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Min L, Zhong F, Gu L, Lee K, He JC. Krüppel-like factor 2 is an endoprotective transcription factor in diabetic kidney disease. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 327:C477-C486. [PMID: 38981608 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00222.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a microvascular complication of diabetes, and glomerular endothelial cell (GEC) dysfunction is a key driver of DKD pathogenesis. Krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2), a shear stress-induced transcription factor, is among the highly regulated genes in early DKD. In the kidney, KLF2 expression is mostly restricted to endothelial cells, but its expression is also found in immune cell subsets. KLF2 expression is upregulated in response to increased shear stress by the activation of mechanosensory receptors but suppressed by inflammatory cytokines, both of which characterize the early diabetic kidney milieu. KLF2 expression is reduced in progressive DKD and hypertensive nephropathy in humans and mice, likely due to high glucose and inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α. However, KLF2 expression is increased in glomerular hyperfiltration-induced shear stress without metabolic dysregulation, such as in settings of unilateral nephrectomy. Lower KLF2 expression is associated with CKD progression in patients with unilateral nephrectomy, consistent with its endoprotective role. KLF2 confers endoprotection by inhibition of inflammation, thrombotic activation, and angiogenesis, and thus KLF2 is considered a protective factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Based on similar mechanisms, KLF2 also exhibits renoprotection, and its reduced expression in endothelial cells worsens glomerular injury and albuminuria in settings of diabetes or unilateral nephrectomy. Thus KLF2 confers endoprotective effects in both CVD and DKD, and its activators could potentially be developed as a novel class of drugs for cardiorenal protection in diabetic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulin Min
- Department of Nephrology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Medicine/Nephrology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
| | - Fang Zhong
- Department of Medicine/Nephrology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
| | - Leyi Gu
- Department of Nephrology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kyung Lee
- Department of Medicine/Nephrology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
| | - John Cijiang He
- Department of Medicine/Nephrology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
- Renal Section, James J. Peters Veterans Affair Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States
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2
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Seetharaman S, Devany J, Kim HR, van Bodegraven E, Chmiel T, Tzu-Pin S, Chou WH, Fang Y, Gardel ML. Mechanosensitive FHL2 tunes endothelial function. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.16.599227. [PMID: 38948838 PMCID: PMC11212908 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.16.599227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Endothelial tissues are essential mechanosensors in the vasculature and facilitate adaptation to various blood flow-induced mechanical cues. Defects in endothelial mechanoresponses can perturb tissue remodelling and functions leading to cardiovascular disease progression. In this context, the precise mechanisms of endothelial mechanoresponses contributing to normal and diseased tissue functioning remain elusive. Here, we sought to uncover how flow-mediated transcriptional regulation drives endothelial mechanoresponses in healthy and atherosclerotic-prone tissues. Using bulk RNA sequencing, we identify novel mechanosensitive genes in response to healthy unidirectional flow (UF) and athero-prone disturbed flow (DF). We find that the transcription as well as protein expression of Four-and-a-half LIM protein 2 (FHL2) are enriched in athero-prone DF both in vitro and in vivo. We then demonstrate that the exogenous expression of FHL2 is necessary and sufficient to drive discontinuous adherens junction morphology and increased tissue permeability. This athero-prone phenotype requires the force-sensitive binding of FHL2 to actin. In turn, the force-dependent localisation of FHL2 to stress fibres promotes microtubule dynamics to release the RhoGEF, GEF-H1, and activate the Rho-ROCK pathway. Thus, we unravelled a novel mechanochemical feedback wherein force-dependent FHL2 localisation promotes hypercontractility. This misregulated mechanoresponse creates highly permeable tissues, depicting classic hallmarks of atherosclerosis progression. Overall, we highlight crucial functions for the FHL2 force-sensitivity in tuning multi-scale endothelial mechanoresponses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shailaja Seetharaman
- Department of Physics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - John Devany
- Department of Physics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Ha Ram Kim
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Medicine, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Emma van Bodegraven
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Theresa Chmiel
- Department of Physics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Shentu Tzu-Pin
- Department of Medicine, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Wen-hung Chou
- James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Graduate Program in Biophysical Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Yun Fang
- Department of Medicine, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Margaret Lise Gardel
- Department of Physics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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3
