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Morikane S, Ishida K, Ashizawa N, Taniguchi T, Matsubayashi M, Kurita N, Kobashi S, Iwanaga T. Lead Acetate-Injected Mice is an Animal Model for Extrapolation of Calcifying Response to Humans Due to Low Involvement of Bone Resorption. Calcif Tissue Int 2024:10.1007/s00223-024-01245-w. [PMID: 38951181 DOI: 10.1007/s00223-024-01245-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Vascular calcification affects the prognosis of patients with renal failure. Bisphosphonates are regarded as candidate anti-calcifying drugs because of their inhibitory effects on both calcium-phosphate aggregation and bone resorption. However, calcification in well-known rodent models is dependent upon bone resorption accompanied by excessive bone turnover, making it difficult to estimate accurately the anti-calcifying potential of drugs. Therefore, models with low bone resorption are required to extrapolate anti-calcifying effects to humans. Three bisphosphonates (etidronate, alendronate, and FYB-931) were characterised for their inhibitory effects on bone resorption in vivo and calcium-phosphate aggregation estimated by calciprotein particle formation in vitro. Then, their effects were examined using two models inducing ectopic calcification: the site where lead acetate was subcutaneously injected into mice and the transplanted, aorta obtained from a donor rat. The inhibitory effects of bisphosphonates on bone resorption and calcium-phosphate aggregation were alendronate > FYB-931 > etidronate and FYB-931 > alendronate = etidronate, respectively. In the lead acetate-induced model, calcification was most potently suppressed by FYB-931, followed by alendronate and etidronate. In the aorta-transplanted model, only FYB-931 suppressed calcification at a high dose. In both the models, no correlation was observed between calcification and bone resorption marker, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRACP). Results from the lead acetate-induced model showed that inhibitory potency against calcium-phosphate aggregation contributed to calcification inhibition. The two calcification models, especially the lead acetate-induced model, may be ideal for the extrapolation of calcifying response to humans because of calcium-phosphate aggregation rather than bone resorption as its mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Morikane
- Research Laboratories 2, FUJI YAKUHIN CO., LTD., 636-1 Iidashinden, Nishi-ku, Saitama, Saitama Prefecture, 331-0068, Japan.
| | - Koichi Ishida
- Research Laboratories 2, FUJI YAKUHIN CO., LTD., 636-1 Iidashinden, Nishi-ku, Saitama, Saitama Prefecture, 331-0068, Japan
| | - Naoki Ashizawa
- Research Laboratories 2, FUJI YAKUHIN CO., LTD., 636-1 Iidashinden, Nishi-ku, Saitama, Saitama Prefecture, 331-0068, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Taniguchi
- Research Laboratories 2, FUJI YAKUHIN CO., LTD., 636-1 Iidashinden, Nishi-ku, Saitama, Saitama Prefecture, 331-0068, Japan
| | - Masaya Matsubayashi
- Research Laboratories 2, FUJI YAKUHIN CO., LTD., 636-1 Iidashinden, Nishi-ku, Saitama, Saitama Prefecture, 331-0068, Japan
| | - Naoki Kurita
- Research Laboratories 2, FUJI YAKUHIN CO., LTD., 636-1 Iidashinden, Nishi-ku, Saitama, Saitama Prefecture, 331-0068, Japan
| | - Seiichi Kobashi
- Research Laboratories 1, FUJI YAKUHIN CO., LTD., 3936-2 Sashiogi, Nishi-ku, Saitama, Saitama Prefecture, 331-0047, Japan
| | - Takashi Iwanaga
- Research Laboratories 2, FUJI YAKUHIN CO., LTD., 636-1 Iidashinden, Nishi-ku, Saitama, Saitama Prefecture, 331-0068, Japan
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Song T, Cerruti M. Unraveling the role of carboxylate groups and elastin particle size in medial calcification. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 274:133267. [PMID: 38906359 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133267] [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: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
While it is known that calcium phosphate (CaP) minerals deposit in elastin-rich medial layers of arteries during medial calcification, their nucleation and growth sites are still debated. Neutral carbonyl groups and carboxylate groups are possible candidates. Also, while it is known that elastin degradation leads to calcification, it is unclear whether this is due to formation of new carboxylate groups or elastin fragmentation. In this work, we disentangle effects of carboxylate groups and particle size on elastin calcification; in doing so, we shed light on CaP mineralization sites on elastin. We find carboxylate groups accelerate calcification only in early stages; they mainly function as Ca2+ ion chelation sites but not calcification sites. Their presence promotes formation (likely on Ca2+ ions adsorbed on nearby carbonyl groups) of CaP minerals with high calcium-to-phosphate ratio as intermediate phases. Larger elastin particles calcify slower but reach similar amounts of CaP minerals in late stages; they promote direct formation of hydroxyapatite and CaP minerals with low calcium-to-phosphate ratio as intermediate phases. This work provides new perspectives on how carboxylate groups and elastin particle size influence calcification; these parameters can be tuned to study the mechanism of medial calcification and design drugs to inhibit the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Song
- Department of Mining and Materials Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C5, Canada.
| | - Marta Cerruti
- Department of Mining and Materials Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C5, Canada.
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Gedney JR, Mattia V, Figueroa M, Barksdale C, Fannin E, Silverman J, Xiong Y, Mukherjee R, Jones JA, Ruddy JM. Biomechanical dysregulation of SGK-1 dependent aortic pathologic markers in hypertension. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1359734. [PMID: 38903966 PMCID: PMC11187291 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1359734] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction In hypertension (HTN), biomechanical stress may drive matrix remodeling through dysfunctional VSMC activity. Prior evidence has indicated VSMC tension-induced signaling through the serum and glucocorticoid inducible kinase-1 (SGK-1) can impact cytokine abundance. Here, we hypothesize that SGK-1 impacts production of additional aortic pathologic markers (APMs) representing VSMC dysfunction in HTN. Methods Aortic VSMC expression of APMs was quantified by QPCR in cyclic biaxial stretch (Stretch) +/- AngiotensinII (AngII). APMs were selected to represent VSMC dedifferentiated transcriptional activity, specifically Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Cathepsin S (CtsS), Cystatin C (CysC), Osteoprotegerin (OPG), and Tenascin C (TNC). To further assess the effect of tension alone, abdominal aortic rings from C57Bl/6 WT mice were held in a myograph at experimentally derived optimal tension (OT) or OT + 30% +/-AngII. Dependence on SGK-1 was assessed by treating with EMD638683 (SGK-1 inhibitor) and APMs were measured by QPCR. Then, WT and smooth muscle cell specific SGK-1 heterozygous knockout (SMC-SGK-1KO+/-) mice had AngII-induced HTN. Systolic blood pressure and mechanical stress parameters were assessed on Day 0 and Day 21. Plasma was analyzed by ELISA to quantify APMs. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA. Results In cultured aortic VSMCs, expression of all APMs was increased in response to biomechanical stimuli (Stretch +/-AngII,). Integrating the matrix contribution to signal transduction in the aortic rings led to IL-6 and CysC demonstrating SGK-1 dependence in response to elevated tension and interactive effect with concurrent AngII stimulation. CtsS and TNC, on the other hand, primarily responded to AngII, and OPG expression was unaffected in aortic ring experimentation. Both mouse strains had >30% increase in blood pressure with AngII infusion, reduced aortic distensibility and increased PPV, indicating increased aortic stiffness. In WT + AngII mice, IL-6, CtsS, CysC, and TNC plasma levels were significantly elevated, but these APMs were unaffected by HTN in the SMC-SGK-1KO+/- +AngII mice, suggesting SGK-1 plays a major role in VSMC biomechanical signaling to promote dysfunctional production of selected APMs. Conclusion In HTN, changes in the plasma levels of markers associated with aortic matrix homeostasis can reflect remodeling driven by mechanobiologic signaling in dysfunctional VSMCs, potentially through the activity of SGK-1. Further defining these pathways may identify therapeutic targets to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Ryan Gedney
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Victoria Mattia
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Mario Figueroa
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Christian Barksdale
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Ethan Fannin
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Jonah Silverman
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Ying Xiong
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Ralph H Johnson Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Rupak Mukherjee
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Jeffrey A. Jones
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Ralph H Johnson Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Jean Marie Ruddy
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
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Marrone G, Cornali K, Di Lauro M, Ceravolo MJ, Di Marco L, Manca di Villahermosa S, Mitterhofer AP, Noce A. Innovative Treatments to Counteract Endothelial Dysfunction in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1085. [PMID: 38791047 PMCID: PMC11117580 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12051085] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
In chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, several risk factors contribute to the development of endothelial dysfunction (ED), which can be described as an alteration in the cell structure or in the function of the endothelium. Among the well-known CKD-related risk factors capable of altering the production of endothelium-derived relaxing factors, we include asymmetric dimethylarginine increase, reduced dimethylarginine dimethylamine hydrolase enzyme activity, low-grade chronic systemic inflammation, hyperhomocysteinemia, oxidative stress, insulin resistance, alteration of calcium phosphorus metabolism, and early aging. In this review, we also examined the most important techniques useful for studying ED in humans, which are divided into indirect and direct methods. The direct study of coronary endothelial function is considered the gold standard technique to evaluate if ED is present. In addition to the discussion of the main pharmacological treatments useful to counteract ED in CKD patients (namely sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist), we elucidate innovative non-pharmacological treatments that are successful in accompanying the pharmacological ones. Among them, the most important are the consumption of extra virgin olive oil with high intake of minor polar compounds, adherence to a plant-dominant, low-protein diet (LPD), an adaptive physical activity program and, finally, ketoanalogue administration in combination with the LPD or the very low-protein diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Marrone
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy (K.C.); (L.D.M.); (S.M.d.V.); (A.P.M.)
