinical diagnosis even more challenging in the pediatric age group. Here, we introduce an 8-year-old patient bearing a severe phenotype of multiple diffuse PAVMs caused by an unknown mutation which ended in lung transplantation. Phenotypically, the case under study follows a molecular pattern which is HHT-like. Therefore, molecular- biological and cellular-functional analyses have been performed in primary endothelial cells (ECs) isolated from the explanted lung. The findings revealed a loss of functionality in lung endothelial tissue and a stimulation of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Understanding the molecular basis of this transition could potentially offer new therapeutic strategies to delay lung transplantation in severe cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Lorente-Herraiz
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CIB-CSIC, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (L.L.-H.); (L.R.-P.); (L.M.B.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Angel M. Cuesta
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain;
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucía Recio-Poveda
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CIB-CSIC, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (L.L.-H.); (L.R.-P.); (L.M.B.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Luisa M. Botella
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CIB-CSIC, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (L.L.-H.); (L.R.-P.); (L.M.B.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Virginia Albiñana
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CIB-CSIC, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (L.L.-H.); (L.R.-P.); (L.M.B.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain;
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Maxwell S, Okabe J, Kaipananickal H, Rodriguez H, Khurana I, Al-Hasani K, Chow BS, Pitsillou E, Karagiannis TC, Jandeleit-Dahm K, Ma RC, Huang Y, Chan JC, Cooper ME, El-Osta A. Set7 Methyltransferase and Phenotypic Switch in Diabetic Glomerular Endothelial Cells. J Am Soc Nephrol 2024; 35:733-748. [PMID: 38630537 PMCID: PMC11164123 DOI: 10.1681/asn.0000000000000345] [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: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Key Points Set7 knockout improves diabetic glomerular structure and function and prevents diabetes-induced endothelial–mesenchymal transition (EDMT) by regulating Igfbp5. Set7 knockdown prevents, and (R)-PFI-2 hydrochloride reverses, diabetes-induced EDMT by regulating insulin growth factor binding protein 5. Set7 regulates the phenotypic EDMT switch, and inhibiting the methyltransferase attenuates glomerular injury in diabetic kidney disease. Background Hyperglycemia influences the development of glomerular endothelial cell damage, and nowhere is this more evident than in the progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). While the Set7 lysine methyltransferase is a known hyperglycemic sensor, its role in endothelial cell function in the context of DKD remains poorly understood. Methods Single-cell transcriptomics was used to investigate Set7 regulation in a mouse model of DKD, followed by validation of findings using pharmacological and short hairpin RNA inhibition inhibition of Set7. Results Set7 knockout (Set7KO) improved glomerular structure and albuminuria in a mouse model of diabetes. Analysis of single-cell RNA-sequencing data showed dynamic transcriptional changes in diabetic renal cells. Set7KO controls phenotype switching of glomerular endothelial cell populations by transcriptional regulation of the insulin growth factor binding protein 5 (IGFBP5). Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays confirmed that the expression of the IGFBP5 gene was associated with mono- and dimethylation of histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4me1/2). This generalizability was investigated in human kidney and circulating hyperglycemic cells exposed to TGFβ 1. We showed that the highly selective Set7 inhibitor (R)-PFI-2 hydrochloride attenuated indices associated with renal cell damage and mesenchymal transition, specifically (1 ) reactive oxygen species production, (2 ) IGFBP5 gene regulation, and (3 ) expression of mesenchymal markers. Furthermore, renal benefit observed in Set7KO diabetic mice closely corresponded in human glomerular endothelial cells with (R)-PFI-2 hydrochloride inhibition or Set7 short hairpin RNA silencing. Conclusions Set7 regulates the phenotypic endothelial–mesenchymal transition switch and suggests that targeting the lysine methyltransferase could protect glomerular cell injury in DKD. Podcast This article contains a podcast at https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/www.asn-online.org/media/podcast/JASN/2024_04_25_ASN0000000000000345.mp3
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Maxwell
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jun Okabe
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Harikrishnan Kaipananickal
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Clinical Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hanah Rodriguez
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ishant Khurana
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Keith Al-Hasani
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bryna S.M. Chow
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eleni Pitsillou
- School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tom C. Karagiannis
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karin Jandeleit-Dahm
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- German Diabetes Centre, Institute for Clinical Diabetology, Research Group Diabetic Nephropathy, Heinrich Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Ronald C.W. Ma
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Institute of Diabetes and Obesity, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong SAR, China
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yu Huang
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Juliana C.N. Chan
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Institute of Diabetes and Obesity, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong SAR, China
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Mark E. Cooper
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Assam El-Osta
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory, Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Clinical Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Institute of Diabetes and Obesity, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- University College Copenhagen, Faculty of Health, Department of Technology, Biomedical Laboratory Science, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Antequera-González B, Collell-Hernández R, Martínez-Micaelo N, Marimon-Blanch C, Carbonell-Prat B, Escribano J, Alegret JM. miR-130a expression is related to aortic dilation in bicuspid aortic valve children. Pediatr Res 2024; 95:1741-1748. [PMID: 38273119 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03018-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bicuspid aortic valve disease (BAV) is present in 0.5-2% of the population and can promote aortic dilation, eventually leading to fatal consequences. Although some biomarkers have been proposed in adults, no studies have tested these candidates in children. We aimed to evaluate four miRNAs previously described to be related to BAV disease and aortic dilation in adults in a paediatric cohort. METHODS Eighty participants ≤17 years old (4-17; mean 12) were included. From the BAV group, 40% had a dilated aorta (z score >2). RT‒qPCR were performed in plasma samples to quantify miR-122, miR-130a, miR-486, and miR-718 using the delta-delta Ct method. Functional and enrichment analyses of miR-130a were also performed. RESULTS miR-130a expression in plasma was found to be significantly lower in BAV patients with a dilated aorta versus nondilated patients (p = 0.008) and healthy TAV controls (p = 0.004). Furthermore, miR-130a expression in plasma was inversely correlated with ascending aorta (r = 0.318, p = 0.004) and aortic root z scores (r = 0.322; p = 0.004). Enrichment analysis showed that miR-130a target genes are related to the TGFβ signalling pathway. CONCLUSIONS miR-130a expression in plasma is decreased in aortic-dilated BAV children compared to nondilated BAV children, helping differentiate low- to high-risk patients. IMPACT miR-130a expression in plasma is related to aortic dilation in bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) children. To our knowledge, this is the first study that analyses miRNA patterns in bicuspid aortic valve children with aortic dilation. miR-130a expression in plasma could be a biomarker in order to help differentiate low-to high-risk BAV children, which is vitally important for advanced care planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borja Antequera-González
- Group of Cardiovascular Research, Pere Virgili Health Research Institute (IISPV), Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43204, Reus, Spain
| | - Rosa Collell-Hernández
- Pediatric Department, Hospital Universitari Sant Joan de Reus, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43204, Reus, Spain
| | - Neus Martínez-Micaelo
- Group of Cardiovascular Research, Pere Virgili Health Research Institute (IISPV), Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43204, Reus, Spain
| | - Cristina Marimon-Blanch
- Pediatric Department, Hospital Universitari Sant Joan de Reus, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43204, Reus, Spain
| | - Bàrbara Carbonell-Prat
- Group of Cardiovascular Research, Pere Virgili Health Research Institute (IISPV), Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43204, Reus, Spain
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Universitari Sant Joan de Reus, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43204, Reus, Spain
| | - Joaquín Escribano
- Pediatric Department, Hospital Universitari Sant Joan de Reus, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43204, Reus, Spain
| | - Josep M Alegret
- Group of Cardiovascular Research, Pere Virgili Health Research Institute (IISPV), Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43204, Reus, Spain.
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Universitari Sant Joan de Reus, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43204, Reus, Spain.
