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Yin AC, Holdcraft CJ, Brace EJ, Hellmig TJ, Basu S, Parikh S, Jachimowska K, Kalyoussef E, Roden D, Baredes S, Capitle EM, Suster DI, Shienbaum AJ, Zhao C, Zheng H, Balcaen K, Devos S, Haustraete J, Fatahzadeh M, Goldberg GS. Maackia amurensis seed lectin (MASL) and soluble human podoplanin (shPDPN) sequence analysis and effects on human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell migration and viability. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 710:149881. [PMID: 38583233 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Maackia amurensis lectins serve as research and botanical agents that bind to sialic residues on proteins. For example, M. amurensis seed lectin (MASL) targets the sialic acid modified podoplanin (PDPN) receptor to suppress arthritic chondrocyte inflammation, and inhibit tumor cell growth and motility. However, M. amurensis lectin nomenclature and composition are not clearly defined. Here, we sought to definitively characterize MASL and its effects on tumor cell behavior. We utilized SDS-PAGE and LC-MS/MS to find that M. amurensis lectins can be divided into two groups. MASL is a member of one group which is composed of subunits that form dimers, evidently mediated by a cysteine residue in the carboxy region of the protein. In contrast to MASL, members of the other group do not dimerize under nonreducing conditions. These data also indicate that MASL is composed of 4 isoforms with an identical amino acid sequence, but unique glycosylation sites. We also produced a novel recombinant soluble human PDPN receptor (shPDPN) with 17 threonine residues glycosylated with sialic acid moieties with potential to act as a ligand trap that inhibits OSCC cell growth and motility. In addition, we report here that MASL targets PDPN with very strong binding kinetics in the nanomolar range. Moreover, we confirm that MASL can inhibit the growth and motility of human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells that express the PDPN receptor. Taken together, these data characterize M. amurensis lectins into two major groups based on their intrinsic properties, clarify the composition of MASL and its subunit isoform sequence and glycosylation sites, define sialic acid modifications on the PDPN receptor and its ability to act as a ligand trap, quantitate MASL binding to PDPN with KD in the nanomolar range, and verify the ability of MASL to serve as a potential anticancer agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel C Yin
- Molecular Biology, Rowan Virtua SOM, Rowan University, 2 Medical Center Dr., Stratford, NJ, 08084, USA
| | - Cayla J Holdcraft
- Molecular Biology, Rowan Virtua SOM, Rowan University, 2 Medical Center Dr., Stratford, NJ, 08084, USA
| | - Eamonn J Brace
- Molecular Biology, Rowan Virtua SOM, Rowan University, 2 Medical Center Dr., Stratford, NJ, 08084, USA
| | - Tyler J Hellmig
- Molecular Biology, Rowan Virtua SOM, Rowan University, 2 Medical Center Dr., Stratford, NJ, 08084, USA
| | - Sayan Basu
- Molecular Biology, Rowan Virtua SOM, Rowan University, 2 Medical Center Dr., Stratford, NJ, 08084, USA
| | - Saumil Parikh
- Molecular Biology, Rowan Virtua SOM, Rowan University, 2 Medical Center Dr., Stratford, NJ, 08084, USA
| | - Katarzyna Jachimowska
- Molecular Biology, Rowan Virtua SOM, Rowan University, 2 Medical Center Dr., Stratford, NJ, 08084, USA
| | - Evelyne Kalyoussef
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Ave, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Dylan Roden
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Ave, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Soly Baredes
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Ave, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Eugenio M Capitle
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Ave, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - David I Suster
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Ave, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Alan J Shienbaum
- Keystone Pathology Associates, 781 Keystone Industrial Park Rd, Dunmore, PA, 18512, USA
| | - Caifeng Zhao
- Biological Mass Spectrometry Resources, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Haiyan Zheng
- Biological Mass Spectrometry Resources, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Kevin Balcaen
- VIB Protein Core, VIB, Technologiepark 71, Ghent, Belgium; VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Ghent University, Technologiepark 71, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Simon Devos
- VIB Proteomics Core, VIB, Technologiepark 75, 9000, Ghent, Belgium; VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB, Ghent University, Technologiepark 75, 9000, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Ghent University, Technologiepark 75, 9000, Belgium
| | - Jurgen Haustraete
- VIB Protein Core, VIB, Technologiepark 71, Ghent, Belgium; VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Ghent University, Technologiepark 71, 9000, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Technologiepark 71, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mahnaz Fatahzadeh
- Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, 110 Bergen St, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Gary S Goldberg
- Molecular Biology, Rowan Virtua SOM, Rowan University, 2 Medical Center Dr., Stratford, NJ, 08084, USA.
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Ceci C, Lacal PM, Barbaccia ML, Mercuri NB, Graziani G, Ledonne A. The VEGFs/VEGFRs system in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases: Pathophysiological roles and therapeutic implications. Pharmacol Res 2024; 201:107101. [PMID: 38336311 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their cognate receptors (VEGFRs), besides their well-known involvement in physiological angiogenesis/lymphangiogenesis and in diseases associated to pathological vessel formation, play multifaceted functions in the central nervous system (CNS). In addition to shaping brain development, by controlling cerebral vasculogenesis and regulating neurogenesis as well as astrocyte differentiation, the VEGFs/VEGFRs axis exerts essential functions in the adult brain both in physiological and pathological contexts. In this article, after describing the physiological VEGFs/VEGFRs functions in the CNS, we focus on the VEGFs/VEGFRs involvement in neurodegenerative diseases by reviewing the current literature on the rather complex VEGFs/VEGFRs contribution to the pathogenic mechanisms of Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's (PD) diseases. Thereafter, based on the outcome of VEGFs/VEGFRs targeting in animal models of AD and PD, we discuss the factual relevance of pharmacological VEGFs/VEGFRs modulation as a novel and potential disease-modifying approach for these neurodegenerative pathologies. Specific VEGFRs targeting, aimed at selective VEGFR-1 inhibition, while preserving VEGFR-2 signal transduction, appears as a promising strategy to hit the molecular mechanisms underlying AD pathology. Moreover, therapeutic VEGFs-based approaches can be proposed for PD treatment, with the aim of fine-tuning their brain levels to amplify neurotrophic/neuroprotective effects while limiting an excessive impact on vascular permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Ceci
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Maria Luisa Barbaccia
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Biagio Mercuri
- Neurology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Department of Experimental Neuroscience, Rome, Italy; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Grazia Graziani
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
| | - Ada Ledonne
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Department of Experimental Neuroscience, Rome, Italy; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
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3
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Bojórquez Martínez CA, García Murillo IM, Segón Mora S, López Mereles A. Tetralogy of Fallot: Hypoxia, the villain of the story? Birth Defects Res 2024; 116:e2279. [PMID: 38277413 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tetralogy of Fallot (ToF) is a cyanotic congenital heart disease, composed of four malformations: persistent communication between the right and the left ventricle, pulmonary stenosis, overriding aorta, and right ventricle hypertrophy. The etiology of this disease is not entirely known as yet, but it has been proposed that the pathology has genetic components. During embryonic development, the fetus is exposed to a physiological hypoxia to facilitate the formation of blood vessels and blood cells through de novo processes. METHODS After researching scientific databases on the implications of oxygen on the normal and abnormal development of organs, especially the heart, we were able to propose that oxygen deprivation may be the cause of the disease. RESULTS During this period, the hypoxia-inducible factor is activated and triggers transcriptional responses that enable adaptation to the hypoxic environment through angiogenic activation. High levels of this protein can alter certain physiological pathways, such as those related to the vascular endothelial growth factor. Research has shown that prolonged oxygen deprivation during embryological development can lead to the occurrence of congenital heart diseases, such as ToF. CONCLUSIONS Studies using animal models have demonstrated that the deficiency or disruption of a protein called "CITED2," which plays an important role in cardiac morphogenesis and its loss, results in the alteration of pluripotent, cardiac, and neural lineage differentiation, thereby disrupting the normal development of the heart and other tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Santiago Segón Mora
- Faculty of Medicine, Facultad Mexicana de Medicina-La Salle University, Mexico City, Tlalpan, Mexico
| | - Andrea López Mereles
- Faculty of Medicine, Facultad Mexicana de Medicina-La Salle University, Mexico City, Tlalpan, Mexico
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Li YJ, Wu XF, Wang DD, Li P, Liang H, Hu XY, Gan JQ, Sun YZ, Li JH, Li J, Shu X, Song AL, Yang CY, Yang ZY, Yu WF, Yang LQ, Wang XB, Belguise K, Xia ZY, Yi B. Serum Soluble Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 1 as a Potential Biomarker of Hepatopulmonary Syndrome. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2023; 11:1150-1160. [PMID: 37577229 PMCID: PMC10412700 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2022.00421] [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: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims The results of basic research implicate the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family as a potential target of hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS). However, the negative results of anti-angiogenetic therapy in clinical studies have highlighted the need for markers for HPS. Therefore, we aimed to determine whether VEGF family members and their receptors can be potential biomarkers for HPS through clinical and experimental studies. Methods Clinically, patients with chronic liver disease from two medical centers were enrolled and examined for HPS. Patients were divided into HPS, intrapulmonary vascular dilation [positive contrast-enhanced echocardiography (CEE) and normal oxygenation] and CEE-negative groups. Baseline information and perioperative clinical data were compared between HPS and non-HPS patients. Serum levels of VEGF family members and their receptors were measured. In parallel, HPS rats were established by common bile duct ligation. Liver, lung and serum samples were collected for the evaluation of pathophysiologic changes, as well as the expression levels of the above factors. Results In HPS rats, all VEGF family members and their receptors underwent significant changes; however, only soluble VEGFR1 (sFlt-1) and the sFlt-1/ placental growth factor (PLGF) ratio were changed in almost the same manner as those in HPS patients. Furthermore, through feature selection and internal and external validation, sFlt-1 and the sFlt-1/PLGF ratio were identified as the most important variables to distinguish HPS from non-HPS patients. Conclusions Our results from animal and human studies indicate that sFlt-1 and the sFlt-1/PLGF ratio in serum are potential markers for HPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jie Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Xian-Feng Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Dan-Dan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hao Liang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao-Yan Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jia-Qi Gan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yi-Zhu Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jun-Hong Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Shu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Ai-Lin Song
- Department of Anesthesiology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Chun-Yong Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Zhi-Yong Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Wei-Feng Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-Qun Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Bo Wang
- LBCMCP, Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Karine Belguise
- LBCMCP, Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Zheng-Yuan Xia
- Department of Anesthesiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Bin Yi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
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Ene C, Nicolae I, Ene CD. Angiogenic systemic response to the hypoxic microenvironment in prostate tumorigenesis: A pilot study. Exp Ther Med 2023; 26:483. [PMID: 37753291 PMCID: PMC10518656 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12182] [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: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The present paper aimed to investigate the altered angiogenetic mechanisms in hypoxic conditions in patients with prostate tumours, in correlation with common clinicopathologic variables. A case-control study was developed and included 87 patients with prostate tumours [40 diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and 47 diagnosed with prostate cancer (PCa), using prostate transrectal biopsy] and 40 healthy subjects. The following parameters were evaluated in the serum of volunteers: Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α, fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-2, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9, thrombospondin (TSP)-1 and soluble VEGF-1 receptor. Experimental data analysis demonstrated increasing amounts of inflammation in patients with PCa (IL-6, 18.1±4.7 ng/ml) and BPH (IL-6, 16.3±5.1 ng/ml) vs. control (IL-6, 4.1±1.2 ng/ml); overregulation of HIF1α in patients with PCa (129.3±21.8 ng/ml) compared with patients with BPH (65.6±18.2 ng/ml) and control (61.3±12.7 ng/ml); angiogenesis abnormalities in patients with PCa (upregulation of FGF-2, VEGF, MMP-2 and -9, suppression of TSP-1 and soluble VEGR-1) and BPH (upregulation FGF-2 and VEGF) compared with the control group. In conclusion, a greater understanding of the biological mechanism, the pathological roles and the clinical significance of various proangiogenic parameters and angiogenic-suppressor proteins seem useful in clinical practice for establishing an early diagnosis of prostate pathology and finding an individualized therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cosmin Ene