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Hurrell BP, Shen S, Li X, Sakano Y, Kazemi MH, Quach C, Shafiei-Jahani P, Sakano K, Ghiasi H, Akbari O. Piezo1 channels restrain ILC2s and regulate the development of airway hyperreactivity. J Exp Med 2024; 221:e20231835. [PMID: 38530239 PMCID: PMC10965393 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20231835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Mechanosensitive ion channels sense force and pressure in immune cells to drive the inflammatory response in highly mechanical organs. Here, we report that Piezo1 channels repress group 2 innate lymphoid cell (ILC2)-driven type 2 inflammation in the lungs. Piezo1 is induced on lung ILC2s upon activation, as genetic ablation of Piezo1 in ILC2s increases their function and exacerbates the development of airway hyperreactivity (AHR). Conversely, Piezo1 agonist Yoda1 reduces ILC2-driven lung inflammation. Mechanistically, Yoda1 inhibits ILC2 cytokine secretion and proliferation in a KLF2-dependent manner, as we found that Piezo1 engagement reduces ILC2 oxidative metabolism. Consequently, in vivo Yoda1 treatment reduces the development of AHR in experimental models of ILC2-driven allergic asthma. Human-circulating ILC2s express and induce Piezo1 upon activation, as Yoda1 treatment of humanized mice reduces human ILC2-driven AHR. Our studies define Piezo1 as a critical regulator of ILC2s, and we propose the potential of Piezo1 activation as a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of ILC2-driven allergic asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin P. Hurrell
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Stephen Shen
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yoshihiro Sakano
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mohammad Hossein Kazemi
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Christine Quach
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Pedram Shafiei-Jahani
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kei Sakano
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Homayon Ghiasi
- Department of Surgery, Center for Neurobiology and Vaccine Development, Ophthalmology Research, Cedars-Sinai Burns and Allen Research Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Omid Akbari
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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4
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Cao J, Zhang D, Li W, Yuan W, Luo G, Xie S. Azilsartan improves urinary albumin excretion in hypertension mice. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:4138-4148. [PMID: 38462692 PMCID: PMC10968693 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205271] [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: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Hypertension is one of the most important risk factors for chronic kidney diseases, leading to hypertensive nephrosclerosis, including excessive albuminuria. Azilsartan, an angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker, has been widely used for the treatment of hypertension. However, the effects of Azilsartan on urinary albumin excretion in hypertension haven't been reported before. In this study, we investigated whether Azilsartan possesses a beneficial property against albuminuria in mice treated with angiotensin II and a high-salt diet (ANG/HS). Compared to the control group, the ANG/HS group had higher blood pressure, oxidative stress, and inflammatory response, all of which were rescued by Azilsartan dose-dependently. Importantly, the ANG/HS-induced increase in urinary albumin excretion and decrease in the expression of occludin were reversed by Azilsartan. Additionally, it was shown that increased fluorescence intensity of FITC-dextran, declined trans-endothelial electrical resistance (TEER) values, and reduction of occludin and krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) were observed in ANG/HS-treated human renal glomerular endothelial cells (HrGECs), then prevented by Azilsartan. Moreover, the regulatory effect of Azilsartan on endothelial monolayer permeability in ANG/HS-treated HrGECs was abolished by the knockdown of KLF2, indicating KLF2 is required for the effect of Azilsartan. We concluded that Azilsartan alleviated diabetic nephropathy-induced increase in Uterine artery embolization (UAE) mediated by the KLF2/occludin axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Cao
- Department of Nephrology, People’s Hospital of Ganzhou, Ganzhou 341001, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Dandan Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, People’s Hospital of Ganzhou, Ganzhou 341001, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Wenfeng Li
- Department of Nephrology, People’s Hospital of Ganzhou, Ganzhou 341001, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Wenjin Yuan
- Department of Nephrology, People’s Hospital of Ganzhou, Ganzhou 341001, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Gang Luo
- Department of Nephrology, People’s Hospital of Ganzhou, Ganzhou 341001, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Shaofeng Xie
- Department of Nephrology, People’s Hospital of Ganzhou, Ganzhou 341001, Jiangxi Province, China
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5
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He J, Blazeski A, Nilanthi U, Menéndez J, Pirani SC, Levic DS, Bagnat M, Singh MK, Raya JG, García-Cardeña G, Torres-Vázquez J. Plxnd1-mediated mechanosensing of blood flow controls the caliber of the Dorsal Aorta via the transcription factor Klf2. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.24.576555. [PMID: 38328196 PMCID: PMC10849625 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.24.576555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The cardiovascular system generates and responds to mechanical forces. The heartbeat pumps blood through a network of vascular tubes, which adjust their caliber in response to the hemodynamic environment. However, how endothelial cells in the developing vascular system integrate inputs from circulatory forces into signaling pathways to define vessel caliber is poorly understood. Using vertebrate embryos and in vitro-assembled microvascular networks of human endothelial cells as models, flow and genetic manipulations, and custom software, we reveal that Plexin-D1, an endothelial Semaphorin receptor critical for angiogenic guidance, employs its mechanosensing activity to serve as a crucial positive regulator of the Dorsal Aorta's (DA) caliber. We also uncover that the flow-responsive transcription factor KLF2 acts as a paramount mechanosensitive effector of Plexin-D1 that enlarges endothelial cells to widen the vessel. These findings illuminate the molecular and cellular mechanisms orchestrating the interplay between cardiovascular development and hemodynamic forces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia He
