The Hippo-YAP pathway in various cardiovascular diseases: Focusing on the inflammatory response

Unleashing the therapeutic power of verteporfin-eluting stents: modulating YAP signaling to combat carotid artery restenosis and cerebral watershed infarction

Carotid artery stenosis is the main cause of cerebral watershed infarction (CWI). In recent years, increasing attention has been given to treating this condition. The present study aimed to investigate how Verteporfin-eluting stent (VPES) modulates the YAP signaling pathway to inhibit restenosis of the carotid artery and alleviate CWI. Through transcriptome sequencing and functional experiments, it was found that VP could regulate the Yes-associated protein (YAP) signaling pathway and effectively suppress the proliferation and migration of smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Further investigation revealed that VPES could inhibit carotid artery restenosis through the YAP signaling pathway in a rabbit model, reducing the occurrence of CWI.

[Zheng Gan Decoction inhibits diethylnitrosamine-induced hepatocellular carcinoma in rats by activating the Hippo/YAP signaling pathway]

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the inhibitory effect of Zheng GanDecoction (ZGF) on tumor progression in a rat model of diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and explore the possible mechanism.

METHODS

Seventy SD rats were subjected to regular intraperitoneal injections of DEN (50 mg/kg) for 12 weeks to induce HCC tumorigenesis, with another 10 rats receiving saline injections as the normal control. After successful modeling, the rats were randomized into 5 groups (n=10) for daily treatment with distilled water ( model group), Huaier Granules (4 g/kg; positive control group), or ZGF at low, medium, and high doses (2, 4, and 8 g/kg, respectively) via gavage for 17 weeks. Body weight changes of the rats were monitored, and after completion of the treatments, the rats were euthanized for measurement of liver, spleen and thymus indices and morphological and histopathological examinations of the liver tissues using HE staining. The expressions of YAP, p-YAP, MST1, LATS1 and p-LATS1 in the liver tissues were detected using immunohistochemistry and Western blotting.

RESULTS

Compared with the normal control rats, the rat models with DEN-induced HCC exhibited much poorer general condition with a significantly reduced survival rate, increased body weight and liver and spleen indices, and a lowered thymus index. ZGF treatment obviously reduced liver and spleen indices, increased the thymus index, and improved pathologies of the liver tissues of the rat models. Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting showed a dose-dependent reduction of YAP expression and an increment of p-YAP expression in ZGF-treated rats, which also exhibited significantly upregulated hepatic expressions of MST1, LATS1 and p-LATS1.

CONCLUSIONS

ZGF inhibits DEN-induced HCC in rats by activating the Hippo/YAP pathway via upregulating MST1 and LATS1 expression, which promotes YAP phosphorylation and degradation to suppress proliferation and induce apoptosis of the tumor cells.

Cannabidiol Ameliorates Doxorubicin-Induced Myocardial Injury via Activating Hippo Pathway

Background

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a chemotherapeutic agent widely used for cancer treatment and has non-negligible cardiotoxicity. Some previous studies have reported that cannabidiol (CBD) has cardioprotective effects. In this study, we evaluated the protective effects of CBD against DOX-induced cardiomyocyte injury, and explored the downstream molecular mechanism.

Methods and Materials

GSE193861, containing healthy myocardial tissues and myocardial tissues with DOX-induced injury, was analyzed to screen for the involved proteins and pathways. Molecular docking was performed to identify candidate drugs. After H9c2 cells were treated with DOX and CBD, their viability, oxidative stress, and apoptosis were assessed. After YAP depletion, the role of the Hippo pathway in CBD function was investigated. C57BL/6 mice were treated with DOX to establish an in vivo model, and CBD and verteporfin (VP) were used to treat the mice. Histological analyses and immunofluorescence were used to evaluate myocardial tissue injury, and apoptosis and oxidative stress of the myocardial tissues were also analyzed. Western blotting was used to investigate the regulatory effects of CBD on the Hippo and apoptosis-related pathways.

Results

Bioinformatic analysis suggested that the Hippo pathway was a crucial pathway involved in DOX-induced myocardial injury. Molecular docking showed that CBD targeted multiple regulators of the Hippo pathway. CBD showed cardioprotective effects against DOX-induced myocardial injury both in vitro and in vivo and regulated Hippo pathway activity in cardiomyocytes. After inactivation of the Hippo pathway by YAP knockdown or VP intervention, the protective effects of CBD were reversed.

Conclusion

For the first time, we revealed that CBD is likely to reduce DOX-induced myocardial injury by regulating the Hippo signaling pathway.

