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Rood JE, Hupalowska A, Regev A. Toward a foundation model of causal cell and tissue biology with a Perturbation Cell and Tissue Atlas. Cell 2024; 187:4520-4545. [PMID: 39178831 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.07.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
Comprehensively charting the biologically causal circuits that govern the phenotypic space of human cells has often been viewed as an insurmountable challenge. However, in the last decade, a suite of interleaved experimental and computational technologies has arisen that is making this fundamental goal increasingly tractable. Pooled CRISPR-based perturbation screens with high-content molecular and/or image-based readouts are now enabling researchers to probe, map, and decipher genetically causal circuits at increasing scale. This scale is now eminently suitable for the deployment of artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) to both direct further experiments and to predict or generate information that was not-and sometimes cannot-be gathered experimentally. By combining and iterating those through experiments that are designed for inference, we now envision a Perturbation Cell Atlas as a generative causal foundation model to unify human cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aviv Regev
- Genentech, South San Francisco, CA, USA.
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2
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Lin H, Gao D, Wang S, Wang Z, Guan H, Wang Y, Zhou Y. Inhibition of circ_0000231 suppresses oxidized low density lipoprotein-induced apoptosis, autophagy and inflammation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells by regulating miR-590-5p/PDCD4 axis. Clin Hemorheol Microcirc 2024; 87:283-299. [PMID: 37066904 DOI: 10.3233/ch-231696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are the emerging informative RNAs, involved in cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis (AS). Endothelial injury is the initial qualitative change of AS. Thus, the objective of this study was to confirm the dysregulation and mechanism of circ_0000231 in cell model of AS at early stage in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) induced by oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL). METHODS The expression of circ_0000231, miR-590-5p and programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4) was detected using real-time quantitative PCR and western blot. Cell injury was measured with MTT, flow cytometry, caspase-3 activity assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The interaction among circ_0000231, miR-590-5p and PDCD4 was validated by dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and pull-down assays. RESULTS Stress ox-LDL decreased cell viability, and increased apoptosis rate and caspase-3 activity in HUVECs in a dose- and time-dependent manner in concomitant with promotions of interleukin-6, interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, LC3-II/I and Beclin-1 levels. Besides, circ_0000231 and PDCD4 expressions were upregulated, and miR-590-5p was downregulated in ox-LDL-stimulated HUVECs. Functionally, knockdown of circ_0000231 and overexpression of miR-590-5p could suppress ox-LDL-elicited above effects on apoptosis, autophagy and inflammatory response, accompanied with PDCD4 downregulation. Physically, miR-590-5p could directly interact with circ_0000231 and PDCD4. CONCLUSION Downregulation of circ_0000231 suppresses HUVECs from ox-LDL-induced injury partially through regulating miR-590-5p/PDCD4 axis via competing endogenous RNA mechanism, showing a novel potential target for the pathology and treatment of endothelial injury in AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Lin
- Department of Cardiology, Ningbo Medical Treatment Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Da Gao
- Department of Cardiology, Ningbo Medical Treatment Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Shengjie Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Ningbo Medical Treatment Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Zicheng Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Ningbo Medical Treatment Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Haiwang Guan
- Department of Cardiology, Ningbo Medical Treatment Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yanwei Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Ningbo Medical Treatment Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, Zhejiang Provincial People's HospitalHangzhou, China
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Perrelli A, Bozza A, Ferraris C, Osella S, Moglia A, Mioletti S, Battaglia L, Retta SF. Multidrug-Loaded Lipid Nanoemulsions for the Combinatorial Treatment of Cerebral Cavernous Malformation Disease. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020480. [PMID: 36831015 PMCID: PMC9953270 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) or cavernoma is a major vascular disease of genetic origin, whose main phenotypes occur in the central nervous system, and is currently devoid of pharmacological therapeutic strategies. Cavernomas can remain asymptomatic during a lifetime or manifest with a wide range of symptoms, including recurrent headaches, seizures, strokes, and intracerebral hemorrhages. Loss-of-function mutations in KRIT1/CCM1 are responsible for more than 50% of all familial cases, and have been clearly shown to affect cellular junctions, redox homeostasis, inflammatory responses, and angiogenesis. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of multidrug-loaded lipid nanoemulsions in rescuing the pathological phenotype of CCM disease. The pro-autophagic rapamycin, antioxidant avenanthramide, and antiangiogenic bevacizumab were loaded into nanoemulsions, with the aim of reducing the major molecular dysfunctions associated with cavernomas. Through Western blot analysis of biomarkers in an in vitro CCM model, we demonstrated that drug-loaded lipid nanoemulsions rescue antioxidant responses, reactivate autophagy, and reduce the effect of pro-angiogenic factors better than the free drugs. Our results show the importance of developing a combinatorial preventive and therapeutic approach to reduce the risk of lesion formation and inhibit or completely revert the multiple hallmarks that characterize the pathogenesis and progression of cavernomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Perrelli
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, TO, Italy
- CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center at the Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, TO, Italy
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, Rochester, NY 14620, USA
| | - Annalisa Bozza
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, 10125 Torino, TO, Italy
| | - Chiara Ferraris
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, TO, Italy
- CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center at the Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, TO, Italy
| | - Sara Osella
- San Giovanni Bosco Hospital, University of Torino, 10154 Torino, TO, Italy
| | - Andrea Moglia
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, University of Torino, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| | - Silvia Mioletti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Torino, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| | - Luigi Battaglia
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, 10125 Torino, TO, Italy
- Nanostructured Interfaces and Surfaces (NIS) Interdepartmental Centre, University of Torino, 10124 Torino, TO, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.B.); (S.F.R.)
| | - Saverio Francesco Retta
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, TO, Italy
- CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center at the Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, TO, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.B.); (S.F.R.)