- Department of Cell Biology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Adriana Blazeski
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Uthayanan Nilanthi
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857
| | - Javier Menéndez
- Department of Cell Biology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Samuel C. Pirani
- Department of Cell Biology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Daniel S. Levic
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Michel Bagnat
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Manvendra K. Singh
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857
- National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre Singapore, 5 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169609
| | - José G Raya
- Department of Radiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Guillermo García-Cardeña
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jesús Torres-Vázquez
- Department of Cell Biology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
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6
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Joshi D, Coon BG, Chakraborty R, Deng H, Fernandez-Tussy P, Meredith E, Traylor JG, Orr AW, Fernandez-Hernando C, Schwartz MA. Gamma protocadherins in vascular endothelial cells inhibit Klf2/4 to promote atherosclerosis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.16.575958. [PMID: 38293157 PMCID: PMC10827163 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.16.575958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the leading cause of mortality worldwide1. Laminar shear stress (LSS) from blood flow in straight regions of arteries protects against ASCVD by upregulating the Klf2/4 anti-inflammatory program in endothelial cells (ECs)2-8. Conversely, disturbed shear stress (DSS) at curves or branches predisposes these regions to plaque formation9,10. We previously reported a whole genome CRISPR knockout screen11 that identified novel inducers of Klf2/4. Here we report suppressors of Klf2/4 and characterize one candidate, protocadherin gamma A9 (Pcdhga9), a member of the clustered protocadherin gene family12. Pcdhg deletion increases Klf2/4 levels in vitro and in vivo and suppresses inflammatory activation of ECs. Pcdhg suppresses Klf2/4 by inhibiting the Notch pathway via physical interaction of cleaved Notch1 intracellular domain (NICD Val1744) with nuclear Pcdhg C-terminal constant domain (CCD). Pcdhg inhibition by EC knockout (KO) or blocking antibody protects from atherosclerosis. Pcdhg is elevated in the arteries of human atherosclerosis. This study identifies a novel fundamental mechanism of EC resilience and therapeutic target for treating inflammatory vascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divyesh Joshi
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Brian G Coon
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Raja Chakraborty
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Hanqiang Deng
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Pablo Fernandez-Tussy
- Vascular Biology and Therapeutics Program, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Emily Meredith
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - James G Traylor
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, LSU Health Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
| | - Anthony Wayne Orr
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, LSU Health Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
| | | | - Martin A Schwartz
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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7
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Bu LL, Yuan HH, Xie LL, Guo MH, Liao DF, Zheng XL. New Dawn for Atherosclerosis: Vascular Endothelial Cell Senescence and Death. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15160. [PMID: 37894840 PMCID: PMC10606899 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) form the inner linings of blood vessels, and are directly exposed to endogenous hazard signals and metabolites in the circulatory system. The senescence and death of ECs are not only adverse outcomes, but also causal contributors to endothelial dysfunction, an early risk marker of atherosclerosis. The pathophysiological process of EC senescence involves both structural and functional changes and has been linked to various factors, including oxidative stress, dysregulated cell cycle, hyperuricemia, vascular inflammation, and aberrant metabolite sensing and signaling. Multiple forms of EC death have been documented in atherosclerosis, including autophagic cell death, apoptosis, pyroptosis, NETosis, necroptosis, and ferroptosis. Despite this, the molecular mechanisms underlying EC senescence or death in atherogenesis are not fully understood. To provide a comprehensive update on the subject, this review examines the historic and latest findings on the molecular mechanisms and functional alterations associated with EC senescence and death in different stages of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan-Lan Bu
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China; (L.-L.B.); (D.-F.L.)
| | - Huan-Huan Yuan
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China; (H.-H.Y.); (L.-L.X.); (M.-H.G.)
| | - Ling-Li Xie
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China; (H.-H.Y.); (L.-L.X.); (M.-H.G.)