| | - Kevin Cornali
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy (K.C.); (L.D.M.); (S.M.d.V.); (A.P.M.)
| | - Manuela Di Lauro
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy (K.C.); (L.D.M.); (S.M.d.V.); (A.P.M.)
| | - Maria Josè Ceravolo
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University Hospital of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Di Marco
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy (K.C.); (L.D.M.); (S.M.d.V.); (A.P.M.)
| | - Simone Manca di Villahermosa
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy (K.C.); (L.D.M.); (S.M.d.V.); (A.P.M.)
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University Hospital of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Paola Mitterhofer
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy (K.C.); (L.D.M.); (S.M.d.V.); (A.P.M.)
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University Hospital of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Annalisa Noce
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy (K.C.); (L.D.M.); (S.M.d.V.); (A.P.M.)
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Department of Systems Medicine, University Hospital of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
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5
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Seo T, Lowery AM, Xu H, Giang W, Troyanovsky SM, Vincent PA, Kowalczyk AP. MARCH family E3 ubiquitin ligases selectively target and degrade cadherin family proteins. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0290485. [PMID: 38722959 PMCID: PMC11081302 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Cadherin family proteins play a central role in epithelial and endothelial cell-cell adhesion. The dynamic regulation of cell adhesion is achieved in part through endocytic membrane trafficking pathways that modulate cadherin cell surface levels. Here, we define the role for various MARCH family ubiquitin ligases in the regulation of cadherin degradation. We find that MARCH2 selectively downregulates VE-cadherin, resulting in loss of adherens junction proteins at cell borders and a loss of endothelial barrier function. Interestingly, N-cadherin is refractory to MARCH ligase expression, demonstrating that different classical cadherin family proteins are differentially regulated by MARCH family ligases. Using chimeric cadherins, we find that the specificity of different MARCH family ligases for different cadherins is conferred by the cadherin transmembrane domain. Further, juxta-membrane lysine residues are required for cadherin degradation by MARCH proteins. These findings expand our understanding of cadherin regulation and highlight a new role for mammalian MARCH family ubiquitin ligases in differentially regulating cadherin turnover.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadahiko Seo
- Departments of Dermatology and Cellular and Molecular Physiology, College of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Anthony M. Lowery
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, United States of America
| | - Haifang Xu
- Departments of Dermatology and Cellular and Molecular Physiology, College of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - William Giang
- Departments of Dermatology and Cellular and Molecular Physiology, College of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Sergey M. Troyanovsky
- Department of Dermatology, The Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, The Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Peter A. Vincent
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, United States of America
| | - Andrew P. Kowalczyk
- Departments of Dermatology and Cellular and Molecular Physiology, College of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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Jansen I, Cahalane R, Hengst R, Akyildiz A, Farrell E, Gijsen F, Aikawa E, van der Heiden K, Wissing T. The interplay of collagen, macrophages, and microcalcification in atherosclerotic plaque cap rupture mechanics. Basic Res Cardiol 2024; 119:193-213. [PMID: 38329498 PMCID: PMC11008085 DOI: 10.1007/s00395-024-01033-5] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque cap overlying a lipid pool and/or necrotic core can lead to thrombotic cardiovascular events. In essence, the rupture of the plaque cap is a mechanical event, which occurs when the local stress exceeds the local tissue strength. However, due to inter- and intra-cap heterogeneity, the resulting ultimate cap strength varies, causing proper assessment of the plaque at risk of rupture to be lacking. Important players involved in tissue strength include the load-bearing collagenous matrix, macrophages, as major promoters of extracellular matrix degradation, and microcalcifications, deposits that can exacerbate local stress, increasing tissue propensity for rupture. This review summarizes the role of these components individually in tissue mechanics, along with the interplay between them. We argue that to be able to improve risk assessment, a better understanding of the effect of these individual components, as well as their reciprocal relationships on cap mechanics, is required. Finally, we discuss potential future steps, including a holistic multidisciplinary approach, multifactorial 3D in vitro model systems, and advancements in imaging techniques. The obtained knowledge will ultimately serve as input to help diagnose, prevent, and treat atherosclerotic cap rupture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imke Jansen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Thorax Center Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rachel Cahalane
- Mechanobiology and Medical Device Research Group (MMDRG), Biomedical Engineering, College of Science and Engineering, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ranmadusha Hengst
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Thorax Center Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ali Akyildiz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Thorax Center Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Biomechanical Engineering, Technical University Delft, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Eric Farrell
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frank Gijsen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Thorax Center Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Biomechanical Engineering, Technical University Delft, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Elena Aikawa
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Center for Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular Sciences Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kim van der Heiden
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Thorax Center Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tamar Wissing
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Thorax Center Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Scotti MM, Wilson BK, Bubenik JL, Yu F, Swanson MS, Allen JB. Spaceflight effects on human vascular smooth muscle cell phenotype and function. NPJ Microgravity 2024; 10:41. [PMID: 38548798 PMCID: PMC10979029 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-024-00380-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The cardiovascular system is strongly impacted by the hazards of spaceflight. Astronauts spending steadily increasing lengths of time in microgravity are subject to cardiovascular deconditioning resulting in loss of vascular tone, reduced total blood volume, and diminished cardiac output. Appreciating the mechanisms by which the cells of the vasculature are altered during spaceflight will be integral to understanding and combating these deleterious effects as the human presence in space advances. In this study, we performed RNA-Seq analysis coupled with review by QIAGEN Ingenuity Pathway Analysis software on human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) cultured for 3 days in microgravity and aboard the International Space Station to assess the transcriptomic changes that occur during spaceflight. The results of our RNA-Seq analysis show that SMCs undergo a wide range of transcriptional alteration while in space, significantly affecting 4422 genes. SMCs largely down-regulate markers of the contractile, synthetic, and osteogenic phenotypes including smooth muscle alpha actin (αSMA), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and bone morphogenic proteins (BMPs). Additionally, components of several cellular signaling pathways were strongly impacted including the STAT3, NFκB, PI3K/AKT, HIF1α, and Endothelin pathways. This study highlights the significant changes in transcriptional behavior SMCs exhibit during spaceflight and puts these changes in context to better understand vascular function in space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina M Scotti
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Brandon K Wilson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jodi L Bubenik
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Center for NeuroGenetics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Fahong Yu
- Interdisciplinary Center for Biotechnology Research, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Maurice S Swanson
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Center for NeuroGenetics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Josephine B Allen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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8