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20
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Ciszewski WM, Woźniak LA, Sobierajska K. Diverse roles of SARS-CoV-2 Spike and Nucleocapsid proteins in EndMT stimulation through the TGF-β-MRTF axis inhibited by aspirin. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:296. [PMID: 38807115 PMCID: PMC11134719 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01665-z] [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: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The SARS-CoV-2 virus causes severe COVID-19 in one-fifth of patients. In addition to high mortality, infection may induce respiratory failure and cardiovascular complications associated with inflammation. Acute or prolonged inflammation results in organ fibrosis, the cause of which might be endothelial disorders arising during the endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). METHODS HUVECs and HMEC-1 cells were stimulated with SARS-CoV-2 S (Spike) and N (Nucleocapsid) proteins, and EndMT induction was evaluated by studying specific protein markers via Western blotting. Wound healing and tube formation assays were employed to assess the potential of SARS-CoV-2 to stimulate changes in cell behaviour. MRTF nuclear translocation, ROS generation, TLR4 inhibitors, TGF-β-neutralizing antibodies, and inhibitors of the TGF-β-dependent pathway were used to investigate the role of the TGF-β-MRTF signalling axis in SARS-CoV-2-dependent EndMT stimulation. RESULTS Both viral proteins stimulate myofibroblast trans-differentiation. However, the N protein is more effective at EndMT induction. The TGF-β-MRTF pathway plays a critical role in this process. The N protein preferentially favours action through TGF-β2, whose secretion is induced through TLR4-ROS action. TGF-β2 stimulates MRTF-A and MRTF-B nuclear translocation and strongly regulates EndMT. In contrast, the Spike protein stimulates TGF-β1 secretion as a result of ACE2 downregulation. TGF-β1 induces only MRTF-B, which, in turn, weakly regulates EndMT. Furthermore, aspirin, a common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, might prevent and reverse SARS-CoV-2-dependent EndMT induction through TGF-β-MRTF pathway deregulation. CONCLUSION The reported study revealed that SARS-CoV-2 infection induces EndMT. Moreover, it was demonstrated for the first time at the molecular level that the intensity of the EndMT triggered by SARS-CoV-2 infection may vary and depend on the viral protein involved. The N protein acts through TLR4-ROS-TGF-β2-MRTF-A/B, whereas the S protein acts through ACE2-TGF-β1-MRTF-B. Furthermore, we identified aspirin as a potential anti-fibrotic drug for treating patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech M Ciszewski
- Department of Molecular Cell Mechanisms, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka Str. 6/8, Lodz, 92- 215, Poland
| | - Lucyna A Woźniak
- Department of Structural Biology, Medical University of Lodz, Żeligowskiego Str. 7/9, Lodz, 90-752, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Sobierajska
- Department of Molecular Cell Mechanisms, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka Str. 6/8, Lodz, 92- 215, Poland.
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21
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Karunarathne WAHM, Lee KT, Choi YH, Kang CH, Lee MH, Kim SH, Kim GY. Investigating rutin as a potential transforming growth factor-β type I receptor antagonist for the inhibition of bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. Biofactors 2024; 50:477-492. [PMID: 38006284 DOI: 10.1002/biof.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic lung condition characterized by the abnormal regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). In this study, we investigated the potential of rutin, a natural flavonoid, in attenuating transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-induced ECM regulation and EMT through the inhibition of the TGF-β type I receptor (TβRI)-mediated suppressor of mothers against decapentaplegic (SMAD) signaling pathway. We found that non-toxic concentrations of rutin attenuated TGF-β-induced ECM-related genes, including fibronectin, elastin, collagen 1 type 1, and TGF-β, as well as myoblast differentiation from MRC-5 lung fibroblast cells accompanied by the downregulation of α-smooth muscle actin. Rutin also inhibited TGF-β-induced EMT processes, such as wound healing, migration, and invasion by regulating EMT-related gene expression. Additionally, rutin attenuated bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis in mice, thus providing a potential therapeutic option for IPF. The molecular docking analyses in this study predict that rutin occludes the active site of TβRI and inhibits SMAD-mediated fibrotic signaling pathways in lung fibrosis. These findings highlight the potential of rutin as a promising anti-fibrotic prodrug for lung fibrosis and other TGF-β-induced fibrotic and cancer-related diseases; however, further studies are required to validate its safety and effectiveness in other experimental models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kyoung Tae Lee
- Forest Bioresources Department, Forest Microbiology Division, National Institute of Forest Science, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yung Hyun Choi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Korean Medicine, Dong-Eui University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Hee Kang
- Nakdonggang National Institute of Biological Resources, Sangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Hwa Lee
- Nakdonggang National Institute of Biological Resources, Sangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hun Kim
- Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Gi-Young Kim
- Department of Marine Life Science, Jeju National University, Jeju, Republic of Korea
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22
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Kim R, Kim M, Jeong S, Kim S, Moon H, Kim H, Lee MY, Kim J, Kim HS, Choi M, Shin K, Song BW, Chang W. Melatonin alleviates myocardial dysfunction through inhibition of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition via the NF-κB pathway. J Pineal Res 2024; 76:e12958. [PMID: 38747060 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is a complex biological process of cellular transdifferentiation by which endothelial cells (ECs) lose their characteristics and acquire mesenchymal properties, leading to cardiovascular remodeling and complications in the adult cardiovascular diseases environment. Melatonin is involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes, including aging, and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. This molecule is an effective therapeutic candidate for preventing oxidative stress, regulating endothelial function, and maintaining the EndMT balance to provide cardiovascular protection. Although recent studies have documented improved cardiac function by melatonin, the mechanism of action of melatonin on EndMT remains unclear. The present study investigated the effects of melatonin on induced EndMT by transforming growth factor-β2/interleukin-1β in both in vivo and in vitro models. The results revealed that melatonin reduced the migratory ability and reactive oxygen species levels of the cells and ameliorated mitochondrial dysfunction in vitro. Our findings indicate that melatonin prevents endothelial dysfunction and inhibits EndMT by activating related pathways, including nuclear factor kappa B and Smad. We also demonstrated that this molecule plays a crucial role in restoring cardiac function by regulating the EndMT process in the ischemic myocardial condition, both in vessel organoids and myocardial infarction (MI) animal models. In conclusion, melatonin is a promising agent that attenuates EC dysfunction and ameliorates cardiac damage compromising the EndMT process after MI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Kim
- Department of Biology Education, College of Education, Pusan National University, Busan, South Korea
| | - Minsuk Kim
- Department of Biology Education, College of Education, Pusan National University, Busan, South Korea
| | - Seongtae Jeong
- Institute for Bio-Medical Convergence, Catholic Kwandong University International St. Mary's Hospital, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Sejin Kim
- Department of Biology Education, College of Education, Pusan National University, Busan, South Korea
| | - Hanbyeol Moon
- Institute for Bio-Medical Convergence, Catholic Kwandong University International St. Mary's Hospital, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Hojin Kim
- Institute for Bio-Medical Convergence, Catholic Kwandong University International St. Mary's Hospital, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Min Young Lee
- Department of Molecular Physiology, College of Pharmacy, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Jongmin Kim
- Department of Life Systems, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyung-Sik Kim
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, South Korea
| | - Murim Choi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kunyoo Shin
- School of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Byeong-Wook Song
- Institute for Bio-Medical Convergence, Catholic Kwandong University International St. Mary's Hospital, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Woochul Chang
- Department of Biology Education, College of Education, Pusan National University, Busan, South Korea
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23
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Willems L, Kurakula K, Verhaegen J, Klok FA, Delcroix M, Goumans MJ, Quarck R. Angiogenesis in Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension: A Janus-Faced Player? Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2024; 44:794-806. [PMID: 38328933 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.123.319852] [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] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a rare form of pulmonary hypertension characterized by the presence of organized thrombi that obstruct pulmonary arteries, ultimately leading to right heart failure and death. Among others, impaired angiogenesis and inflammatory thrombosis have been shown to contribute to the progression of CTEPH. In this review, we summarize the 2-faced nature of angiogenesis in both thrombus formation and resolution in the context of CTEPH and highlight the dual role of angiogenesis and neovascularization in resolving venous thrombi. Furthermore, we discuss relevant in vitro and in vivo models that support the benefits or drawbacks of angiogenesis in CTEPH progression. We discuss the key pathways involved in modulating angiogenesis, particularly the underexplored role of TGFβ (transforming growth factor-beta) signaling in driving fibrosis as an integral element of CTEPH pathogenesis. We finally explore innovative treatment strategies that target angiogenic pathways. These strategies have the potential to pioneer preventive, inventive, or alternative therapeutic options for patients with CTEPH who may not qualify for surgical interventions. Moreover, they could be used synergistically with established treatments such as pulmonary endarterectomy or balloon pulmonary angioplasty. In summary, this review emphasizes the crucial role of angiogenesis in the development of in fibrothrombotic tissue, a major pathological characteristic of CTEPH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn Willems
- Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases and Thoracic Surgery, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Belgium (L.W., J.V., M.D., R.Q.)
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology (L.W., M.-J.G.), Leiden University Medical Centre, the Netherlands
| | - Kondababu Kurakula
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Free University Medical Center, the Netherlands (K.K.)
| | - Janne Verhaegen
- Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases and Thoracic Surgery, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Belgium (L.W., J.V., M.D., R.Q.)
| | - Frederikus A Klok
- Department of Medicine-Thrombosis and Haemostasis (F.A.K.), Leiden University Medical Centre, the Netherlands
| | - Marion Delcroix
- Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases and Thoracic Surgery, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Belgium (L.W., J.V., M.D., R.Q.)