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Min-Hua Guo
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China; (H.-H.Y.); (L.-L.X.); (M.-H.G.)
| | - Duan-Fang Liao
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, China; (L.-L.B.); (D.-F.L.)
| | - Xi-Long Zheng
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
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8
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Zhao H, Wu D, Gyamfi MA, Wang P, Luecht C, Pfefferkorn AM, Ashraf MI, Kamhieh-Milz J, Witowski J, Dragun D, Budde K, Schindler R, Zickler D, Moll G, Catar R. Expanded Hemodialysis ameliorates uremia-induced impairment of vasculoprotective KLF2 and concomitant proinflammatory priming of endothelial cells through an ERK/AP1/cFOS-dependent mechanism. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1209464. [PMID: 37795100 PMCID: PMC10546407 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1209464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims Expanded hemodialysis (HDx) therapy with improved molecular cut-off dialyzers exerts beneficial effects on lowering uremia-associated chronic systemic microinflammation, a driver of endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in hemodialysis (HD) patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). However, studies on the underlying molecular mechanisms are still at an early stage. Here, we identify the (endothelial) transcription factor Krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) and its associated molecular signalling pathways as key targets and regulators of uremia-induced endothelial micro-inflammation in the HD/ESRD setting, which is crucial for vascular homeostasis and controlling detrimental vascular inflammation. Methods and results First, we found that human microvascular endothelial cells (HMECs) and other typical endothelial and kidney model cell lines (e.g. HUVECs, HREC, and HEK) exposed to uremic serum from patients treated with two different hemodialysis regimens in the Permeability Enhancement to Reduce Chronic Inflammation II (PERCI-II) crossover clinical trial - comparing High-Flux (HF) and Medium Cut-Off (MCO) membranes - exhibited strongly reduced expression of vasculoprotective KLF2 with HF dialyzers, while dialysis with MCO dialyzers led to the maintenance and restoration of physiological KLF2 levels in HMECs. Mechanistic follow-up revealed that the strong downmodulation of KLF2 in HMECs exposed to uremic serum was mediated by a dominant engagement of detrimental ERK instead of beneficial AKT signalling, with subsequent AP1-/c-FOS binding in the KLF2 promoter region, followed by the detrimental triggering of pleiotropic inflammatory mediators, while the introduction of a KLF2 overexpression plasmid could restore physiological KLF2 levels and downmodulate the detrimental vascular inflammation in a mechanistic rescue approach. Conclusion Uremia downmodulates vasculoprotective KLF2 in endothelium, leading to detrimental vascular inflammation, while MCO dialysis with the novel improved HDx therapy approach can maintain physiological levels of vasculoprotective KLF2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongfan Zhao
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Dashan Wu
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Adu Gyamfi
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Pinchao Wang
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Luecht
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Julian Kamhieh-Milz
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Janusz Witowski
- Department of Pathophysiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Duska Dragun
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Klemens Budde
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralf Schindler
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel Zickler
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Guido Moll
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT) and Berlin-Brandenburg School for Regenerative Therapies (BSRT), at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rusan Catar
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
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9
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Dabravolski SA, Sukhorukov VN, Melnichenko AA, Khotina VA, Orekhov AN. Potential Application of the Plant-Derived Essential Oils for Atherosclerosis Treatment: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential. Molecules 2023; 28:5673. [PMID: 37570643 PMCID: PMC10420188 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28155673] [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: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Essential oils (EOs) are complex secondary metabolites identified in many plant species. Plant-derived EOs have been widely used in traditional medicine for centuries for their health-beneficial effects. Some EOs and their active ingredients have been reported to improve the cardiovascular system, in particular to provide an anti-atherosclerotic effect. The objective of this review is to highlight the recent research investigating the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and lipid-lowering properties of plant-derived EOs and discuss their mechanisms of action. Also, recent clinical trials exploring anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative activities of EOs are discussed. Future research on EOs has the potential to identify new bioactive compounds and invent new effective agents for treatment of atherosclerosis and related diseases such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome and obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siarhei A. Dabravolski
- Department of Biotechnology Engineering, Braude Academic College of Engineering, Snunit 51, P.O. Box 78, Karmiel 2161002, Israel
| | - Vasily N. Sukhorukov
- Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 8 Baltiyskaya Street, 125315 Moscow, Russia; (V.N.S.); (A.A.M.); (V.A.K.); (A.N.O.)
| | - Alexandra A. Melnichenko
- Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 8 Baltiyskaya Street, 125315 Moscow, Russia; (V.N.S.); (A.A.M.); (V.A.K.); (A.N.O.)
| | - Victoria A. Khotina
- Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 8 Baltiyskaya Street, 125315 Moscow, Russia; (V.N.S.); (A.A.M.); (V.A.K.); (A.N.O.)
| | - Alexander N. Orekhov
- Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 8 Baltiyskaya Street, 125315 Moscow, Russia; (V.N.S.); (A.A.M.); (V.A.K.); (A.N.O.)