- Department of Urology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Urology, ‘St. John’ Clinical Hospital of Emergency, 042122 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ilinca Nicolae
- Research Laboratory, ‘Victor Babes’ Clinical Hospital of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, 030303 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Corina Daniela Ene
- Department of Nephrology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Nephrology, ‘Carol Davila’ Clinical Hospital of Nephrology, 010731 Bucharest, Romania
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Domokos A, Varga Z, Jambrovics K, Caballero-Sánchez N, Szabo E, Nagy G, Scholtz B, Halasz L, Varadi E, Bene KP, Mazlo A, Bacsi A, Jeney V, Szebeni GJ, Nagy L, Czimmerer Z. The transcriptional control of the VEGFA-VEGFR1 (FLT1) axis in alternatively polarized murine and human macrophages. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1168635. [PMID: 37215144 PMCID: PMC10192733 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1168635] [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: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Macrophages significantly contribute to the regulation of vessel formation under physiological and pathological conditions. Although the angiogenesis-regulating role of alternatively polarized macrophages is quite controversial, a growing number of evidence shows that they can participate in the later phases of angiogenesis, including vessel sprouting and remodeling or regression. However, the epigenetic and transcriptional regulatory mechanisms controlling this angiogenesis-modulating program are not fully understood. Results Here we show that IL-4 can coordinately regulate the VEGFA-VEGFR1 (FLT1) axis via simultaneously inhibiting the proangiogenic Vegfa and inducing the antiangiogenic Flt1 expression in murine bone marrow-derived macrophages, which leads to the attenuated proangiogenic activity of alternatively polarized macrophages. The IL-4-activated STAT6 and IL-4-STAT6 signaling pathway-induced EGR2 transcription factors play a direct role in the transcriptional regulation of the Vegfa-Flt1 axis. We demonstrated that this phenomenon is not restricted to the murine bone marrow-derived macrophages, but can also be observed in different murine tissue-resident macrophages ex vivo and parasites-elicited macrophages in vivo with minor cell type-specific differences. Furthermore, IL-4 exposure can modulate the hypoxic response of genes in both murine and human macrophages leading to a blunted Vegfa/VEGFA and synergistically induced Flt1/FLT1 expression. Discussion Our findings establish that the IL-4-activated epigenetic and transcriptional program can determine angiogenesis-regulating properties in alternatively polarized macrophages under normoxic and hypoxic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apolka Domokos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Molecular Cell and Immune Biology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zsofia Varga
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Eotvos Lorand Research Network, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Karoly Jambrovics
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Noemí Caballero-Sánchez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Molecular Cell and Immune Biology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Eniko Szabo
- Laboratory of Functional Genomics, Biological Research Centre Eotvos Lorand Research Network, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gergely Nagy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Beata Scholtz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Laszlo Halasz
- Departments of Medicine and Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
| | - Eszter Varadi
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Eotvos Lorand Research Network, Szeged, Hungary
- Doctoral School in Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Krisztian P. Bene
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Anett Mazlo
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Attila Bacsi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- ELKH-DE Allergology Research Group, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Viktoria Jeney
- MTA-DE Lendület Vascular Pathophysiology Research Group, Research Centre for Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gabor J. Szebeni
- Laboratory of Functional Genomics, Biological Research Centre Eotvos Lorand Research Network, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Laszlo Nagy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Departments of Medicine and Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
| | - Zsolt Czimmerer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Eotvos Lorand Research Network, Szeged, Hungary
- Department of Immunology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
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Dines V, Suvakov S, Kattah A, Vermunt J, Narang K, Jayachandran M, Abou Hassan C, Norby AM, Garovic VD. Preeclampsia and the Kidney: Pathophysiology and Clinical Implications. Compr Physiol 2023; 13:4231-4267. [PMID: 36715282 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c210051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia and other hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are major contributors to maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. This group of disorders includes chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, preeclampsia superimposed on chronic hypertension, and eclampsia. The body undergoes important physiological changes during pregnancy to allow for normal placental and fetal development. Several mechanisms have been proposed that may lead to preeclampsia, including abnormal placentation and placental hypoxia, impaired angiogenesis, excessive pro-inflammatory response, immune system imbalance, abnormalities of cellular senescence, alterations in regulation and activity of angiotensin II, and oxidative stress, ultimately resulting in upregulation of multiple mediators of endothelial cell dysfunction leading to maternal disease. The clinical implications of preeclampsia are significant as there are important short-term and long-term health consequences for those affected. Preeclampsia leads to increased risk of preterm delivery and increased morbidity and mortality of both the developing fetus and mother. Preeclampsia also commonly leads to acute kidney injury, and women who experience preeclampsia or another hypertensive disorder of pregnancy are at increased lifetime risk of chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. An understanding of normal pregnancy physiology and the pathophysiology of preeclampsia is essential to develop novel treatment approaches and manage patients with preeclampsia and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. © 2023 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 13:4231-4267, 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Dines
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sonja Suvakov
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Andrea Kattah
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jane Vermunt
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kavita Narang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Coline Abou Hassan
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Alexander M Norby
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Vesna D Garovic
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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8
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The VEGF/VEGFR Axis Revisited: Implications for Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415585. [PMID: 36555234 PMCID: PMC9779738 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) axis is indispensable in the process of angiogenesis and has been implicated as a key driver of tumor vascularization. Consequently, several strategies that target VEGF and its cognate receptors, VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, have been designed to treat cancer. While therapies targeting full-length VEGF have resulted in an improvement in both overall survival and progression-free survival in various cancers, these benefits have been modest. In addition, the inhibition of VEGFRs is associated with undesirable off-target effects. Moreover, VEGF splice variants that modulate sprouting and non-sprouting angiogenesis have been identified in recent years. Cues within the tumor microenvironment determine the expression patterns of these variants. Noteworthy is that the mechanisms of action of these variants challenge the established norm of VEGF signaling. Furthermore, the aberrant expression of some of these variants has been observed in several cancers. Herein, developments in the understanding of the VEGF/VEGFR axis and the splice products of these molecules, as well as the environmental cues that regulate these variants are reviewed. Furthermore, strategies that incorporate the targeting of VEGF variants to enhance the effectiveness of antiangiogenic therapies in the clinical setting are discussed.
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9
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The Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 1 (VEGFR-1) D16F7 Monoclonal Antibody Inhibits Melanoma Adhesion to Soluble VEGFR-1 and Tissue Invasion in Response to Placenta Growth Factor. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14225578. [PMID: 36428669 PMCID: PMC9688925 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14225578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Placenta growth factor (PlGF) is a member of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family involved in tumor-associated angiogenesis and melanoma invasion of the extra-cellular matrix (ECM) through activation of membrane VEGF receptor 1 (VEGFR-1). A soluble VEGFR-1 (sVEGFR-1) form is released in the ECM, where it sequesters proangiogenic factors and stimulates endothelial or tumor cell adhesion and chemotaxis through interaction with α5β1 integrin. The anti-VEGFR-1 monoclonal antibody (D16F7 mAb) inhibits VEGF-A or PlGF-mediated signal transduction without affecting ligand interaction, thus preserving sVEGFR-1 decoy function. The aim of this study was to investigate whether D16F7 mAb hampers melanoma spread by in vitro analysis of cell adhesion to sVEGFR-1, ECM invasion, transmigration through an endothelial cell monolayer and in vivo evaluation of tumor infiltrative potential in a syngeneic murine model. Results indicate that D16F7 mAb significantly inhibits melanoma adhesion to sVEGFR-1 and ECM invasion, as well as transmigration in response to PlGF. Moreover, treatment of melanoma-bearing mice with the anti-VEGFR-1 mAb not only inhibits tumor growth but also induces a significant reduction in bone infiltration associated with a decrease in PlGF-positive melanoma cells. Furthermore, D16F7 mAb reduces PlGF production by melanoma cells. Therefore, blockade of PLGF/VEGFR-1 signaling represents a suitable strategy to counteract the metastatic potential of melanoma.
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Chauhan MZ, Rather PA, Samarah SM, Elhusseiny AM, Sallam AB. Current and Novel Therapeutic Approaches for Treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema. Cells 2022; 11:cells11121950. [PMID: 35741079 PMCID: PMC9221813 DOI: 10.3390/cells11121950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a major ocular complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), leading to significant visual impairment. DME’s pathogenesis is multifactorial. Focal edema tends to occur when primary metabolic abnormalities lead to a persistent hyperglycemic state, causing the development of microaneurysms, often with extravascular lipoprotein in a circinate pattern around the focal leakage. On the other hand, diffusion edema is due to a generalized breakdown of the inner blood–retinal barrier, leading to profuse early leakage from the entire capillary bed of the posterior pole with the subsequent extravasation of fluid into the extracellular space. The pathogenesis of DME occurs through the interaction of multiple molecular mediators, including the overexpression of several growth factors, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), insulin-like growth factor-1, angiopoietin-1, and -2, stromal-derived factor-1, fibroblast growth factor-2, and tumor necrosis factor. Synergistically, these growth factors mediate angiogenesis, protease production, endothelial cell proliferation, and migration. Treatment for DME generally involves primary management of DM, laser photocoagulation, and pharmacotherapeutics targeting mediators, namely, the anti-VEGF pathway. The emergence of anti-VEGF therapies has resulted in significant clinical improvements compared to laser therapy alone. However, multiple factors influencing the visual outcome after anti-VEGF treatment and the presence of anti-VEGF non-responders have necessitated the development of new pharmacotherapies. In this review, we explore the pathophysiology of DME and current management strategies. In addition, we provide a comprehensive analysis of emerging therapeutic approaches to the treatment of DME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Z. Chauhan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvey and Bernice Jones Eye Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA; (M.Z.C.); (P.A.R.); (S.M.S.); (A.M.E.)
- Miami Integrative Metabolomics Research Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Peyton A. Rather
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvey and Bernice Jones Eye Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA; (M.Z.C.); (P.A.R.); (S.M.S.); (A.M.E.)
| | - Sajida M. Samarah
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvey and Bernice Jones Eye Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA; (M.Z.C.); (P.A.R.); (S.M.S.); (A.M.E.)
| | - Abdelrahman M. Elhusseiny
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvey and Bernice Jones Eye Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA; (M.Z.C.); (P.A.R.); (S.M.S.); (A.M.E.)