- Clinical Department of Respiratory Diseases, University Hospital Leuven, Belgium (M.D., R.Q.)
| | - Marie-José Goumans
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology (L.W., M.-J.G.), Leiden University Medical Centre, the Netherlands
| | - Rozenn Quarck
- Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases and Thoracic Surgery, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Belgium (L.W., J.V., M.D., R.Q.)
- Clinical Department of Respiratory Diseases, University Hospital Leuven, Belgium (M.D., R.Q.)
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24
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Bu S, Singh A, Nguyen HC, Peddi B, Bhatt K, Ravendranathan N, Frisbee JC, Singh KK. Protein Disulfide Isomerase 4 Is an Essential Regulator of Endothelial Function and Survival. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3913. [PMID: 38612722 PMCID: PMC11011381 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073913] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Endothelial autophagy plays an important role in the regulation of endothelial function. The inhibition of endothelial autophagy is associated with the reduced expression of protein disulfide isomerase 4 (PDIA-4); however, its role in endothelial cells is not known. Here, we report that endothelial cell-specific loss of PDIA-4 leads to impaired autophagic flux accompanied by loss of endothelial function and apoptosis. Endothelial cell-specific loss of PDIA-4 also induced marked changes in endothelial cell architecture, accompanied by the loss of endothelial markers and the gain of mesenchymal markers consistent with endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). The loss of PDIA-4 activated TGFβ-signaling, and inhibition of TGFβ-signaling suppressed EndMT in PDIA-4-silenced endothelial cells in vitro. Our findings help elucidate the role of PDIA-4 in endothelial autophagy and endothelial function and provide a potential target to modulate endothelial function and/or limit autophagy and EndMT in (patho-)physiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhan Bu
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St. N., London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (S.B.); (A.S.); (H.C.N.); (B.P.); (K.B.); (N.R.); (J.C.F.)
| | - Aman Singh
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St. N., London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (S.B.); (A.S.); (H.C.N.); (B.P.); (K.B.); (N.R.); (J.C.F.)
| | - Hien C. Nguyen
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St. N., London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (S.B.); (A.S.); (H.C.N.); (B.P.); (K.B.); (N.R.); (J.C.F.)
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Bharatsinai Peddi
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St. N., London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (S.B.); (A.S.); (H.C.N.); (B.P.); (K.B.); (N.R.); (J.C.F.)
| | - Kriti Bhatt
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St. N., London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (S.B.); (A.S.); (H.C.N.); (B.P.); (K.B.); (N.R.); (J.C.F.)
| | - Naresh Ravendranathan
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St. N., London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (S.B.); (A.S.); (H.C.N.); (B.P.); (K.B.); (N.R.); (J.C.F.)
| | - Jefferson C. Frisbee
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St. N., London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (S.B.); (A.S.); (H.C.N.); (B.P.); (K.B.); (N.R.); (J.C.F.)
| | - Krishna K. Singh
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St. N., London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (S.B.); (A.S.); (H.C.N.); (B.P.); (K.B.); (N.R.); (J.C.F.)
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
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25
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Zhang L, Wu X, Hong L. Endothelial Reprogramming in Atherosclerosis. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:325. [PMID: 38671747 PMCID: PMC11048243 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11040325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a severe vascular disease that results in millions of cases of mortality each year. The development of atherosclerosis is associated with vascular structural lesions, characterized by the accumulation of immune cells, mesenchymal cells, lipids, and an extracellular matrix at the intimal resulting in the formation of an atheromatous plaque. AS involves complex interactions among various cell types, including macrophages, endothelial cells (ECs), and smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Endothelial dysfunction plays an essential role in the initiation and progression of AS. Endothelial dysfunction can encompass a constellation of various non-adaptive dynamic alterations of biology and function, termed "endothelial reprogramming". This phenomenon involves transitioning from a quiescent, anti-inflammatory state to a pro-inflammatory and proatherogenic state and alterations in endothelial cell identity, such as endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and endothelial-to-immune cell-like transition (EndIT). Targeting these processes to restore endothelial balance and prevent cell identity shifts, alongside modulating epigenetic factors, can attenuate atherosclerosis progression. In the present review, we discuss the role of endothelial cells in AS and summarize studies in endothelial reprogramming associated with the pathogenesis of AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhang
- Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Xin Wu
- Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Liang Hong
- Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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26
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Liu J, Yu X, Braucht A, Smith S, Wang C. N-Cadherin Targeted Melanin Nanoparticles Reverse the Endothelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Vascular Endothelial Cells to Potentially Slow the Progression of Atherosclerosis and Cancer. ACS NANO 2024; 18:8229-8247. [PMID: 38427686 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c12281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) of vascular endothelial cells has recently been considered as a key player in the early progression of a variety of vascular and nonvascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, cancer, and organ fibrosis. However, current strategies attempting to identify pharmacological inhibitors to block the regulatory pathways of EndoMT suffer from poor selectivity, unwanted side effects, and a heterogeneous response from endothelial cells with different origins. Furthermore, EndoMT inhibitors focus on preventing EndoMT, leaving the endothelial cells that have already undergone EndoMT unresolved. Here, we report the design of a simple but powerful nanoparticle system (i.e., N-cadherin targeted melanin nanoparticles) to convert cytokine-activated, mesenchymal-like endothelial cells back to their original endothelial phenotype. We term this process "Reversed EndoMT" (R-EndoMT). R-EndoMT allows the impaired endothelial barriers to recover their quiescence and intactness, with significantly reduced leukocyte and cancer cell adhesion and transmigration, which could potentially stop atheromatous plaque formation and cancer metastasis in the early stages. R-EndoMT is achieved on different endothelial cell types originating from arteries, veins, and capillaries, independent of activating cytokines. We reveal that N-cadherin targeted melanin nanoparticles reverse EndoMT by downregulating an N-cadherin dependent RhoA activation pathway. Overall, this approach offers a different prospect to treat multiple EndoMT-associated diseases by designing nanoparticles to reverse the phenotypical transition of endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyuan Liu
- Nanoscience and Biomedical Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
| | - Xiao Yu
- Nanoscience and Biomedical Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
| | - Annaliese Braucht
- Nanoscience and Biomedical Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
| | - Steve Smith
- Nanoscience and Biomedical Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
| | - Congzhou Wang
- Nanoscience and Biomedical Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
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27
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Trogisch FA, Abouissa A, Keles M, Birke A, Fuhrmann M, Dittrich GM, Weinzierl N, Wink E, Cordero J, Elsherbiny A, Martin-Garrido A, Grein S, Hemanna S, Hofmann E, Nicin L, Bibli SI, Airik R, Kispert A, Kist R, Quanchao S, Kürschner SW, Winkler M, Gretz N, Mogler C, Korff T, Koch PS, Dimmeler S, Dobreva G, Heineke J. Endothelial cells drive organ fibrosis in mice by inducing expression of the transcription factor SOX9. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eabq4581. [PMID: 38416842 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abq4581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a hallmark of chronic disease. Although fibroblasts are involved, it is unclear to what extent endothelial cells also might contribute. We detected increased expression of the transcription factor Sox9 in endothelial cells in several different mouse fibrosis models. These models included systolic heart failure induced by pressure overload, diastolic heart failure induced by high-fat diet and nitric oxide synthase inhibition, pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin treatment, and liver fibrosis due to a choline-deficient diet. We also observed up-regulation of endothelial SOX9 in cardiac tissue from patients with heart failure. To test whether SOX9 induction was sufficient to cause disease, we generated mice with endothelial cell-specific overexpression of Sox9, which promoted fibrosis in multiple organs and resulted in signs of heart failure. Endothelial Sox9 deletion prevented fibrosis and organ dysfunction in the two mouse models of heart failure as well as in the lung and liver fibrosis mouse models. Bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing of mouse endothelial cells across multiple vascular beds revealed that SOX9 induced extracellular matrix, growth factor, and inflammatory gene expression, leading to matrix deposition by endothelial cells. Moreover, mouse endothelial cells activated neighboring fibroblasts that then migrated and deposited matrix in response to SOX9, a process partly mediated by the secreted growth factor CCN2, a direct SOX9 target; endothelial cell-specific Sox9 deletion reversed these changes. These findings suggest a role for endothelial SOX9 as a fibrosis-promoting factor in different mouse organs during disease and imply that endothelial cells are an important regulator of fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix A Trogisch
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- CFPM (Core Facility Platform Mannheim), Cardiac Imaging Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Aya Abouissa
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- CFPM (Core Facility Platform Mannheim), Cardiac Imaging Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Merve Keles
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- CFPM (Core Facility Platform Mannheim), Cardiac Imaging Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Anne Birke
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Manuela Fuhrmann
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Gesine M Dittrich
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Nina Weinzierl
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Elvira Wink
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Julio Cordero
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- ECAS, Department of Cardiovascular Genomics and Epigenomics, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Adel Elsherbiny
- ECAS, Department of Cardiovascular Genomics and Epigenomics, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Abel Martin-Garrido
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Steve Grein
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Shruthi Hemanna
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ellen Hofmann
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Luka Nicin
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardiopulmonary Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- DZHK, partner site Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sofia-Iris Bibli
- Cardiopulmonary Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- DZHK, partner site Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Institute of Vascular Signaling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Rannar Airik
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Andreas Kispert
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Ralf Kist
- School of Dental Sciences, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4BW, UK
| | - Sun Quanchao
- Medical Research Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sina W Kürschner
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- ECAS, Adjunct Faculty, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Manuel Winkler
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- ECAS, Adjunct Faculty, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Norbert Gretz
- Medical Research Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Carolin Mogler
- Institute of Pathology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Korff
- ECAS, Adjunct Faculty, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Philipp-Sebastian Koch