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Bianconi A, Salvati LF, Perrelli A, Ferraris C, Massara A, Minardi M, Aruta G, Rosso M, Massa Micon B, Garbossa D, Retta SF. Distant Recurrence of a Cerebral Cavernous Malformation in the Vicinity of a Developmental Venous Anomaly: Case Report of Local Oxy-Inflammatory Events. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314643. [PMID: 36498972 PMCID: PMC9736411 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are a major type of cerebrovascular lesions of proven genetic origin that occur in either sporadic (sCCM) or familial (fCCM) forms, the latter being inherited as an autosomal dominant condition linked to loss-of-function mutations in three known CCM genes. In contrast to fCCMs, sCCMs are rarely linked to mutations in CCM genes and are instead commonly and peculiarly associated with developmental venous anomalies (DVAs), suggesting distinct origins and common pathogenic mechanisms. CASE REPORT A hemorrhagic sCCM in the right frontal lobe of the brain was surgically excised from a symptomatic 3 year old patient, preserving intact and pervious the associated DVA. MRI follow-up examination performed periodically up to 15 years after neurosurgery intervention demonstrated complete removal of the CCM lesion and no residual or relapse signs. However, 18 years after surgery, the patient experienced acute episodes of paresthesia due to a distant recurrence of a new hemorrhagic CCM lesion located within the same area as the previous one. A new surgical intervention was, therefore, necessary, which was again limited to the CCM without affecting the pre-existing DVA. Subsequent follow-up examination by contrast-enhanced MRI evidenced a persistent pattern of signal-intensity abnormalities in the bed of the DVA, including hyperintense gliotic areas, suggesting chronic inflammatory conditions. CONCLUSIONS This case report highlights the possibility of long-term distant recurrence of hemorrhagic sCCMs associated with a DVA, suggesting that such recurrence is secondary to focal sterile inflammatory conditions generated by the DVA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Bianconi
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences “Rita Levi Montalcini”, City of Health and Science and University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Orbassano, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.B.); (S.F.R.)
| | | | - Andrea Perrelli
- CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Orbassano, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10124 Orbassano, Italy
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14602, USA
| | - Chiara Ferraris
- CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Orbassano, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10124 Orbassano, Italy
| | - Armando Massara
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences “Rita Levi Montalcini”, City of Health and Science and University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Minardi
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences “Rita Levi Montalcini”, City of Health and Science and University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
| | - Gelsomina Aruta
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences “Rita Levi Montalcini”, City of Health and Science and University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
| | - Miriam Rosso
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences “Rita Levi Montalcini”, City of Health and Science and University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
| | - Barbara Massa Micon
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences “Rita Levi Montalcini”, City of Health and Science and University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
| | - Diego Garbossa
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences “Rita Levi Montalcini”, City of Health and Science and University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Orbassano, Italy
| | - Saverio Francesco Retta
- CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Orbassano, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10124 Orbassano, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.B.); (S.F.R.)
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Heterozygous Loss of KRIT1 in Mice Affects Metabolic Functions of the Liver, Promoting Hepatic Oxidative and Glycative Stress. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911151. [PMID: 36232456 PMCID: PMC9570113 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
KRIT1 loss-of-function mutations underlie the pathogenesis of Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM), a major vascular disease affecting the central nervous system (CNS). However, KRIT1 is also expressed outside the CNS and modulates key regulators of metabolic and oxy-inflammatory pathways, including the master transcription factor FoxO1, suggesting a widespread functional significance. Herein, we show that the KRIT1/FoxO1 axis is implicated in liver metabolic functions and antioxidative/antiglycative defenses. Indeed, by performing comparative studies in KRIT1 heterozygous (KRIT1+/−) and wild-type mice, we found that KRIT1 haploinsufficiency resulted in FoxO1 expression/activity downregulation in the liver, and affected hepatic FoxO1-dependent signaling pathways, which are markers of major metabolic processes, including gluconeogenesis, glycolysis, mitochondrial respiration, and glycogen synthesis. Moreover, it caused sustained activation of the master antioxidant transcription factor Nrf2, hepatic accumulation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), and abnormal expression/activity of AGE receptors and detoxifying systems. Furthermore, it was associated with an impairment of food intake, systemic glucose disposal, and plasma levels of insulin. Specific molecular alterations detected in the liver of KRIT1+/− mice were also confirmed in KRIT1 knockout cells. Overall, our findings demonstrated, for the first time, that KRIT1 haploinsufficiency affects glucose homeostasis and liver metabolic and antioxidative/antiglycative functions, thus inspiring future basic and translational studies.
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Agri-Food Waste from Apple, Pear, and Sugar Beet as a Source of Protective Bioactive Molecules for Endothelial Dysfunction and Its Major Complications. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11091786. [PMID: 36139860 PMCID: PMC9495678 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11091786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial damage is recognized as the initial step that precedes several cardiovascular diseases (CVD), such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, and coronary artery disease. It has been demonstrated that the best treatment for CVD is prevention, and, in the frame of a healthy lifestyle, the consumption of vegetables, rich in bioactive molecules, appears effective at reducing the risk of CVD. In this context, the large amount of agri-food industry waste, considered a global problem due to its environmental and economic impact, represents an unexplored source of bioactive compounds. This review provides a summary regarding the possible exploitation of waste or by-products derived by the processing of three traditional Italian crops-apple, pear, and sugar beet-as a source of bioactive molecules to protect endothelial function. Particular attention has been given to the bioactive chemical profile of these pomaces and their efficacy in various pathological conditions related to endothelial dysfunction. The waste matrices of apple, pear, and sugar beet crops can represent promising starting material for producing "upcycled" products with functional applications, such as the prevention of endothelial dysfunction linked to cardiovascular diseases.
