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Kurtz M, Lezón C, Masci I, Boyer P, Brites F, Bonetto J, Bozal C, Álvarez L, Tasat D. Air pollution induces morpho-functional, biochemical and biomechanical vascular dysfunction in undernourished rats. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 190:114777. [PMID: 38824989 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Air pollution (gases and particulate matter -PM) and child undernutrition are globally recognized stressors with significant consequences. PM and its components breach the respiratory alveolar-capillary barrier, entering the vasculature transporting not only harmful particles and its mediators but, altering vascular paracrine and autocrine functions. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Residual Oil Fly Ash (ROFA), on the vasculature of young animals with nutritional growth retardation (NGR). Weanling rats were fed a diet restricted 20% (NGR) compared to ad libitum intake (control-C) for 4 weeks. Rats were intranasally instilled with 1 mg/kg BW of ROFA. After 24h exposure, histological and immunohistochemical, biochemical and contractile response to NA/ACh were evaluated in aortas. ROFA induced changes in the tunica media of the aorta in all groups regarding thickness, muscular cells and expression of Connexin-43. ROFA increased TGF-β1 and decreased eNOs levels and calcium channels in C and NGR animals. An increment in cytokines IL-6 and IL-10 was observed in C, with no changes in NGR. ROFA exposure altered the vascular contractile capacity. In conclusion, ROFA exposure could increase the risk for CVD through the alteration of vascular biochemical parameters, a possible step of the endothelial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melisa Kurtz
- Laboratorio de Bio-Toxicología Ambiental, Instituto de Tecnologías Emergentes y Ciencias Aplicadas, Escuela de Ciencia y Tecnología, Universidad Nacional de San Martín- CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Christian Lezón
- Cátedra de Fisiología, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ivana Masci
- Laboratorio de Bio-Toxicología Ambiental, Instituto de Tecnologías Emergentes y Ciencias Aplicadas, Escuela de Ciencia y Tecnología, Universidad Nacional de San Martín- CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Patricia Boyer
- Cátedra de Fisiología, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fernando Brites
- Laboratorio de Lípidos y Aterosclerosis, Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Julián Bonetto
- Laboratorio de Bio-Toxicología Ambiental, Instituto de Tecnologías Emergentes y Ciencias Aplicadas, Escuela de Ciencia y Tecnología, Universidad Nacional de San Martín- CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carola Bozal
- Cátedra de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura Álvarez
- Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Deborah Tasat
- Laboratorio de Bio-Toxicología Ambiental, Instituto de Tecnologías Emergentes y Ciencias Aplicadas, Escuela de Ciencia y Tecnología, Universidad Nacional de San Martín- CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Cátedra de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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2
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Cardouat G, Douard M, Bouchet C, Roubenne L, Kmecová Z, Esteves P, Brette F, Guignabert C, Tu L, Campagnac M, Robillard P, Coste F, Delcambre F, Thumerel M, Begueret H, Maurac A, Belaroussi Y, Klimas J, Ducret T, Quignard JF, Vacher P, Baudrimont I, Marthan R, Berger P, Guibert C, Freund-Michel V. NGF increases Connexin-43 expression and function in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells to induce pulmonary artery hyperreactivity. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 174:116552. [PMID: 38599061 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterised by an increase in pulmonary arterial pressure, ultimately leading to right ventricular failure and death. We have previously shown that nerve growth factor (NGF) plays a critical role in PH. Our objectives here were to determine whether NGF controls Connexin-43 (Cx43) expression and function in the pulmonary arterial smooth muscle, and whether this mechanism contributes to NGF-induced pulmonary artery hyperreactivity. METHODS AND RESULTS NGF activates its TrkA receptor to increase Cx43 expression, phosphorylation, and localization at the plasma membrane in human pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells, thus leading to enhanced activity of Cx43-dependent GAP junctions as shown by Lucifer Yellow dye assay transfer and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching -FRAP- experiments. Using both in vitro pharmacological and in vivo SiRNA approaches, we demonstrate that NGF-dependent increase in Cx43 expression and activity in the rat pulmonary circulation causes pulmonary artery hyperreactivity. We also show that, in a rat model of PH induced by chronic hypoxia, in vivo blockade of NGF or of its TrkA receptor significantly reduces Cx43 increased pulmonary arterial expression induced by chronic hypoxia and displays preventive effects on pulmonary arterial pressure increase and right heart hypertrophy. CONCLUSIONS Modulation of Cx43 by NGF in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells contributes to NGF-induced alterations of pulmonary artery reactivity. Since NGF and its TrkA receptor play a role in vivo in Cx43 increased expression in PH induced by chronic hypoxia, these NGF/Cx43-dependent mechanisms may therefore play a significant role in human PH pathophysiology.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Humans