Bioinformatics approach reveals the critical role of inflammation-related genes in age-related hearing loss

Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) is the most prevalent sensory impairment in the elderly. However, the pathogenesis of ARHL remains unclear. This study was aimed to explore the potential inflammation-related genes of ARHL and suggest novel therapeutic targets for this condition. Initially, a total of 105 Inflammatory related differentially expressed genes (IRDEGs) were obtained by overlapping the differentially expressed genes from the GSE49522 and GSE49543 datasets with Inflammatory related genes. The IRDEGs were mainly enriched in MAPK, PI3K-Akt, Hippo and JAK-STAT pathways by analysis of Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes. We then identified 10 key IRDEGs including Alox5ap, Chil1, Clec7a, Dysf, Fcgr3, etc. using Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis and converted them into human genes. The ROC curve indicated that Alox5ap expression presented a high accuracy in distinguishing between different groups. By CIBERSORT algorithm, 8 humanized key IRDEGs were correlated with the infiltration abundance of 3 immune cells. Finally, it showed that the Alox5ap expression was significantly more effective compared to other variables in the diagnostic model of ARHL. This study suggests that inflammation might play a role in the development of ARHL, providing a deeper understanding of the underlying causes of this disease.

HAX1-Overexpression Augments Cardioprotective Efficacy of Stem Cell-Based Therapy Through Mediating Hippo-Yap Signaling

Although stem/progenitor cell therapy shows potential for myocardial infarction repair, enhancing the therapeutic efficacy could be achieved through additional genetic modifications. HCLS1-associated protein X-1 (HAX1) has been identified as a versatile modulator responsible for cardio-protective signaling, while its role in regulating stem cell survival and functionality remains unknown. In this study, we investigated whether HAX1 can augment the protective potential of Sca1+ cardiac stromal cells (CSCs) for myocardial injury. The overexpression of HAX1 significantly increased cell proliferation and conferred enhanced resistance to hypoxia-induced cell death in CSCs. Mechanistically, HAX1 can interact with Mst1 (a prominent conductor of Hippo signal transduction) and inhibit its kinase activity for protein phosphorylation. This inhibition led to enhanced nuclear translocation of Yes-associated protein (YAP) and activation of downstream therapeutic-related genes. Notably, HAX1 overexpression significantly increased the pro-angiogenic potential of CSCs, as demonstrated by elevated expression of vascular endothelial growth factors. Importantly, implantation of HAX1-overexpressing CSCs promoted neovascularization, protected against functional deterioration, and ameliorated cardiac fibrosis in ischemic mouse hearts. In conclusion, HAX1 emerges as a valuable and efficient inducer for enhancing the effectiveness of cardiac stem or progenitor cell therapeutics.

The Hippo-YAP Signaling Pathway in Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Arthritis is the most prevalent joint disease and is characterized by articular cartilage degradation, synovial inflammation, and changes in periarticular and subchondral bone. Recent studies have reported that Yes-associated protein (YAP) and the transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) have significant effects on the proliferation, migration, and survival of chondrocytes and fibroblast-like synovial cells (FLSs). YAP/TAZ signaling pathway, as well as the related Hippo-YAP signaling pathway, are responsible for the condition of cells and articular cartilage in joints. They are tightly regulated to maintain metabolism in chondrocytes and FLSs because abnormal expression may result in cartilage damage. However, the roles and mechanisms of the Hippo-YAP pathway in arthritis remain largely unknown. This review summarizes the roles and key functions of YAP/TAZ and the Hippo-YAP signaling pathway in FLSs and chondrocytes for the induction of proliferation, migration, survival, and differentiation in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA) research. We also discuss the therapeutic strategies involving YAP/TAZ and the related Hippo-YAP signaling pathway involved in OA.

14-3-3ε: a protein with complex physiology function but promising therapeutic potential in cancer

Over the past decade, the role of the 14-3-3 protein has received increasing interest. Seven subtypes of 14-3-3 proteins exhibit high homology; however, each subtype maintains its specificity. The 14-3-3ε protein is involved in various physiological processes, including signal transduction, cell proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, cell cycle regulation, repolarization of cardiac action, cardiac development, intracellular electrolyte homeostasis, neurodevelopment, and innate immunity. It also plays a significant role in the development and progression of various diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. These immense and various involvements of 14-3-3ε in diverse processes makes it a promising target for drug development. Although extensive research has been conducted on 14-3-3 dimers, studies on 14-3-3 monomers are limited. This review aimed to provide an overview of recent reports on the molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of binding partners by 14-3-3ε, focusing on issues that could help advance the frontiers of this field. Video Abstract.