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Wang T, Cheng M, Jin J, Bai Y, Zhang D, Zhang S, Xu J. Hypomethylation of the LncRNA H19 promoter accelerates osteogenic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells by activating the Erk1/2 pathways. J Int Med Res 2024; 52:3000605241234567. [PMID: 38530015 DOI: 10.1177/03000605241234567] [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: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Vascular calcification is a common chronic kidney disease complication. This study aimed to investigate the function of long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) H19 in vascular calcification to explore new therapeutic strategies. METHODS We induced osteogenic differentiation and calcification of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) using β-glycerophosphate. Then, we detected the LncRNA H19 promoter methylation status and Erk1/2 pathways using methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. RESULTS Compared with the control group, high phosphorus levels induced VSMC calcification, accompanied by increases in LncRNA H19 and the osteogenic marker Runx2 and reduction of the contractile phenotype marker SM22a. LncRNA H19 knockdown inhibited osteogenic differentiation and calcification of VSMCs. However, the suppressed role of VSMC calcification caused by shRNA H19 was partially reversed by simultaneous activation of the Erk1/2 pathways. Mechanically, we found that the methylation rate of CpG islands in the LncRNA H19 promoter region was significantly lower in the high-phosphorus group, and the hypomethylation state elevated LncRNA H19 levels, which in turn regulated phosphorylated Erk1/2 expression. CONCLUSIONS LncRNA H19 promoted osteogenic differentiation and calcification of VSMCs by regulating the Erk1/2 pathways. Additionally, hypomethylation of LncRNA H19 promoter CpG islands upregulated LncRNA H19 levels and subsequently activated Erk1/2 phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taoxia Wang
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease, Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Calcification in Kidney Disease, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Meijuan Cheng
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease, Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Calcification in Kidney Disease, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingjing Jin
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease, Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Calcification in Kidney Disease, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaling Bai
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease, Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Calcification in Kidney Disease, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongxue Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease, Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Calcification in Kidney Disease, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Shenglei Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease, Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Calcification in Kidney Disease, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinsheng Xu
- Department of Nephrology, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease, Hebei Key Laboratory of Vascular Calcification in Kidney Disease, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
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9
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Freise C, Biskup K, Blanchard V, Schnorr J, Taupitz M. Inorganic Phosphate-Induced Extracellular Vesicles from Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Contain Elevated Levels of Hyaluronic Acid, Which Enhance Their Interaction with Very Small Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Particles. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2571. [PMID: 38473817 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052571] [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: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have a high prevalence of hyperphosphatemia, where uremic toxins like inorganic phosphate (Pi) induce a cardiovascular remodeling. Related disorders like atherosclerosis bear the risk of increased morbidity and mortality. We previously found that Pi stimulates the synthesis and sulfation of the negatively charged glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) heparan sulfate and chondroitin sulfate in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). Similar GAG alterations were detected in VSMC-derived exosome-like extracellular vesicles (EV). These EV showed a strong interaction with very small superparamagnetic iron oxide particles (VSOP), which are used as imaging probes for experimental magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Hyaluronic acid (HA) represents another negatively charged GAG which is supposed to function as binding motif for VSOP as well. We investigated the effects of Pi on the amounts of HA in cells and EV and studied the HA-dependent interaction between VSOP with cells and EV. Rat VSMC were treated with elevated concentrations of Pi. CKD in rats was induced by adenine feeding. EV were isolated from culture supernatants and rat plasma. We investigated the role of HA in binding VSOP to cells and EV via cell-binding studies, proton relaxometry, and analysis of cellular signaling, genes, proteins, and HA contents. Due to elevated HA contents, VSMC and EV showed an increased interaction with VSOP after Pi stimulation. Amongst others, Pi induced hyaluronan synthase (HAS)2 expression and activation of the Wnt pathway in VSMC. An alternative upregulation of HA by iloprost and an siRNA-mediated knockdown of HAS2 confirmed the importance of HA in cells and EV for VSOP binding. The in vitro-derived data were validated by analyses of plasma-derived EV from uremic rats. In conclusion, the inorganic uremic toxin Pi induces HA synthesis in cells and EV, which leads to an increased interaction with VSOP. HA might therefore be a potential molecular target structure for improved detection of pathologic tissue changes secondary to CKD like atherosclerosis or cardiomyopathy using EV, VSOP and MRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Freise
- Department of Radiology, Campus Mitte, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Karina Biskup
- Institute of Diagnostic Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Human Medicine, Medical School Berlin, Rüdesheimer Str. 50, 14197 Berlin, Germany
| | - Véronique Blanchard
- Institute of Diagnostic Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Human Medicine, Medical School Berlin, Rüdesheimer Str. 50, 14197 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jörg Schnorr
- Department of Radiology, Campus Mitte, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthias Taupitz
- Department of Radiology, Campus Mitte, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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10
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Gaikwad AV, Eapen MS, Dey S, Bhattarai P, Shahzad AM, Chia C, Jaffar J, Westall G, Sutherland D, Singhera GK, Hackett TL, Lu W, Sohal SS. TGF-β1, pSmad-2/3, Smad-7, and β-Catenin Are Augmented in the Pulmonary Arteries from Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF): Role in Driving Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EndMT). J Clin Med 2024; 13:1160. [PMID: 38398472 PMCID: PMC10888973 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13041160] [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: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: We have previously reported that endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is an active process in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) contributing to arterial remodelling. Here, we aim to quantify drivers of EndMT in IPF patients compared to normal controls (NCs). Methods: Lung resections from thirteen IPF patients and eleven NCs were immunohistochemically stained for EndMT drivers, including TGF-β1, pSmad-2/3, Smad-7, and β-catenin. Intima, media, and adventitia were analysed for expression of each EndMT driver in pulmonary arteries. Computer- and microscope-assisted Image ProPlus7.0 image analysis software was used for quantifications. Results: Significant TGF-β1, pSmad-2/3, Smad-7, and β-catenin expression was apparent across all arterial sizes in IPF (p < 0.05). Intimal TGF-β1, pSmad-2/3, Smad-7, and β-catenin were augmented in the arterial range of 100-1000 μm (p < 0.001) compared to NC. Intimal TGF-β1 and β-catenin percentage expression showed a strong correlation with the percentage expression of intimal vimentin (r' = 0.54, p = 0.05 and r' = 0.61, p = 0.02, respectively) and intimal N-cadherin (r' = 0.62, p = 0.03 and r' = 0.70, p = 0.001, respectively). Intimal TGF-β1 and β-catenin expression were significantly correlated with increased intimal thickness as well (r' = 0.52, p = 0.04; r' = 0.052, p = 0.04, respectively). Moreover, intimal TGF-β1 expression was also significantly associated with increased intimal elastin deposition (r' = 0.79, p = 0.002). Furthermore, total TGF-β1 expression significantly impacted the percentage of DLCO (r' = -0.61, p = 0.03). Conclusions: This is the first study to illustrate the involvement of active TGF-β/Smad-2/3-dependent and β-catenin-dependent Wnt signalling pathways in driving EndMT and resultant pulmonary arterial remodelling in patients with IPF. EndMT is a potential therapeutic target for vascular remodelling and fibrosis in general in patients with IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archana Vijay Gaikwad