| | - Ahmed B. Sallam
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvey and Bernice Jones Eye Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA; (M.Z.C.); (P.A.R.); (S.M.S.); (A.M.E.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +501-686-5822; Fax: +501-686-7037
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11
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Berardi C, Bluemke DA, Houston BA, Kolb TM, Lima JA, Pezel T, Tedford RJ, Rayner SG, Cheng RK, Leary PJ. Association of soluble Flt-1 with heart failure and cardiac morphology: The MESA angiogenesis study. J Heart Lung Transplant 2022; 41:619-625. [PMID: 35184966 PMCID: PMC9038636 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2022.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1) may inhibit angiogenesis. Higher levels of sFlt-1 are associated with worse prognosis in prevalent heart failure patients. The aim of this study was to better understand the role of sFlt-1 in heart failure pathogenesis by characterizing relationships between sFlt-1, cardiac morphology, and the composite outcome of incident heart failure or cardiovascular (CV) death in in a multiethnic cohort free of CV disease at baseline. METHODS sFlt-1 was measured in 1,381 participants in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis Angiogenesis sub-study. Linear regression was used to estimate the association between sFlt-1 and cardiac morphology and Cox proportional hazard regression was used to estimate associations with incident heart failure or CV mortality. RESULTS Over a median follow-up of 13.1 years, higher sFlt-1 levels were associated with incident heart failure or CV mortality independent from CV risk factors or NT-proBNP levels (HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.10-1.26, p < 0.001). Higher sFlt-1 levels were also associated with greater baseline left ventricular (LV) mass by cardiac MRI and increased loss of LV mass over the 10 years following the baseline exam (p-value 0.02 for each), but this association was no longer statistically significant after adjustment for baseline NT-proBNP (p = 0.11 and 0.10 respectively). CONCLUSIONS Baseline sFlt-1 levels are associated with incident heart failure and cardiovascular mortality independent of traditional CV risk factors or NT-proBNP. An association was also found with cardiac mass but was no longer significant after adjustment for NT-proBNP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Berardi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - David A Bluemke
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Brian A Houston
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Todd M Kolb
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - João A Lima
- Departments of Medicine and Radiology, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Theo Pezel
- Departments of Medicine and Radiology, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ryan J Tedford
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Samuel G Rayner
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Richard K Cheng
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Peter J Leary
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
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12
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The Role of Urinary VEGF in Observational Studies of BPS/IC Patients: A Systematic Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12051037. [PMID: 35626193 PMCID: PMC9139518 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12051037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC) is a chronic pain condition, often underdiagnosed, with an important impact on patient quality of life. More recently, an association between VEGF and its receptors has been suggested in BPS/IC pathophysiology, due to their role in promoting angiogenesis and inflammation, which can enhance bladder pain. Eventually, VEGF may be used as a biomarker for the diagnosis and prognostication of BPS/IC. To further clarify this issue, this review aims to critically summarize the available information, giving rise to a solid starting point for future studies. Methods: We systematically searched PubMed and Embase, using the queries “urinary VEGF”, “urinary VEGF” AND “pain”, “urinary VEGF” AND “lower urinary tract symptoms” and “urinary VEGF” AND “LUTS” from January 2016 to February 2022. Results: A total of 1026 papers were identified from which 7 articles were included in this study, which assessed 1036 participants. Regarding VEGF levels, overactive bladder (OAB) and healthy patients were used for comparison with BPS/IC patients. VEGF concentration seems to be higher when compared to healthy patients and overactive bladder (OAB) patients. Higher levels of VEGF were associated with pain severity, while a decrease in VEGF concentration was associated with pain and symptom improvement in women. However, these findings were not constant in all studies. Conclusions: There is a trend toward a relevant association between increased VEGF levels and pain or symptom severity in BPS/IC patients. Although there are some discrepancies among the studies and the number of patients included is small, VEGF and its receptors should be considered for future studies regarding its use in BPS/IC pathophysiology, diagnosis and prognostication.
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13
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Man AWC, Zhou Y, Lam UDP, Reifenberg G, Werner A, Habermeier A, Closs EI, Daiber A, Münzel T, Xia N, Li H. L-citrulline ameliorates pathophysiology in a rat model of superimposed preeclampsia. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:3007-3023. [PMID: 34935131 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Preeclampsia, characterized by hypertension, proteinuria, and fetal growth restriction, is one of the leading causes of maternal and perinatal mortality. By far, there is no effective pharmacological therapy for preeclampsia. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of L-citrulline supplementation in Dahl salt-sensitive rat, a model of superimposed preeclampsia. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Parental DSSR were treated with L-citrulline (2.5 g/L in drinking water) from the day of mating to the end of lactation period. Blood pressure of the rats was monitored throughout pregnancy and markers of preeclampsia were assessed. Endothelial function of the pregnant DSSR was assessed by wire myograph. KEY RESULTS L-citrulline supplementation significantly reduced maternal blood pressure, proteinuria, and levels of circulating soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 in DSSR. L-citrulline improved maternal endothelial function by augmenting the production of nitric oxide in the aorta and improving endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-mediated vasorelaxation in resistance arteries. L-citrulline supplementation improved placental insufficiency and fetal growth, which were associated with an enhancement of angiogenesis and reduction of fibrosis and senescence in the placentas. In addition, L-citrulline downregulated genes involved in the toll-like receptor 4 and nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS This study shows that L-citrulline supplementation reduces gestational hypertension, improves placentation and fetal growth in a rat model of superimposed preeclampsia. L-citrulline supplementation may represent an effective and safe therapeutic strategy for preeclampsia that benefit both the mother and the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy W C Man
- Department of Pharmacology, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Yawen Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Uyen D P Lam
- Department of Pharmacology, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany.,Biomedical Research Center, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Gisela Reifenberg
- Department of Pharmacology, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Anke Werner
- Department of Pharmacology, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Alice Habermeier
- Department of Pharmacology, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ellen I Closs
- Department of Pharmacology, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Andreas Daiber
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiology I, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine-Main, Mainz, Germany
| | - Thomas Münzel
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiology I, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine-Main, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ning Xia
- Department of Pharmacology, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Huige Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine-Main, Mainz, Germany
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14
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Li W, Liu S, Li Y, Wang W, Dong Y, Qi L, Ren J, Zhang J. Association between serum placental growth factor and vascular endothelial function in hyprtensive disorders complicating pregnancy. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2021; 247:480-487. [PMID: 34904900 DOI: 10.1177/15353702211063833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertensive disorders complicating pregnancy (HDCP) is a systemic disease among pregnant women. Therefore, the prevention and prediction of hypertension during pregnancy are critical. This study aimed to clarify whether the vascular endothelial function of women with gestational hypertension was linked to placental growth factor. A total of 200 pregnant women were enrolled in our study and subsequently divided into two groups: the HDCP group and the normal pregnancy controls. The levels of serum placental growth factor, as well as plasma endothelin-1 and nitric oxide, between the two groups were measured. In addition, the endothelial function indexes, including pressure-strain elasticity coefficient (EP), the common carotid stiffness index (β), arterial compliance, single-point pulsed-wave velocity, and augment index (AI) of bilateral common carotid arteries, were compared between the HDCP and control groups using the echo tracking technique. In our study, the level of placental growth factor in the HDCP group was significantly lower than the control group. Furthermore, our results clarified that endothelin-1 increased while nitric oxide decreased in the HDCP group compared with the control group. On the other hand, we found that EP, β, pulsed-wave velocity and augment index values were significantly higher in the HDCP group than in the control group (P < 0.001). However, the value of arterial compliance was significantly decreased in patients of the HDCP group compared with the control group (P < 0.001). In conclusion, the association between serum placental growth factor and vascular endothelial function in HDCP could serve as a more accurate predictive factor of pregnant hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiling Li
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Shijiazhuang Fourth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province 050031, China
| | - Shasha Liu
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Shijiazhuang Fourth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province 050031, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Shijiazhuang Fourth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province 050031, China
| | - Weijing Wang
- Department of Diagnostic Ultrasound, Shijiazhuang Fourth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province 050031, China
| | - Yiming Dong
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Shijiazhuang Fourth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province 050031, China
| | - Lin Qi
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Shijiazhuang Fourth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province 050031, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of Obstetrics, Shijiazhuang Fourth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province 050031, China
| | - Jiefang Zhang
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Shijiazhuang Fourth Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province 050031, China
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15
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Mesenchymal stem cell therapy attenuates complement C3 deposition and improves the delicate equilibrium between angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors in abortion-prone mice. Mol Immunol 2021; 141:246-256. [PMID: 34875452 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2021.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Immunological disorders are one of the main causes of recurrent spontaneous abortions (RSA). A rapidly expanding body of evidence indicates that excessive activation of the complement system is critically involved in the development of miscarriages. In the CBA/J × DBA/2 murine model of recurrent miscarriage, exaggerated and unrestrained complement activation is reported to be the underlying cause of angiogenic factor imbalance and persistent inflammation. We have previously shown that mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy can significantly reduce the abortion rate in abortion-prone mice through regulating the feto-maternal immune response. In the present study, we hypothesized that MSCs might improve the balance of angiogenic factors at the feto-maternal unit of CBA/J × DBA/2 mice by restraining complement activation and deposition. To explore this hypothesis, autologous adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) were administered intra-peritoneally to abortion-prone mice on the 4.5th day of gestation. Control mice received PBS as vehicle. On day 13.5 of pregnancy, deposition of the complement component C3 and expression levels of Crry, CFD (adipsin), VEGF, PlGF and FLT-1 were measured at the feto-maternal interface by immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR, respectively. Decidual cells were also cultured in RPMI 1640 medium for 48 h and VEGF and sFLT-1 protein levels were quantified in supernatants using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Our results indicated that MSC therapy significantly reduced C3 deposition and adipsin transcription in the fetal-maternal interface of abortion-prone mice. Furthermore, administration of MSCs robustly upregulated the mRNA expression levels of Crry, VEGF, PlGF and FLT-1 in the placenta and decidua of CBA/J × DBA/2 mice. Consistently, the in vitro results demonstrated that decidual cells obtained from MSC-treated dams produced increased concentrations of VEGF in culture supernatants, with concomitant decreased levels of sFLT-1 protein. Here, we show for the first time that adoptive transfer of MSCs rectifies the disturbed balance of angiogenic factors observed at the feto-maternal unit of CBA/J × DBA/2 mice, in part at least, through inhibiting excessive complement activation and promoting the production of angiogenic factors. Collectively, these alterations seem to play a pivotal role in reducing the abortion rate and improving the intrauterine condition for the benefit of the fetus.
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16
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Kong X, Bu J, Chen J, Ni B, Fu B, Zhou F, Pang S, Zhang J, Xu S, He C. PIGF and Flt-1 on the surface of macrophages induces the production of TGF-β1 by polarized tumor-associated macrophages to promote lung cancer angiogenesis. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 912:174550. [PMID: 34610279 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The interaction between tumor cells and tumor microenvironment is a necessary condition for promoting the metastasis of malignant tumors. METHODS Two different transwell culture systems were interfered with by recombinant factor placental growth factor (re-PIGF) and the re-PIGF + transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-neutralizing antibody (anti-TGF-β1). We performed immunofluorescence, flow cytometry and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to analyze the expression of PIGF, fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (Flt-1), macrophage marker F4/80 +, macrophage M2 marker CD163+ and TGF-β1 in vitro. Meanwhile, cell viability assay and optical microscope assay were conducted to explore the cell viability and vascularization ability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). RESULTS Re-PIGF increased the expression of PIGF in A549 cells and the expression of Flt-1 in BM-Mac cells, and significantly enhanced the ability of bone marrow-derived macrophages (BM-Mac) to transform into macrophages. At the same time, re-PIGF increased the expression of cytokine TGF-β1 in A549 cells/BM-Mac transwell culture system. On the contrary, re-PIGF + anti-TGF-β1 inhibited the expression of Flt-1 in BM-Mac cells and inhibited the ability of BM-Mac cells to transform into macrophages. Finally, re-PIGF + anti-TGF-β1 reduced the cell viability and angiogenesis of HUVECs. CONCLUSION The surface molecule PIGF of lung cancer cells could bind to the receptor Flt-1 on the surface of macrophages, thereby increasing the production of TGF-β1, and ultimately promoting the formation of angiogenesis in lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianglong Kong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jianlong Bu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Junhui Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Boxiong Ni
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Bicheng Fu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Fucheng Zhou
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Sainan Pang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Shidong Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Changjun He
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150086, Heilongjiang, China.
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Khosla K, Heimberger S, Nieman KM, Tung A, Shahul S, Staff AC, Rana S. Long-Term Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Women After Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: Recent Advances in Hypertension. Hypertension 2021; 78:927-935. [PMID: 34397272 PMCID: PMC8678921 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.121.16506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Patients with a history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) suffer higher rates of long-term cardiovascular events including heart failure, coronary artery disease, and stroke. Cardiovascular changes during pregnancy can act as a natural stress test, subsequently unmasking latent cardiovascular disease in the form of HDP. Because HDP now affect 10% of pregnancies in the United States, the American Heart Association has called for physicians who provide peripartum care to promote early identification and cardiovascular risk reduction. In this review, we discuss the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and outcomes of HDP-associated cardiovascular disease. In addition, we propose a multi-pronged approach to support cardiovascular risk reduction for women with a history of HDP. Additional research is warranted to define appropriate blood pressure targets in the postpartum period, optimize the use of pregnancy history in risk stratification tools, and clarify the effectiveness of preventive interventions. The highest rates of HDP are in populations with poor access to resources and quality health care, making it a major risk for inequity of care. Interventions to decrease long-term cardiovascular disease risk in women following HDP must also target disparity reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavia Khosla
- University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, IL (K.K., S.H.)
| | - Sarah Heimberger
- University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, IL (K.K., S.H.)
| | | | - Avery Tung
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care (A.T., S.S.), University of Chicago, IL
| | - Sajid Shahul
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care (A.T., S.S.), University of Chicago, IL
| | - Anne Cathrine Staff
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.)