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Abou-Fadel J, Jiang X, Padarti A, Goswami DG, Smith M, Grajeda B, Bhalli M, Le A, Walker WE, Zhang J. mPR-Specific Actions Influence Maintenance of the Blood–Brain Barrier (BBB). Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179684. [PMID: 36077089 PMCID: PMC9456378 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are characterized by abnormally dilated intracranial microvascular sinusoids that result in increased susceptibility to hemorrhagic stroke. It has been demonstrated that three CCM proteins (CCM1, CCM2, and CCM3) form the CCM signaling complex (CSC) to mediate angiogenic signaling. Disruption of the CSC will result in hemorrhagic CCMs, a consequence of compromised blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity. Due to their characteristically incomplete penetrance, the majority of CCM mutation carriers (presumed CCM patients) are largely asymptomatic, but when symptoms occur, the disease has typically reached a clinical stage of focal hemorrhage with irreversible brain damage. We recently reported that the CSC couples both classic (nuclear; nPRs) and nonclassic (membrane; mPRs) progesterone (PRG)-receptors-mediated signaling within the CSC-mPRs-PRG (CmP) signaling network in nPR(−) breast cancer cells. In this report, we demonstrate that depletion of any of the three CCM genes or treatment with mPR-specific PRG actions (PRG/mifepristone) results in the disruption of the CmP signaling network, leading to increased permeability in the nPR(−) endothelial cells (ECs) monolayer in vitro. Finally, utilizing our in vivo hemizygous Ccm mutant mice models, we demonstrate that depletion of any of the three CCM genes, in combination with mPR-specific PRG actions, is also capable of leading to defective homeostasis of PRG in vivo and subsequent BBB disruption, allowing us to identify a specific panel of etiological blood biomarkers associated with BBB disruption. To our knowledge, this is the first report detailing the etiology to predict the occurrence of a disrupted BBB, an indication of early hemorrhagic events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johnathan Abou-Fadel
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Xiaoting Jiang
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Akhil Padarti
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Dinesh G. Goswami
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Mark Smith
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Brian Grajeda
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA
| | - Muaz Bhalli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Alexander Le
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Wendy E. Walker
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine (MTM), Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-915-215-4197
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Next-Generation Sequencing Advances the Genetic Diagnosis of Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM). Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11071294. [PMID: 35883785 PMCID: PMC9311989 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11071294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM) is a cerebrovascular disease of genetic origin that predisposes to seizures, focal neurological deficits and fatal intracerebral hemorrhage. It may occur sporadically or in familial forms, segregating as an autosomal dominant condition with incomplete penetrance and highly variable expressivity. Its pathogenesis has been associated with loss-of-function mutations in three genes, namely KRIT1 (CCM1), CCM2 and PDCD10 (CCM3), which are implicated in defense mechanisms against oxidative stress and inflammation. Herein, we screened 21 Italian CCM cases using clinical exome sequencing and found six cases (~29%) with pathogenic variants in CCM genes, including a large 145−256 kb genomic deletion spanning the KRIT1 gene and flanking regions, and the KRIT1 c.1664C>T variant, which we demonstrated to activate a donor splice site in exon 16. The segregation of this cryptic splicing mutation was studied in a large Italian family (five affected and seven unaffected cases), and showed a largely heterogeneous clinical presentation, suggesting the implication of genetic modifiers. Moreover, by analyzing ad hoc gene panels, including a virtual panel of 23 cerebrovascular disease-related genes (Cerebro panel), we found two variants in NOTCH3 and PTEN genes, which could contribute to the abnormal oxidative stress and inflammatory responses to date implicated in CCM disease pathogenesis.
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Rihal V, Khan H, Kaur A, Singh TG. Vitamin D as therapeutic modulator in cerebrovascular diseases: a mechanistic perspectives. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 63:7772-7794. [PMID: 35285752 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2050349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to several major chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, and cancer, linked to oxidative stress, inflammation, and aging. Vitamin D deficiency appears to be particularly harmful to the cardiovascular system, as it can cause endothelial dysfunctioning and vascular abnormalities through the modulation of various downstream mechanisms. As a result, new research indicates that therapeutic approaches targeting vitamin D inadequacies or its significant downstream effects, such as impaired autophagy, abnormal pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidant reactions, may delay the onset and severity of major cerebrovascular disorders such as stroke and neurologic malformations. Vitamin D modulates the various molecular pathways, i.e., Nitric Oxide, PI3K-Akt Pathway, cAMP pathway, NF-kB Pathway, Sirtuin 1, Nrf2, FOXO, in cerebrovascular disorder. The current review shows evidence for vitamin D's mitigating or slowing the progression of these cerebrovascular disorders, which are significant causes of disability and death worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Rihal
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, India
| | - Heena Khan
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, India
| | - Amarjot Kaur
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, India
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10
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Perrelli A, Retta SF. Polymorphisms in genes related to oxidative stress and inflammation: Emerging links with the pathogenesis and severity of Cerebral Cavernous Malformation disease. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 172:403-417. [PMID: 34175437 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM) is a cerebrovascular disease of genetic origin affecting 0.5% of the population and characterized by abnormally enlarged and leaky capillaries that predispose to seizures, neurological deficits, and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). CCM occurs sporadically or is inherited as dominant condition with incomplete penetrance and highly variable expressivity. Three disease genes have been identified: KRIT1 (CCM1), CCM2 and CCM3. Previous results demonstrated that loss-of-function mutations of CCM genes cause pleiotropic effects, including defective autophagy, altered reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis, and enhanced sensitivity to oxidative stress and inflammatory events, suggesting a novel unifying pathogenetic mechanism, and raising the possibility that CCM disease onset and severity are influenced by the presence of susceptibility and modifier genes. Consistently, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) in large and homogeneous cohorts of patients sharing the familial form of CCM disease and identical mutations in CCM genes have led to the discovery of distinct genetic modifiers of major disease severity phenotypes, such as development of numerous and large CCM lesions, and susceptibility to ICH. This review deals with the identification of genetic modifiers with a significant impact on inter-individual variability in CCM disease onset and severity, including highly polymorphic genes involved in oxidative stress, inflammatory and immune responses, such as cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYP), matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), and Toll-like receptors (TLR), pointing to their emerging prognostic value, and opening up new perspectives for risk stratification and personalized medicine strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Perrelli
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, Torino, Italy; CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center at the Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, Torino, Italy.