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Centre of Research Excellence (CRE) in Pulmonary Fibrosis, Respiratory Medicine and Sleep Unit, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Mathew Suji Eapen
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Centre of Research Excellence (CRE) in Pulmonary Fibrosis, Respiratory Medicine and Sleep Unit, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Surajit Dey
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia
| | - Prem Bhattarai
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia
| | - Affan Mahmood Shahzad
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia
| | - Collin Chia
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia
- Launceston Respiratory and Sleep Centre, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Launceston General Hospital, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia
| | - Jade Jaffar
- Department of Allergy, Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Glen Westall
- Department of Allergy, Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Darren Sutherland
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Gurpreet Kaur Singhera
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Tillie-Louise Hackett
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Wenying Lu
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Centre of Research Excellence (CRE) in Pulmonary Fibrosis, Respiratory Medicine and Sleep Unit, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
- Launceston Respiratory and Sleep Centre, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia
| | - Sukhwinder Singh Sohal
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Centre of Research Excellence (CRE) in Pulmonary Fibrosis, Respiratory Medicine and Sleep Unit, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
- Launceston Respiratory and Sleep Centre, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia
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11
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Pultar M, Oesterreicher J, Hartmann J, Weigl M, Diendorfer A, Schimek K, Schädl B, Heuser T, Brandstetter M, Grillari J, Sykacek P, Hackl M, Holnthoner W. Analysis of extracellular vesicle microRNA profiles reveals distinct blood and lymphatic endothelial cell origins. JOURNAL OF EXTRACELLULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 3:e134. [PMID: 38938681 PMCID: PMC11080916 DOI: 10.1002/jex2.134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are crucial mediators of cell-to-cell communication in physiological and pathological conditions. Specifically, EVs released from the vasculature into blood were found to be quantitatively and qualitatively different in diseases compared to healthy states. However, our understanding of EVs derived from the lymphatic system is still scarce. In this study, we compared the mRNA and microRNA (miRNA) expression in blood vascular (BEC) and lymphatic (LEC) endothelial cells. After characterization of the EVs by fluorescence-triggered flow cytometry, nanoparticle tracking analysis and cryo-transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) we utilized small RNA-sequencing to characterize miRNA signatures in the EVs and identify cell-type specific miRNAs in BEC and LEC. We found miRNAs specifically enriched in BEC and LEC on the cellular as well as the extracellular vesicle level. Our data provide a solid basis for further functional in vitro and in vivo studies addressing the role of EVs in the blood and lymphatic vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Pultar
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for TraumatologyThe Research Centre in Cooperation with AUVAViennaAustria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue RegenerationViennaAustria
- TAmiRNA GmbHViennaAustria
| | - Johannes Oesterreicher
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for TraumatologyThe Research Centre in Cooperation with AUVAViennaAustria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue RegenerationViennaAustria
| | | | - Moritz Weigl
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for TraumatologyThe Research Centre in Cooperation with AUVAViennaAustria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue RegenerationViennaAustria
- TAmiRNA GmbHViennaAustria
| | | | - Katharina Schimek
- Technische Universität Berlin, Medical BiotechnologyBerlinGermany
- TissUse GmbHBerlinGermany
| | - Barbara Schädl
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for TraumatologyThe Research Centre in Cooperation with AUVAViennaAustria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue RegenerationViennaAustria
- University Clinic of DentistryMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Thomas Heuser
- Vienna Biocenter Core Facilities GmbH, EM FacilityViennaAustria
| | | | - Johannes Grillari
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for TraumatologyThe Research Centre in Cooperation with AUVAViennaAustria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue RegenerationViennaAustria
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Molecular BiotechnologyUniversity of Natural Resources and Life SciencesViennaAustria
| | - Peter Sykacek
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Computational BiologyUniversity of Natural Resources and Life SciencesViennaAustria
| | | | - Wolfgang Holnthoner
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for TraumatologyThe Research Centre in Cooperation with AUVAViennaAustria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue RegenerationViennaAustria
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12
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Molnár AÁ, Pásztor DT, Tarcza Z, Merkely B. Cells in Atherosclerosis: Focus on Cellular Senescence from Basic Science to Clinical Practice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17129. [PMID: 38138958 PMCID: PMC10743093 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417129] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is a major risk factor of atherosclerosis through different complex pathways including replicative cellular senescence and age-related clonal hematopoiesis. In addition to aging, extracellular stress factors, such as mechanical and oxidative stress, can induce cellular senescence, defined as premature cellular senescence. Senescent cells can accumulate within atherosclerotic plaques over time and contribute to plaque instability. This review summarizes the role of cellular senescence in the complex pathophysiology of atherosclerosis and highlights the most important senotherapeutics tested in cardiovascular studies targeting senescence. Continued bench-to-bedside research in cellular senescence might allow the future implementation of new effective anti-atherosclerotic preventive and treatment strategies in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ágnes Molnár
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary; (D.T.P.); (Z.T.); (B.M.)
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13
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Shrestha SK, Kim SW, Soh Y. Kalkitoxin attenuates calcification of vascular smooth muscle cells via RUNX-2 signaling pathways. J Vet Sci 2023; 24:e69. [PMID: 38031648 PMCID: PMC10556282 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.23148] [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: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kalkitoxin (KT) is an active lipopeptide isolated from the cyanobacterium Lyngbya majuscula found in the bed of the coral reef. Although KT suppresses cell division and inflammation, KT's mechanism of action in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is unidentified. Therefore, our main aim was to investigate the impact of KT on vascular calcification for the treatment of cardiovascular disease. OBJECTIVES Using diverse calcification media, we studied the effect of KT on VSMC calcification and the underlying mechanism of this effect. METHODS VSMC was isolated from the 6 weeks ICR mice. Then VSMCs were treated with different concentrations of KT to check the cell viability. Alizarin red and von Kossa staining were carried out to examine the calcium deposition on VSMC. Thoracic aorta of 6 weeks mice were taken and treated with different concentrations of KT, and H and E staining was performed. Real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot were performed to examine KT's effect on VSMC mineralization. Calcium deposition on VSMC was examined with a calcium deposition quantification kit. RESULTS Calcium deposition, Alizarin red, and von Kossa staining revealed that KT reduced inorganic phosphate-induced calcification phenotypes. KT also reduced Ca++-induced calcification by inhibiting genes that regulate osteoblast differentiation, such as runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX-2), SMAD family member 4, osterix, collagen 1α, and osteopontin. Also, KT repressed Ca2+-induced bone morphogenetic protein 2, RUNX-2, collagen 1α, osteoprotegerin, and smooth muscle actin protein expression. Likewise, Alizarin red and von Kossa staining showed that KT markedly decreased the calcification of ex vivo ring formation in the mouse thoracic aorta. CONCLUSIONS This experiment demonstrated that KT decreases vascular calcification and may be developed as a new therapeutic treatment for vascular calcification and arteriosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saroj K Shrestha
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea
| | - Se-Woong Kim
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea
| | - Yunjo Soh
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea.