- Male
- Rats
- Cells, Cultured
- Connexin 43/metabolism
- Gap Junctions/metabolism
- Gap Junctions/drug effects
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/drug effects
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/drug effects
- Nerve Growth Factor/metabolism
- Phosphorylation
- Pulmonary Artery/drug effects
- Pulmonary Artery/metabolism
- Pulmonary Artery/pathology
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Rats, Wistar
- Receptor, trkA/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthieu Douard
- Univ. Bordeaux, INSERM, CRCTB, U 1045, Bordeaux F-33000, France; Univ. Bordeaux, INSERM, CRCTB, U 1045, IHU Liryc, Bordeaux F-33000, France
| | - Clément Bouchet
- Univ. Bordeaux, INSERM, CRCTB, U 1045, Bordeaux F-33000, France
| | - Lukas Roubenne
- Univ. Bordeaux, INSERM, CRCTB, U 1045, Bordeaux F-33000, France
| | - Zuzana Kmecová
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Pauline Esteves
- Univ. Bordeaux, INSERM, CRCTB, U 1045, Bordeaux F-33000, France
| | - Fabien Brette
- Univ. Bordeaux, INSERM, CRCTB, U 1045, Bordeaux F-33000, France; Univ. Bordeaux, INSERM, CRCTB, U 1045, IHU Liryc, Bordeaux F-33000, France
| | - Christophe Guignabert
- INSERM UMR_S 999, « Pulmonary Hypertension: Pathophysiology and Novel Therapies », Hôpital Marie Lannelongue, Le Plessis-Robinson 92350, France; Université Paris-Saclay, Faculté de Médecine, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre 94270, France
| | - Ly Tu
- INSERM UMR_S 999, « Pulmonary Hypertension: Pathophysiology and Novel Therapies », Hôpital Marie Lannelongue, Le Plessis-Robinson 92350, France; Université Paris-Saclay, Faculté de Médecine, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre 94270, France
| | | | - Paul Robillard
- Univ. Bordeaux, INSERM, CRCTB, U 1045, Bordeaux F-33000, France
| | - Florence Coste
- Laboratoire de Pharm-écologie Cardiovasculaire (LaPEC-EA 4278), Université d'Avignon et des Pays du Vaucluse, Avignon 84000, France
| | | | - Matthieu Thumerel
- Univ. Bordeaux, INSERM, CRCTB, U 1045, Bordeaux F-33000, France; CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux 33000, France
| | | | | | | | - Jan Klimas
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Thomas Ducret
- Univ. Bordeaux, INSERM, CRCTB, U 1045, Bordeaux F-33000, France
| | | | - Pierre Vacher
- Univ. Bordeaux, INSERM, CRCTB, U 1045, Bordeaux F-33000, France
| | | | - Roger Marthan
- Univ. Bordeaux, INSERM, CRCTB, U 1045, Bordeaux F-33000, France; CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux 33000, France
| | - Patrick Berger
- Univ. Bordeaux, INSERM, CRCTB, U 1045, Bordeaux F-33000, France; CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux 33000, France
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Balistrieri A, Makino A, Yuan JXJ. Pathophysiology and pathogenic mechanisms of pulmonary hypertension: role of membrane receptors, ion channels, and Ca 2+ signaling. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:1827-1897. [PMID: 36422993 PMCID: PMC10110735 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00030.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The pulmonary circulation is a low-resistance, low-pressure, and high-compliance system that allows the lungs to receive the entire cardiac output. Pulmonary arterial pressure is a function of cardiac output and pulmonary vascular resistance, and pulmonary vascular resistance is inversely proportional to the fourth power of the intraluminal radius of the pulmonary artery. Therefore, a very small decrease of the pulmonary vascular lumen diameter results in a significant increase in pulmonary vascular resistance and pulmonary arterial pressure. Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a fatal and progressive disease with poor prognosis. Regardless of the initial pathogenic triggers, sustained pulmonary vasoconstriction, concentric vascular remodeling, occlusive intimal lesions, in situ thrombosis, and vascular wall stiffening are the major and direct causes for elevated pulmonary vascular resistance in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension and other forms of precapillary pulmonary hypertension. In this review, we aim to discuss the basic principles and physiological mechanisms involved in the regulation of lung vascular hemodynamics and pulmonary vascular function, the changes in the pulmonary vasculature that contribute to the increased vascular resistance and arterial pressure, and the pathogenic mechanisms involved in the development and progression of pulmonary hypertension. We focus on reviewing the pathogenic roles of membrane receptors, ion channels, and intracellular Ca2+ signaling in pulmonary vascular smooth muscle cells in the development and progression of pulmonary hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Balistrieri
- Section of Physiology, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
- Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Ayako Makino
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Jason X-J Yuan
- Section of Physiology, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
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4
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Xu C, Zhong W, Zhang H, Jiang J, Zhou H. Gap26 inhibited angiogenesis through the β-catenin-VE-cadherin-VEGFR2-Erk signaling pathway. Life Sci 2023:121836. [PMID: 37295713 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the effect of connexin 43 (Cx43) on corneal neovascularization and its regulation of VEGFR2 on vascular endothelial cells. METHODS In vivo, we used mouse corneal suture model to induce corneal neovascularization and discovered the function of gap26 in corneal neovascularization. In vitro, the effect of gap26 on HUVEC was observed by cell proliferation, tube formation and scratch experiments. WB and PCR detected the changes in angiogenic protein and mRNA expression. Knockdown of key mRNA in neovascularization using siRNA confirmed that Cx43 regulates neovascularization through the β-catenin-VE-cadherin-VEGFR2-Erk signaling pathway. RESULTS In vivo, gap26 can reduce mouse corneal neovascularization. In vitro, we show that Cx43 expression is increased in the presence of VEGFA stimulation, and when we use gap26 to inhibit Cx43 can reduce vascular endothelial cell proliferation, tube formation and migration. We found that the expression of pVEGFR2 and pErk increased in response to VEGFA, while they decreased after using gap26. And the expression of β-catenin and VE-cadherin decreased in response to VEGFA, while they increased after using gap26. Furthermore, we found that Cx43 regulates angiogenesis through the β-catenin-VE-cadherin-VEGFR2-Erk pathway. CONCLUSIONS Gap26 can downregulate VEGFR2 phosphorylation by stabilizing the expression of β-catenin and VE-cadherin on the cell membrane, thereby inhibiting VEGFA-induced HUVECs proliferation, migration and tube formation and inhibiting corneal neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuyang Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Wei Zhong
- Department of Ophthalmology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jinlan Jiang
- Scientific Research Center, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Hongyan Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
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5
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Qin X, Hou X, Xu X, Chen L, Gao A, Hao Y, Du X, Zhao L, Shi Y, Li Q. Down-regulation of connexin 43 contributes to structure and function of pulmonary artery in nicotine-administered mice. Toxicol Lett 2023; 377:1-13. [PMID: 36720419 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2023.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulated connexin signaling is implicated in the pathophysiology of pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH). Nicotine affects pulmonary vascular remodeling. However, the potential mechanistic link between connexin signaling and nicotine-induced pulmonary artery remodeling remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the role of connexin 43 (Cx43) in pulmonary artery remodeling in nicotine-administered C57BL/6 J wild-type (WT) and Cx43 heterozygous (Cx43+/-) mice. Hemodynamic parameters and right ventricle pathology were assessed in the mice. Serum biochemical indices of hepatic and renal function were measured. The RT-PCR, immunofluorescence, and western blotting were conducted to evaluate Cx43 mRNA and protein levels. We performed histological staining to identify pulmonary arteries. Wire myography was used to examine contraction and relaxation responses in the pulmonary arteries. Pulmonary vascular permeability was assessed through Evans blue staining. Compared with the WT group, the Cx43+/- group showed lower Cx43 mRNA and protein expression in the pulmonary arteries (P < 0.01). Nicotine treatment significantly increased Cx43 expression (P < 0.01) and induced morphological changes in the pulmonary arteries (P < 0.01). Our findings suggest that Cx43 plays a crucial role in pulmonary artery reactivity and permeability in mice. Furthermore, downregulation of Cx43 expression may contribute to alterations in pulmonary artery structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojiang Qin
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China; China Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Xiaomin Hou
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi, China; China Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Xinrong Xu
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Liangjin Chen
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Anqi Gao
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Yuxuan Hao
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Xufeng Du
- Department of Exercise Rehabilitation, Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi, China
| | - Liangyuan Zhao
- Department of Exercise Rehabilitation, Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi, China
| | - Yiwei Shi
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanxi Medical University Affiliated First Hospital, Shanxi, China.