| | - Saverio Francesco Retta
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, Torino, Italy; CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center at the Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, Torino, Italy.
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11
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Fortini F, Vieceli Dalla Sega F, Marracino L, Severi P, Rapezzi C, Rizzo P, Ferrari R. Well-Known and Novel Players in Endothelial Dysfunction: Updates on a Notch(ed) Landscape. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9080997. [PMID: 34440201 PMCID: PMC8393382 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9080997] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial dysfunction characterizes every aspect of the so-called cardiovascular continuum, a series of events ranging from hypertension to the development of atherosclerosis and, finally, to coronary heart disease, thrombus formation, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. Endothelial dysfunction is the main prognostic factor for the progression of vascular disorders, which responds to drug intervention and lifestyle changes. Virtually all of the drugs used to prevent cardiovascular disorders, such as long-used and new antilipidemic agents and inhibitors of angiotensin enzyme (ACEi), exert an important effect on the endothelium. Endothelial dysfunction is a central feature of coronavirus disease -19 (COVID-19), and it is now clear that life-risk complications of the disease are prompted by alterations of the endothelium induced by viral infection. As a consequence, the progression of COVID-19 is worse in the subjects in whom endothelial dysfunction is already present, such as elderly, diabetic, obese, and hypertensive patients. Importantly, circulating biomarkers of endothelial activation and injury predict the severity and mortality of the disease and can be used to evaluate the efficacy of treatments. The purpose of this review is to provide updates on endothelial function by discussing its clinical relevance in the cardiovascular continuum, the latest insights from molecular and cellular biology, and their implications for clinical practice, with a focus on new actors, such as the Notch signaling and emerging therapies for cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Fortini
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, 48033 Cotignola, Italy; (F.F.); (F.V.D.S.); (C.R.); (P.R.)
| | | | - Luisa Marracino
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.M.); (P.S.)
| | - Paolo Severi
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.M.); (P.S.)
| | - Claudio Rapezzi
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, 48033 Cotignola, Italy; (F.F.); (F.V.D.S.); (C.R.); (P.R.)
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.M.); (P.S.)
| | - Paola Rizzo
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, 48033 Cotignola, Italy; (F.F.); (F.V.D.S.); (C.R.); (P.R.)
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.M.); (P.S.)
| | - Roberto Ferrari
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, 48033 Cotignola, Italy; (F.F.); (F.V.D.S.); (C.R.); (P.R.)
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.M.); (P.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-053-229-3707
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12
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Goitre L, Fornelli C, Zotta A, Perrelli A, Retta SF. Production of KRIT1-knockout and KRIT1-knockin Mouse Embryonic Fibroblasts as Cellular Models of CCM Disease. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2152:151-167. [PMID: 32524551 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0640-7_12] [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] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
The development of distinct cellular and animal models has allowed the identification and characterization of molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) disease. This is a major cerebrovascular disorder of proven genetic origin, affecting 0.5% of the population. Three disease genes have been identified: CCM1/KRIT1, CCM2, and CCM3. These genes encode for proteins implicated in the regulation of major cellular structures and mechanisms, such as cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion, actin cytoskeleton dynamics, and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, suggesting that they may act as pleiotropic regulators of cellular homeostasis. Indeed, accumulated evidence in cellular and animal models demonstrates that emerged pleiotropic functions of CCM proteins are mainly due to their ability to modulate redox-sensitive pathways and mechanisms involved in adaptive responses to oxidative stress and inflammation, thus contributing to the preservation of cellular homeostasis and stress defenses. In particular, we demonstrated that KRIT1 loss-of-function affects master regulators of cellular redox homeostasis and responses to oxidative stress, including major redox-sensitive transcriptional factors and antioxidant proteins, and autophagy, suggesting that altered redox signaling and oxidative stress contribute to CCM pathogenesis, and opening novel preventive and therapeutic perspectives.In this chapter, we describe materials and methods for isolation of mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cells from homozygous KRIT1-knockout mouse embryos, and their transduction with a lentiviral vector encoding KRIT1 to generate cellular models of CCM disease that contributed significantly to the identification of pathogenetic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Goitre
- Department of Clinical and Biological Science, University of Torino, Orbassano (Torino), Italy. .,CCM Italia Research Network, Torino, Italy.
| | - Claudia Fornelli
- Department of Clinical and Biological Science, University of Torino, Orbassano (Torino), Italy.,CCM Italia Research Network, Torino, Italy
| | - Alessia Zotta
- Department of Clinical and Biological Science, University of Torino, Orbassano (Torino), Italy.,CCM Italia Research Network, Torino, Italy
| | - Andrea Perrelli
- CCM Italia Research Network, Torino, Italy.,Department of Clinical and Biological Science, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Torino, Orbassano (Torino), Italy
| | - Saverio Francesco Retta
- CCM Italia Research Network, Torino, Italy. .,Department of Clinical and Biological Science, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Torino, Orbassano (Torino), Italy.