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- ECAS, Adjunct Faculty, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Stefanie Dimmeler
- Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Cardiopulmonary Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- DZHK, partner site Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Gergana Dobreva
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- ECAS, Department of Cardiovascular Genomics and Epigenomics, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Joerg Heineke
- ECAS (European Center for Angioscience), Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- CFPM (Core Facility Platform Mannheim), Cardiac Imaging Center, Mannheim Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
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28
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Adzraku SY, Cao C, Zhou Q, Yuan K, Hao X, Li Y, Yuan S, Huang Y, Xu K, Qiao J, Ju W, Zeng L. Endothelial Robo4 suppresses endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition induced by irradiation and improves hematopoietic reconstitution. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:159. [PMID: 38383474 PMCID: PMC10881562 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06546-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Bone marrow ablation is routinely performed before hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) require a stable bone marrow microenvironment to expand and refill the peripheral blood cell pool after ablation. Roundabout guidance receptor 4 (Robo4) is a transmembrane protein exclusive to endothelial cells and is vital in preserving vascular integrity. Hence, the hypothesis is that Robo4 maintains the integrity of bone marrow endothelial cells following radiotherapy. We created an endothelial cell injury model with γ-radiation before Robo4 gene manipulation using lentiviral-mediated RNAi and gene overexpression techniques. We demonstrate that Robo4 and specific mesenchymal proteins (Fibronectin, Vimentin, αSma, and S100A4) are upregulated in endothelial cells exposed to irradiation (IR). We found that Robo4 depletion increases the expression of endoglin (CD105), an auxiliary receptor for the transforming growth factor (TGF-β) family of proteins, and promotes endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (End-MT) through activation of both the canonical (Smad) and non-canonical (AKT/NF-κB) signaling pathways to facilitate Snail1 activation and its nuclear translocation. Endothelial Robo4 overexpression stimulates the expression of immunoglobulin-like adhesion molecules (ICAM-1 and VCAM-1) and alleviates irradiation-induced End-MT. Our coculture model showed that transcriptional downregulation of endothelial Robo4 reduces HSPC proliferation and increases HSC quiescence and apoptosis. However, Robo4 overexpression mitigated the damaged endothelium's suppressive effects on HSC proliferation and differentiation. These findings indicate that by controlling End-MT, Robo4 preserves microvascular integrity after radiation preconditioning, protects endothelial function, and lessens the inhibitory effect of damaged endothelium on hematopoietic reconstitution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyram Yao Adzraku
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Jiangsu Province, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Xuzhou Ruihu Health Management Consulting Co, Ltd, xuzhou, 221002, China
| | - Can Cao
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Jiangsu Province, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Xuzhou Ruihu Health Management Consulting Co, Ltd, xuzhou, 221002, China
| | - Qi Zhou
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Jiangsu Province, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Xuzhou Ruihu Health Management Consulting Co, Ltd, xuzhou, 221002, China
| | - Ke Yuan
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Jiangsu Province, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
| | - Xiaowen Hao
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Jiangsu Province, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
| | - Yue Li
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Jiangsu Province, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
| | - Shengnan Yuan
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Jiangsu Province, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
| | - Yujin Huang
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Jiangsu Province, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
| | - Kailin Xu
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Jiangsu Province, Xuzhou, 221002, China
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
| | - Jianlin Qiao
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China.
- Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Jiangsu Province, Xuzhou, 221002, China.
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China.
| | - Wen Ju
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China.
- Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Jiangsu Province, Xuzhou, 221002, China.
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China.
- Xuzhou Ruihu Health Management Consulting Co, Ltd, xuzhou, 221002, China.
| | - Lingyu Zeng
- Blood Diseases Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China.
- Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Stem Cells, Jiangsu Province, Xuzhou, 221002, China.
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China.
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29
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Takahashi K, Kobayashi M, Katsumata H, Tokizaki S, Anzai T, Ikeda Y, Alcaide DM, Maeda K, Ishihara M, Tahara K, Kubota Y, Itoh F, Park J, Takahashi K, Matsunaga YT, Yoshimatsu Y, Podyma‐Inoue KA, Watabe T. CD40 is expressed in the subsets of endothelial cells undergoing partial endothelial-mesenchymal transition in tumor microenvironment. Cancer Sci 2024; 115:490-506. [PMID: 38111334 PMCID: PMC10859613 DOI: 10.1111/cas.16045] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor progression and metastasis are regulated by endothelial cells undergoing endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT), a cellular differentiation process in which endothelial cells lose their properties and differentiate into mesenchymal cells. The cells undergoing EndoMT differentiate through a spectrum of intermediate phases, suggesting that some cells remain in a partial EndoMT state and exhibit an endothelial/mesenchymal phenotype. However, detailed analysis of partial EndoMT has been hampered by the lack of specific markers. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) plays a central role in the induction of EndoMT. Here, we showed that inhibition of TGF-β signaling suppressed EndoMT in a human oral cancer cell xenograft mouse model. By using genetic labeling of endothelial cell lineage, we also established a novel EndoMT reporter cell system, the EndoMT reporter endothelial cells (EMRECs), which allow visualization of sequential changes during TGF-β-induced EndoMT. Using EMRECs, we characterized the gene profiles of multiple EndoMT stages and identified CD40 as a novel partial EndoMT-specific marker. CD40 expression was upregulated in the cells undergoing partial EndoMT, but decreased in the full EndoMT cells. Furthermore, single-cell RNA sequencing analysis of human tumors revealed that CD40 expression was enriched in the population of cells expressing both endothelial and mesenchymal cell markers. Moreover, decreased expression of CD40 in EMRECs enhanced TGF-β-induced EndoMT, suggesting that CD40 expressed during partial EndoMT inhibits transition to full EndoMT. The present findings provide a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying TGF-β-induced EndoMT and will facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting EndoMT-driven cancer progression and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuki Takahashi
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
- Institute of Industrial ScienceThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Miho Kobayashi
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Hisae Katsumata
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Shiori Tokizaki
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgical Oncology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Tatsuhiko Anzai
- Department of Biostatistics, M&D Data Science CenterTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Yukinori Ikeda
- Institute of Industrial ScienceThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | | | - Kentaro Maeda
- Laboratory of Oncology, School of Life SciencesTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesTokyoJapan
| | - Makoto Ishihara
- Scientific Affairs Section, Life Science Sales Department, Life Science Business Division, Medical Business GroupSony CorporationKanagawaJapan
| | - Katsutoshi Tahara
- Section 1, Product Design Department 2, Medical Product Design Division, Medical Business GroupSony CorporationKanagawaJapan
| | - Yoshiaki Kubota
- Department of AnatomyKeio University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Fumiko Itoh
- Laboratory of Stem Cells RegulationsTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesTokyoJapan
| | - Jihwan Park
- School of Life SciencesGwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST)GwangjuSouth Korea
| | - Kunihiko Takahashi
- Department of Biostatistics, M&D Data Science CenterTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | | | - Yasuhiro Yoshimatsu
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
- Laboratory of Oncology, School of Life SciencesTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesTokyoJapan
- Division of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesNiigata UniversityNiigataJapan
| | - Katarzyna A. Podyma‐Inoue
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Tetsuro Watabe
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
- Laboratory of Oncology, School of Life SciencesTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesTokyoJapan
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30
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Ahuja S, Zaheer S. Multifaceted TGF-β signaling, a master regulator: From bench-to-bedside, intricacies, and complexities. Cell Biol Int 2024; 48:87-127. [PMID: 37859532 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Physiological embryogenesis and adult tissue homeostasis are regulated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), an evolutionarily conserved family of secreted polypeptide factors, acting in an autocrine and paracrine manner. The role of TGF-β in inflammation, fibrosis, and cancer is complex and sometimes even contradictory, exhibiting either inhibitory or promoting effects depending on the stage of the disease. Under pathological conditions, especially fibrosis and cancer, overexpressed TGF-β causes extracellular matrix deposition, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer-associated fibroblast formation, and/or angiogenesis. In this review article, we have tried to dive deep into the mechanism of action of TGF-β in inflammation, fibrosis, and carcinogenesis. As TGF-β and its downstream signaling mechanism are implicated in fibrosis and carcinogenesis blocking this signaling mechanism appears to be a promising avenue. However, targeting TGF-β carries substantial risk as this pathway is implicated in multiple homeostatic processes and is also known to have tumor-suppressor functions. There is a need for careful dosing of TGF-β drugs for therapeutic use and patient selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Ahuja
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Sufian Zaheer
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
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31
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Tearle JLE, Tang A, Vasanthakumar A, James KR. Role reversals: non-canonical roles for immune and non-immune cells in the gut. Mucosal Immunol 2024; 17:137-146. [PMID: 37967720 DOI: 10.1016/j.mucimm.2023.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
The intestine is home to an intertwined network of epithelial, immune, and neuronal cells as well as the microbiome, with implications for immunity, systemic metabolism, and behavior. While the complexity of this microenvironment has long since been acknowledged, recent technological advances have propelled our understanding to an unprecedented level. Notably, the microbiota and non-immune or structural cells have emerged as important conductors of intestinal immunity, and by contrast, cells of both the innate and adaptive immune systems have demonstrated non-canonical roles in tissue repair and metabolism. This review highlights recent works in the following two streams: non-immune cells of the intestine performing immunological functions; and traditional immune cells exhibiting non-immune functions in the gut.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline L E Tearle
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Australia; School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Australia
| | - Adelynn Tang
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, Australia; School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ajithkumar Vasanthakumar
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, Australia; School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Kylie R James
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Australia; School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Australia.