| | - Qingshan Li
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Chronic Inflammatory Targeted Drugs, School of Materia Medica, Shanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 121 University Street, Jinzhong 030602, Shanxi, China.
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6
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Qin X, Gao A, Hou X, Xu X, Chen L, Sun L, Hao Y, Shi Y. Connexins may play a critical role in cigarette smoke-induced pulmonary hypertension. Arch Toxicol 2022; 96:1609-1621. [PMID: 35344070 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03274-6] [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: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a chronic progressive disease characterized by pulmonary vasoconstriction and remodeling. It causes a gradual increase in pulmonary vascular resistance leading to right-sided heart failure, and may be fatal. Chronic exposure to cigarette smoke (CS) is an essential risk factor for PH group 3; however, smoking continues to be prevalent and smoking cessation is reported to be difficult. A majority of smokers exhibit PH, which leads to a concomitant increase in the risk of mortality. The current treatments for PH group 3 focus on vasodilation and long-term oxygen supplementation, and fail to stop or reverse PH-associated continuous vascular remodeling. Recent studies have suggested that pulmonary vascular endothelial dysfunction induced by CS exposure may be an initial event in the natural history of PH, which in turn may be associated with abnormal alterations in connexin (Cx) expression. The relationship between Cx and CS-induced PH development has not yet been directly investigated. Therefore, this review will describe the roles of CS and Cx in the development of PH and discuss the related downstream pathways. We also discuss the possible role of Cx in CS-induced PH. It is hoped that this review may provide new perspectives for early intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojiang Qin
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.
- China Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.
| | - Anqi Gao
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiaomin Hou
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
- China Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Xinrong Xu
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Liangjin Chen
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Lin Sun
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Yuxuan Hao
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Yiwei Shi
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanxi Medical University Affiliated First Hospital, 85 Jiefang South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.
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7
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New Insights into Pulmonary Hypertension: A Role for Connexin-Mediated Signalling. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010379. [PMID: 35008804 PMCID: PMC8745497 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary hypertension is a serious clinical condition characterised by increased pulmonary arterial pressure. This can lead to right ventricular failure which can be fatal. Connexins are gap junction-forming membrane proteins which serve to exchange small molecules of less than 1 kD between cells. Connexins can also form hemi-channels connecting the intracellular and extracellular environments. Hemi-channels can mediate adenosine triphosphate release and are involved in autocrine and paracrine signalling. Recently, our group and others have identified evidence that connexin-mediated signalling may be involved in the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension. In this review, we discuss the evidence that dysregulated connexin-mediated signalling is associated with pulmonary hypertension.