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Norway (A.C.S.)
| | - Sarosh Rana
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (S.R.), University of Chicago, IL
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18
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Cornelius VA, Fulton JR, Margariti A. Alternative Splicing: A Key Mediator of Diabetic Vasculopathy. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:1332. [PMID: 34573314 PMCID: PMC8469645 DOI: 10.3390/genes12091332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death amongst diabetic individuals. Atherosclerosis is the prominent driver of diabetic vascular complications, which is triggered by the detrimental effects of hyperglycemia and oxidative stress on the vasculature. Research has extensively shown diabetes to result in the malfunction of the endothelium, the main component of blood vessels, causing severe vascular complications. The pathogenic mechanism in which diabetes induces vascular dysfunction, however, remains largely unclear. Alternative splicing of protein coding pre-mRNAs is an essential regulatory mechanism of gene expression and is accepted to be intertwined with cellular physiology. Recently, a role for alternative splicing has arisen within vascular health, with aberrant mis-splicing having a critical role in disease development, including in atherosclerosis. This review focuses on the current knowledge of alternative splicing and the roles of alternatively spliced isoforms within the vasculature, with a particular focus on disease states. Furthermore, we explore the recent elucidation of the alternatively spliced QKI gene within vascular cell physiology and the onset of diabetic vasculopathy. Potential therapeutic strategies to restore aberrant splicing are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andriana Margariti
- The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute of Experimental Medicine, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (V.A.C.); (J.R.F.)
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19
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Wewers TM, Schulz A, Nolte I, Pavenstädt H, Brand M, Di Marco GS. Circulating Soluble Fms-like Tyrosine Kinase in Renal Diseases Other than Preeclampsia. J Am Soc Nephrol 2021; 32:1853-1863. [PMID: 34155060 PMCID: PMC8455271 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2020111579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase (sFlt-1/sVEGFR1) is a naturally occurring antagonist of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Despite being a secreted, soluble protein lacking cytoplasmic and transmembrane domains, sFlt-1 can act locally and be protective against excessive microenvironmental VEGF concentration or exert autocrine functions independently of VEGF. Circulating sFlt-1 may indiscriminately affect endothelial function and the microvasculature of distant target organs. The clinical significance of excess sFlt-1 in kidney disease was first shown in preeclampsia, a major renal complication of pregnancy. However, circulating sFlt-1 levels appear to be increased in various diseases with varying degrees of renal impairment. Relevant clinical associations between circulating sFlt-1 and severe outcomes (e.g., endothelial dysfunction, renal impairment, cardiovascular disease, and all-cause mortality) have been observed in patients with CKD and after kidney transplantation. However, sFlt-1 appears to be protective against renal dysfunction-associated aggravation of atherosclerosis and diabetic nephropathy. Therefore, in this study, we provide an update on sFlt-1 in several kidney diseases other than preeclampsia, discuss clinical findings and experimental studies, and briefly consider its use in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa M. Wewers
- Department of Internal Medicine D, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany,Small Animal Hospital, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Annika Schulz
- Department of Internal Medicine D, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Ingo Nolte
- Small Animal Hospital, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Hermann Pavenstädt
- Department of Internal Medicine D, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Marcus Brand
- Department of Internal Medicine D, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Giovana S. Di Marco
- Department of Internal Medicine D, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany,Correspondence: Giovana S. Di Marco, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building A14, 48149 Münster, Germany.
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20
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Kwiatkowski S, Bednarek-Jędrzejek M, Kwiatkowska E, Cymbaluk-Płoska A, Torbè A. Diagnosis of placental insufficiency independently of clinical presentations using sFlt-1/PLGF ratio, including SGA patients. Pregnancy Hypertens 2021; 25:244-248. [PMID: 34315130 DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2021.07.245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Angiogenic markers (sFLt1 and PlGF) are altered in preeclampsia and related placental insufficiency syndromes. The utility of these markers in various types of placental insufficiency is still not well known. AIMS We analyzed blood specimens from 918 women with suspected or confirmed preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome, abruptio placenta, SGA, gestational hypertension for angiogenic markers - sFLT1, PlGF, sFlT1/PlGF ratios and studied them at various gestational windows. RESULTS sFlt-1/PLGF ratio shows high sensitivity and specificity in all placental insufficiency cases independent of clinical forms below 34 weeks (AUC 0.964 respectively 0.834 34-37 weeks' and 0.843 >37 weeks). In preeclampsia or HELLP, they maintain a high specificity and sensitivity also after 34 weeks of gestation. SGA prior to 34 weeks' gestation displayed severe placental angiogenesis disorders, with their share amounting to 78%. After 34 weeks, this share dropped to only slightly above 50%, and after the 37th week, a mere 38%. CONCLUSIONS Placental angiogenesis markers may be useful in diagnosing many forms of placental ischemia syndromes, particularly when the disease presents early in gestation. In late-onset SGA cases, assessment of the diagnostic value of angiogenesis markers requires further analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Kwiatkowski
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland.
| | | | - Ewa Kwiatkowska
- Department of Nephrology, Transplantology and Internal Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Aneta Cymbaluk-Płoska
- Department of Gynecological Surgery and Gynecological Oncology of Adults and Adolescents, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Andrzej Torbè
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
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21
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The role of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1alpha and its signaling in melanoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 141:111873. [PMID: 34225012 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Adaptation to the loss of O2 is regulated via the activity of hypoxia-inducible factors such as Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1 (HIF-1). HIF-1 acts as a main transcriptional mediator in the tissue hypoxia response that regulates over 1000 genes related to low oxygen tension. The role of HIF-1α in oncogenic processes includes angiogenesis, tumor metabolism, cell proliferation, and metastasis, which has been examined in various malignancies, such as melanoma. Melanoma is accompanied by a high death rate and a cancer type whose incidence has risen over the last decades. The linkage between O2 loss and melanogenesis had extensively studied over decades. Recent studies revealed that HIF-1α contributes to melanoma progression via different signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt/mTOR, RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK, JAK/STAT, Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, and NF-κB. Also, various microRNAs (miRs) are known to mediate the HIF-1α role in melanoma. Therefore, HIF-1α offers a diagnostic/prognostic biomarker and a candidate for targeted therapy in melanoma.
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22
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ShamsEldeen AM, Mehesen MN, Aboulhoda BE, Rashed LA, Elsebaie MM, Mohamed EA, Gamal MM. Prenatal intake of omega-3 promotes Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, and preserves integrity of the blood-brain barrier in preeclamptic rats. Physiol Rep 2021; 9:e14925. [PMID: 34174018 PMCID: PMC8234480 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.14925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preeclampsia is a systemic, multi-organ endotheliopathy, associated with oxidative injury to the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Preeclampsia initiates a cascade of events that include neuroinflammation. Recently, it was documented that Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway exerts neuroprotective effects and maintain BBB integrity. We investigate the protective effect of omega-3 against neurovascular complication of preeclampsia and its relation to Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. METHODOLOGY After confirmation of day 0 pregnancy (G0), 24 adult pregnant female Wistar rats were divided into four groups control pregnant, pregnant supplemented with omega-3, preeclampsia (PE); female rats received N (ω)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) (50 mg/kg/day SC from day 7 to day 16 of pregnancy for induction of preeclampsia) and PE rats supplemented with omega-3. The intake of omega-3 started on day zero (0) of pregnancy until the end of the study (144 mg/kg\day orally). RESULTS We found that omega-3 supplementation significantly improved cognitive functions and EEG amplitude, decreased blood pressure, water contents of brain tissues, sFlt-1, oxidative stress, proteinuria, and enhanced Wnt\β-catenin proteins. Histological examination showed improved cerebral microangiopathy, increased expression of claudin-1 and -3, CD31, and VEGF in the cerebral cortical microvasculature and choroid plexus in PE rats treated with omega-3. A positive correlation between protein expression level of Wnt \β-catenin and cognitive functions, and a negative correlation between claudin-5 relative expression, claudin-1 and -3 area % from one side and water content of the brain tissues from the other side were observed. CONCLUSION Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway suspected to have an important role to improve BBB integrity. Neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 were observed and can be suggested as protective supplementation for preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marwa Nagi Mehesen
- Department of Medical PharmacologyFaculty of MedicineCairo UniversityCairoEgypt
| | - Basma Emad Aboulhoda
- Department of Anatomy and EmbryologyFaculty of MedicineCairo UniversityCairoEgypt
| | - Laila Ahmed Rashed
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFaculty of MedicineCairo UniversityCairoEgypt
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23
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Nasry WHS, Martin CK. Intersecting Mechanisms of Hypoxia and Prostaglandin E2-Mediated Inflammation in the Comparative Biology of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:539361. [PMID: 34094895 PMCID: PMC8175905 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.539361] [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: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The importance of inflammation in the pathogenesis of cancer was first proposed by Rudolph Virchow over 150 years ago, and our understanding of its significance has grown over decades of biomedical research. The arachidonic acid pathway of inflammation, including cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, PGE2 synthase enzymes, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and PGE2 receptors has been extensively studied and has been associated with different diseases and different types of cancers, including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). In addition to inflammation in the tumour microenvironment, low oxygen levels (hypoxia) within tumours have also been shown to contribute to tumour progression. Understandably, most of our OSCC knowledge comes from study of this aggressive cancer in human patients and in experimental rodent models. However, domestic animals develop OSCC spontaneously and this is an important, and difficult to treat, form of cancer in veterinary medicine. The primary goal of this review article is to explore the available evidence regarding interaction between hypoxia and the arachidonic acid pathway of inflammation during malignant behaviour of OSCC. Overlapping mechanisms in hypoxia and inflammation can contribute to tumour growth, angiogenesis, and, importantly, resistance to therapy. The benefits and controversies of anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic therapies for human and animal OSCC patients will be discussed, including conventional pharmaceutical agents as well as natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walaa Hamed Shaker Nasry
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PEI, Canada
| | - Chelsea K Martin
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PEI, Canada
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24
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Koponen S, Kokki E, Kinnunen K, Ylä-Herttuala S. Viral-Vector-Delivered Anti-Angiogenic Therapies to the Eye. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13020219. [PMID: 33562561 PMCID: PMC7915489 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13020219] [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: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathological vessel growth harms vision and may finally lead to vision loss. Anti-angiogenic gene therapy with viral vectors for ocular neovascularization has shown great promise in preclinical studies. Most of the studies have been conducted with different adeno-associated serotype vectors. In addition, adeno- and lentivirus vectors have been used. Therapy has been targeted towards blocking vascular endothelial growth factors or other pro-angiogenic factors. Clinical trials of intraocular gene therapy for neovascularization have shown the treatment to be safe without severe adverse events or systemic effects. Nevertheless, clinical studies have not proceeded further than Phase 2 trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanna Koponen
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (S.K.); (E.K.)
| | - Emmi Kokki
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (S.K.); (E.K.)
| | - Kati Kinnunen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kuopio University Hospital, 70211 Kuopio, Finland;
| | - Seppo Ylä-Herttuala
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (S.K.); (E.K.)