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10
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Yu F, Duan Y, Liu C, Huang H, Xiao X, He Z. Extracellular vesicles in atherosclerosis and vascular calcification: the versatile non-coding RNAs from endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1193660. [PMID: 37469665 PMCID: PMC10352799 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1193660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS) is characterized by the accumulation of lipids, fibrous elements, and calcification in the innermost layers of arteries. Vascular calcification (VC), the deposition of calcium and phosphate within the arterial wall, is an important characteristic of AS natural history. However, medial arterial calcification (MAC) differs from intimal calcification and cannot simply be explained as the consequence of AS. Endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are directly involved in AS and VC processes. Understanding the communication between ECs and VSMCs is critical in revealing mechanisms underlying AS and VC. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are found as intercellular messengers in kinds of physiological processes and pathological progression. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) encapsulated in EVs are involved in AS and VC, including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs). The effects of ncRNAs have not been comprehensively understood, especially encapsulated in EVs. Some ncRNAs have demonstrated significant roles in AS and VC, but it remains unclear the functions of the majority ncRNAs detected in EVs. In this review, we summarize ncRNAs encapsulated in EC-EVs and VSMC-EVs, and the signaling pathways that are involved in AS and VC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengyi Yu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Yingjie Duan
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Chongmei Liu
- Department of Pathology, Yueyang People's Hospital, Yueyang, Hunan, China
| | - Hong Huang
- Hengyang Medical School, The First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Xiangcheng Xiao
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhangxiu He
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
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11
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Nabil-Adam A, E. Elnosary M, L. Ashour M, M. Abd El-Moneam N, A. Shreadah M. Flavonoids Biosynthesis in Plants as a Defense Mechanism: Role and Function Concerning Pharmacodynamics and Pharmacokinetic Properties. FLAVONOID METABOLISM - RECENT ADVANCES AND APPLICATIONS IN CROP BREEDING 2023. [DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.108637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Flavonoids are a major class of secondary metabolites that comprises more than 6000 compounds that have been identified. They are biosynthesized via the phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway that involves groups of enzymes such as isomerases, hydroxylases, and reductases that greatly affect the determination of the flavonoid skeleton. For example, transferase enzymes responsible for the modification of sugar result in changes in the physiological activity of the flavonoids and changes in their physical properties, such as solubility, reactivity, and interaction with cellular target molecules, which affect their pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetic properties. In addition, flavonoids have diverse biological activities such as antioxidants, anticancer, and antiviral in managing Alzheimer’s disease. However, most marine flavonoids are still incompletely discovered because marine flavonoid biosynthesis is produced and possesses unique substitutions that are not commonly found in terrestrial bioactive compounds. The current chapter will illustrate the importance of flavonoids’ role in metabolism and the main difference between marine and terrestrial flavonoids.