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14
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Seo T, Lowery AM, Xu H, Giang W, Troyanovsky SM, Vincent PA, Kowalczyk AP. MARCH family E3 ubiquitin ligases selectively target and degrade cadherin family proteins. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.10.552739. [PMID: 37609155 PMCID: PMC10441400 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.10.552739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Cadherin family proteins play a central role in epithelial and endothelial cell-cell adhesion. The dynamic regulation of cell adhesion is achieved in part through endocytic membrane trafficking pathways that modulate cadherin cell surface levels. Here, we define the role for various MARCH family ubiquitin ligases in the regulation of cadherin degradation. We find that MARCH2 selectively downregulates VE-cadherin, resulting in loss of adherens junction proteins at cell borders and a loss of endothelial barrier function. Interestingly, N-cadherin is refractory to MARCH ligase expression, demonstrating that different classical cadherin family proteins are differentially regulated by MARCH family ligases. Using chimeric cadherins, we find that the specificity of different MARCH family ligases for different cadherins is conferred by the cadherin transmembrane domain. Further, juxta-membrane lysine residues are required for cadherin degradation by MARCH proteins. These findings expand our understanding of cadherin regulation and highlight a new role for mammalian MARCH family ubiquitin ligases in differentially regulating cadherin turnover.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadahiko Seo
- Departments of Dermatology and Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Anthony M. Lowery
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, United States of America
| | - Haifang Xu
- Departments of Dermatology and Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - William Giang
- Departments of Dermatology and Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Sergey M. Troyanovsky
- Department of Dermatology, The Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, The Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Peter A. Vincent
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, United States of America
| | - Andrew P. Kowalczyk
- Departments of Dermatology and Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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15
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Xu S, Wang F, Mai P, Peng Y, Shu X, Nie R, Zhang H. Mechanism Analysis of Vascular Calcification Based on Fluid Dynamics. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2632. [PMID: 37627891 PMCID: PMC10453151 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13162632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular calcification is the abnormal deposition of calcium phosphate complexes in blood vessels, which is regarded as the pathological basis of multiple cardiovascular diseases. The flowing blood exerts a frictional force called shear stress on the vascular wall. Blood vessels have different hydrodynamic properties due to discrepancies in geometric and mechanical properties. The disturbance of the blood flow in the bending area and the branch point of the arterial tree produces a shear stress lower than the physiological magnitude of the laminar shear stress, which can induce the occurrence of vascular calcification. Endothelial cells sense the fluid dynamics of blood and transmit electrical and chemical signals to the full-thickness of blood vessels. Through crosstalk with endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells trigger osteogenic transformation, involved in mediating vascular intima and media calcification. In addition, based on the detection of fluid dynamics parameters, emerging imaging technologies such as 4D Flow MRI and computational fluid dynamics have greatly improved the early diagnosis ability of cardiovascular diseases, showing extremely high clinical application prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuwan Xu
- Department of Cardiology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518033, China; (S.X.); (F.W.); (P.M.)
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518033, China; (S.X.); (F.W.); (P.M.)
| | - Peibiao Mai
- Department of Cardiology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518033, China; (S.X.); (F.W.); (P.M.)
| | - Yanren Peng
- Department of Cardiology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; (Y.P.); (X.S.)
| | - Xiaorong Shu
- Department of Cardiology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; (Y.P.); (X.S.)
| | - Ruqiong Nie
- Department of Cardiology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; (Y.P.); (X.S.)
| | - Huanji Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518033, China; (S.X.); (F.W.); (P.M.)
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16
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Lu D, Jiang H, Zou T, Jia Y, Zhao Y, Wang Z. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition: New insights into vascular calcification. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 213:115579. [PMID: 37589048 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115579] [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: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
With the continuous progress of atherosclerosis research, the significant pathological change of it--vascular calcification (VC), gains increasing attention. In recent years, numerous studies have demonstrated that it is an independent predictor of death risk of cardiovascular disease, and it has a strong correlation with poor clinical prognosis. As the world's population continues to age, the occurrence of VC is expected to reach its highest point in the near future. Therefore, it is essential to investigate ways to prevent or even reverse this process for clinical purposes. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) describes the progressive differentiation of endothelial cells into mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) under various stimuli and acquisition of pluripotent cell characteristics. More and more studies show that EndMT plays a vital role in various cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, vascular calcification and heart valvular disease. EndMT is also involved in the formation and progression of VC. This review vividly describes the history, characteristics of EndMT and how it affects the endothelial cell process, then focuses on the relationship between vascular endothelium, EndMT, amino acid metabolism, and vascular calcification. Finally, it overviews the signal pathway of EndMT and drugs targeting EndMT, hoping to provide new ideas and a theoretical basis for studying potential therapeutic targets of VC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingkun Lu
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China
| | - Han Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China
| | - Ting Zou
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China
| | - Yuanwang Jia
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China
| | - Yunyun Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China
| | - Zhongqun Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212001, China.
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17
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Cell-Biomaterial Interactions. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:bioengineering10020241. [PMID: 36829735 PMCID: PMC9952813 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10020241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In animals, the extracellular matrix (ECM) forms a three-dimensional network occupying the intercellular spaces (interstitial matrix) or serving as physical and biochemical support for cells and tissues (basement membrane) [...].
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18
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Beghi S, Furmanik M, Jaminon A, Veltrop R, Rapp N, Wichapong K, Bidar E, Buschini A, Schurgers LJ. Calcium Signalling in Heart and Vessels: Role of Calmodulin and Downstream Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416139. [PMID: 36555778 PMCID: PMC9783221 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is the major cause of death worldwide. The success of medication and other preventive measures introduced in the last century have not yet halted the epidemic of cardiovascular disease. Although the molecular mechanisms of the pathophysiology of the heart and vessels have been extensively studied, the burden of ischemic cardiovascular conditions has risen to become a top cause of morbidity and mortality. Calcium has important functions in the cardiovascular system. Calcium is involved in the mechanism of excitation-contraction coupling that regulates numerous events, ranging from the production of action potentials to the contraction of cardiomyocytes and vascular smooth muscle cells. Both in the heart and vessels, the rise of intracellular calcium is sensed by calmodulin, a protein that regulates and activates downstream kinases involved in regulating calcium signalling. Among them is the calcium calmodulin kinase family, which is involved in the regulation of cardiac functions. In this review, we present the current literature regarding the role of calcium/calmodulin pathways in the heart and vessels with the aim to summarize our mechanistic understanding of this process and to open novel avenues for research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Beghi
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Department of Biochemistry, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area Delle Scienze 11A, 43124 Parma, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-3408473527
| | - Malgorzata Furmanik
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Department of Biochemistry, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Armand Jaminon
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Department of Biochemistry, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rogier Veltrop
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Department of Biochemistry, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Nikolas Rapp
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Department of Biochemistry, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kanin Wichapong
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Department of Biochemistry, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Elham Bidar
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Heart and Vascular Centre, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Annamaria Buschini
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area Delle Scienze 11A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Leon J. Schurgers