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8
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Han XJ, Zhang WF, Wang Q, Li M, Zhang CB, Yang ZJ, Tan RJ, Gan LJ, Zhang LL, Lan XM, Zhang FL, Hong T, Jiang LP. HIF-1α promotes the proliferation and migration of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells via activation of Cx43. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:10663-10673. [PMID: 34698450 PMCID: PMC8581339 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The proliferation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) is an important cause of pulmonary vascular remodelling in hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension (HPH). However, its underlying mechanism has not been well elucidated. Connexin 43 (Cx43) plays crucial roles in vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation in various cardiovascular diseases. Here, the male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were exposed to hypoxia (10% O2 ) for 21 days to induce rat HPH model. PASMCs were treated with CoCl2 (200 µM) for 24 h to establish the HPH cell model. It was found that hypoxia up-regulated the expression of Cx43 and phosphorylation of Cx43 at Ser 368 in rat pulmonary arteries and PASMCs, and stimulated the proliferation and migration of PASMCs. HIF-1α inhibitor echinomycin attenuated the CoCl2 -induced Cx43 expression and phosphorylation of Cx43 at Ser 368 in PASMCs. The interaction between HIF-1α and Cx43 promotor was also identified using chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Moreover, Cx43 specific blocker (37,43 Gap27) or knockdown of Cx43 efficiently alleviated the proliferation and migration of PASMCs under chemically induced hypoxia. Therefore, the results above suggest that HIF-1α, as an upstream regulator, promotes the expression of Cx43, and the HIF-1α/Cx43 axis regulates the proliferation and migration of PASMCs in HPH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Jian Han
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China.,Institute of Geriatrics, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital Affiliated to Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital Affiliated to Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Wei-Fang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Chun-Bo Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhang-Jian Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Ren-Jie Tan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Li-Jun Gan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Le-Ling Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xue-Mei Lan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Fang-Lin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Tao Hong
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Li-Ping Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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Hao T, Xu X, Hao H, Du W, Pang Y, Zhao S, Zou H, Yang S, Zhu H, Yang Y, Zhao X. Melatonin improves the maturation and developmental ability of bovine oocytes by up-regulating GJA4 to enhance gap junction intercellular communication. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 33:760-771. [PMID: 34585659 DOI: 10.1071/rd21145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin (MT) increases oocyte maturation by reducing reactive oxygen species level and enhancing oocyte antioxidant capacity. However, the mechanisms via which MT works are still poorly understood. In the present study, the effects of MT on the maturation rate and development ability of bovine oocytes were investigated. Then, the transcriptome of oocytes treated by MT was sequenced. Finally, the expression of gap junction protein alpha 4 (GJA4) protein and cAMP level were detected in bovine oocytes, and isoprenaline (enhancer of gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC)) and heptanol (inhibitor of GJIC) were used to investigate the effect of MT on GJIC activity in bovine oocytes. Our results showed that MT significantly improved the maturation, developmental ability and mRNA expression of GJA4 of bovine oocytes. Meanwhile, MT significantly increased GJA4 protein level and cAMP level in bovine oocytes. In contrast to heptanol, both isoproterenol and MT significantly increased GJIC activity, nuclear maturation and the development ability of bovine oocytes. However, MT significantly restored the nuclear maturation and developmental ability of oocytes treated by heptanol. In conclusion, our results showed that MT improves the maturation and developmental ability of bovine oocytes by enhancing GJIC activity via up-regulating GJA4 protein expression in IVM progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Hao
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Xi Xu
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Haisheng Hao
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Weihua Du
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Yunwei Pang
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Shanjiang Zhao
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Huiying Zou
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Sha Yang
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Huabin Zhu
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Yuze Yang
- Beijing General Station of Animal Husbandry, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - Xueming Zhao
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
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10
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Abstract