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32
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Jimenez SA, Piera-Velazquez S. Cellular Transdifferentiation: A Crucial Mechanism of Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis. Curr Rheumatol Rev 2024; 20:388-404. [PMID: 37921216 DOI: 10.2174/0115733971261932231025045400] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is a systemic autoimmune disease of unknown etiology with a highly complex pathogenesis that despite extensive investigation is not completely understood. The clinical and pathologic manifestations of the disease result from three distinct processes: 1) Severe and frequently progressive tissue fibrosis causing exaggerated and deleterious accumulation of interstitial collagens and other extracellular matrix molecules in the skin and various internal organs; 2) extensive fibroproliferative vascular lesions affecting small arteries and arterioles causing tissue ischemic alterations; and 3) cellular and humoral immunity abnormalities with the production of numerous autoantibodies, some with very high specificity for SSc. The fibrotic process in SSc is one of the main causes of disability and high mortality of the disease. Owing to its essentially universal presence and the severity of its clinical effects, the mechanisms involved in the development and progression of tissue fibrosis have been extensively investigated, however, despite intensive investigation, the precise molecular mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Several recent studies have suggested that cellular transdifferentiation resulting in the phenotypic conversion of various cell types into activated myofibroblasts may be one important mechanism. Here, we review the potential role that cellular transdifferentiation may play in the development of severe and often progressive tissue fibrosis in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A Jimenez
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia 19107, USA
| | - Sonsoles Piera-Velazquez
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia 19107, USA
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33
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Wu Y, Zhang J, Mu T, Zhang H, Cao J, Li H, Tang H, Chen L, Liu H, Xu X, Zhao K. Selection of goat β-casein derived ACE-inhibitory peptide SQPK and insights into its effect and regulatory mechanism on the function of endothelial cells. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127312. [PMID: 37827416 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
The angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE)-inhibitory peptide SQPK was selected by in silico digestion and virtual screening from goat β-casein, and its effect and regulatory mechanism on function of endothelial cells was further evaluated. The results showed that SQPK exhibited relatively good ACE inhibition capacity (IC50 = 452.7 μg/mL). Treatment with 25 μg/mL SQPK for 12 h significantly elevated nitric oxide (NO) production, stimulated eNOS expression (p < 0.05) and affected the transcriptomic profiling of EA. Hy926 cells. In particular, SQPK stimulated the expression of genes encoding inflammatory cytokines (CXCL1/2 and IL6) but depressed encoding mesenchymal markers (FN1 and CNN3). Furthermore, SQPK modified the expression of genes involved in endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). Therefore, the selected peptide SQPK may exert potential protective effects on the function of endothelial cells by inhibiting the EndMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulong Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Food Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310021, PR China; School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, PR China
| | - Jin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Food Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310021, PR China
| | - Tong Mu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Food Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310021, PR China
| | - Hong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Food Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310021, PR China
| | - Jianxin Cao
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Food Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310021, PR China
| | - Huanhuan Li
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Food Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310021, PR China
| | - Honggang Tang
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Food Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310021, PR China
| | - Lihong Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Food Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310021, PR China
| | - Hongyun Liu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China
| | - Xianrong Xu
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, PR China.
| | - Ke Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Food Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310021, PR China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, PR China.
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34
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Jung I, Cho YJ, Park M, Park K, Lee SH, Kim WH, Jeong H, Lee JE, Kim GY. Proteomic analysis reveals activation of platelet- and fibrosis-related pathways in hearts of ApoE -/- mice exposed to diesel exhaust particles. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22636. [PMID: 38114606 PMCID: PMC10730529 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49790-y] [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: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Air pollution is an environmental risk factor linked to multiple human diseases including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). While particulate matter (PM) emitted by diesel exhaust damages multiple organ systems, heart disease is one of the most severe pathologies affected by PM. However, the in vivo effects of diesel exhaust particles (DEP) on the heart and the molecular mechanisms of DEP-induced heart dysfunction have not been investigated. In the current study, we attempted to identify the proteomic signatures of heart fibrosis caused by diesel exhaust particles (DEP) in CVDs-prone apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE-/-) mice model using tandem mass tag (TMT)-based quantitative proteomic analysis. DEP exposure induced mild heart fibrosis in ApoE-/- mice compared with severe heart fibrosis in ApoE-/- mice that were treated with CVDs-inducing peptide, angiotensin II. TMT-based quantitative proteomic analysis of heart tissues between PBS- and DEP-treated ApoE-/- mice revealed significant upregulation of proteins associated with platelet activation and TGFβ-dependent pathways. Our data suggest that DEP exposure could induce heart fibrosis, potentially via platelet-related pathways and TGFβ induction, causing cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inkyo Jung
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Department of Chronic Disease Convergence Research, Korea National Institute of Health, 187 Osongsaengmyeng2-ro, Osong-eub, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do, 28159, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Jin Cho
- Chemical and Biological Integrative Research Center, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5, Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of Chemistry, Sookmyung Women's University, Cheongpa-ro 47-gil 100, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, 04310, Republic of Korea
| | - Minhan Park
- School of Earth Science and Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, 123 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Kihong Park
- School of Earth Science and Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, 123 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hee Lee
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Department of Chronic Disease Convergence Research, Korea National Institute of Health, 187 Osongsaengmyeng2-ro, Osong-eub, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do, 28159, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Ho Kim
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Department of Chronic Disease Convergence Research, Korea National Institute of Health, 187 Osongsaengmyeng2-ro, Osong-eub, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do, 28159, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyuk Jeong
- Department of Chemistry, Sookmyung Women's University, Cheongpa-ro 47-gil 100, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, 04310, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Eun Lee
- Chemical and Biological Integrative Research Center, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, 5, Hwarang-ro 14-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.
| | - Geun-Young Kim
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease Research, Department of Chronic Disease Convergence Research, Korea National Institute of Health, 187 Osongsaengmyeng2-ro, Osong-eub, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do, 28159, Republic of Korea.