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Department of Biochemistry, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
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19
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Pisano C, Terriaca S, Scioli MG, Nardi P, Altieri C, Orlandi A, Ruvolo G, Balistreri CR. The Endothelial Transcription Factor ERG Mediates a Differential Role in the Aneurysmatic Ascending Aorta with Bicuspid or Tricuspid Aorta Valve: A Preliminary Study. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810848. [PMID: 36142762 PMCID: PMC9502538 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathobiology of ascending aorta aneurysms (AAA) onset and progression is not well understood and only partially characterized. AAA are also complicated in case of bicuspid aorta valve (BAV) anatomy. There is emerging evidence about the crucial role of endothelium-related pathways, which show in AAA an altered expression and function. Here, we examined the involvement of ERG-related pathways in the differential progression of disease in aortic tissues from patients having a BAV or tricuspid aorta valve (TAV) with or without AAA. Our findings identified ERG as a novel endothelial-specific regulator of TGF-β-SMAD, Notch, and NO pathways, by modulating a differential fibrotic or calcified AAA progression in BAV and TAV aortas. We provided evidence that calcification is correlated to different ERG expression (as gene and protein), which appears to be under control of Notch signaling. The latter, when increased, associated with an early calcification in aortas with BAV valve and aneurysmatic, was demonstrated to favor the progression versus severe complications, i.e., dissection or rupture. In TAV aneurysmatic aortas, ERG appeared to modulate fibrosis. Therefore, we proposed that ERG may represent a sensitive tissue biomarker to monitor AAA progression and a target to develop therapeutic strategies and influence surgical procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calogera Pisano
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Tor Vergata University Polyclinic, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Sonia Terriaca
- Pathological Anatomy, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Giovanna Scioli
- Pathological Anatomy, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Nardi
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Tor Vergata University Polyclinic, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Altieri
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Tor Vergata University Polyclinic, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Augusto Orlandi
- Pathological Anatomy, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Catholic University of Our Lady of Good Counsel, 1001 Tirana, Albania
| | - Giovanni Ruvolo
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Tor Vergata University Polyclinic, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Carmela Rita Balistreri
- Cellular and Molecular Laboratory, Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy
- Correspondence:
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20
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Jiang H, Li L, Zhang L, Zang G, Sun Z, Wang Z. Role of endothelial cells in vascular calcification. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:895005. [PMID: 35928939 PMCID: PMC9343736 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.895005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular calcification (VC) is active and regulates extraosseous ossification progress, which is an independent predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity and mortality. Endothelial cells (ECs) line the innermost layer of blood vessels and directly respond to changes in flow shear stress and blood composition. Together with vascular smooth muscle cells, ECs maintain vascular homeostasis. Increased evidence shows that ECs have irreplaceable roles in VC due to their high plasticity. Endothelial progenitor cells, oxidative stress, inflammation, autocrine and paracrine functions, mechanotransduction, endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), and other factors prompt ECs to participate in VC. EndMT is a dedifferentiation process by which ECs lose their cell lineage and acquire other cell lineages; this progress coexists in both embryonic development and CVD. EndMT is regulated by several signaling molecules and transcription factors and ultimately mediates VC via osteogenic differentiation. The specific molecular mechanism of EndMT remains unclear. Can EndMT be reversed to treat VC? To address this and other questions, this study reviews the pathogenesis and research progress of VC, expounds the role of ECs in VC, and focuses on the regulatory factors underlying EndMT, with a view to providing new concepts for VC prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Lihua Li
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Lili Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Guangyao Zang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Zhen Sun
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Zhongqun Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- *Correspondence: Zhongqun Wang,
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21
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Bohner M, Maazouz Y, Ginebra MP, Habibovic P, Schoenecker JG, Seeherman H, van den Beucken JJ, Witte F. Sustained local ionic homeostatic imbalance caused by calcification modulates inflammation to trigger heterotopic ossification. Acta Biomater 2022; 145:1-24. [PMID: 35398267 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.03.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Heterotopic ossification (HO) is a condition triggered by an injury leading to the formation of mature lamellar bone in extraskeletal soft tissues. Despite being a frequent complication of orthopedic and trauma surgery, brain and spinal injury, the etiology of HO is poorly understood. The aim of this study is to evaluate the hypothesis that a sustained local ionic homeostatic imbalance (SLIHI) created by mineral formation during tissue calcification modulates inflammation to trigger HO. This evaluation also considers the role SLIHI could play for the design of cell-free, drug-free osteoinductive bone graft substitutes. The evaluation contains five main sections. The first section defines relevant concepts in the context of HO and provides a summary of proposed causes of HO. The second section starts with a detailed analysis of the occurrence and involvement of calcification in HO. It is followed by an explanation of the causes of calcification and its consequences. This allows to speculate on the potential chemical modulators of inflammation and triggers of HO. The end of this second section is devoted to in vitro mineralization tests used to predict the ectopic potential of materials. The third section reviews the biological cascade of events occurring during pathological and material-induced HO, and attempts to propose a quantitative timeline of HO formation. The fourth section looks at potential ways to control HO formation, either acting on SLIHI or on inflammation. Chemical, physical, and drug-based approaches are considered. Finally, the evaluation finishes with a critical assessment of the definition of osteoinduction. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The ability to regenerate bone in a spatially controlled and reproducible manner is an essential prerequisite for the treatment of large bone defects. As such, understanding the mechanism leading to heterotopic ossification (HO), a condition triggered by an injury leading to the formation of mature lamellar bone in extraskeletal soft tissues, would be very useful. Unfortunately, the mechanism(s) behind HO is(are) poorly understood. The present study reviews the literature on HO and based on it, proposes that HO can be caused by a combination of inflammation and calcification. This mechanism helps to better understand current strategies to prevent and treat HO. It also shows new opportunities to improve the treatment of bone defects in orthopedic and dental procedures.
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22
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He R, Chou C, Chen L, Stoller M, Kang M, Ho SP. Insights Into Pulp Biomineralization in Human Teeth. FRONTIERS IN DENTAL MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fdmed.2022.883336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
IntroductionMineralized pulp (MP) compromises tooth function and its causation is unknown. The hypothesis of this study is that pulp mineralization is associated with pulpal tissue adaptation, increased mineral densities, and decreased permeabilities of tubular dentin and cementum. Methods will include correlative spatial mapping of physicochemical and biochemical characteristics of pulp, and contextualize these properties within the dentin-pulp complex (DPC) to reveal the inherent vunerabilities of pulp.MethodsSpecimens (N = 25) were scanned using micro X-ray computed tomography (micro-XCT) to visualize MP and measure mineral density (MD). Elemental spatial maps of MP were acquired using synchrotron X-ray fluorescence microprobe (μXRF) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Extracted pulp tissues were sectioned for immunolabelling and the sections were imaged using a light microscope. Microscale morphologies and nanoscale ultrastructures of MP were imaged using scanning electron (SEM) and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) techniques.ResultsHeterogeneous distribution of MD from 200 to 2,200 mg/cc, and an average MD of 892 (±407) mg/cc were observed. Highly mineralized pulp with increased number of occluded tubules, reduced pore diameter in cementum, and decreased connectivity in lateral channels were observed. H&E, trichrome, and von Kossa staining showed lower cell and collagen densities, and mineralized regions in pulp. The biomolecules osteopontin (OPN), osteocalcin (OCN), osterix (OSX), and bone sialoprotein (BSP) were immunolocalized around PGP 9.5 positive neurovascular bundles in MP. SEM and STEM revealed a wide range of nano/micro particulates in dentin tubules and spherulitic mineral aggregates in the collagen with intrafibrillar mineral surrounding neurovascular bundles. EDX and μXRF showed elevated counts of Ca, P, Mg, and Zn inside pulp and at the dentin-pulp interface (DPI) in the DPC.ConclusionColocalization of physical and chemical, and biomolecular compositions in MP suggest primary and secondary biomineralization pathways in pulp and dentin at a tissue level, and altered fluid dynamics at an organ level. Elevated counts of Zn at the mineralizing front in MP indicated its role in pulp biomineralization. These observations underpin the inherent mechano- and chemo-responsiveness of the neurovascular DPC and help elucidate the clinical subtleties related to pulpitis, dentin-bridge, and pulp stone formation.