Atrial fibrillation is associated with aging, obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and/or hypertension. Recent evidence suggests that parenchymal and vascular lung diseases increase atrial fibrillation risk. We review the epidemiology, clinical features, pathophysiologic mechanisms, and treatment implications of atrial fibrillation associated with diseases of the lungs and their vasculature, especially pulmonary hypertension. We also consider other features of pulmonary disease-associated atrial fibrillation. A key mediator of these conditions is right heart disease and right atrial remodeling. We pay particular attention to the pathophysiology and treatment challenges in atrial fibrillation associated with right heart disease induced by pulmonary diseases, including pulmonary hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roddy Hiram
- Department of Medicine, Montreal Heart Institute (MHI), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Steeve Provencher
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Quebec, Quebec, Canada; Department of medicine, Université Laval, 2325 rue de l'Universite, Montréal, Quebec G1V 0A6, Canada
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11
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Si R, Zhang Q, Cabrera JTO, Zheng Q, Tsuji‐Hosokawa A, Watanabe M, Hosokawa S, Xiong M, Jain PP, Ashton AW, Yuan JX, Wang J, Makino A. Chronic Hypoxia Decreases Endothelial Connexin 40, Attenuates Endothelium-Dependent Hyperpolarization-Mediated Relaxation in Small Distal Pulmonary Arteries, and Leads to Pulmonary Hypertension. J Am Heart Assoc 2020; 9:e018327. [PMID: 33307937 PMCID: PMC7955394 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.018327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Abnormal endothelial function in the lungs is implicated in the development of pulmonary hypertension; however, there is little information about the difference of endothelial function between small distal pulmonary artery (PA) and large proximal PA and their contribution to the development of pulmonary hypertension. Herein, we investigate endothelium-dependent relaxation in different orders of PAs and examine the molecular mechanisms by which chronic hypoxia attenuates endothelium-dependent pulmonary vasodilation, leading to pulmonary hypertension. Methods and Results Endothelium-dependent relaxation in large proximal PAs (second order) was primarily caused by releasing NO from the endothelium, whereas endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization (EDH)-mediated vasodilation was prominent in small distal PAs (fourth-fifth order). Chronic hypoxia abolished EDH-mediated relaxation in small distal PAs without affecting smooth muscle-dependent relaxation. RNA-sequencing data revealed that, among genes related to EDH, the levels of Cx37, Cx40, Cx43, and IK were altered in mouse pulmonary endothelial cells isolated from chronically hypoxic mice in comparison to mouse pulmonary endothelial cells from normoxic control mice. The protein levels were significantly lower for connexin 40 (Cx40) and higher for connexin 37 in mouse pulmonary endothelial cells from hypoxic mice than normoxic mice. Cx40 knockout mice exhibited significant attenuation of EDH-mediated relaxation and marked increase in right ventricular systolic pressure. Interestingly, chronic hypoxia led to a further increase in right ventricular systolic pressure in Cx40 knockout mice without altering EDH-mediated relaxation. Furthermore, overexpression of Cx40 significantly decreased right ventricular systolic pressure in chronically hypoxic mice. Conclusions These data suggest that chronic hypoxia-induced downregulation of endothelial Cx40 results in impaired EDH-mediated relaxation in small distal PAs and contributes to the development of pulmonary hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Si
- Department of PhysiologyThe University of ArizonaTucsonAZ
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of PhysiologyThe University of ArizonaTucsonAZ
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory DiseaseThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | | | - Qiuyu Zheng
- Department of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaSan DiegoCA
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory DiseaseThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | | | | | | | - Mingmei Xiong
- Department of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaSan DiegoCA
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory DiseaseThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | | | - Anthony W. Ashton
- Division of Perinatal ResearchKolling Institute of Medical ResearchUniversity of SydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Jason X.‐J. Yuan
- Department of MedicineThe University of ArizonaTucsonAZ
- Department of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaSan DiegoCA
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of MedicineThe University of ArizonaTucsonAZ
- Department of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaSan DiegoCA
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory DiseaseThe First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Ayako Makino
- Department of PhysiologyThe University of ArizonaTucsonAZ
- Department of MedicineThe University of ArizonaTucsonAZ
- Department of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaSan DiegoCA
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12