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Diniz MS, Hiden U, Falcão-Pires I, Oliveira PJ, Sobrevia L, Pereira SP. Fetoplacental endothelial dysfunction in gestational diabetes mellitus and maternal obesity: A potential threat for programming cardiovascular disease. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166834. [PMID: 37541330 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and maternal obesity (MO) increase the risk of adverse fetal outcomes, and the incidence of cardiovascular disease later in life. Extensive research has been conducted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms by which GDM and MO program the offspring to disease. This review focuses on the role of fetoplacental endothelial dysfunction in programming the offspring for cardiovascular disease in GDM and MO pregnancies. We discuss how pre-existing maternal health conditions can lead to vascular dysfunction in the fetoplacental unit and the fetus. We also examine the role of fetoplacental endothelial dysfunction in impairing fetal cardiovascular system development and the involvement of nitric oxide and hydrogen sulfide in mediating fetoplacental vascular dysfunction. Furthermore, we suggest that the L-Arginine-Nitric Oxide and the Adenosine-L-Arginine-Nitric Oxide (ALANO) signaling pathways are pertinent targets for research. Despite significant progress in this area, there are still knowledge gaps that need to be addressed in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana S Diniz
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB - Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Ph.D. Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL), Department of Obstetrics, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile.
| | - Ursula Hiden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, 8063 Graz, Austria; Research Unit Early Life Determinants (ELiD), Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Inês Falcão-Pires
- UnIC@RISE, Department of Surgery and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Paulo J Oliveira
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB - Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Luis Sobrevia
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology Laboratory (CMPL), Department of Obstetrics, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville E-41012, Spain; Medical School (Faculty of Medicine), São Paulo State University (UNESP), São Paulo, Brazil; University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research (UQCCR), Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia; Tecnologico de Monterrey, Eutra, The Institute for Obesity Research (IOR), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico.
| | - Susana P Pereira
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB - Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Laboratory of Metabolism and Exercise (LaMetEx), Research Centre in Physical Activity, Health and Leisure (CIAFEL), Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), Faculty of Sports, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal.
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Faralli JA, Filla MS, Peters DM. Role of integrins in the development of fibrosis in the trabecular meshwork. FRONTIERS IN OPHTHALMOLOGY 2023; 3:1274797. [PMID: 38983065 PMCID: PMC11182094 DOI: 10.3389/fopht.2023.1274797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) is a progressive and chronic disease exhibiting many of the features of fibrosis. The extracellular matrix (ECM) in the trabecular meshwork (TM) undergoes extensive remodeling and enhanced rigidity, resembling fibrotic changes. In addition, there are changes associated with myofibroblast activation and cell contractility that further drives tissue fibrosis and stiffening. This review discusses what is known about the integrins in the TM and their involvement in fibrotic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Faralli
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Mark S Filla
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Donna M Peters
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, United States
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Wits M, Becher C, de Man F, Sanchez-Duffhues G, Goumans MJ. Sex-biased TGFβ signalling in pulmonary arterial hypertension. Cardiovasc Res 2023; 119:2262-2277. [PMID: 37595264 PMCID: PMC10597641 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvad129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare cardiovascular disorder leading to pulmonary hypertension and, often fatal, right heart failure. Sex differences in PAH are evident, which primarily presents with a female predominance and increased male severity. Disturbed signalling of the transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) family and gene mutations in the bone morphogenetic protein receptor 2 (BMPR2) are risk factors for PAH development, but how sex-specific cues affect the TGFβ family signalling in PAH remains poorly understood. In this review, we aim to explore the sex bias in PAH by examining sex differences in the TGFβ signalling family through mechanistical and translational evidence. Sex hormones including oestrogens, progestogens, and androgens, can determine the expression of receptors (including BMPR2), ligands, and soluble antagonists within the TGFβ family in a tissue-specific manner. Furthermore, sex-related genetic processes, i.e. Y-chromosome expression and X-chromosome inactivation, can influence the TGFβ signalling family at multiple levels. Given the clinical and mechanistical similarities, we expect that the conclusions arising from this review may apply also to hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), a rare vascular disorder affecting the TGFβ signalling family pathway. In summary, we anticipate that investigating the TGFβ signalling family in a sex-specific manner will contribute to further understand the underlying processes leading to PAH and likely HHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marius Wits
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Clarissa Becher
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Frances de Man
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC) (Vrije Universiteit), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gonzalo Sanchez-Duffhues
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
- Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Center (CINN-CSIC), Health Research Institute of Asturias (ISPA), 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Marie-José Goumans
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Einthovenweg 20, 2333 ZC Leiden, The Netherlands
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Terriaca S, Scioli MG, Pisano C, Ruvolo G, Ferlosio A, Orlandi A. miR-632 Induces DNAJB6 Inhibition Stimulating Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition and Fibrosis in Marfan Syndrome Aortopathy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15133. [PMID: 37894814 PMCID: PMC10607153 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015133] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a connective tissue disorder caused by FBN1 gene mutations leading to TGF-β signaling hyperactivation, vascular wall weakness, and thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAAs). The pathogenetic mechanisms are not completely understood and patients undergo early vascular surgery to prevent TAA ruptures. We previously reported miR-632 upregulation in MFS TAA tissues compared with non-genetic TAA tissues. DNAJB6 is a gene target of miR-632 in cancer and plays a critical role in blocking epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition by inhibiting the Wnt/β catenin pathway. TGF-β signaling also activates Wnt/β catenin signaling and induces endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (End-Mt) and fibrosis. We documented that miR-632 upregulation correlated with DNAJB6 expression in both the endothelium and the tunica media of MFS TAA (p < 0.01). Wnt/β catenin signaling, End-Mt, and fibrosis markers were also upregulated in MFS TAA tissues (p < 0.05, p < 0.01 and p < 0.001). Moreover, miR-632 overexpression inhibited DNAJB6, inducing Wnt/β catenin signaling, as well as End-Mt and fibrosis exacerbation (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01). TGF-β1 treatment also determined miR-632 upregulation (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001), with the consequent activation of the aforementioned processes. Our study provides new insights about the pathogenetic mechanisms in MFS aortopathy. Moreover, the high disease specificity of miR-632 and DNAJB6 suggests new potential prognostic factors and/or therapeutic targets in the progression of MFS aortopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Terriaca
- Anatomic Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, 00133 Rome, Italy; (S.T.); (A.F.); (A.O.)
| | - Maria Giovanna Scioli
- Anatomic Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, 00133 Rome, Italy; (S.T.); (A.F.); (A.O.)
| | - Calogera Pisano
- Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgical Sciences, Tor Vergata University, 00133 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (G.R.)
| | - Giovanni Ruvolo
- Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgical Sciences, Tor Vergata University, 00133 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (G.R.)
| | - Amedeo Ferlosio
- Anatomic Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, 00133 Rome, Italy; (S.T.); (A.F.); (A.O.)
| | - Augusto Orlandi
- Anatomic Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, 00133 Rome, Italy; (S.T.); (A.F.); (A.O.)
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Hashimoto A, Hashimoto S. ADP-Ribosylation Factor 6 Pathway Acts as a Key Executor of Mesenchymal Tumor Plasticity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14934. [PMID: 37834383 PMCID: PMC10573442 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the "big data" on cancer from recent breakthroughs in high-throughput technology and the development of new therapeutic modalities, it remains unclear as to how intra-tumor heterogeneity and phenotypic plasticity created by various somatic abnormalities and epigenetic and metabolic adaptations orchestrate therapy resistance, immune evasiveness, and metastatic ability. Tumors are formed by various cells, including immune cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and endothelial cells, and their tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in malignant tumor progression and responses to therapy. ADP-ribosylation factor 6 (ARF6) and AMAP1 are often overexpressed in cancers, which statistically correlates with poor outcomes. The ARF6-AMAP1 pathway promotes the intracellular dynamics and cell-surface expression of various proteins. This pathway is also a major target for KRAS/TP53 mutations to cooperatively promote malignancy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), and is closely associated with immune evasion. Additionally, this pathway is important in angiogenesis, acidosis, and fibrosis associated with tumor malignancy in the TME, and its inhibition in PDAC cells results in therapeutic synergy with an anti-PD-1 antibody in vivo. Thus, the ARF6-based pathway affects the TME and the intrinsic function of tumors, leading to malignancy. Here, we discuss the potential mechanisms of this ARF6-based pathway in tumorigenesis, and novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ari Hashimoto
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Shigeru Hashimoto
- Division of Molecular Psychoimmunology, Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0815, Japan
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Ren LL, Miao H, Wang YN, Liu F, Li P, Zhao YY. TGF-β as A Master Regulator of Aging-Associated Tissue Fibrosis. Aging Dis 2023; 14:1633-1650. [PMID: 37196129 PMCID: PMC10529747 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is the abnormal accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins such as collagen and fibronectin. Aging, injury, infections, and inflammation can cause different types of tissue fibrosis. Numerous clinical investigations have shown a correlation between the degree of liver and pulmonary fibrosis in patients and telomere length and mitochondrial DNA content, both of which are signs of aging. Aging involves the gradual loss of tissue function over time, which results in the loss of homeostasis and, ultimately, an organism's fitness. A major feature of aging is the accumulation of senescent cells. Senescent cells abnormally and continuously accumulate in the late stages of life, contributing to age-related fibrosis and tissue deterioration, among other aging characteristics. Furthermore, aging generates chronic inflammation, which results in fibrosis and decreases organ function. This finding suggests that fibrosis and aging are closely related. The transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily plays a crucial role in the physiological and pathological processes of aging, immune regulation, atherosclerosis, and tissue fibrosis. In this review, the functions of TGF-β in normal organs, aging, and fibrotic tissues is discussed: TGF-β signalling is altered with age and is an indicator of pathology associated with tissue fibrosis. In addition, this review discusses the potential targeting of noncoding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Li Ren
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Hua Miao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yan-Ni Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Urology, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Ping Li
- Beijing Key Lab for Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Clinical Medical Science, Department of Nephrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Luo Z, Li X, Wang L, Shu C. Impact of the transforming growth factor-β pathway on vascular restenosis and its mechanism. ZHONG NAN DA XUE XUE BAO. YI XUE BAN = JOURNAL OF CENTRAL SOUTH UNIVERSITY. MEDICAL SCIENCES 2023; 48:1252-1259. [PMID: 37875366 PMCID: PMC10930841 DOI: 10.11817/j.issn.1672-7347.2023.230064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
As a crucial regulatory molecule in the context of vascular stenosis, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), plays a pivotal role in its initiation and progression. TGF-β, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, can bind to the TGF-β receptor and transduce extracellular to intracellular signals through canonical Smad dependent or noncanonical signaling pathways to regulate cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Restenosis remains one of the most challenging problems in cardiac, cerebral, and peripheral vascular disease worldwide. The mechanisms for occurrence and development of restenosis are diverse and complex. The TGF-β pathway exhibits diversity across various cell types. Hence, clarifying the specific roles of TGF-β within different cell types and its precise impact on vascular stenosis provides strategies for future research in the field of stenosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongchen Luo
- Institute of Vascular Diseases, Central South University, Changsha 410011.