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13
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Retta SF, Perrelli A, Trabalzini L, Finetti F. From Genes and Mechanisms to Molecular-Targeted Therapies: The Long Climb to the Cure of Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM) Disease. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2152:3-25. [PMID: 32524540 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0640-7_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) is a rare cerebrovascular disorder of genetic origin consisting of closely clustered, abnormally dilated and leaky capillaries (CCM lesions), which occur predominantly in the central nervous system. CCM lesions can be single or multiple and may result in severe clinical symptoms, including focal neurological deficits, seizures, and intracerebral hemorrhage. Early human genetic studies demonstrated that CCM disease is linked to three chromosomal loci and can be inherited as autosomal dominant condition with incomplete penetrance and highly variable expressivity, eventually leading to the identification of three disease genes, CCM1/KRIT1, CCM2, and CCM3/PDCD10, which encode for structurally unrelated intracellular proteins that lack catalytic domains. Biochemical, molecular, and cellular studies then showed that these proteins are involved in endothelial cell-cell junction and blood-brain barrier stability maintenance through the regulation of major cellular structures and mechanisms, including endothelial cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion, actin cytoskeleton dynamics, autophagy, and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, suggesting that they act as pleiotropic regulators of cellular homeostasis, and opening novel therapeutic perspectives. Indeed, accumulated evidence in cellular and animal models has eventually revealed that the emerged pleiotropic functions of CCM proteins are mainly due to their ability to modulate redox-sensitive pathways and mechanisms involved in adaptive responses to oxidative stress and inflammation, thus contributing to the preservation of cellular homeostasis and stress defenses.In this introductory review, we present a general overview of 20 years of amazing progress in the identification of genetic culprits and molecular mechanisms underlying CCM disease pathogenesis, and the development of targeted therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saverio Francesco Retta
- Department of Clinical and Biological Science, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Torino, Orbassano (Torino), Italy. .,CCM Italia Research Network, Torino, Italy.
| | - Andrea Perrelli
- Department of Clinical and Biological Science, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Torino, Orbassano (Torino), Italy.,CCM Italia Research Network, Torino, Italy
| | - Lorenza Trabalzini
- CCM Italia Research Network, Torino, Italy.,Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Federica Finetti
- CCM Italia Research Network, Torino, Italy.,Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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14
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Fluorescence Analysis of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in Cellular Models of Cerebral Cavernous Malformation Disease. Methods Mol Biol 2021. [PMID: 32524573 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0640-7_34] [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: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) is a vascular disease of proven genetic origin, which may arise sporadically or can be inherited as an autosomal dominant condition with incomplete penetrance and highly variable expressivity. CCM disease exhibits a range of different phenotypes, including wide interindividual differences in lesion number, size, and susceptibility to intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Mutations of the KRIT1 gene account for over 50% of familial cases. Previously, we demonstrated that KRIT1 loss-of-function is associated with altered homeostasis of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and abnormal activation of redox-sensitive transcription factors, which collectively result in pro-oxidative, pro-inflammatory, and pro-angiogenic effects, suggesting a novel pathogenic mechanism for CCM disease. Consistently, these original discoveries have been confirmed and extended by subsequent findings showing mechanistic relationships between pleiotropic redox-dependent effects of KRIT1 loss-of-function and enhanced cell sensitivity to oxidative stress, which may eventually lead to cellular dysfunctions and CCM disease pathogenesis. In this chapter, we describe few basic methods used for qualitative and quantitative analysis of intracellular ROS in cellular models of CCM disease.