Ischemia-reperfusion injury: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets

Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury paradoxically occurs during reperfusion following ischemia, exacerbating the initial tissue damage. The limited understanding of the intricate mechanisms underlying I/R injury hinders the development of effective therapeutic interventions. The Wnt signaling pathway exhibits extensive crosstalk with various other pathways, forming a network system of signaling pathways involved in I/R injury. This review article elucidates the underlying mechanisms involved in Wnt signaling, as well as the complex interplay between Wnt and other pathways, including Notch, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B, transforming growth factor-β, nuclear factor kappa, bone morphogenetic protein, N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor-Ca2+-Activin A, Hippo-Yes-associated protein, toll-like receptor 4/toll-interleukine-1 receptor domain-containing adapter-inducing interferon-β, and hepatocyte growth factor/mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor. In particular, we delve into their respective contributions to key pathological processes, including apoptosis, the inflammatory response, oxidative stress, extracellular matrix remodeling, angiogenesis, cell hypertrophy, fibrosis, ferroptosis, neurogenesis, and blood-brain barrier damage during I/R injury. Our comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms involved in Wnt signaling during I/R reveals that activation of the canonical Wnt pathway promotes organ recovery, while activation of the non-canonical Wnt pathways exacerbates injury. Moreover, we explore novel therapeutic approaches based on these mechanistic findings, incorporating evidence from animal experiments, current standards, and clinical trials. The objective of this review is to provide deeper insights into the roles of Wnt and its crosstalk signaling pathways in I/R-mediated processes and organ dysfunction, to facilitate the development of innovative therapeutic agents for I/R injury.

Roles of Protein S-Nitrosylation in Endothelial Homeostasis and Dysfunction

Significance: Nitric oxide (NO) plays several distinct roles in endothelial homeostasis. Except for activating the guanylyl cyclase enzyme-dependent cyclic guanosine monophosphate signaling pathway, NO can bind reactive cysteine residues in target proteins, a process known as S-nitrosylation (SNO). SNO is proposed to explain the multiple biological functions of NO in the endothelium. Investigating the targets and mechanism of protein SNO in endothelial cells (ECs) can provide new strategies for treating endothelial dysfunction-related diseases. Recent Advances: In response to different environments, proteomics has identified multiple SNO targets in ECs. Functional studies confirm that SNO regulates NO bioavailability, inflammation, permeability, oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, and insulin sensitivity in ECs. It also influences EC proliferation, migration, apoptosis, and transdifferentiation. Critical Issues: Single-cell transcriptomic analysis of ECs isolated from different mouse tissues showed heterogeneous gene signatures. However, litter research focuses on the heterogeneous properties of SNO proteins in ECs derived from different tissues. Although metabolism reprogramming plays a vital role in endothelial functions, little is known about how protein SNO regulates metabolism reprogramming in ECs. Future Directions: Precisely deciphering the effects of protein SNO in ECs isolated from different tissues under different conditions is necessary to further characterize the relationship between protein SNO and endothelial dysfunction-related diseases. In addition, identifying SNO targets that can influence endothelial metabolic reprogramming and the underlying mechanism can offer new views on the crosstalk between metabolism and post-translational protein modification. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 40, 186-205.

Efficacy and mechanism of Shenqi Compound in inhibiting diabetic vascular calcification

BACKGROUND

Shenqi Compound (SQC) has been used in clinic for several decades in the prevention and treatment of diabetes and its complications. But this is merely a heritage of experience. The primary aim of this study is to scientifically validate the therapeutic effects of SQC on diabetic vascular calcification (DVC) in an animal model and, simultaneously, uncover its potential underlying mechanisms.

METHOD

Spontaneous diabetic rat- Goto Kakizaki (GK) rats were selected for rat modeling. We meticulously designed three distinct groups: a control group, a model group, and an SQC treatment group to rigorously evaluate the influence of SQC. Utilizing a comprehensive approach that encompassed methods such as pathological staining, western blot analysis, qRT-PCR, and RNA sequencing, we thoroughly investigated the therapeutic advantages and the underlying mechanistic pathways associated with SQC in the treatment of DVC.