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12
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Kotlyarov S, Kotlyarova A. Participation of Krüppel-like Factors in Atherogenesis. Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13030448. [PMID: 36984888 PMCID: PMC10052737 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13030448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is an important problem in modern medicine, the keys to understanding many aspects of which are still not available to clinicians. Atherosclerosis develops as a result of a complex chain of events in which many cells of the vascular wall and peripheral blood flow are involved. Endothelial cells, which line the vascular wall in a monolayer, play an important role in vascular biology. A growing body of evidence strengthens the understanding of the multifaceted functions of endothelial cells, which not only organize the barrier between blood flow and tissues but also act as regulators of hemodynamics and play an important role in regulating the function of other cells in the vascular wall. Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) perform several biological functions in various cells of the vascular wall. The large family of KLFs in humans includes 18 members, among which KLF2 and KLF4 are at the crossroads between endothelial cell mechanobiology and immunometabolism, which play important roles in both the normal vascular wall and atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanislav Kotlyarov
- Department of Nursing, Ryazan State Medical University, 390026 Ryazan, Russia
| | - Anna Kotlyarova
- Department of Pharmacy Management and Economics, Ryazan State Medical University, 390026 Ryazan, Russia
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13
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The Involvement of Krüppel-like Factors in Cardiovascular Diseases. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020420. [PMID: 36836777 PMCID: PMC9962890 DOI: 10.3390/life13020420] [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: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) are a set of DNA-binding proteins belonging to a family of zinc-finger transcription factors, which have been associated with many biological processes related to the activation or repression of genes, inducing cell growth, differentiation, and death, and the development and maintenance of tissues. In response to metabolic alterations caused by disease and stress, the heart will undergo cardiac remodeling, leading to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). KLFs are among the transcriptional factors that take control of many physiological and, in this case, pathophysiological processes of CVD. KLFs seem to be associated with congenital heart disease-linked syndromes, malformations because of autosomal diseases, mutations that relate to protein instability, and/or loss of functions such as atheroprotective activities. Ischemic damage also relates to KLF dysregulation because of the differentiation of cardiac myofibroblasts or a modified fatty acid oxidation related to the formation of a dilated cardiomyopathy, myocardial infarctions, left ventricular hypertrophy, and diabetic cardiomyopathies. In this review, we describe the importance of KLFs in cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, left ventricle hypertrophy, stroke, diabetic cardiomyopathy, and congenital heart diseases. We further discuss microRNAs that have been involved in certain regulatory loops of KLFs as they may act as critical in CVDs.
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14
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Jobst M, Kiss E, Gerner C, Marko D, Del Favero G. Activation of autophagy triggers mitochondrial loss and changes acetylation profile relevant for mechanotransduction in bladder cancer cells. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:217-233. [PMID: 36214828 PMCID: PMC9816236 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03375-2] [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: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Bladder cells are constantly exposed to multiple xenobiotics and bioactive metabolites. In addition to this challenging chemical environment, they are also exposed to shear stress originating from urine and interstitial fluids. Hence, physiological function of bladder cells relies on a high biochemical and biomechanical adaptive competence, which, in turn, is largely supported via autophagy-related mechanisms. As a negative side of this plasticity, bladder cancer cells are known to adapt readily to chemotherapeutic programs. At the molecular level, autophagy was described to support resistance against pharmacological treatments and to contribute to the maintenance of cell structure and metabolic competence. In this study, we enhanced autophagy with rapamycin (1-100 nM) and assessed its effects on the motility of bladder cells, as well as the capability to respond to shear stress. We observed that rapamycin reduced cell migration and the mechanical-induced translocation potential of Krüppel-like transcription factor 2 (KLF2). These effects were accompanied by a rearrangement of cytoskeletal elements and mitochondrial loss. In parallel, intracellular acetylation levels were decreased. Mechanistically, inhibition of the NAD + -dependent deacetylase sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) with nicotinamide (NAM; 0.1-5 mM) restored acetylation levels hampered by rapamycin and cell motility. Taken together, we described the effects of rapamycin on cytoskeletal elements crucial for mechanotransduction and the dependency of these changes on the mitochondrial turnover caused by autophagy activation. Additionally, we could show that targeted metabolic intervention could revert the outcome of autophagy activation, reinforcing the idea that bladder cells can easily adapt to multiple xenobiotics and circumvent in this way the effects of single chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Jobst
- Department of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Währingerstr. 38-40, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Endre Kiss
