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Moretti E, Signorini C, Corsaro R, Noto D, AntonioTripodi S, Menchiari A, Micheli L, Ponchia R, Collodel G. Apelin is found in human sperm and testis and is raised in inflammatory pathological conditions. Cytokine 2023; 169:156281. [PMID: 37352775 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2023.156281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Apelin/APJ receptor (R) is involved in many oxidative stress-induced pathological conditions. Since this system is not yet explored in male reproduction, we studied apelin/APJ-R in human semen and testis. Semen of 41 infertile patients with varicocele, genitourinary infections, unexplained infertility and 12 fertile men was analysed (WHO guidelines, 2021). Apelin was quantified by ELISA in seminal fluid and spermatozoa, interleukin (IL)-1β in seminal fluid. Apelin/APJ-R were immunolocalized in spermatozoa and testis. Apelin was present in spermatozoa and its levels were negatively correlated with normal sperm morphology% (r = -0.857; p < 0.001), and positively with IL-1β levels (r = 0.455; p < 0.001). Apelin and IL-1β concentrations were increased in patients' samples with varicocele (apelin p < 0.01; IL-1β p < 0.05) and infections (apelin p < 0.01; IL-1β p < 0.001). By logistic regression analysis, apelin (OR 1.310; p = 0.011) and IL-1β (OR 1.572; p = 0.005) were predictors of inflammatory diseases (varicocele, infections). Apelin and APJ-R immunofluorescence labels were weak in sperm tail of fertile men and intense along tail, cytoplasmic residues and post-acrosomal sheath of sperm from infertile men. In testis, apelin and APJ-R labels were evident in Leydig cells and weak inside the seminiferous tubule. Apelin/APJ-R system is present in human spermatozoa and testicular tissue and probably involved in human fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Moretti
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
| | - Cinzia Signorini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Roberta Corsaro
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Daria Noto
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Menchiari
- Department of Business and Law, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Lucia Micheli
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Rosetta Ponchia
- Unit of Medically Assisted Reproduction, Siena University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giulia Collodel
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Mattioli S, Moretti E, Castellini C, Signorini C, Corsaro R, Angelucci E, Collodel G. Can Dietary n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Affect Apelin and Resolvin in Testis and Sperm of Male Rabbits? Molecules 2023; 28:6188. [PMID: 37687017 PMCID: PMC10488499 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28176188] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Apelin and other novel adipokines have been associated with normal and pathological reproductive conditions in humans and animals. In this paper, we used a rabbit model to investigate if apelin and resolvin (RvD1) in testis and sperm are associated with the oxidative status of semen and serum testosterone of rabbits fed different diets enriched with flaxseed (alpha-linolenic acid, ALA) or with fish oil (eicosapentaenoic acid, EPA, docosapentaenoic acid, DPAn-3, and docosahexaenoic acid, DHA). Apelin and RvD1 were detected by ELISA and apelin and the apelin receptor by immunofluorescence. Increased levels of apelin in testes from both enriched diets were shown, particularly in the interstitial tissue of the FLAX group. The FLAX diet enhanced serum testosterone, and both enriched diets showed higher levels of malondialdehyde and RvD1 in the testis. In ejaculated sperm, apelin and its receptor were localized in the entire tail of the control and both treated groups. The ryanodine receptor was investigated in rabbit testis; the fluorescent signal was increased in mature elongated spermatids of the FLAX group. In conclusion, this data seems to indicate that FLAX increases the amount of apelin in testis, suggesting an involvement of this adipokine in male reproduction and probably a role in the resolution of the inflammatory status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Mattioli
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental, and Food Science, University of Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno 74, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (S.M.); (C.C.); (E.A.)
| | - Elena Moretti
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Policlinico Santa Maria alle Scotte, Viale Bracci 14, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.S.); (R.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Cesare Castellini
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental, and Food Science, University of Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno 74, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (S.M.); (C.C.); (E.A.)
| | - Cinzia Signorini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Policlinico Santa Maria alle Scotte, Viale Bracci 14, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.S.); (R.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Roberta Corsaro
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Policlinico Santa Maria alle Scotte, Viale Bracci 14, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.S.); (R.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Elisa Angelucci
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental, and Food Science, University of Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno 74, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (S.M.); (C.C.); (E.A.)
| | - Giulia Collodel
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Policlinico Santa Maria alle Scotte, Viale Bracci 14, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.S.); (R.C.); (G.C.)