- Gene Therapy Unit, Kuopio University Hospital, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +358-403-552-075
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25
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Zhang J, Luo C, Lei M, Shi Z, Cheng X, Wang L, Shen M, Zhang Y, Zhao M, Wang L, Zhang S, Mao F, Zhang J, Xu Q, Han S, Zhang Q. Development and Validation of a Nomogram for Predicting Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Very-Low-Birth-Weight Infants. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:648828. [PMID: 33816409 PMCID: PMC8017311 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.648828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia is a common pulmonary disease in newborns and is one of the main causes of death. The aim of this study was to build a new simple-to-use nomogram to screen high-risk populations. Methods: In this single-center retrospective study performed from January 2017 to December 2020, we reviewed data on very-low-birth-weight infants whose gestational ages were below 32 weeks. LASSO regression was used to select variables for the risk model. Then, we used multivariable logistic regression to build the prediction model incorporating these selected features. Discrimination was assessed by the C-index, and and calibration of the model was assessed by and calibration curve and the Hosmer-Lemeshow test. Results: The LASSO regression identified gestational age, duration of ventilation and serum NT-proBNP in the 1st week as significant predictors of BPD. The nomogram-illustrated model showed good discrimination and calibration. The C-index was 0.853 (95% CI: 0.851-0.854) in the training set and 0.855 (95% CI: 0.77-0.94) in the validation set. The calibration curve and Hosmer-Lemeshow test results showed good calibration between the predictions of the nomogram and the actual observations. Conclusion: We demonstrated a simple-to-use nomogram for predicting BPD in the early stage. It may help clinicians recognize high-risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingdi Zhang
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chenghan Luo
- Orthopedics Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mengyuan Lei
- Health Care Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zanyang Shi
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xinru Cheng
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lili Wang
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Min Shen
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yixia Zhang
- Children Health Care Department, Children's Hospital Affiliated of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Min Zhao
- Medical Record Management Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Li Wang
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shanshan Zhang
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Fengxia Mao
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ju Zhang
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qianya Xu
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Suge Han
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Di Matteo A, Belloni E, Pradella D, Cappelletto A, Volf N, Zacchigna S, Ghigna C. Alternative splicing in endothelial cells: novel therapeutic opportunities in cancer angiogenesis. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2020; 39:275. [PMID: 33287867 PMCID: PMC7720527 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-01753-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alternative splicing (AS) is a pervasive molecular process generating multiple protein isoforms, from a single gene. It plays fundamental roles during development, differentiation and maintenance of tissue homeostasis, while aberrant AS is considered a hallmark of multiple diseases, including cancer. Cancer-restricted AS isoforms represent either predictive biomarkers for diagnosis/prognosis or targets for anti-cancer therapies. Here, we discuss the contribution of AS regulation in cancer angiogenesis, a complex process supporting disease development and progression. We consider AS programs acting in a specific and non-redundant manner to influence morphological and functional changes involved in cancer angiogenesis. In particular, we describe relevant AS variants or splicing regulators controlling either secreted or membrane-bound angiogenic factors, which may represent attractive targets for therapeutic interventions in human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Di Matteo
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare, "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elisa Belloni
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare, "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Davide Pradella
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare, "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ambra Cappelletto
- Cardiovascular Biology Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Nina Volf
- Cardiovascular Biology Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Serena Zacchigna
- Cardiovascular Biology Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), 34149, Trieste, Italy. .,Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Claudia Ghigna
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare, "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
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PlGF Immunological Impact during Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228714. [PMID: 33218096 PMCID: PMC7698813 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, the mother’s immune system has to tolerate the persistence of paternal alloantigens without affecting the anti-infectious immune response. Consequently, several mechanisms aimed at preventing allograft rejection, occur during a pregnancy. In fact, the early stages of pregnancy are characterized by the correct balance between inflammation and immune tolerance, in which proinflammatory cytokines contribute to both the remodeling of tissues and to neo-angiogenesis, thus, favoring the correct embryo implantation. In addition to the creation of a microenvironment able to support both immunological privilege and angiogenesis, the trophoblast invades normal tissues by sharing the same behavior of invasive tumors. Next, the activation of an immunosuppressive phase, characterized by an increase in the number of regulatory T (Treg) cells prevents excessive inflammation and avoids fetal immuno-mediated rejection. When these changes do not occur or occur incompletely, early pregnancy failure follows. All these events are characterized by an increase in different growth factors and cytokines, among which one of the most important is the angiogenic growth factor, namely placental growth factor (PlGF). PlGF is initially isolated from the human placenta. It is upregulated during both pregnancy and inflammation. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the immunomodulatory effects of PlGF during pregnancy, warranting that both innate and adaptive immune cells properly support the early events of implantation and placental development. Furthermore, we highlight how an alteration of the immune response, associated with PlGF imbalance, can induce a hypertensive state and lead to the pre-eclampsia (PE).
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28
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Yu M, Xie F, Liu X, Sun H, Guo Z, Liu X, Li W, Sun W, Wang Y, He C. Proteomic Study of Aqueous Humor and Its Application in the Treatment of Neovascular Glaucoma. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 7:587677. [PMID: 33195434 PMCID: PMC7580691 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2020.587677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aqueous humor (AH) proteins are involved in many physiological and pathological processes of the eye. The proteome analysis of AH is important to understand its physiological and pathophysiological functions. In the present study, AH samples obtained from 21 cataract volunteers were pooled together. After high-pH RPLC offline separation, the pooled sample was analyzed by LC-MS/MS to provide a comprehensive profile of AH proteome. The function analysis was provided by the GO and IPA annotation. In order to determine whether the AH proteome can reflect the pathophysiological changes of the disease, DIA technology was used to analyze the AH samples obtained from three neovascular glaucoma (NVG) patients (six samples) before and after drug treatment. The differential proteins were validated by PRM technology in an independent group (14 samples). In the AH proteome database, 802 proteins were identified, and 318 proteins were identified for the first time. Furthermore, 480 proteins were quantified based on the peak intensity-based semiquantification (iBAQ), which ranged by approximately 7 orders of magnitude. These proteins are primarily involved in immunity- and inflammation-related pathways. The differential AH proteomic analysis in NVG treatment revealed that the AH proteome can reflect the pathophysiological changes of drug treatment. Angiogenesis and thrombus coagulation progression are deeply involved in NVG treatment. The present experiment provided a comprehensive AH proteome analysis and expanded the profile of human AH proteome. The differential AH proteomic analysis of NVG treatment indicated that AH proteome can reflect the pathophysiological changes in drug intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxi Yu
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Feng Xie
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiang Liu
- Shanghai AB Sciex Analytical Instrument Trading Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Haidan Sun
- Core Facility of Instrument, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Peking, China
| | - Zhengguang Guo
- Core Facility of Instrument, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Peking, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liu
- Core Facility of Instrument, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Peking, China
| | - Wei Li
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Core Facility of Instrument, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Peking, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chengyan He
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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29
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Eroglu E, Kocyigit I, Kahriman G, Karakukcu C, Tuncay A, Zararsiz GE, Eren D, Kalay N, Sipahioglu MH, Oymak O, Tokgoz B. Soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 as a novel marker of arteriovenous fistula stenosis in hemodialysis patients. Hemodial Int 2020; 25:164-172. [PMID: 33155365 DOI: 10.1111/hdi.12903] [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: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) stenosis is one of the most important clinical problems in hemodialysis patients. The histopathological findings of neointimal hyperplasia and impaired angiogenesis have been well established in stenotic AVFs. Soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (sVEGFR-1) has been implicated in pathological angiogenesis. Thus, we aimed to investigate the association between sVEGFR-1 and AVF stenosis in hemodialysis patients. METHODS This prospective cohort study included 70 patients with end-stage renal disease. Forty-five patients were included in the final analysis, and the median follow-up period was 36 months. Venous stenosis was detected by physical examination and documented by fistulography. Blood samples were analyzed a day before the fistula operation, and serum levels of sVEGFR-1 were measured. FINDINGS The median sVEGFR-1 level was higher in the stenosis group than in the nonstenosis group (17 pg/mL [89.5%] vs. 5 pg/mL [19.2%], respectively; P < 0.001]. According to body mass index (BMI) categories, obese patients (BMI > 30 kg/m2 ) had the shortest stenosis-free survival (20 months [9.35-30.65]). Multivariate Cox analysis showed that sVEGFR-1, serum creatinine, and parathyroid hormone levels were associated with AVF stenosis risk. Kaplan-Meier survival curves showed that patients with less than the median value of sVEGFR-1 (<6093.07 pg/mL) had longer cumulative stenosis-free survival than patients with sVEGFR-1 levels above the median value (P < 0.001). DISCUSSION Increased levels of sVEGFR-1 and obesity were found to be associated with AVF stenosis in hemodialysis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eray Eroglu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey.,Division of Renal Medicine and Baxter Novum, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ismail Kocyigit
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Guven Kahriman
- Department of Radiology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Cigdem Karakukcu
- Department of Biochemistry, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Aydin Tuncay
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | | | - Davut Eren
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Nihat Kalay
- Department of Cardiology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Murat Hayri Sipahioglu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Oktay Oymak
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Bulent Tokgoz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
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Ovarian stimulation and exogenous progesterone affect the endometrial miR-16-5p, VEGF protein expression, and angiogenesis. Microvasc Res 2020; 133:104074. [PMID: 32949576 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2020.104074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis, where vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is critically involved, is an important factor in endometrial receptivity. Angio-miRNAs form a special class of microRNAs (miRNAs) that target angiogenic genes and regulate angiogenesis. Various studies have shown that ovarian stimulation and exogenous progesterone affect endometrial vascular density. The present research aimed to assess the impact of HMG/HCG and progesterone on miR-16-5p, VEGF protein expression, and angiogenesis in the mouse endometrium during the preimplantation period. Forty adult female mice were divided into four groups: 1) control, 2) ovarian stimulation (HMG and 48 h after HCG IP), 3) progesterone (progesterone IP for 3 days), 4) ovarian stimulation + progesterone (HMG and 48 h after HCG IP) + (progesterone IP for 3 days) groups.The mice were sacrificed 96 h following HCG administration. miR-16-5p, VEGF protein expression, and CD31-positive cell (Endothelial cell) density were specified.The results showed that endothelial cell density,VEGF protein, and miR-16-5p expression increased in all treatment groups, with the maximum increase belonging to the ovarian stimulation + progesterone group. This study provides evidence that ovarian stimulation and progesterone administration enhance endometrial angiogenesis through VEGF protein upregulation. Furthermore, except for miR-16-5p, other miRNAs and molecules appear to be involved in angiogenic pathways, thereby requiring further studies.
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Role of Arginine Methylation in Alternative Polyadenylation of VEGFR-1 (Flt-1) pre-mRNA. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186460. [PMID: 32899690 PMCID: PMC7554721 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mature mRNA is generated by the 3ʹ end cleavage and polyadenylation of its precursor pre-mRNA. Eukaryotic genes frequently have multiple polyadenylation sites, resulting in mRNA isoforms with different 3ʹ-UTR lengths that often encode different C-terminal amino acid sequences. It is well-known that this form of post-transcriptional modification, termed alternative polyadenylation, can affect mRNA stability, localization, translation, and nuclear export. We focus on the alternative polyadenylation of pre-mRNA for vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR-1), the receptor for VEGF. VEGFR-1 is a transmembrane protein with a tyrosine kinase in the intracellular region. Secreted forms of VEGFR-1 (sVEGFR-1) are also produced from the same gene by alternative polyadenylation, and sVEGFR-1 has a function opposite to that of VEGFR-1 because it acts as a decoy receptor for VEGF. However, the mechanism that regulates the production of sVEGFR-1 by alternative polyadenylation remains poorly understood. In this review, we introduce and discuss the mechanism of alternative polyadenylation of VEGFR-1 mediated by protein arginine methylation.