- Core Facility Multimodal, Imaging, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Währingerstr. 38-40, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Christopher Gerner
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Währingerstr. 38-40, 1090 Vienna, Austria ,Joint Metabolome Facility, University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Doris Marko
- Department of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Währingerstr. 38-40, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Giorgia Del Favero
- Department of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Währingerstr. 38-40, 1090 Vienna, Austria ,Core Facility Multimodal, Imaging, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Währingerstr. 38-40, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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15
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Mieszczański P, Januszyk S, Zmarzły N, Ossowski P, Dziobek K, Sagan D, Boroń D, Opławski M, Grabarek BO. miRNAs Participate in the Regulation of Oxidative Stress-Related Gene Expression in Endometrioid Endometrial Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415817. [PMID: 36555458 PMCID: PMC9779631 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415817] [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: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species are formed as by-products of normal cell metabolism. They are needed to maintain cell homeostasis and signaling, which is possible due to defense systems. Disruption of this balance leads to oxidative stress that can induce cancer. Redox regulation by miRNAs may be a potential therapeutic target. The aim of the study was to assess the activity of genes associated with oxidative stress in endometrial cancer and to determine their relationship with miRNAs. The study included 45 patients with endometrioid endometrial cancer and 45 without neoplastic changes. The expression profile of genes associated with oxidative stress was determined with mRNA microarrays, RT-qPCR and ELISA. The miRNA prediction was performed based on the miRNA microarray experiment and the mirDB tool. PRDX2 and AQP1 showed overexpression that was probably not related to miRNA activity. A high level of PKD2 may be the result of a decrease in the activity of miR-195-3p, miR-20a, miR-134. A SOD3 level reduction can be caused by miR-328, miR-363. In addition, miR-363 can also regulate KLF2 expression. In the course of endometrial cancer, the phenomenon of oxidative stress is observed, the regulation of which may be influenced by miRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Mieszczański
- Hospital of Ministry of Interior and Administration, 40-052 Katowice, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Szmon Januszyk
- ICZ Healthcare Hospital in Zywiec, 34-300 Zywiec, Poland
| | - Nikola Zmarzły
- Department of Histology, Cytophysiology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Academy of Silesia, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Piotr Ossowski
- Woman and Child Medical Center in Cracow, 30-002 Cracow, Poland
| | - Konrad Dziobek
- Department of Histology, Cytophysiology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Academy of Silesia, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics Faculty of Medicine, Academy of Silesia, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Dorota Sagan
- Medical Center Dormed Medical SPA, 28-105 Busko-Zdroj, Poland
| | - Dariusz Boroń
- Department of Histology, Cytophysiology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Academy of Silesia, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics Faculty of Medicine, Academy of Silesia, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics with Gynecologic Oncology, Ludwik Rydygier Memorial Specialized Hospital, 31-826 Cracow, Poland
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski University in Cracow, 30-705 Cracow, Poland
| | - Marcin Opławski
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics with Gynecologic Oncology, Ludwik Rydygier Memorial Specialized Hospital, 31-826 Cracow, Poland
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski University in Cracow, 30-705 Cracow, Poland
| | - Beniamin Oskar Grabarek
- Department of Histology, Cytophysiology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Academy of Silesia, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics Faculty of Medicine, Academy of Silesia, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics with Gynecologic Oncology, Ludwik Rydygier Memorial Specialized Hospital, 31-826 Cracow, Poland
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, TOMMED Specjalisci od Zdrowia, 40-662 Katowice, Poland
- Gyncentrum, Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Virology, 40-851 Katowice, Poland
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16
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Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Pathological and Therapeutic Roles of Pericytes in Atherosclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911663. [PMID: 36232962 PMCID: PMC9570222 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pericytes are multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells playing an active role in angiogenesis, vessel stabilisation, maturation, remodelling, blood flow regulation and are able to trans-differentiate into other cells of the mesenchymal lineage. In this review, we summarised recent data demonstrating that pericytes play a key role in the pathogenesis and development of atherosclerosis (AS). Pericytes are involved in lipid accumulation, inflammation, growth, and vascularization of the atherosclerotic plaque. Decreased pericyte coverage, endothelial and pericyte dysfunction is associated with intraplaque angiogenesis and haemorrhage, calcification and cholesterol clefts deposition. At the same time, pericytes can be used as a novel therapeutic target to promote vessel maturity and stability, thus reducing plaque vulnerability. Finally, we discuss recent studies exploring effective AS treatments with pericyte-mediated anti-atherosclerotic, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects.