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Respekta N, Pich K, Dawid M, Mlyczyńska E, Kurowska P, Rak A. The Apelinergic System: Apelin, ELABELA, and APJ Action on Cell Apoptosis: Anti-Apoptotic or Pro-Apoptotic Effect? Cells 2022; 12:cells12010150. [PMID: 36611944 PMCID: PMC9818302 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The apelinergic system comprises two peptide ligands, apelin and ELABELA, and their cognate G-protein-coupled receptor, the apelin receptor APJ. Apelin is a peptide that was isolated from bovine stomach extracts; the distribution of the four main active forms, apelin-36, -17, -13, and pyr-apelin-13 differs between tissues. The mature form of ELABELA-32 can be transformed into forms called ELABELA-11 or -21. The biological function of the apelinergic system is multifaceted, and includes the regulation of angiogenesis, body fluid homeostasis, energy metabolism, and functioning of the cardiovascular, nervous, respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. This review summarises the mechanism of the apelinergic system in cell apoptosis. Depending on the cell/tissue, the apelinergic system modulates cell apoptosis by activating various signalling pathways, including phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK1/2), protein kinase B (AKT), 5'AMP-activated protein kinase(AMPK), and protein kinase A (PKA). Apoptosis is critically important during various developmental processes, and any dysfunction leads to pathological conditions such as cancer, autoimmune diseases, and developmental defects. The purpose of this review is to present data that suggest a significant role of the apelinergic system as a potential agent in various therapies.
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Effect of Omega-3 or Omega-6 Dietary Supplementation on Testicular Steroidogenesis, Adipokine Network, Cytokines, and Oxidative Stress in Adult Male Rats. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:5570331. [PMID: 34257810 PMCID: PMC8260291 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5570331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study was undertaken to elucidate the effect of omega-3 and omega-6 supplementation on the levels of different adipokines and cytokines, as well as the antioxidant system, in relation to male reproductive hormones and testicular functions. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were daily gavaged with either physiological saline (control group), sunflower oil (omega 6 group; 1 mL/kg body weight), or fish oil (omega-3 group; 1000 mg/kg body weight) for 12 weeks. The administration of omega-3 or omega-6 resulted in decreased serum concentrations of kisspeptin 1, gonadotropin-releasing hormone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and testosterone. In addition, it downregulated the mRNA expression levels of steroidogenic genes. The intratesticular levels of apelin, adiponectin, and irisin were elevated while chemerin, leptin, resistin, vaspin, and visfatin were declined following the administration of either omega-3 or omega-6. The testicular concentration of interleukin 10 was increased while interleukin 1 beta, interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor α, and nuclear factor kappa B were decreased after consumption of omega-3 or omega-6. In the testes, the levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase 1, and the total antioxidant capacity were improved. In conclusion, the administration of omega-3 or omega-6 adversely affects the process of steroidogenesis but improves the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory status of the reproductive system via modulating the levels of testicular adipokines.
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Shokrollahi B, Shang JH, Saadati N, Ahmad HI, Yang CY. Reproductive roles of novel adipokines apelin, visfatin, and irisin in farm animals. Theriogenology 2021; 172:178-186. [PMID: 34175524 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The adipose tissue has a substantial impact on reproduction in mammals, specifically in females. As an energy depository organ, it is precisely associated with the reproductive success of mammals. Adipose tissue secretes many single molecules that are called 'adipokines' which mainly act as endocrine hormones. Adipokines homeostasis is fundamental to energy regulation, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. The endocrine function of adipokines is influential for the long-term control of energy metabolism and performs an important function in metabolic state and fertility modulation. During the last years, new roles for adipokines have been appearing in the field of fertility. The adipokines have functions in reproduction at levels of the hypothalamus, the pituitary, and the gonads in humans, rodents, and other animals. Normal levels of adipokines are indispensable to protect the integrity of the hypothalamus-hypophysis-gonadal axis, regular ovulatory processes, and successful embryo implantation. Leptin and adiponectin are the most studied adipokines, but also the novel adipokines; apelin, visfatin, and irisin are important adipokines having several functions within the reproductive tract. Due to the known and unknown effects of these novel adipokines in the reproduction of farm animals, in this review, we will highlight the reproductive functions of apelin, visfatin, and irisin and summarize the known reproductive effects in farm animals to introduce the gaps for future studies in farm animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borhan Shokrollahi
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Sanandaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Iran.