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McNair AJ, Wilson KS, Martin PE, Welsh DJ, Dempsie Y. Connexin 43 plays a role in proliferation and migration of pulmonary arterial fibroblasts in response to hypoxia. Pulm Circ 2020; 10:2045894020937134. [PMID: 32670564 PMCID: PMC7338651 DOI: 10.1177/2045894020937134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a disease associated with vasoconstriction and remodelling of the pulmonary vasculature. Pulmonary artery fibroblasts (PAFs) play an important role in hypoxic-induced remodelling. Connexin 43 (Cx43) is involved in cellular communication and regulation of the pulmonary vasculature. Using both in vitro and in vivo models of PH, the aims of this study were to (i) investigate the role of Cx43 in hypoxic-induced proliferation and migration of rat PAFs (rPAFs) and rat pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (rPASMCs) and (ii) determine whether Cx43 expression is dysregulated in the rat sugen5416/hypoxic model of PH. The role of Cx43 in hypoxic-induced proliferation and migration was investigated using Gap27 (a pharmacological inhibitor of Cx43) or genetic knockdown of Cx43 using siRNA. Cx43 protein expression was increased by hypoxia in rPAFs but not rPASMCs. Hypoxic exposure, in the presence of serum, resulted in an increase in proliferation of rPAFs but not rPASMCs. Hypoxic exposure caused migration of rPAFs but not rPASMCs. Phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and ERK1/2 were increased by hypoxia in rPAFs. The effects of hypoxia on proliferation, migration and MAPK phosphorylation in rPAFs were attenuated in the presence of Gap27 or Cx43 siRNA. Cx43 protein expression was increased in sugen5416/hypoxic rat lung; this increased expression was not observed in sugen5416/hypoxic rats treated with the MAPK pathway inhibitor GS-444217. In conclusion, Cx43 is involved in the proliferation and migration of rPAFs in response to hypoxia via the MAPK signalling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J McNair
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Science, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Kathryn S Wilson
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Science, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Patricia E Martin
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Science, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - David J Welsh
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Science, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK.,Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Yvonne Dempsie
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Science, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
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13
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Bouvard C, Genet N, Phan C, Rode B, Thuillet R, Tu L, Robillard P, Campagnac M, Soleti R, Dumas De La Roque E, Delcambre F, Cronier L, Parpaite T, Maurat E, Berger P, Savineau JP, Marthan R, Guignabert C, Freund-Michel V, Guibert C. Connexin-43 is a promising target for pulmonary hypertension due to hypoxaemic lung disease. Eur Respir J 2020; 55:13993003.00169-2019. [PMID: 31862763 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.00169-2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying pulmonary hypertension (PH) are complex and multifactorial, and involve different cell types that are interconnected through gap junctional channels. Although connexin (Cx)-43 is the most abundant gap junction protein in the heart and lungs, and critically governs intercellular signalling communication, its contribution to PH remains unknown. The focus of the present study is thus to evaluate Cx43 as a potential new target in PH.Expressions of Cx37, Cx40 and Cx43 were studied in lung specimens from patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) or PH associated with chronic hypoxaemic lung diseases (chronic hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension (CH-PH)). Heterozygous Cx43 knockdown CD1 (Cx43+/-) and wild-type littermate (Cx43+/+) mice at 12 weeks of age were randomly divided into two groups, one of which was maintained in room air and the other exposed to hypoxia (10% oxygen) for 3 weeks. We evaluated pulmonary haemodynamics, remodelling processes in cardiac tissues and pulmonary arteries (PAs), lung inflammation and PA vasoreactivity.Cx43 levels were increased in PAs from CH-PH patients and decreased in PAs from IPAH patients; however, no difference in Cx37 or Cx40 levels was noted. Upon hypoxia treatment, the Cx43+/- mice were partially protected against CH-PH when compared to Cx43+/+ mice, with reduced pulmonary arterial muscularisation and inflammatory infiltration. Interestingly, the adaptive changes in cardiac remodelling in Cx43+/- mice were not affected. PA contraction due to endothelin-1 (ET-1) was increased in Cx43+/- mice under normoxic and hypoxic conditions.Taken together, these results indicate that targeting Cx43 may have beneficial therapeutic effects in PH without affecting compensatory cardiac hypertrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Bouvard
- INSERM, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Pessac, France.,Univ-Bordeaux, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Bordeaux, France
| | - Nafiisha Genet
- INSERM, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Pessac, France.,Univ-Bordeaux, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Bordeaux, France
| | - Carole Phan
- INSERM UMR_S 999, Hôpital Marie Lannelongue, Le Plessis-Robinson, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, Faculté de Médecine, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Baptiste Rode
- INSERM, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Pessac, France.,Univ-Bordeaux, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Bordeaux, France
| | - Raphaël Thuillet
- INSERM UMR_S 999, Hôpital Marie Lannelongue, Le Plessis-Robinson, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, Faculté de Médecine, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Ly Tu
- INSERM UMR_S 999, Hôpital Marie Lannelongue, Le Plessis-Robinson, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, Faculté de Médecine, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Paul Robillard