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15
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De Luca E, Perrelli A, Swamy H, Nitti M, Passalacqua M, Furfaro AL, Salzano AM, Scaloni A, Glading AJ, Retta SF. Protein kinase Cα regulates the nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of KRIT1. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:jcs250217. [PMID: 33443102 PMCID: PMC7875496 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.250217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
KRIT1 is a scaffolding protein that regulates multiple molecular mechanisms, including cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion, and redox homeostasis and signaling. However, rather little is known about how KRIT1 is itself regulated. KRIT1 is found in both the cytoplasm and the nucleus, yet the upstream signaling proteins and mechanisms that regulate KRIT1 nucleocytoplasmic shuttling are not well understood. Here, we identify a key role for protein kinase C (PKC) in this process. In particular, we found that PKC activation promotes the redox-dependent cytoplasmic localization of KRIT1, whereas inhibition of PKC or treatment with the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine leads to KRIT1 nuclear accumulation. Moreover, we demonstrated that the N-terminal region of KRIT1 is crucial for the ability of PKC to regulate KRIT1 nucleocytoplasmic shuttling, and may be a target for PKC-dependent regulatory phosphorylation events. Finally, we found that silencing of PKCα, but not PKCδ, inhibits phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-induced cytoplasmic enrichment of KRIT1, suggesting a major role for PKCα in regulating KRIT1 nucleocytoplasmic shuttling. Overall, our findings identify PKCα as a novel regulator of KRIT1 subcellular compartmentalization, thus shedding new light on the physiopathological functions of this protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa De Luca
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, Torino, Italy
- CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center at the Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, Torino, Italy
- Center for Biomolecular Nanotechnologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 73010 Arnesano, Lecce, Italy
| | - Andrea Perrelli
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, Torino, Italy
- CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center at the Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, Torino, Italy
| | - Harsha Swamy
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Mariapaola Nitti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Mario Passalacqua
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Anna Lisa Furfaro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Salzano
- Proteomics & Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, ISPAAM, National Research Council, 80147 Napoli, Italy
| | - Andrea Scaloni
- Proteomics & Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, ISPAAM, National Research Council, 80147 Napoli, Italy
| | - Angela J Glading
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Saverio Francesco Retta
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, Torino, Italy
- CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center at the Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10043 Orbassano, Torino, Italy
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16
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Perrelli A, Fatehbasharzad P, Benedetti V, Ferraris C, Fontanella M, De Luca E, Moglianetti M, Battaglia L, Retta SF. Towards precision nanomedicine for cerebrovascular diseases with emphasis on Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM). Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2021; 18:849-876. [PMID: 33406376 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2021.1873273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Cerebrovascular diseases encompass various disorders of the brain vasculature, such as ischemic/hemorrhagic strokes, aneurysms, and vascular malformations, also affecting the central nervous system leading to a large variety of transient or permanent neurological disorders. They represent major causes of mortality and long-term disability worldwide, and some of them can be inherited, including Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM), an autosomal dominant cerebrovascular disease linked to mutations in CCM1/KRIT1, CCM2, or CCM3/PDCD10 genes.Areas covered: Besides marked clinical and etiological heterogeneity, some commonalities are emerging among distinct cerebrovascular diseases, including key pathogenetic roles of oxidative stress and inflammation, which are increasingly recognized as major disease hallmarks and therapeutic targets. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the different clinical features and common pathogenetic determinants of cerebrovascular diseases, highlighting major challenges, including the pressing need for new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, and focusing on emerging innovative features and promising benefits of nanomedicine strategies for early detection and targeted treatment of such diseases.Expert opinion: Specifically, we describe and discuss the multiple physico-chemical features and unique biological advantages of nanosystems, including nanodiagnostics, nanotherapeutics, and nanotheranostics, that may help improving diagnosis and treatment of cerebrovascular diseases and neurological comorbidities, with an emphasis on CCM disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Perrelli
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Orbassano, Torino Italy.,CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center at the Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Orbassano, Torino Italy
| | - Parisa Fatehbasharzad
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Orbassano, Torino Italy.,CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center at the Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Orbassano, Torino Italy
| | - Valerio Benedetti
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Orbassano, Torino Italy.,CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center at the Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Orbassano, Torino Italy
| | - Chiara Ferraris
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Nanostructured Interfaces and Surfaces (NIS) Interdepartmental Centre, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Marco Fontanella
- CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center at the Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Orbassano, Torino Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisa De Luca
- Nanobiointeractions & Nanodiagnostics, Center for Biomolecular Nanotechnologies, Arnesano, Lecce, Italy.,Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems (IMM), CNR, Lecce, Italy
| | - Mauro Moglianetti
- Nanobiointeractions & Nanodiagnostics, Center for Biomolecular Nanotechnologies, Arnesano, Lecce, Italy.,Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia, Nanobiointeractions & Nanodiagnostics, Genova, Italy
| | - Luigi Battaglia
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Nanostructured Interfaces and Surfaces (NIS) Interdepartmental Centre, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Saverio Francesco Retta
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Orbassano, Torino Italy.,CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center at the Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Orbassano, Torino Italy
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17
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Vieceli Dalla Sega F, Fortini F, Cimaglia P, Marracino L, Tonet E, Antonucci A, Moscarelli M, Campo G, Rizzo P, Ferrari R. COX-2 Is Downregulated in Human Stenotic Aortic Valves and Its Inhibition Promotes Dystrophic Calcification. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21238917. [PMID: 33255450 PMCID: PMC7727817 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21238917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is the result of maladaptive fibrocalcific processes leading to a progressive thickening and stiffening of aortic valve (AV) leaflets. CAVD is the most common cause of aortic stenosis (AS). At present, there is no effective pharmacotherapy in reducing CAVD progression; when CAVD becomes symptomatic it can only be treated with valve replacement. Inflammation has a key role in AV pathological remodeling; hence, anti-inflammatory therapy has been proposed as a strategy to prevent CAVD. Cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) is a key mediator of the inflammation and it is the target of widely used anti-inflammatory drugs. COX-2-inhibitor celecoxib was initially shown to reduce AV calcification in a murine model. However, in contrast to these findings, a recent retrospective clinical analysis found an association between AS and celecoxib use. In the present study, we investigated whether variations in COX-2 expression levels in human AVs may be linked to CAVD. We extracted total RNA from surgically explanted AVs from patients without CAVD or with CAVD. We found that COX-2 mRNA was higher in non-calcific AVs compared to calcific AVs (0.013 ± 0.002 vs. 0.006 ± 0.0004; p < 0.0001). Moreover, we isolated human aortic valve interstitial cells (AVICs) from AVs and found that COX-2 expression is decreased in AVICs from calcific valves compared to AVICs from non-calcific AVs. Furthermore, we observed that COX-2 inhibition with celecoxib induces AVICs trans-differentiation towards a myofibroblast phenotype, and increases the levels of TGF-β-induced apoptosis, both processes able to promote the formation of calcific nodules. We conclude that reduced COX-2 expression is a characteristic of human AVICs prone to calcification and that COX-2 inhibition may promote aortic valve calcification. Our findings support the notion that celecoxib may facilitate CAVD progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesca Fortini
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, 48033 Cotignola, Italy; (F.V.D.S.); (F.F.); (P.C.); (M.M.); (R.F.)