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Lacal PM, Atzori MG, Ruffini F, Scimeca M, Bonanno E, Cicconi R, Mattei M, Bernardini R, D'Atri S, Tentori L, Graziani G. Targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 by the monoclonal antibody D16F7 to increase the activity of immune checkpoint inhibitors against cutaneous melanoma. Pharmacol Res 2020; 159:104957. [PMID: 32485280 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR-1) is a membrane receptor for VEGF-A, placenta growth factor (PlGF) and VEGF-B that plays a crucial role in melanoma invasiveness, vasculogenic mimicry and tumor-associated angiogenesis. Furthermore, activation of VEGFR-1 is involved in the mobilization of myeloid progenitors from the bone marrow that infiltrate the tumor. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells and tumor-associated macrophages have been involved in tumor progression and resistance to cancer treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). We have recently demonstrated that the anti-VEGFR-1 monoclonal antibody (mAb) D16F7 developed in our laboratories is able to inhibit melanoma growth in preclinical in vivo models and to reduce monocyte/macrophage progenitor mobilization and tumor infiltration by myeloid cells. Aim of the study was to investigate whether the anti-VEGFR-1 mAb D16F7 affects the activity of protumoral M2 macrophages in vitro in response to PlGF and inhibits the recruitment of these cells to the melanoma site in vivo. Finally, we tested whether, through its multi-targeted action, D16F7 mAb might increase the efficacy of ICIs against melanoma. The results indicated that VEGFR-1 expression is up-regulated in human activated M2 macrophages compared to activated M1 cells and exposure to the D16F7 mAb decreases in vitro chemotaxis of activated M2 macrophages. In vivo treatment with the anti-VEGFR-1 mAb D16F7 of B6D2F1 mice injected with syngeneic B16F10 melanoma cells resulted in tumor growth inhibition associated with the modification of tumor microenvironment that involves a decrease of melanoma infiltration by M2 macrophages and PD-1+ and FoxP3+ cells. These alterations result in increased M1/M2 and CD8+/FoxP3+ ratios, which favor an antitumor and immunostimulating milieu. Accordingly, D16F7 mAb increased the antitumor activity of the ICIs anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1 mAbs. Overall, these data reinforce the role of VEGFR-1-mediated-signalling as a valid target for reducing tumor infiltration by protumoral macrophages and for improving the efficacy of immunotherapy with ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Miguel Lacal
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via Monti di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Atzori
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Ruffini
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via Monti di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Manuel Scimeca
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy; Fondazione Umberto Veronesi (FUV), Piazza Velasca 5, 20122, Milan, Italy; Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, Rome, 00133, Italy
| | - Elena Bonanno
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, Rome, 00133, Italy
| | - Rosella Cicconi
- "Centro di Servizi Interdipartimentale - Stazione per la Tecnologia Animale", University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy
| | - Maurizio Mattei
- "Centro di Servizi Interdipartimentale - Stazione per la Tecnologia Animale", University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy; Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Bernardini
- "Centro di Servizi Interdipartimentale - Stazione per la Tecnologia Animale", University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy
| | - Stefania D'Atri
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, IDI-IRCCS, Via Monti di Creta 104, 00167, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucio Tentori
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Grazia Graziani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy.
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Xu B, Shanmugalingam R, Chau K, Makris A, Hennessy A. Galectin-1-Related Modulation of Trophoblast Endothelial Interactions by Integrins α1 and β1. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1097-1109. [PMID: 32253734 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00046-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
During normal trophoblast invasion, integrins α6β4 are downregulated, and α1β1 are upregulated in invasive cytotrophoblast cells. In preeclampsia both interstitial and endovascular invasion are shallow and cytotrophoblasts fail to upregulate α1β1 and downregulate α6β4. This study aims to investigate the role of integrins α1β1 and α6β4 on cellular pathways influencing trophoblast integration into endothelial cellular networks in vitro. Red fluorescent-labeled human uterine myometrial microvascular endothelial cells (UtMVECs) were seeded on Matrigel to form endothelial networks. Green fluorescent-labeled trophoblastic HTR-8/SVneo cells pre-incubated with 20 μg/ml of neutralizing antibodies (anti-α1, β1, α6, β4, α1 + β1, or α6 + β4) for 1 h were then co-cultured with endothelial networks with the neutralizing antibodies for 24 h. Fluorescent images were captured, and quantified utilizing Image J. Cells were retrieved to analyze mRNA expression of galectin-1, TIMP-1, and PAI-1 by quantitative PCR. MMP-2, MMP-9, free sFlt-1, and PlGF from conditioned media were measured by ELISA. The integration of trophoblast cells into endothelial cellular networks was inhibited by anti-β1(- 28 ± 3%, p < 0.0001), and increased by anti-α6(+ 19 ± 5%, p < 0.01). Galectin-1 mRNA expression was decreased by anti-α1(- 35 ± 7%, p < 0.001), anti-β1(- 23 ± 5%, p < 0.05), and anti-α1+β1(- 35 ± 5%, p < 0.001). The mRNA expression of TIMP-1 was inhibited by anti-α1(- 59 ± 9%, p < 0.01) and anti-β1(- 63 ± 7%, p < 0.001) while PAI-1 mRNA expression was increased by anti-α1 + β1(+ 285 ± 70%, p < 0.0001). In the conditioned medium, anti-α1 reduced MMP-2(-28 ± 1%, p < 0.001), MMP-9(-27 ± 8%, p < 0.01), and sFlt-1(-27 ± 5%, p < 0.001) production. Anti-β1 reduced MMP-2(- 15 ± 2%, p < 0.05) production. There were no changes in PlGF. Appropriate integrins α1β1 modulate trophoblast cell integration into endothelial cellular networks in vitro through invasive pathways including galectin-1, TIMP-1, PAI-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9 production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bei Xu
- Vascular Immunology Research Laboratory, The Heart Research Institute, University of Sydney, 7 Eliza St., Newtown, NSW, 2042, Australia.
| | - Renuka Shanmugalingam
- Vascular Immunology Research Laboratory, The Heart Research Institute, University of Sydney, 7 Eliza St., Newtown, NSW, 2042, Australia.,School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia.,Renal Unit, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Katrina Chau
- Vascular Immunology Research Laboratory, The Heart Research Institute, University of Sydney, 7 Eliza St., Newtown, NSW, 2042, Australia
| | - Angela Makris
- Vascular Immunology Research Laboratory, The Heart Research Institute, University of Sydney, 7 Eliza St., Newtown, NSW, 2042, Australia.,School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia.,Renal Unit, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Annemarie Hennessy
- Vascular Immunology Research Laboratory, The Heart Research Institute, University of Sydney, 7 Eliza St., Newtown, NSW, 2042, Australia.,School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
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Perretta-Tejedor N, Jafree DJ, Long DA. Endothelial-epithelial communication in polycystic kidney disease: Role of vascular endothelial growth factor signalling. Cell Signal 2020; 72:109624. [PMID: 32243961 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Whereas targeting the cyst epithelium and its molecular machinery has been the prevailing clinical strategy for polycystic kidney disease, the endothelium, including blood vasculature and lymphatics, is emerging as an important player in this disorder. In this Review, we provide an overview of the structural and functional alterations to blood vasculature and lymphatic vessels in the polycystic kidney. We also discuss evidence for vascular endothelial growth factor signalling, otherwise critical for endothelial cell development and maintenance, as being a fundamental molecular pathway in polycystic kidney disease and a potential therapeutic target for modulating cyst expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuria Perretta-Tejedor
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Daniyal J Jafree
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK; UCL MB/PhD Programme, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - David A Long
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK.
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The role of circulating soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 in patients with diabetic foot ulcer: A possible mechanism of pathogenesis via a novel link between oxidative stress, inflammation and angiogenesis. Microvasc Res 2020; 130:103987. [PMID: 32035919 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2020.103987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is one of the most devastating diabetic consequences leading to amputations. Oxidative stress, inflammation, vascular insufficiency and neuropathy have been linked to DFU development. Since soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) is one of the anti-angiogenic factors regulating vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) biological activity. So, we aimed to evaluate its role in pathogenesis of DFU and its correlation with oxidative stress and inflammatory markers. METHODS 60 type 2 diabetic patients: 30 without DFU and 30 with DFU in addition to 20 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. sFlt-1 and VEGF mRNA relative gene expressions and levels and sFlt-1/VEGF ratio were assessed. Also, Advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs), malondialdhyde (MDA), Total thiol and, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels were measured. RESULTS sFlt-1 expression and level, AOPPs, MDA and TNF-α were significantly higher in diabetic patients as compared with the control group with highest levels in DFU patients. However, there were significant decrease in total thiol level and VEGF expression and level in diabetic patients with DFU. CONCLUSION This study revealed that sFlt-1 is a major player in DFU pathogenesis and may be considered as a novel diagnostic biomarker for early detection of DFU.
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McElwain CJ, Tuboly E, McCarthy FP, McCarthy CM. Mechanisms of Endothelial Dysfunction in Pre-eclampsia and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Windows Into Future Cardiometabolic Health? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:655. [PMID: 33042016 PMCID: PMC7516342 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Placental insufficiency and adipose tissue dysregulation are postulated to play key roles in the pathophysiology of both pre-eclampsia (PE) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). A dysfunctional release of deleterious signaling motifs can offset an increase in circulating oxidative stressors, pro-inflammatory factors and various cytokines. It has been previously postulated that endothelial dysfunction, instigated by signaling from endocrine organs such as the placenta and adipose tissue, may be a key mediator of the vasculopathy that is evident in both adverse obstetric complications. These signaling pathways also have significant effects on long term maternal cardiometabolic health outcomes, specifically cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and type II diabetes. Recent studies have noted that both PE and GDM are strongly associated with lower maternal flow-mediated dilation, however the exact pathways which link endothelial dysfunction to clinical outcomes in these complications remains in question. The current diagnostic regimen for both PE and GDM lacks specificity and consistency in relation to clinical guidelines. Furthermore, current therapeutic options rely largely on clinical symptom control such as antihypertensives and insulin therapy, rather than that of early intervention or prophylaxis. A better understanding of the pathogenic origin of these obstetric complications will allow for more targeted therapeutic interventions. In this review we will explore the complex signaling relationship between the placenta and adipose tissue in PE and GDM and investigate how these intricate pathways affect maternal endothelial function and, hence, play a role in acute pathophysiology and the development of future chronic maternal health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colm J. McElwain
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Western Gateway Building, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- *Correspondence: Colm J. McElwain
| | - Eszter Tuboly
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Western Gateway Building, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Fergus P. McCarthy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cork University Maternity Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | - Cathal M. McCarthy
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Western Gateway Building, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Teleanu RI, Chircov C, Grumezescu AM, Teleanu DM. Tumor Angiogenesis and Anti-Angiogenic Strategies for Cancer Treatment. J Clin Med 2019; 9:E84. [PMID: 31905724 PMCID: PMC7020037 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9010084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 266] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is the process through which novel blood vessels are formed from pre-existing ones and it is involved in both physiological and pathological processes of the body. Furthermore, tumor angiogenesis is a crucial factor associated with tumor growth, progression, and metastasis. In this manner, there has been a great interest in the development of anti-angiogenesis strategies that could inhibit tumor vascularization. Conventional approaches comprise the administration of anti-angiogenic drugs that target and block the activity of proangiogenic factors. However, as their efficacy is still a matter of debate, novel strategies have been focusing on combining anti-angiogenic agents with chemotherapy or immunotherapy. Moreover, nanotechnology has also been investigated for the potential of nanomaterials to target and release anti-angiogenic drugs at specific sites. The aim of this paper is to review the mechanisms involved in angiogenesis and tumor vascularization and provide an overview of the recent trends in anti-angiogenic strategies for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raluca Ioana Teleanu
- “Victor Gomoiu” Clinical Children’s Hospital, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Cristina Chircov
- Faculty of Engineering in Foreign Languages, 060042 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Science and Engineering of Oxide Materials and Nanomaterials, Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, Politehnica University of Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu
- Department of Science and Engineering of Oxide Materials and Nanomaterials, Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, Politehnica University of Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniel Mihai Teleanu
- Emergency University Hospital, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania;