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Vascular Center, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011.
| | - Xin Li
- Institute of Vascular Diseases, Central South University, Changsha 410011
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Vascular Center, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011
| | - Lunchang Wang
- Institute of Vascular Diseases, Central South University, Changsha 410011
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Vascular Center, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011
| | - Chang Shu
- Institute of Vascular Diseases, Central South University, Changsha 410011.
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Vascular Center, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011.
- Center of Vascular Surgery, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing 100037, China.
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Zhang J, Xu X, Liang Y, Wu X, Qian Z, Zhang L, Wang T. Particulate matter promotes the epithelial to mesenchymal transition in human lung epithelial cells via the ROS pathway. Am J Transl Res 2023; 15:5159-5167. [PMID: 37692935 PMCID: PMC10492054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTS Epidemiologic studies have linked exposure to airborne pollutant particulate matter (PM) with increased rates of chronic cardiopulmonary diseases, including asthma and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Several investigations have suggested that the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) may contribute to the complex pathobiology of environmental exposure-mediated pulmonary fibrosis. The present study was designed to characterize the mechanisms of PM-mediated EMT in human lung epithelial cells (HBECs). METHODS AND RESULTS PM induced significant dose (0-100 μg/ml) and time (0-72 h)-dependent increases in transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) and fibronectin (FN) protein levels in HBECs lysates. PM-activated TGFβ and FN protein production in HBECs was prevented by the antioxidant N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC, 5 mM). Furthermore, the NF-κB inhibitor BAY11-7082 (5 μM) abolished PM-induced FN production in HBECs. Biomarkers of EMT (ACTA2, SNAIL1 and SNAIL2) in PM-treated HBECs were significantly increased at the mRNA level compared to control cells. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that PM increases protein levels of TGFβ and FN via reactive oxygen species (ROS)-dependent pathways. In addition, PM exposure induces EMT in human lung epithelial cells, supporting a novel mechanism for PM-induced pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhang
- Department of Medicine, University of ArizonaTucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Xu
- Department of Medicine, University of ArizonaTucson, AZ, USA
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijing, China
| | - Ying Liang
- Department of Medicine, University of ArizonaTucson, AZ, USA
| | - Xiaomin Wu
- Department of Medicine, University of ArizonaTucson, AZ, USA
| | - Zhongqing Qian
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Immunology in Chronic Diseases, Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Bengbu Medical CollegeBengbu, Anhui, China
| | - Liming Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijing, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Medicine, University of ArizonaTucson, AZ, USA
- Center of Translational Science, Florida International University11350 SW Village Parkway, Port St. Lucie, FL, USA
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Ghandforoushan P, Alehosseini M, Golafshan N, Castilho M, Dolatshahi-Pirouz A, Hanaee J, Davaran S, Orive G. Injectable hydrogels for cartilage and bone tissue regeneration: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 246:125674. [PMID: 37406921 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Annually, millions of patients suffer from irreversible injury owing to the loss or failure of an organ or tissue caused by accident, aging, or disease. The combination of injectable hydrogels and the science of stem cells have emerged to address this persistent issue in society by generating minimally invasive treatments to augment tissue function. Hydrogels are composed of a cross-linked network of polymers that exhibit a high-water retention capacity, thereby mimicking the wet environment of native cells. Due to their inherent mechanical softness, hydrogels can be used as needle-injectable stem cell carrier materials to mend tissue defects. Hydrogels are made of different natural or synthetic polymers, displaying a broad portfolio of eligible properties, which include biocompatibility, low cytotoxicity, shear-thinning properties as well as tunable biological and physicochemical properties. Presently, novel ongoing developments and native-like hydrogels are increasingly being used broadly to improve the quality of life of those with disabling tissue-related diseases. The present review outlines various future and in-vitro applications of injectable hydrogel-based biomaterials, focusing on the newest ongoing developments of in-situ forming injectable hydrogels for bone and cartilage tissue engineering purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Ghandforoushan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran; Clinical Research Development, Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Morteza Alehosseini
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Nasim Golafshan
- Department of Orthopedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Miguel Castilho
- Department of Orthopedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | | | - Jalal Hanaee
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Soodabeh Davaran
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Gorka Orive
- NanoBioCel Group, Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Networking Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; University Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Oral Implantology - UIRMI (UPV/EHU-Fundación Eduardo Anitua), Vitoria, Spain; University of the Basque Country, Spain.
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Richards A, Khalil A, Friesen M, Whitfield TW, Lungjangwa T, Gehrke L, Mooney D, Jaenisch R. SARS-CoV-2 infection of human pluripotent stem cell-derived vascular cells reveals smooth muscle cells as key mediators of vascular pathology during infection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.06.552160. [PMID: 37609322 PMCID: PMC10441287 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.06.552160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Although respiratory symptoms are the most prevalent disease manifestation of infection by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), nearly 20% of hospitalized patients are at risk for thromboembolic events 1 . This prothrombotic state is considered a key factor in the increased risk of stroke, which has been observed clinically during both acute infection and long after symptoms have cleared 2 . Here we developed a model of SARS-CoV-2 infection using human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived endothelial cells, pericytes, and smooth muscle cells to recapitulate the vascular pathology associated with SARS-CoV-2 exposure. Our results demonstrate that perivascular cells, particularly smooth muscle cells (SMCs), are a specifically susceptible vascular target for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Utilizing RNA sequencing, we characterized the transcriptomic changes accompanying SARS-CoV-2 infection of SMCs, and endothelial cells (ECs). We observed that infected human SMCs shift to a pro-inflammatory state and increase the expression of key mediators of the coagulation cascade. Further, we showed human ECs exposed to the secretome of infected SMCs produce hemostatic factors that can contribute to vascular dysfunction, despite not being susceptible to direct infection. The findings here recapitulate observations from patient sera in human COVID-19 patients and provide mechanistic insight into the unique vascular implications of SARS-CoV-2 infection at a cellular level.