| | - Paolo Cimaglia
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, 48033 Cotignola, Italy; (F.V.D.S.); (F.F.); (P.C.); (M.M.); (R.F.)
| | - Luisa Marracino
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Elisabetta Tonet
- Cardiovascular Institute, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Cona, Italy; (E.T.); (A.A.); (G.C.)
| | - Antonio Antonucci
- Cardiovascular Institute, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Cona, Italy; (E.T.); (A.A.); (G.C.)
| | - Marco Moscarelli
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, 48033 Cotignola, Italy; (F.V.D.S.); (F.F.); (P.C.); (M.M.); (R.F.)
| | - Gianluca Campo
- Cardiovascular Institute, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, 44124 Cona, Italy; (E.T.); (A.A.); (G.C.)
| | - Paola Rizzo
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, 48033 Cotignola, Italy; (F.V.D.S.); (F.F.); (P.C.); (M.M.); (R.F.)
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0532-455-508
| | - Roberto Ferrari
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, 48033 Cotignola, Italy; (F.V.D.S.); (F.F.); (P.C.); (M.M.); (R.F.)
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18
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Ercoli J, Finetti F, Woodby B, Belmonte G, Miracco C, Valacchi G, Trabalzini L. KRIT1 as a possible new player in melanoma aggressiveness. Arch Biochem Biophys 2020; 691:108483. [PMID: 32735866 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2020.108483] [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: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Krev interaction trapped protein 1 (KRIT1) is a scaffold protein known to form functional complexes with distinct proteins, including Malcavernin, PDCD10, Rap1 and others. It appears involved in several cellular signaling pathways and exerts a protective role against inflammation and oxidative stress. KRIT1 has been studied as a regulator of endothelial cell functions and represents a determinant in the pathogenesis of Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM), a cerebrovascular disease characterized by the formation of clusters of abnormally dilated and leaky blood capillaries, which predispose to seizures, neurological deficits and intracerebral hemorrhage. Although KRIT1 is ubiquitously expressed, few studies have described its involvement in pathologies other than CCM including cancer. Cutaneous melanoma represents the most fatal skin cancer due to its high metastatic propensity. Despite the numerous efforts made to define the signaling pathways activated during melanoma progression, the molecular mechanisms at the basis of melanoma growth, phenotype plasticity and resistance to therapies are still under investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine Ercoli
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Italy
| | - Federica Finetti
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Italy
| | - Brittany Woodby
- Plants for Human Health Institute, NC Research Campus, NC State University, NC, USA
| | - Giuseppe Belmonte
- Unit of Pathological Anatomy, Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Clelia Miracco
- Unit of Pathological Anatomy, Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Valacchi
- Plants for Human Health Institute, NC Research Campus, NC State University, NC, USA; Dept. of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Lorenza Trabalzini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Italy.
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19
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Abstract
Purpose of Review In recent years, a family of adiponectin paralogs designated as C1q/TNF-related protein (CTRP) has attracted increasing attention. They are inflammatory adipocytokines mostly secreted from epicardial adipose tissue, which modulate the development and prognosis of coronary artery disease (CAD). This review summarizes the pathophysiological roles of individual members of the CTRP superfamily in the development of CAD. Recent Findings Recent studies have revealed how members of the CTRP family, CTRP1, CTRP3, CTRP5, CTRP9, CTRP12, and CTRP13, can influence both development and progression of CAD by modulating metabolic pathways, influencing immuno-inflammatory response, and regulating cardiovascular functions. Summary Research to date has not been sufficient to answer the specific mechanism of the CTRP family in the occurrence and development of CAD. This review explores the evidence of CTRP superfamily regulating different pathophysiology stages of CAD through the immuno-inflammation, glucose and lipid metabolism, and vascular endothelial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueqiao Si
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, 067000, Hebei, China
| | - Wenjun Fan
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, 067000, Hebei, China
| | - Lixian Sun
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, 067000, Hebei, China.
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20
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Kim HA, Perrelli A, Ragni A, Retta F, De Silva TM, Sobey CG, Retta SF. Vitamin D Deficiency and the Risk of Cerebrovascular Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9040327. [PMID: 32316584 PMCID: PMC7222411 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9040327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin D deficiency has been clearly linked to major chronic diseases associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and aging, including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, and cancer. In particular, the cardiovascular system appears to be highly sensitive to vitamin D deficiency, as this may result in endothelial dysfunction and vascular defects via multiple mechanisms. Accordingly, recent research developments have led to the proposal that pharmacological interventions targeting either vitamin D deficiency or its key downstream effects, including defective autophagy and abnormal pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory responses, may be able to limit the onset and severity of major cerebrovascular diseases, such as stroke and cerebrovascular malformations. Here we review the available evidence supporting the role of vitamin D in preventing or limiting the development of these cerebrovascular diseases, which are leading causes of disability and death all over the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Ah Kim
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Microbiology and Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora 3086, Australia; (H.A.K.); (T.M.D.S.)
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Australia
| | - Andrea Perrelli
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Orbassano, 10043 Torino, Italy;
- CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center at the Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Orbassano, 10043 Torino, Italy
| | - Alberto Ragni
- Oncological Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Città della Salute e della Scienza Hospital, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy; (A.R.); (F.R.)
| | - Francesca Retta
- Oncological Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Città della Salute e della Scienza Hospital, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy; (A.R.); (F.R.)
| | - T. Michael De Silva
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Microbiology and Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora 3086, Australia; (H.A.K.); (T.M.D.S.)