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Karina, Wahyuningsih KA, Sobariah S, Rosliana I, Rosadi I, Widyastuti T, Afini I, Wanandi SI, Soewondo P, Wibowo H, Pawitan JA. Evaluation of platelet-rich plasma from diabetic donors shows increased platelet vascular endothelial growth factor release. Stem Cell Investig 2019; 6:43. [PMID: 32039265 DOI: 10.21037/sci.2019.10.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains pro-angiogenic growth factors including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Angiogenesis is a necessary component of wound healing in instances of diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). PRP composition varies depending on methods and donor health status. Our group has developed an improved PRP protocol for diabetes treatment. The aims of this study were to examine the levels of the pro-angiogenic factor VEGF in these patient populations with and without diabetes. Methods PRP was prepared using 24 mL of whole blood from 13 diabetic and 10 non-diabetic patients registered at Klinik Hayandra. Whole blood in sodium citrate tubes were centrifuged at 1,000 rpm for 5 minutes followed by plasma separation. Plasma samples were centrifuged at 3,000 rpm for 5 minutes. Upper platelet-poor plasma layers were discarded, leaving 5 mL of concentrated platelet containing plasma (PRP). Concentrated plasma samples were mixed, aliquoted, stored at -86 °C, and pooled for platelet count, VEGF, and total protein analyses. Platelet counting was also performed using fresh whole blood and PRP to measure changes following PRP preparation. Results Diabetic donors had higher whole blood platelet counts than non-diabetic donors, but this difference was not statistically significant. An average increase of more than 250% in platelet number after PRP preparation using our method was noted in both groups. Freezing-thawing samples at -86 °C lysed more than 90% of PRP platelets regardless of diabetes status. Diabetic PRP had lower mean total protein and higher VEGF concentrations. Lysed platelets from diabetic donors released more VEGF than those from non-diabetic donors. Conclusions PRP from diabetic donors had higher VEGF content making autologous PRP application a promising treatment for DFU. However, this should be investigated another appropriate clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina
- Doctoral Program of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Hayandra Lab, Yayasan Hayandra Peduli, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Klinik Hayandra, Yayasan Hayandra Peduli, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Komang Ardi Wahyuningsih
- Hayandra Lab, Yayasan Hayandra Peduli, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Department of Histology, Universitas Katolik Indonesia Atma Jaya, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Siti Sobariah
- Hayandra Lab, Yayasan Hayandra Peduli, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Iis Rosliana
- Hayandra Lab, Yayasan Hayandra Peduli, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Imam Rosadi
- Hayandra Lab, Yayasan Hayandra Peduli, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | | | - Irsyah Afini
- Hayandra Lab, Yayasan Hayandra Peduli, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Septelia Inawati Wanandi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Molecular Biology and Proteomics Core Facilities, Indonesian Medical Education and Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Pradana Soewondo
- Division of Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Heri Wibowo
- Laboratorium Terpadu, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Jeanne Adiwinata Pawitan
- Department of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Stem Cell Medical Technology Integrated Service Unit, Cipto Mangunkusumo Central Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering Research Center, Indonesia Medical Education and Research Institute (IMERI), Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
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Atzori MG, Ceci C, Ruffini F, Trapani M, Barbaccia ML, Tentori L, D'Atri S, Lacal PM, Graziani G. Role of VEGFR-1 in melanoma acquired resistance to the BRAF inhibitor vemurafenib. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 24:465-475. [PMID: 31758648 PMCID: PMC6933379 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐1 (VEGFR‐1) is a tyrosine kinase receptor frequently expressed in melanoma. Its activation by VEGF‐A or placental growth factor (PlGF) promotes tumour cell survival, migration and invasiveness. Moreover, VEGFR‐1 stimulation contributes to pathological angiogenesis and induces recruitment of tumour‐associated macrophages. Since melanoma acquired resistance to BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) has been associated with activation of pro‐angiogenic pathways, we have investigated VEGFR‐1 involvement in vemurafenib resistance. Results indicate that human melanoma cells rendered resistant to vemurafenib secrete greater amounts of VEGF‐A and express higher VEGFR‐1 levels compared with their BRAFi‐sensitive counterparts. Transient VEGFR‐1 silencing in susceptible melanoma cells delays resistance development, whereas in resistant cells it increases sensitivity to the BRAFi. Consistently, enforced VEGFR‐1 expression, by stable gene transfection in receptor‐negative melanoma cells, markedly reduces sensitivity to vemurafenib. Moreover, melanoma cells expressing VEGFR‐1 are more invasive than VEGFR‐1 deficient cells and receptor blockade by a specific monoclonal antibody (D16F7 mAb) reduces extracellular matrix invasion triggered by VEGF‐A and PlGF. These data suggest that VEGFR‐1 up‐regulation might contribute to melanoma progression and spreading after acquisition of a drug‐resistant phenotype. Thus, VEGFR‐1 inhibition with D16F7 mAb might be a suitable adjunct therapy for VEGFR‐1 positive tumours with acquired resistance to vemurafenib.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Claudia Ceci
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Mauro Trapani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Lucio Tentori
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Grazia Graziani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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Paish HL, Baldock TE, Gillespie CS, del Carpio Pons A, Mann DA, Deehan DJ, Borthwick LA, Kalson NS. Chronic, Active Inflammation in Patients With Failed Total Knee Replacements Undergoing Revision Surgery. J Orthop Res 2019; 37:2316-2324. [PMID: 31231835 PMCID: PMC6851711 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pain and restricted knee motion is a significant problem following the total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The molecular pathogenesis of pain post-TKA is not known and no targeted therapeutic intervention is available. The aim of this study was to investigate whether pro-inflammatory mediators are elevated in revision knee patients, indicating an active, ongoing inflammatory process that may contribute to pain. Twelve key markers (pro-inflammatory cytokines granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor [GM-CSF], interleukin 5 [IL-5], IL-8 and IL-10, chemokines CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, and CCL13, mediators of angiogenesis Flt-1, vascular endothelial growth factor, and cell migration vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 and intercellular adhesion molecule 1) were measured in knee tissue and synovial fluid (SF) from primary TKA (n = 29) and revision patients (n = 32). Indications for surgery were osteoarthritis (OA) for primary TKA, and component loosening (n = 11), stiffness (n = 11), laxity pattern (n = 8), or progression of OA in patella resurfacing (n = 3) for revision surgery. Pain levels (WOMAC score) were higher in revision than primary patients (p ≤ 0.05). Time from primary to revision ranged from 8 months to 30 years (median 10 years). All markers were elevated in revision TKA; there was no trend toward decreasing levels with greater time from primary surgery for any marker studied in SF. Similar results were seen in knee tissue. We found no differences comparing indications for revision surgery (p ≥ 0.05). The elevation of inflammatory mediators in painful post-TKA knees requiring revision suggests active, chronic inflammation. Characterization of upregulated markers provides rationale for targeted therapy, even many years from the primary surgery. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 37:2316-2324, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah L. Paish
- Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular MedicineNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneNE2 4HHUnited Kingdom
| | - Thomas Edward Baldock
- Musculoskeletal Unit, Department of Orthopaedics, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle HospitalsNHS TrustNewcastle upon TyneNE7 7DNUnited Kingdom
| | - Colin S. Gillespie
- School of Mathematics & StatisticsNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneNE2 4HHUnited Kingdom
| | - Alicia del Carpio Pons
- Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular MedicineNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneNE2 4HHUnited Kingdom
| | - Derek A. Mann
- Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular MedicineNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneNE2 4HHUnited Kingdom
| | - David J. Deehan
- Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular MedicineNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneNE2 4HHUnited Kingdom,Musculoskeletal Unit, Department of Orthopaedics, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle HospitalsNHS TrustNewcastle upon TyneNE7 7DNUnited Kingdom
| | - Lee A. Borthwick
- Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular MedicineNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneNE2 4HHUnited Kingdom
| | - Nicholas S. Kalson
- Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular MedicineNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneNE2 4HHUnited Kingdom,Musculoskeletal Unit, Department of Orthopaedics, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle HospitalsNHS TrustNewcastle upon TyneNE7 7DNUnited Kingdom
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Assessment of the SFlt-1 and sFlt-1/25(OH)D Ratio as a Diagnostic Tool in Gestational Hypertension (GH), Preeclampsia (PE), and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM). DISEASE MARKERS 2019; 2019:5870239. [PMID: 31481983 PMCID: PMC6701428 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5870239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Background Placental soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), an antagonist of vascular endothelial growth factor, is considered an etiological factor of endothelial damage in pregnancy pathologies. An increase in the sFlt-1 level is associated with alterations of endothelial integrity. In contrast, vitamin D exerts a protective effect and low concentrations of 25(OH)D may have an adverse effect on common complications of pregnancy, such as gestational hypertension (GH), preeclampsia (PE), and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The aim of this study was to analyze the levels of sFlt-1 in Polish women with physiological pregnancies and pregnancies complicated by GH, PE, and GDM. Moreover, we analyzed relationships between the maternal serum sFlt-1 level and the sFlt-1 to 25(OH)D ratio and the risk of GH and PE. Material and Methods The study included 171 women with complicated pregnancies; among them are 45 with GH, 23 with PE, and 103 with GDM. The control group was comprised of 36 women with physiological pregnancies. Concentrations of sFl-1 and 25(OH)D were measured before delivery, with commercially available immunoassays. Results Women with GH differed significantly from the controls in terms of their serum sFlt-1 levels (5797 pg/ml vs. 3531 pg/ml, p = 0.0014). Moreover, a significant difference in sFlt-1 concentrations was found between women with PE and those with physiological pregnancies (6074 pg/ml vs. 3531 pg/ml, p < 0.0001). GDM did not exert a statistically significant effect on serum sFlt-1 levels. Both logistic regression and ROC analysis demonstrated that elevated concentration of sFlt-1 was associated with greater risk of GH (AUC = 0.70, p = 0.0001) and PE (AUC = 0.82, p < 0.0001). Also, the sFlt-1 to 25(OH)D ratio, with the cutoff values of 652 (AUC = 0.74, p < 0.0001) and 653 (AUC = 0.88, p < 0.0001), respectively, was identified as a significant predictor of GH and PE. Conclusions Determination of the sFlt-1/25(OH)D ratio might provide additional important information and, thus, be helpful in the identification of patients with PE and GH, facilitating their qualification for intensive treatment and improving the neonatal outcomes.
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Zueva T, Morchón R, Carretón E, Montoya-Alonso JA, Santana A, Bargues MD, Mas-Coma S, Rodríguez-Barbero A, Simón F. Angiogenic response in an in vitro model of dog microvascular endothelial cells stimulated with antigenic extracts from Dirofilaria immitis adult worms. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:315. [PMID: 31234915 PMCID: PMC6591997 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3570-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angiogenesis can occur under pathological conditions when stimuli such as inflammation, vascular obstruction or hypoxia exist. These stimuli are present in cardiopulmonary dirofilariosis (Dirofilaria immitis). The aim of this study was to analyze the capacity of D. immitis antigens to modify the expression of angiogenic factors and trigger the formation of pseudocapillaries (tube-like structures) in an in vitro model of endothelial cells. METHODS The expression of VEGF-A, sFlt, mEndoglin and sEndoglin in cultures of canine microvascular endothelial cells stimulated with extract of adult worms of D. immitis obtained from an untreated dog (DiSA) and from a dog treated for 15 days with doxycycline (tDiSA), was determined by using commercial kits. The capacity of pseudocapillary formation was evaluated analyzing cell connections and cell groups in Matrigel cell cultures stimulated with DiSA and tDiSA. In both cases non-stimulated cultures were used as controls. RESULTS First, we demonstrated that worms obtained from the dog treated with doxycycline showed a significantly lower amount of Wolbachia (less than 60%) than worms removed from the untreated dog. Only DiSA was able to significantly increase the expression of the proangiogenic factor VEGF-A in the endotelial cells cultures. None of the D. immitis extracts modified the expression of sFlt. tDiSA extract was able to modify the expression of the endoglins, significantly decreasing the expression of the pro-angiogenic mEndoglin and increasing the anti-angiogenic sEndoglin. The formation of pseudocapillaries was negatively influenced by tDiSA, which reduced the organization and number of cellular connections. CONCLUSIONS The ability of antigens from adult D. immitis worms to modify the expression of pro and anti-angiogenic factors in endotelial cell cultures was demonstrated, as well as the trend to form pseudocapillaries in vitro. The capacity of stimulation may be linked to the amount of Wolbachia present in the antigenic extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Zueva
- Group of Animal and Human Dirofilariosis, Parasitology Area, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Rodrigo Morchón
- Group of Animal and Human Dirofilariosis, Parasitology Area, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Elena Carretón
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences (IUIBS), University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - José Alberto Montoya-Alonso
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences (IUIBS), University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Alexis Santana
- Albea Veterinarios, Carretera a las Torres, 19, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - María Dolores Bargues
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Santiago Mas-Coma
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Alicia Rodríguez-Barbero
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca (IBSAL), University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Fernando Simón
- Group of Animal and Human Dirofilariosis, Parasitology Area, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.