RESULT

The findings from this investigation have unveiled the extraordinary efficacy of SQC treatment in significantly mitigating DVC. The underlying mechanisms driving this effect encompass multifaceted facets, including the restoration of aberrant glucose and lipid metabolism, the prevention of phenotypic transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) into osteogenic-like states, the subsequent inhibition of cell apoptosis, the modulation of inflammation responses, the remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM), and the activation of the Hippo-YAP signaling pathway. Collectively, these mechanisms lead to the dissolution of deposited calcium salts, ultimately achieving the desired inhibition of DVC.

CONCLUSION

Our study has provided compelling and robust evidence of the remarkable efficacy of SQC treatment in significantly reducing DVC. This reduction is attributed to a multifaceted interplay of mechanisms, each playing a crucial role in the observed therapeutic effects. Notably, our findings illuminate prospective directions for further research and potential clinical applications in the field of cardiovascular health.

YAP/TAZ: Molecular pathway and disease therapy

The Yes-associated protein and its transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (YAP/TAZ) are two homologous transcriptional coactivators that lie at the center of a key regulatory network of Hippo, Wnt, GPCR, estrogen, mechanical, and metabolism signaling. YAP/TAZ influences the expressions of downstream genes and proteins as well as enzyme activity in metabolic cycles, cell proliferation, inflammatory factor expression, and the transdifferentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. YAP/TAZ can also be regulated through epigenetic regulation and posttranslational modifications. Consequently, the regulatory function of these mechanisms implicates YAP/TAZ in the pathogenesis of metabolism-related diseases, atherosclerosis, fibrosis, and the delicate equilibrium between cancer progression and organ regeneration. As such, there arises a pressing need for thorough investigation of YAP/TAZ in clinical settings. In this paper, we aim to elucidate the signaling pathways that regulate YAP/TAZ and explore the mechanisms of YAP/TAZ-induce diseases and their potential therapeutic interventions. Furthermore, we summarize the current clinical studies investigating treatments targeting YAP/TAZ. We also address the limitations of existing research on YAP/TAZ and propose future directions for research. In conclusion, this review aims to provide fresh insights into the signaling mediated by YAP/TAZ and identify potential therapeutic targets to present innovative solutions to overcome the challenges associated with YAP/TAZ.

Pathogenic Roles of Cardiac Fibroblasts in Pediatric Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Background Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a major cause of heart failure in children. Despite intensive genetic analyses, pathogenic gene variants have not been identified in most patients with DCM, which suggests that cardiomyocytes are not solely responsible for DCM. Cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) are the most abundant cell type in the heart. They have several roles in maintaining cardiac function; however, the pathological role of CFs in DCM remains unknown. Methods and Results Four primary cultured CF cell lines were established from pediatric patients with DCM and compared with 3 CF lines from healthy controls. There were no significant differences in cellular proliferation, adhesion, migration, apoptosis, or myofibroblast activation between DCM CFs compared with healthy CFs. Atomic force microscopy revealed that cellular stiffness, fluidity, and viscosity were not significantly changed in DCM CFs. However, when DCM CFs were cocultured with healthy cardiomyocytes, they deteriorated the contractile and diastolic functions of cardiomyocytes. RNA sequencing revealed markedly different comprehensive gene expression profiles in DCM CFs compared with healthy CFs. Several humoral factors and the extracellular matrix were significantly upregulated or downregulated in DCM CFs. The pathway analysis revealed that extracellular matrix receptor interactions, focal adhesion signaling, Hippo signaling, and transforming growth factor-β signaling pathways were significantly affected in DCM CFs. In contrast, single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that there was no specific subpopulation in the DCM CFs that contributed to the alterations in gene expression. Conclusions Although cellular physiological behavior was not altered in DCM CFs, they deteriorated the contractile and diastolic functions of healthy cardiomyocytes through humoral factors and direct cell-cell contact.

The Hippo Signaling Pathway as a Drug Target in Familial Dilated Cardiomyopathy

We focus here on the Hippo pathway in the hierarchical sensing and modulation of the mechanical state of the adult heart in health and disease. The Hippo pathway interrogates the micro-environment of cardiac myocytes providing surveillance of the mechanical state with engagement of signaling pathways critical to homeostasis of cardiac development, remodeling, and function and vulnerable to pathologies. Our discussion centers on Hippo signaling in the altered mechanical state instigated by variants of genes expressing mutant sarcomere proteins that trigger a progression to dilated cardiomyopathy (familial DCM). There is an unmet need for therapies in DCM. Recent progress in the discovery of small molecules that target Hippo signaling and are intended for use in cardiac disorders provides leads for modifying Hippo in DCM. As we emphasize, identifying useful targets in DCM requires in depth understanding of cell specific Hippo signaling in the cardiac micro-environment.