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23
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Chiang HY, Chu PH, Chen SC, Lee TH. MFG-E8 promotes osteogenic transdifferentiation of smooth muscle cells and vascular calcification by regulating TGF-β1 signaling. Commun Biol 2022; 5:364. [PMID: 35440618 PMCID: PMC9018696 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03313-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular calcification occurs in arterial aging, atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is a key modulator driving the osteogenic transdifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), leading to vascular calcification. We hypothesize that milk fat globule–epidermal growth factor 8 (MFG-E8), a glycoprotein expressed in VSMCs, promotes the osteogenic transdifferentiation of VSMCs through the activation of TGF-β1-mediated signaling. We observe that the genetic deletion of MFG-E8 prevents calcium chloride-induced vascular calcification in common carotid arteries (CCAs). The exogenous application of MFG-E8 to aged CCAs promotes arterial wall calcification. MFG-E8-deficient cultured VSMCs exhibit decreased biomineralization and phenotypic transformation to osteoblast-like cells in response to osteogenic medium. MFG-E8 promotes β1 integrin–dependent MMP2 expression, causing TGF-β1 activation and subsequent VSMC osteogenic transdifferentiation and biomineralization. Thus, the established molecular link between MFG-E8 and vascular calcification suggests that MFG-E8 can be therapeutically targeted to mitigate vascular calcification. A molecular link between the milk fat globule–epidermal growth factor 8 (MFG-E8), activation of vascular calcification driver TGF-β1 and osteogenic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells suggests that MFG-E8 could be a therapeutic target for vascular calcification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hou-Yu Chiang
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan
| | - Pao-Hsien Chu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan
| | - Shao-Chi Chen
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Hein Lee
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan. .,Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan. .,Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan.
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24
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Bundy K, Boone J, Simpson CL. Wnt Signaling in Vascular Calcification. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:708470. [PMID: 34595218 PMCID: PMC8476789 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.708470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is a worldwide epidemic and considered the leading cause of death globally. Due to its high mortality rates, it is imperative to study the underlying causes and mechanisms of the disease. Vascular calcification, or the buildup of hydroxyapatite within the arterial wall, is one of the greatest contributors to cardiovascular disease. Medial vascular calcification is a predictor of cardiovascular events such as, but not limited to, hypertension, stiffness, and even heart failure. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), which line the arterial wall and function to maintain blood pressure, are hypothesized to undergo a phenotypic switch into bone-forming cells during calcification, mimicking the manner by which mesenchymal stem cells differentiate into osteoblast cells throughout osteogenesis. RunX2, a transcription factor necessary for osteoblast differentiation and a target gene of the Wnt signaling pathway, has also shown to be upregulated when calcification is present, implicating that the Wnt cascade may be a key player in the transdifferentiation of VSMCs. It is important to note that the phenotypic switch of VSMCs from a healthy, contractile state to a proliferative, synthetic state is necessary in response to the vascular injury surrounding calcification. The lingering question, however, is if VSMCs acquire this synthetic phenotype through the Wnt pathway, how and why does this signaling occur? This review seeks to highlight the potential role of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway within vascular calcification based on several studies and further discuss the Wnt ligands that specifically aid in VSMC transdifferentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaylee Bundy
- Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, United States
| | - Jada Boone
- Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, United States
| | - C LaShan Simpson
- Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, United States
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25
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Zhang Z, Zhang X, Wang C, Zhou P, Xiao J, Zheng H, Wang L, Yan S, Zhang Y, Ji X. Deacetylated Sp1 improves β-glycerophosphate-induced calcification in vascular smooth muscle cells. Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:1152. [PMID: 34504597 PMCID: PMC8394101 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The aging of the population has led to an annual increase in the incidence of vascular calcification (VC). Specific protein 1 (Sp1) is a transcriptional activator that serves an important role in VC. The deacetylation of transcription factors represses their binding to the promoters of downstream genes, thereby causing their downregulation. The present study aimed to investigate the role of deacetylated Sp1 in the development of VC. In the present study, western blotting and immunoprecipitation (IP) were performed to detect the protein levels of acetylated Sp1. Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining were used to analyze phenotypic switching in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Alizarin red S, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and calcium content assays were used to assess calcium deposition in VSMCs. Western blotting, flow cytometry, TUNEL staining and caspase3 activity assay were used to evaluate apoptosis of VSMCs. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay was used to detect Sp1 binding to the BMP2 promoter. The results indicated that, in a β-glycerophosphate (β-GP)-induced VSMC calcification model, the level of acetylated Sp1 was increased. Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining results showed that, compared with the Sp1 overexpression group (Sp1-WT), deacetylated Sp1 (Sp1-K704A) downregulated the expression of osteogenic markers runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), and upregulated the expression of contraction marker α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and calponin 1. In addition, deacetylated Sp1 also reduced the ALP activity and calcium content of calcified VSMCs, and the Alizarin red S assay revealed that the calcium crystallization of Sp1-K704A group was markedly decreased. Western blotting, flow cytometry, TUNEL staining and caspase-3 activity assay were detected to indicate that the B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)/Bcl-2-associated X protein ratio was increased, and caspase-3 activity and the apoptotic rate of VSMCs were decreased, in the Sp1-K704A group, as compared with the Sp1-WT group. ChIP assay revealed that Sp1 binding to the BMP2 promoter was downregulated in the Sp1-K704A group, compared with that in theSp1-WT group. In conclusion, a deacetylated mutant of Sp1 decreased Sp1 binding to the BMP2 promoter, thus decreasing apoptosis, phenotypic switching and calcium deposition in calcified VSMCs. This finding may indicate potential therapeutic targets for VC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihao Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Xinyu Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Chengwei Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Peng Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, P.R. China
| | - Jie Xiao
- Department of Cardiology, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Hui Zheng
- Department of Cardiology, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Senbo Yan
- Department of Cardiology, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoping Ji
- Department of Cardiology, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
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Cooper ID, Brookler KH, Crofts CAP. Rethinking Fragility Fractures in Type 2 Diabetes: The Link between Hyperinsulinaemia and Osteofragilitas. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1165. [PMID: 34572351 PMCID: PMC8472634 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and/or cardiovascular disease (CVD), conditions of hyperinsulinaemia, have lower levels of osteocalcin and bone remodelling, and increased rates of fragility fractures. Unlike osteoporosis with lower bone mineral density (BMD), T2DM bone fragility "hyperinsulinaemia-osteofragilitas" phenotype presents with normal to increased BMD. Hyperinsulinaemia and insulin resistance positively associate with increased BMD and fragility fractures. Hyperinsulinaemia enforces glucose fuelling, which decreases NAD+-dependent antioxidant activity. This increases reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial fission, and decreases oxidative phosphorylation high-energy production capacity, required for osteoblasto/cytogenesis. Osteocytes directly mineralise and resorb bone, and inhibit mineralisation of their lacunocanalicular space via pyrophosphate. Hyperinsulinaemia decreases vitamin D availability via adipocyte sequestration, reducing dendrite connectivity, and compromising osteocyte viability. Decreased bone remodelling and micropetrosis ensues. Trapped/entombed magnesium within micropetrosis fossilisation spaces propagates magnesium deficiency (MgD), potentiating hyperinsulinaemia and decreases vitamin D transport. Vitamin D deficiency reduces osteocalcin synthesis and favours osteocyte apoptosis. Carbohydrate restriction/fasting/ketosis increases beta-oxidation, ketolysis, NAD+-dependent antioxidant activity, osteocyte viability and osteocalcin, and decreases excess insulin exposure. Osteocalcin is required for hydroxyapatite alignment, conferring bone structural integrity, decreasing fracture risk and improving metabolic/endocrine homeodynamics. Patients presenting with fracture and normal BMD should be investigated for T2DM and hyperinsulinaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella D. Cooper
- Translational Physiology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, 115 New Cavendish Street, London W1W 6UW, UK
| | - Kenneth H. Brookler
- Research Collaborator, Aerospace Medicine and Vestibular Research Laboratory, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, USA;
| | - Catherine A. P. Crofts
- School of Public Health and Interdisciplinary Studies, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland 0627, New Zealand;
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Yap C, Mieremet A, de Vries CJM, Micha D, de Waard V. Six Shades of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Illuminated by KLF4 (Krüppel-Like Factor 4). Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2021; 41:2693-2707. [PMID: 34470477 PMCID: PMC8545254 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.121.316600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Multiple layers of vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMCs) are present in blood vessels forming the media of the vessel wall. vSMCs provide a vessel wall structure, enabling it to contract and relax, thus modulating blood flow. They also play a crucial role in the development of vascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis and aortic aneurysm formation. vSMCs display a remarkable high degree of plasticity. At present, the number of different vSMC phenotypes has only partially been characterized. By mapping vSMC phenotypes in detail and identifying triggers for phenotype switching, the relevance of the different phenotypes in vascular disease may be identified. Up until recently, vSMCs were classified as either contractile or dedifferentiated (ie, synthetic). However, single-cell RNA sequencing studies revealed such dedifferentiated arterial vSMCs to be highly diverse. Currently, no consensus exist about the number of vSMC phenotypes. Therefore, we reviewed the data from relevant single-cell RNA sequencing studies, and classified a total of 6 vSMC phenotypes. The central dedifferentiated vSMC type that we classified is the mesenchymal-like phenotype. Mesenchymal-like vSMCs subsequently seem to differentiate into fibroblast-like, macrophage-like, osteogenic-like, and adipocyte-like vSMCs, which contribute differentially to vascular disease. This phenotype switching between vSMCs requires the transcription factor KLF4 (Kruppel-like factor 4). Here, we performed an integrated analysis of the data about the recently identified vSMC phenotypes, their associated gene expression profiles, and previous vSMC knowledge to better understand the role of vSMC phenotype transitions in vascular pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Yap
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Location Academic Medical Center, The Netherlands (C.Y., A.M., C.J.M.d.V., V.d.W.)