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Yun E, Kwon BS, Kim J, Lee A. Ginsenoside Rg3 attenuates pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting endothelial to mesenchymal transition. Anim Cells Syst (Seoul) 2023; 27:159-170. [PMID: 37554358 PMCID: PMC10405771 DOI: 10.1080/19768354.2023.2244549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a progressive and chronic lung disease characterized by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and fibroblast proliferation. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) serves as a source of fibroblasts and contributes to PF progression. Ginsenoside Rg3 (Rg3), a steroidal saponin extracted from ginseng, is known to have pharmacological effects on vascular diseases. We have previously demonstrated that Rg3 inhibits EndMT and prevents endothelial dysfunction. Thus, we hypothesized that Rg3 may be a potential therapeutic agent for PF-targeting EndMT. EndMT occurs in the lung tissue of a bleomycin-induced PF mouse model, which was confirmed by co-staining of endothelial and mesenchymal markers in the pulmonary vasculature and changes in the expression of these markers. Rg3 administration decreased EndMT and suppressed PF development. We also examined the effect of Rg3 in an in vitro EndMT model induced by co-treatment with TGF-β2 and IL-1β. Rg3 treatment alleviated the characteristics of EndMT such as spindle-shaped morphological changes, EndMT marker expression changes, Dil-Ac-LDL uptake and migratory properties. In addition, we demonstrated the mechanism by which Rg3 inhibits EndMT by regulating the Smad2/3 signaling pathway. Collectively, Rg3 can be a potential therapeutic agent for PF using the EndMT inhibition strategy, furthermore, it can be considered Rg3 as a therapeutic candidate for various EndMT-associated vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunsik Yun
- Division of Biological Sciences, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Byung Su Kwon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kyung Hee University Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jongmin Kim
- Division of Biological Sciences, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul, Korea
- Research Institute for Women’s Health, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Aram Lee
- Division of Biological Sciences, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul, Korea
- Research Institute for Women’s Health, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul, Korea
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Song J, Gerecht S. Hydrogels to Recapture Extracellular Matrix Cues That Regulate Vascularization. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2023; 43:e291-e302. [PMID: 37317849 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.122.318235] [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: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The ECM (extracellular matrix) is a 3-dimensional network that supports cellular responses and maintains structural tissue integrity in healthy and pathological conditions. The interactions between ECM and cells trigger signaling cascades that lead to phenotypic changes and structural and compositional turnover of the ECM, which in turn regulates vascular cell behavior. Hydrogel biomaterials are a powerful platform for basic and translational studies and clinical applications due to their high swelling capacity and exceptional versatility in compositions and properties. This review highlights recent developments and uses of engineered natural hydrogel platforms that mimic the ECM and present defined biochemical and mechanical cues for vascularization. Specifically, we focus on modulating vascular cell stimulation and cell-ECM/cell-cell interactions in the microvasculature that are the established biomimetic microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyeon Song
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Sharon Gerecht
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC
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Hsu HH, Ko PL, Peng CC, Cheng YJ, Wu HM, Tung YC. Studying sprouting angiogenesis under combination of oxygen gradients and co-culture of fibroblasts using microfluidic cell culture model. Mater Today Bio 2023; 21:100703. [PMID: 37483382 PMCID: PMC10359940 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Sprouting angiogenesis is an essential process for expanding vascular systems under various physiological and pathological conditions. In this paper, a microfluidic device capable of integrating a hydrogel matrix for cell culture and generating stable oxygen gradients is developed to study the sprouting angiogenesis of endothelial cells under combinations of oxygen gradients and co-culture of fibroblast cells. The endothelial cells can be cultured as a monolayer endothelium inside the device to mimic an existing blood vessel, and the hydrogel without or with fibroblast cells cultured in it provides a matrix next to the formed endothelium for three-dimensional sprouting of the endothelial cells. Oxygen gradients can be stably established inside the device for cell culture using the spatially-confined chemical reaction method. Using the device, the sprouting angiogenesis under combinations of oxygen gradients and co-culture of fibroblast cells is systematically studied. The results show that the oxygen gradient and the co-culture of fibroblast cells in the hydrogel can promote sprouting of the endothelial cells into the hydrogel matrix by altering cytokines in the culture medium and the physical properties of the hydrogel. The developed device provides a powerful in vitro model to investigate sprouting angiogenesis under various in vivo-like microenvironments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng-Hua Hsu
- Research Center of Applied Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Engineering and System Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Ping-Liang Ko
- Research Center of Applied Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Chung Peng
- Research Center of Applied Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Jen Cheng
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Neuroscience Program of Academia Sinica, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Mei Wu
- Department of Biomechatronics Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chung Tung
- Research Center of Applied Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- College of Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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Wang X, Shen Y, Shang M, Liu X, Munn LL. Endothelial mechanobiology in atherosclerosis. Cardiovasc Res 2023; 119:1656-1675. [PMID: 37163659 PMCID: PMC10325702 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvad076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a serious health challenge, causing more deaths worldwide than cancer. The vascular endothelium, which forms the inner lining of blood vessels, plays a central role in maintaining vascular integrity and homeostasis and is in direct contact with the blood flow. Research over the past century has shown that mechanical perturbations of the vascular wall contribute to the formation and progression of atherosclerosis. While the straight part of the artery is exposed to sustained laminar flow and physiological high shear stress, flow near branch points or in curved vessels can exhibit 'disturbed' flow. Clinical studies as well as carefully controlled in vitro analyses have confirmed that these regions of disturbed flow, which can include low shear stress, recirculation, oscillation, or lateral flow, are preferential sites of atherosclerotic lesion formation. Because of their critical role in blood flow homeostasis, vascular endothelial cells (ECs) have mechanosensory mechanisms that allow them to react rapidly to changes in mechanical forces, and to execute context-specific adaptive responses to modulate EC functions. This review summarizes the current understanding of endothelial mechanobiology, which can guide the identification of new therapeutic targets to slow or reverse the progression of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Wang
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Department of Cardiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310020, China
| | - Yang Shen
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Min Shang
- Department of Cardiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310020, China
| | - Xiaoheng Liu
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Lance L Munn
- Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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Valenzuela NM. JAKinibs prevent persistent, IFNγ-autonomous endothelial cell inflammation and immunogenicity. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 325:C186-C207. [PMID: 37184230 PMCID: PMC10312316 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00298.2022] [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: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The adhesion and subsequent activation of T cells is a critical step in local inflammatory responses, particularly of alloreactive leukocytes in rejection of transplanted donor tissue. Interferon (IFN)γ is an adaptive cytokine that promotes endothelial cell (EC) expression of pro-adhesive factors and costimulatory molecules. We recently reported that IFNγ-induced endothelial cell antigen-presenting capacity was protracted after cytokine withdrawal. This study sought to determine what intracellular signaling mediates this chronic endothelial activation by IFNγ. The durability of interferon signaling in human aortic endothelial activation was tested. Pro-adhesive and costimulatory gene expression, phenotype, secretome, and Janus kinase (JAK)/STAT phosphorylation in human primary endothelial cells were measured under chronic and transient IFNγ stimulation, with various JAK inhibitors. IFNγ reporter cells were tested for STAT1 transcriptional activity with JAK inhibition and suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS) overexpression, under continuous and priming conditions. The consequences of even short exposure to IFNγ were long-lasting and broad, with sustained elevation of adhesion molecules and chemokines up to 48 h later. JAK/STAT and interferon response factor expression were likewise durable, dependent on new transcription but autonomous of continuous IFNγ. Persistent STAT new transcription and JAK signaling in the endothelium was required to maintain a pro-adhesive and proimmunogenic phenotype after IFNγ withdrawal since both could be prevented by cycloheximide but only by JAKinibs with potency against JAK2. Finally, the suppressor of cytokine signaling SOCS1 failed to emerge in primed endothelial cells, which likely accounted for prolonged inflammatory gene expression. The results reveal a sustained JAK-dependent perturbation of endothelial function and suggest that JAKinibs may have therapeutic benefits in dampening vascular inflammation and allogeneic leukocyte activation.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The central question investigated in this study is why vascular endothelium remains inflamed and what underlying signaling is responsible. The new results show that the resolution of endothelial-controlled inflammation may be impaired or delayed because Janus kinase (JAK)/STAT activation is maintained autonomous of interferon (IFN)γ presence, and the late phase negative regulator suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS)1 fails to be induced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Valenzuela
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States
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Immanuel J, Yun S. Vascular Inflammatory Diseases and Endothelial Phenotypes. Cells 2023; 12:1640. [PMID: 37371110 PMCID: PMC10297687 DOI: 10.3390/cells12121640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The physiological functions of endothelial cells control vascular tone, permeability, inflammation, and angiogenesis, which significantly help to maintain a healthy vascular system. Several cardiovascular diseases are characterized by endothelial cell activation or dysfunction triggered by external stimuli such as disturbed flow, hypoxia, growth factors, and cytokines in response to high levels of low-density lipoprotein and cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes, aging, drugs, and smoking. Increasing evidence suggests that uncontrolled proinflammatory signaling and further alteration in endothelial cell phenotypes such as barrier disruption, increased permeability, endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT), and metabolic reprogramming further induce vascular diseases, and multiple studies are focusing on finding the pathways and mechanisms involved in it. This review highlights the main proinflammatory stimuli and their effects on endothelial cell function. In order to provide a rational direction for future research, we also compiled the most recent data regarding the impact of endothelial cell dysfunction on vascular diseases and potential targets that impede the pathogenic process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sanguk Yun
- Department of Biotechnology, Inje University, Gimhae-si 50834, Republic of Korea;
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