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Australia
| | - Christopher G. Sobey
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Microbiology and Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora 3086, Australia; (H.A.K.); (T.M.D.S.)
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Australia
- Correspondence: (C.G.S.); (S.F.R.); Tel.: +61-3-94791316 (C.G.S.); +39-011-6706426 (S.F.R.)
| | - Saverio Francesco Retta
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Orbassano, 10043 Torino, Italy;
- CCM Italia Research Network, National Coordination Center at the Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Orbassano, 10043 Torino, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.G.S.); (S.F.R.); Tel.: +61-3-94791316 (C.G.S.); +39-011-6706426 (S.F.R.)
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21
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Liu J, Gunewardena S, Yue Cui J, Klaassen CD, Chorley BN, Corton JC. Transplacental arsenic exposure produced 5-methylcytosine methylation changes and aberrant microRNA expressions in livers of male fetal mice. Toxicology 2020; 435:152409. [PMID: 32068019 PMCID: PMC10546472 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2020.152409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Arsenic is a known human carcinogen. Early-life exposure to inorganic arsenic induces tumors in humans and in C3H mice. We hypothesized that arsenic exposure in utero may induce epigenetic changes at the level of DNA methylation and miRNA alterations that could lead to greater postnatal susceptibility to cancer. To test this hypothesis, pregnant C3H mice were given sodium arsenite at doses known to cause liver cancer (42.5 and 85 ppm in the drinking water) from gestation day 8-19, and the livers from male fetal mice were collected for analysis. The antibody against 5-methylcytosine was used to perform chromatin-immunoprecipitation coupled with sequencing (ChIP-Seq) to determine genome-wide methylation alterations. In utero arsenic exposure produced global DNA hypomethylation and an array of gene-specific DNA methylation changes, including hypomethylation of Cyclin D1 and hypermethylation of Tp53. Illumina Correlation Engine analysis revealed 260 methylation alterations that would affect 143 microRNAs. MicroRNA array further revealed 140 aberrantly expressed miRNAs out of the 718 miRNAs. The increased expression of miR-205, miR-203, miR-215, miR-34a, and decreased expression of miR-217 were confirmed by qPCR. Comparison of the methylation changes to those of microarray analyses indicates little if any correspondence between gene methylation and gene expression. The increased expression of Xist, Prrc2, Krit1, Nish, and decreased expression of Prss2, Spp1, Col1a2, and Lox were confirmed by qPCR. In summary, in utero arsenic exposure induced global alterations in DNA methylation and aberrant miRNA expression that might contribute to adult adverse outcomes including liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Liu
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States; USEPA, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effect Research Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, United States; Key Lab of Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, China.
| | | | - Julia Yue Cui
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States
| | - Curtis D Klaassen
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, United States
| | - Brian N Chorley
- USEPA, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effect Research Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, United States
| | - J Christopher Corton
- USEPA, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effect Research Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, United States.
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Dicarbonyl Stress and S-Glutathionylation in Cerebrovascular Diseases: A Focus on Cerebral Cavernous Malformations. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9020124. [PMID: 32024152 PMCID: PMC7071005 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9020124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Dicarbonyl stress is a dysfunctional state consisting in the abnormal accumulation of reactive α-oxaldehydes leading to increased protein modification. In cells, post-translational changes can also occur through S-glutathionylation, a highly conserved oxidative post-translational modification consisting of the formation of a mixed disulfide between glutathione and a protein cysteine residue. This review recapitulates the main findings supporting a role for dicarbonyl stress and S-glutathionylation in the pathogenesis of cerebrovascular diseases, with specific emphasis on cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM), a vascular disease of proven genetic origin that may give rise to various clinical signs and symptoms at any age, including recurrent headaches, seizures, focal neurological deficits, and intracerebral hemorrhage. A possible interplay between dicarbonyl stress and S-glutathionylation in CCM is also discussed.
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Benedetti V, Pellegrino E, Brusco A, Piva R, Retta SF. Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) Strategies for Genetic Testing of Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM) Disease. Methods Mol Biol 2020; 2152:59-75. [PMID: 32524544 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0640-7_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The application of next generation sequencing (NGS) technique has a great impact on complex disease studies. Indeed, genetic heterogeneity, phenotypic variability, and disease rarity are all factors that make the traditional diagnostic approach to genetic disorders, whereby a specific gene is selected for sequencing based on the clinical phenotype, very challenging and obsolete.Exome sequencing, which sequences the protein-coding region of the genome, has been rapidly applied to variant discovery in research settings. Recent coverage and accuracy improvements have accelerated the development of clinical exome sequencing (CES) platforms targeting disease-related genes and enabling variant identification in patients with suspected genetic diseases. Nowadays, CES is rapidly becoming the diagnostic test of choice in patients with suspected Mendelian diseases, especially for those with heterogeneous etiology and clinical presentation. Reporting large CES series can improve guidelines on best practices for test utilization, and a better variant interpretation through clinically oriented data sharing.Herein, we suggest a feasible CES procedure for the genetic testing of Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM) disease, including proband identification, library preparation, data analysis, and variant interpretation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Benedetti
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Orbassano (Torino), Italy.
- CCM Italia Research Network, Torino, Italy.
| | - Elisa Pellegrino
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Alfredo Brusco
- Departmentof Medical Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
- Medical Genetics Unit, Città Della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, Torino, Italy
| | - Roberto Piva
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
- Medical Genetics Unit, Città Della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, Torino, Italy
| | - Saverio Francesco Retta
- CCM Italia Research Network, Torino, Italy.
- Department of Clinical and Biological Science, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Torino, Orbassano (Torino), Italy.
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