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Faria VRD, Pinho RO, Camilo BS, Guimarães JD, Fonseca E Silva F, Lopes PS, Silva PV, Teixeira SA, Veroneze R, Penitente-Filho JM, Guimarães SEF. Genes expression and phenotypic differences in corpus luteum and cumulus cells of commercial line and piau breed gilts. Theriogenology 2019; 136:111-117. [PMID: 31254724 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to characterize the expression of angiogenesis-related genes in corpus luteum (CL) and cumulus cells (CC) during estrous cycle in gilts of different genetic groups, as well as to study the relation between gene expression and phenotypic data. Forty five gilts were used as follows: L1, Commercial Line 1 (Large White x Landrace x Duroc) (n = 15); L2, Commercial Line 2 (Large White x Landrace x Pietrain) (n = 15); and Piau, Piau breed gilts (n = 15). Estrus observation started from 120 days of age. After the second observed estrus females were slaughtered (n = 3) on days 3, 5, 10, 14 and 18 of estrous cycle (first day of estrous cycle as Day 0). CL sampling was performed on days 3, 5, 10 and 14 and collection of CC and follicular fluid on days 14 and 18. Follicular fluid was used for analysis of estradiol levels and CC and CL samples for analysis of angiogenesis-related genes expression, ANGPT-1/-2 and TEK in CC and MMP-2, VEGFA, VEGFR-1/-2, ANGPT-1/-2 and TEK in CL. Piau gilts showed lower ovulation rate than both L1 and L2 gilts (P < 0.05), lower number of large antral follicles (>6 mm) at 18 days than L2 gilts (P < 0.05), and smaller diameter of the largest follicles at 14 days than L1 gilts (P < 0.05). Piau and L2 gilts showed higher estradiol levels in follicular fluid on day 18. Expression of ANGPT-1 and -2 genes in CC did not differ among genetic groups neither among days of the estrous cycle, but TEK gene expression was higher in L1 than L2 gilts on day 18. Expression of VEGFA, VEGFR-2 and MMP-2 genes in CL did not differ among genetic groups and days of cycle, but VEGFR-1 expression was higher in Piau than L2 gilts on days 10 and 14, and it was higher in L1 than L2 gilts on day 14. The ANGPT-1/-2 and TEK genes expression in CL were significantly higher in Piau than L1 gilts on day 10. The ANGPT-2/ANGPT-1 gene expression ratio in CL was higher in L1 than Piau and L2 gilts at 14 days, suggesting a shorter luteal phase for L1 gilts. Results indicated differences among genetic groups for the pattern of the angiogenesis-related genes expression in CL along estrous cycles, which may be reflected in phenotypic traits such as ovulation rate, estradiol levels in follicular fluid and number and diameter of antral follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Breno Soares Camilo
- Department of Veterinary, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Paulo Sávio Lopes
- Department of Animal Science, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Renata Veroneze
- Department of Animal Science, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil.
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Draker N, Torry DS, Torry RJ. Placenta growth factor and sFlt-1 as biomarkers in ischemic heart disease and heart failure: a review. Biomark Med 2019; 13:785-799. [DOI: 10.2217/bmm-2018-0492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronary heart disease (CHD) and heart failure (HF) produce significant morbidity/mortality but identifying new biomarkers could help in the management of each. In this article, we summarize the molecular regulation and biomarker potential of PIGF and sFlt-1 in CHD and HF. PlGF is elevated during ischemia and some studies have shown PlGF, sFlt-1 or PlGF:sFlt-1 ratio, when used in combination with standard biomarkers, strengthens predictions of outcomes. sFlt-1 and PlGF are elevated in HF with sFlt-1 as a stronger predictor of outcomes. Although promising, we discuss additional study criteria needed to confirm the clinical usefulness of PlGF or sFlt-1 in the detection and management of CHD or HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Draker
- Department of Pharmaceutical & Administrative Sciences, Ellis Pharmacogenomics Lab, College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Drake University, Des Moines, IA 50311, USA
| | - Donald S Torry
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology, & Cell Biology, Department of OB/GYN, Southern Illinois University, School of Medicine, Springfield, IL 62702, USA
| | - Ronald J Torry
- Department of Pharmaceutical & Administrative Sciences, Ellis Pharmacogenomics Lab, College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Drake University, Des Moines, IA 50311, USA
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Bowler E, Oltean S. Alternative Splicing in Angiogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E2067. [PMID: 31027366 PMCID: PMC6540211 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternative splicing of pre-mRNA allows the generation of multiple splice isoforms from a given gene, which can have distinct functions. In fact, splice isoforms can have opposing functions and there are many instances whereby a splice isoform acts as an inhibitor of canonical isoform function, thereby adding an additional layer of regulation to important processes. Angiogenesis is an important process that is governed by alternative splicing mechanisms. This review focuses on the alternative spliced isoforms of key genes that are involved in the angiogenesis process; VEGF-A, VEGFR1, VEGFR2, NRP-1, FGFRs, Vasohibin-1, Vasohibin-2, HIF-1α, Angiopoietin-1 and Angiopoietin-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Bowler
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Medical School, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4PY, UK.
| | - Sebastian Oltean
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Medical School, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4PY, UK.
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Modulation of Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Activity through Alternative Splicing of Ligands and Receptors in the VEGF-A/VEGFR Axis. Cells 2019; 8:cells8040288. [PMID: 30925751 PMCID: PMC6523102 DOI: 10.3390/cells8040288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) signaling is essential for physiological and pathological angiogenesis. Alternative splicing of the VEGF-A pre-mRNA gives rise to a pro-angiogenic family of isoforms with a differing number of amino acids (VEGF-Axxxa), as well as a family of isoforms with anti-angiogenic properties (VEGF-Axxxb). The biological functions of VEGF-A proteins are mediated by a family of cognate protein tyrosine kinase receptors, known as the VEGF receptors (VEGFRs). VEGF-A binds to both VEGFR-1, largely suggested to function as a decoy receptor, and VEGFR-2, the predominant signaling receptor. Both VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2 can also be alternatively spliced to generate soluble isoforms (sVEGFR-1/sVEGFR-2). The disruption of the splicing of just one of these genes can result in changes to the entire VEGF-A/VEGFR signaling axis, such as the increase in VEGF-A165a relative to VEGF-A165b resulting in increased VEGFR-2 signaling and aberrant angiogenesis in cancer. Research into this signaling axis has recently focused on manipulating the splicing of these genes as a potential therapeutic avenue in disease. Therefore, further research into understanding the mechanisms by which the splicing of VEGF-A/VEGFR-1/VEGFR-2 is regulated will help in the development of drugs aimed at manipulating splicing or inhibiting specific splice isoforms in a therapeutic manner.
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The DCBLD receptor family: emerging signaling roles in development, homeostasis and disease. Biochem J 2019; 476:931-950. [PMID: 30902898 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20190022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The discoidin, CUB, and LCCL domain-containing (DCBLD) receptor family are composed of the type-I transmembrane proteins DCBLD1 and DCBLD2 (also ESDN and CLCP1). These proteins are highly conserved across vertebrates and possess similar domain structure to that of neuropilins, which act as critical co-receptors in developmental processes. Although DCBLD1 remains largely uncharacterized, the functional and mechanistic roles of DCBLD2 are emerging. This review provides a comprehensive discussion of this presumed receptor family, ranging from structural and signaling aspects to their associations with cancer, physiology, and development.
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Zhao J, Meng M, Zhang J, Li L, Zhu X, Zhang L, Wang C, Gao M. Astaxanthin ameliorates renal interstitial fibrosis and peritubular capillary rarefaction in unilateral ureteral obstruction. Mol Med Rep 2019; 19:3168-3178. [PMID: 30816496 PMCID: PMC6423568 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.9970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss of peritubular capillaries is a notable feature of progressive renal interstitial fibrosis. Astaxanthin (ASX) is a natural carotenoid with various biological activities. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of ASX on unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO)‑induced renal fibrosis in mice. For that purpose, mice were randomly divided into five treatment groups: Sham, ASX 100 mg/kg, UUO, UUO + ASX 50 mg/kg and UUO + ASX 100 mg/kg. ASX was administered to the mice for 7 or 14 days following UUO. The results demonstrated that UUO‑induced histopathological changes in the kidney tissue were prevented by ASX. Renal function was improved by ASX treatment, as evidenced by decreased blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine levels. Furthermore, the extent of renal fibrosis and collagen deposition induced by UUO was suppressed by ASX. The levels of collagen I, fibronectin and α‑smooth muscle actin were increased by UUO in mice or by transforming growth factor (TGF)‑β1 treatment in NRK‑52E cells, and were reduced by ASX administration. In addition, ASX inhibited the UUO‑induced decrease in peritubular capillary density by upregulating vascular endothelial growth factor and downregulating thrombospondin 1 levels. Inactivation of the TGF‑β1/Smad signaling pathway was involved in the anti‑fibrotic mechanism of ASX in UUO mice and TGF‑β1‑treated NRK‑52E cells. In conclusion, ASX attenuated renal interstitial fibrosis and peritubular capillary rarefaction via inactivation of the TGF‑β1/Smad signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, Xi'an No. 4 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Meixia Meng
- Department of Nephrology, Xi'an No. 4 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Jinhua Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Xi'an No. 4 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Lili Li
- Department of Nephrology, Xi'an No. 4 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Xiaojing Zhu
- Department of Nephrology, Xi'an No. 4 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Xi'an No. 4 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Chang Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Xi'an No. 4 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Ming Gao
- Department of Nephrology, Xi'an No. 4 Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
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The Role of Tissue Transglutaminase in Cancer Cell Initiation, Survival and Progression. Med Sci (Basel) 2019; 7:medsci7020019. [PMID: 30691081 PMCID: PMC6409630 DOI: 10.3390/medsci7020019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue transglutaminase (transglutaminase type 2; TG2) is the most ubiquitously expressed member of the transglutaminase family (EC 2.3.2.13) that catalyzes specific post-translational modifications of proteins through a calcium-dependent acyl-transfer reaction (transamidation). In addition, this enzyme displays multiple additional enzymatic activities, such as guanine nucleotide binding and hydrolysis, protein kinase, disulfide isomerase activities, and is involved in cell adhesion. Transglutaminase 2 has been reported as one of key enzymes that is involved in all stages of carcinogenesis; the molecular mechanisms of action and physiopathological effects depend on its expression or activities, cellular localization, and specific cancer model. Since it has been reported as both a potential tumor suppressor and a tumor-promoting factor, the role of this enzyme in cancer is still controversial. Indeed, TG2 overexpression has been frequently associated with cancer stem cells’ survival, inflammation, metastatic spread, and drug resistance. On the other hand, the use of inducers of TG2 transamidating activity seems to inhibit tumor cell plasticity and invasion. This review covers the extensive and rapidly growing field of the role of TG2 in cancer stem cells survival and epithelial–mesenchymal transition, apoptosis and differentiation, and formation of aggressive metastatic phenotypes.
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Huppertz B. Biology of preeclampsia: Combined actions of angiogenic factors, their receptors and placental proteins. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2018; 1866:165349. [PMID: 30553017 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2018.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Although massive efforts have been undertaken to elucidate the etiology of the pregnancy syndrome preeclampsia, its developmental origin remains a mystery. Most efforts of the last decade have focused on biomarkers to predict and/or diagnose preeclampsia, including the anti-angiogenic factor sFlt-1 (soluble fms-like tyrosin kinase-1), the angiogenic factor PGF (placental growth factor) and PP13 (placental protein 13). The origins of these marker proteins are still under debate, and so far their actions have only been describe separate from each other. This study will focus on the origins and actions of all three markers during pregnancy and outside pregnancy and will describe a scenario where all three markers act synergistically to rescue the mother from the deleterious effects of the debris that is released from the placenta during preeclampsia. This more holistic approach may open new avenues to think about maternal-fetal interactions and putative therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berthold Huppertz
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
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