| | - Arnout Mieremet
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Location Academic Medical Center, The Netherlands (C.Y., A.M., C.J.M.d.V., V.d.W.)
| | - Carlie J M de Vries
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Location Academic Medical Center, The Netherlands (C.Y., A.M., C.J.M.d.V., V.d.W.)
| | - Dimitra Micha
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (D.M.)
| | - Vivian de Waard
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Location Academic Medical Center, The Netherlands (C.Y., A.M., C.J.M.d.V., V.d.W.)
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28
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Bildyug N. Integrins in cardiac hypertrophy: lessons learned from culture systems. ESC Heart Fail 2021; 8:3634-3642. [PMID: 34232557 PMCID: PMC8497369 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.13497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart growth and pathological changes are accompanied by extracellular matrix‐dependent alterations in integrins and integrin‐associated proteins, suggesting their role in heart development and disease. Most of our knowledge on the involvement of integrins in heart pathology is provided by the in vivo experiments, including cardiac hypertrophy models. However, in vivo studies are limited by the complex organization of heart tissue and fail to discern cell types and particular integrins implicated in hypertrophic signalling. This problem is being addressed by isolated cardiomyocyte primary cultures, which have been successfully used in different in vitro disease models. This review aimed to analyse the general approaches to studying integrins and integrin‐associated signalling pathways in cardiac hypertrophy focusing on the in vitro systems. The lessons learned from culture experiments on the models of hypertrophy induced by stretch, stimulating factors, and/or extracellular matrix components are summarized, demonstrating the major involvement of integrin‐mediated signalling in cardiac hypertrophic response and its apparent crosstalk with signal pathways induced by stretch or hypertrophy stimulating factors. The benefits and perspectives of using cardiomyocyte primary culture as a hypertrophy model are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalya Bildyug
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint Petersburg, 194064, Russia
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29
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Millán Á, Lanzer P, Sorribas V. The Thermodynamics of Medial Vascular Calcification. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:633465. [PMID: 33937234 PMCID: PMC8080379 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.633465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Medial vascular calcification (MVC) is a degenerative process that involves the deposition of calcium in the arteries, with a high prevalence in chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes, and aging. Calcification is the process of precipitation largely of calcium phosphate, governed by the laws of thermodynamics that should be acknowledged in studies of this disease. Amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) is the key constituent of early calcifications, mainly composed of Ca2+ and PO4 3- ions, which over time transform into hydroxyapatite (HAP) crystals. The supersaturation of ACP related to Ca2+ and PO4 3- activities establishes the risk of MVC, which can be modulated by the presence of promoter and inhibitor biomolecules. According to the thermodynamic parameters, the process of MVC implies: (i) an increase in Ca2+ and PO4 3- activities (rather than concentrations) exceeding the solubility product at the precipitating sites in the media; (ii) focally impaired equilibrium between promoter and inhibitor biomolecules; and (iii) the progression of HAP crystallization associated with nominal irreversibility of the process, even when the levels of Ca2+ and PO4 3- ions return to normal. Thus, physical-chemical processes in the media are fundamental to understanding MVC and represent the most critical factor for treatments' considerations. Any pathogenetical proposal must therefore comply with the laws of thermodynamics and their expression within the medial layer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángel Millán
- Instituto de Nanociencia y Materiales de Aragón (INMA), CSIC-Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Peter Lanzer
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Health Care Center Bitterfeld, Bitterfeld-Wolfen gGmbH, Bitterfeld-Wolfen, Germany
| | - Víctor Sorribas
- Molecular Toxicology Group, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
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Boraldi F, Lofaro FD, Losi L, Quaglino D. Dermal Alterations in Clinically Unaffected Skin of Pseudoxanthoma elasticum Patients. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10030500. [PMID: 33535391 PMCID: PMC7867076 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10030500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE), due to rare sequence variants in the ABCC6 gene, is characterized by calcification of elastic fibers in several tissues/organs; however, the pathomechanisms have not been completely clarified. Although it is a systemic disorder on a genetic basis, it is not known why not all elastic fibers are calcified in the same patient and even in the same tissue. At present, data on soft connective tissue mineralization derive from studies performed on vascular tissues and/or on clinically affected skin, but there is no information on patients’ clinically unaffected skin. Methods: Skin biopsies from clinically unaffected and affected areas of the same PXE patient (n = 6) and from healthy subjects were investigated by electron microscopy. Immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate p-SMAD 1/5/8 and p-SMAD 2/3 expression and localization. Results: In clinically unaffected skin, fragmented elastic fibers were prevalent, whereas calcified fibers were only rarely observed at the ultrastructural level. p-SMAD1/5/8 and p-SMAD2/3 were activated in both affected and unaffected skin. Conclusion: These findings further support the concept that fragmentation/degradation is necessary but not sufficient to cause calcification of elastic fibers and that additional local factors (e.g., matrix composition, mechanical forces and mesenchymal cells) contribute to create the pro-osteogenic environment.
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Boraldi F, Lofaro FD, Quaglino D. Apoptosis in the Extraosseous Calcification Process. Cells 2021; 10:cells10010131. [PMID: 33445441 PMCID: PMC7827519 DOI: 10.3390/cells10010131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Extraosseous calcification is a pathologic mineralization process occurring in soft connective tissues (e.g., skin, vessels, tendons, and cartilage). It can take place on a genetic basis or as a consequence of acquired chronic diseases. In this last case, the etiology is multifactorial, including both extra- and intracellular mechanisms, such as the formation of membrane vesicles (e.g., matrix vesicles and apoptotic bodies), mitochondrial alterations, and oxidative stress. This review is an overview of extraosseous calcification mechanisms focusing on the relationships between apoptosis and mineralization in cartilage and vascular tissues, as these are the two tissues mostly affected by a number of age-related diseases having a progressively increased impact in Western Countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Boraldi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (F.D.L.); (D.Q.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Francesco Demetrio Lofaro
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (F.D.L.); (D.Q.)
| | - Daniela Quaglino
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (F.D.L.); (D.Q.)
- Interuniversity Consortium for Biotechnologies (CIB), Italy
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