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17
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Xu S, Lyu QR, Ilyas I, Tian XY, Weng J. Vascular homeostasis in atherosclerosis: A holistic overview. Front Immunol 2022; 13:976722. [PMID: 36172381 PMCID: PMC9512393 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.976722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis refers to the deposition of lipids and the co-existence of inflammation and impaired inflammation resolution in pan-vasculature, which causes lumen narrowing, hardening, plaque formation, and the manifestation of acute cardiovascular events. Emerging evidence has suggested that vascular circulation can be viewed as a complex homeostatic system analogous to a mini-ecosystem which consists of the vascular microenvironment (niche) and the crosstalk among phenotypically and functionally diverse vascular cell types. Here, we elucidate how cell components in the vascular wall affect vascular homeostasis, structure, function, and atherosclerosis in a holistic perspective. Finally, we discuss the potential role of vascular-stabilizing strategies including pharmacotherapies, natural substances and lifestyle modifications, in preventing cardiovascular diseases by preserving vascular integrity and homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suowen Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Suowen Xu, ; Jianping Weng,
| | - Qing Rex Lyu
- Medical Research Institute, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Iqra Ilyas
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Hefei, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Tian
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jianping Weng
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Clinical Research Hospital of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei), University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Suowen Xu, ; Jianping Weng,
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18
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The Genetic Architecture of the Etiology of Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease: Current Knowledge and Future Challenges in the Era of Genomic Medicine. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810481. [PMID: 36142394 PMCID: PMC9499674 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Lower extremity artery disease (LEAD), caused by atherosclerotic obstruction of the arteries of the lower limb extremities, has exhibited an increase in mortality and morbidity worldwide. The phenotypic variability of LEAD is correlated with its complex, multifactorial etiology. In addition to traditional risk factors, it has been shown that the interaction between genetic factors (epistasis) or between genes and the environment potentially have an independent role in the development and progression of LEAD. In recent years, progress has been made in identifying genetic variants associated with LEAD, by Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS), Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) studies, and epigenetic profiling. The aim of this review is to present the current knowledge about the genetic factors involved in the etiopathogenic mechanisms of LEAD, as well as possible directions for future research. We analyzed data from the literature, starting with candidate gene-based association studies, and then continuing with extensive association studies, such as GWAS and WES. The results of these studies showed that the genetic architecture of LEAD is extremely heterogeneous. In the future, the identification of new genetic factors will allow for the development of targeted molecular therapies, and the use of polygenic risk scores (PRS) to identify individuals at an increased risk of LEAD will allow for early prophylactic measures and personalized therapy to improve their prognosis.
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19
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Kotlyarov S. Immune Function of Endothelial Cells: Evolutionary Aspects, Molecular Biology and Role in Atherogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179770. [PMID: 36077168 PMCID: PMC9456046 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is one of the key problems of modern medicine, which is due to the high prevalence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases and their significant share in the structure of morbidity and mortality in many countries. Atherogenesis is a complex chain of events that proceeds over many years in the vascular wall with the participation of various cells. Endothelial cells are key participants in vascular function. They demonstrate involvement in the regulation of vascular hemodynamics, metabolism, and innate immunity, which act as leading links in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. These endothelial functions have close connections and deep evolutionary roots, a better understanding of which will improve the prospects of early diagnosis and effective treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanislav Kotlyarov
- Department of Nursing, Ryazan State Medical University, 390026 Ryazan, Russia
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20
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Huang J, Lan H, Xie C, Wei C, Liu Z, Huang Z, Zhou Z, Chen L. Pramipexole Protects Against Traumatic Brain Injury-Induced Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) Dysfunction. Neurotox Res 2022; 40:1020-1028. [PMID: 35524855 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-022-00495-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a severe disease of brain damage accompanied by blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction. The BBB is composed of brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs), astrocyte terminus, pericytes, and a basement membrane. Tight junction proteins expressed by BMECs play important roles in preserving BBB integrity. Pramipexole is a selective dopamine agonist applied for treating Parkinson's disease and has been recently claimed with neuroprotective capacity. This study will further explore the impact of Pramipexole on tight junctions and BBB integrity to provide the potential treatment strategy for TBI-induced BBB damage. The TBI model was established in mice and was identified by the promoted brain water content, declined Garcia scores, reduced latency of the rotarod test, aggravated pathological changes in the brain cortex, and excessively released inflammatory factors. After treatment with Pramipexole, the neurofunctional deficits, behavioral disability, and aggravated pathological changes were dramatically reversed, accompanied by the alleviated BBB permeability, and upregulated occludin, an important tight junction protein. TBI model cells were established by the scratching bEnd.3 cells method. Cells were stimulated with 10 and 20 μM Pramipexole, followed by exposure to TBI. Increased fluorescence intensity of FITC-dextran, reduced value of TEER, and downregulated occludin and KLF2 were observed in TBI-exposed cells, all of which were greatly reversed by 10 and 20 μM Pramipexole. Furthermore, in KLF2-silenced bEnd.3 cells, the protective ability of Pramipexole against endothelial permeability and the expression level of occludin were dramatically abolished. Collectively, our results suggest that Pramipexole protected against TBI-induced BBB dysfunction by mediating KLF2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junping Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Minzu Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, 530001, Guangxi, China
| | - Huan Lan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Minzu Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, 530001, Guangxi, China
| | - Changji Xie
- Department of Neurosurgery, Minzu Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, 530001, Guangxi, China
| | - Chengcong Wei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Minzu Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, 530001, Guangxi, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Minzu Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, 530001, Guangxi, China
| | - Zhixi Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Minzu Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, 530001, Guangxi, China
| | - Zhiyu Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Minzu Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, 530001, Guangxi, China.
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan, 511500, Guangdong, China.
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