- INSERM, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Pessac, France.,Univ-Bordeaux, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Bordeaux, France
| | - Marilyne Campagnac
- INSERM, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Pessac, France.,Univ-Bordeaux, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Eric Dumas De La Roque
- INSERM, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Pessac, France.,CHU de Bordeaux, Pessac, France
| | | | - Laurent Cronier
- Laboratoire Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires, CNRS ERL 7003, Université de Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - Thibaud Parpaite
- INSERM, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Pessac, France.,Univ-Bordeaux, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Bordeaux, France
| | - Elise Maurat
- INSERM, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Pessac, France.,Univ-Bordeaux, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Bordeaux, France
| | - Patrick Berger
- INSERM, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Pessac, France.,Univ-Bordeaux, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Bordeaux, France.,CHU de Bordeaux, Pessac, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Savineau
- INSERM, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Pessac, France.,Univ-Bordeaux, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Bordeaux, France
| | - Roger Marthan
- INSERM, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Pessac, France.,Univ-Bordeaux, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Bordeaux, France.,CHU de Bordeaux, Pessac, France
| | - Christophe Guignabert
- INSERM UMR_S 999, Hôpital Marie Lannelongue, Le Plessis-Robinson, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, Faculté de Médecine, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Véronique Freund-Michel
- INSERM, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Pessac, France.,Univ-Bordeaux, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Bordeaux, France
| | - Christelle Guibert
- INSERM, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Pessac, France .,Univ-Bordeaux, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, U1045, Bordeaux, France
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14
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Li X, Zhang Q, Zhang R, Cheng N, Guo N, Liu Y, Cai J, Yuan D. Down-regulation of Cx43 expression on PIH-HUVEC cells attenuates monocyte-endothelial adhesion. Thromb Res 2019; 179:104-113. [PMID: 31112837 DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2019.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) is the most common serious complication of pregnancy, resulting in significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Vasospasm is the main pathogenesis of PIH, which leads to the hemodynamic changes and the injury of vascular endothelial cells. However, the underlying mechanism is still unclear. Monocyte-endothelial adhesion is always considered to be one of the most important indicators of vascular endothelial cell injury. Connexin43 (Cx43) plays an important part in monocyte-endothelial adhesion. Thus, we explored effects of Cx43 on cell adhesion in PIH-induced vascular endothelial cells injury. METHODS We obtained human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) from patients with or without PIH. Different methods, such as inhibitors: oleamide and Gap26, or specific siRNA were used to alter Cx43 channels function or protein expression in normal or PIH-HUVECs. U937-HUVECs adhesion, adhesion molecules expression, such as VCAM-1 and ICAM-1, and the activity of PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway were determined. RESULTS Monocyte-endothelial adhesion on PIH-HUVECs was much more obvious than that on normal HUVECs. Inhibition of Cx43 protein expression could attenuate cell adhesion significantly, however, function of Cx43 channels had no effects on it. Alternation of Cx43 protein expression on PIH-HUVECs mediated VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 expression via regulating the activity of PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS We firstly reported Cx43 protein expression on PIH-HUVECs was much higher than that on normal HUVECs. Elevation of Cx43 protein expression within the vasculature resulted in PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway activation and VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 over-expression, which ultimately lead to monocyte-endothelial adhesion increase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianlong Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center of Sun Yat-sen University, Xian lie South Road, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Nan Cheng
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Na Guo
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yiqian Liu
- Southern Medical University, Sha Tai South Road, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Jun Cai
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, PR China..
| | - Dongdong Yuan
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, PR China..
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15
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An Overview of the Focus of the International Gap Junction Conference 2017 and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092823. [PMID: 30231591 PMCID: PMC6164644 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This Special Issue relates to the 18th biannual International Gap Junction Conference (IGJC2017), held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Glasgow, U.K., from the 29 July⁻2 August 2017 [...].
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