| | - Jiang-Hua Shang
- Key Laboratory of Buffalo Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction Technology, Guangxi Buffalo Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, 530001, China
| | - Nazila Saadati
- Department of Plant Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kurdistan University, Sanandaj, Kurdistan province, Iran
| | - Hafiz Ishfaq Ahmad
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Ravi Campus, Pattoki, Pakistan
| | - Chun-Yan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Buffalo Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction Technology, Guangxi Buffalo Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, 530001, China
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Fc-Elabela fusion protein attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced kidney injury in mice. Biosci Rep 2020; 40:226131. [PMID: 32808659 PMCID: PMC7463303 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20192397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Endotoxemia-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common clinical condition that lacks effective treatments. Elabela (ELA) is a recently discovered kidney peptide hormone, encoded by the gene apela, and has been reported to improve cardio-renal outcomes in sepsis. However, ELA is a small peptide and is largely unsuitable for clinical use because of its short in vivo half-life. In the present study, we evaluated the potential renoprotective effects of a long-acting constant fragment (Fc)-ELA fusion protein in liposaccharide (LPS)-induced AKI in mice. LPS administration in mice for 5 days greatly lowered the gene expression of apela and impaired kidney function, as evidenced by elevated serum creatinine and the ratio of urine protein to creatinine. In addition, renal inflammation and macrophage infiltration were apparent in LPS-challenged mice. Treatment with the Fc-ELA fusion protein partially restored apela expression and attenuated the kidney inflammation. Moreover, LPS treatment induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and apoptosis in kidney HK-2 cells as well as in the mouse kidney, which were mitigated by ELA or Fc-ELA treatment. Finally, we found that ELA promoted the survival of HK-2 cells treated with LPS, and this action was abolished by LY204002, a PI3K/Akt inhibitor. Collectively, we have demonstrated that the Fc-ELA fusion protein has significant renoprotective activities against LPS-induced AKI in mice.
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Xu W, Li T, Gao L, Zheng J, Yan J, Zhang J, Shao A. Apelin-13/APJ system attenuates early brain injury via suppression of endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated TXNIP/NLRP3 inflammasome activation and oxidative stress in a AMPK-dependent manner after subarachnoid hemorrhage in rats. J Neuroinflammation 2019; 16:247. [PMID: 31791369 PMCID: PMC6889224 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-019-1620-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress play important roles in early brain injury following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). This study is the first to show that activation of apelin receptor (APJ) by apelin-13 could reduce endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-stress-associated inflammation and oxidative stress after SAH. Methods Apelin-13, apelin siRNA, APJ siRNA, and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) inhibitor-dorsomorphin were used to investigate if the activation of APJ could provide neuroprotective effects after SAH. Brain water content, neurological functions, blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, and inflammatory molecules were evaluated at 24 h after SAH. Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining were applied to assess the expression of target proteins. Results The results showed that endogenous apelin, APJ, and p-AMPK levels were significantly increased and peaked in the brain 24 h after SAH. In addition, administration of exogenous apelin-13 significantly alleviated neurological functions, attenuated brain edema, preserved BBB integrity, and also improved long-term spatial learning and memory abilities after SAH. The underlying mechanism of the neuroprotective effects of apelin-13 is that it suppresses microglia activation, prevents ER stress from overactivation, and reduces the levels of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing 3 protein (NLRP3), Bip, cleaved caspase-1, IL-1β, TNFα, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, the use of APJ siRNA and dorsomorphin abolished the neuroprotective effects of apelin-13 on neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Conclusions Exogenous apelin-13 binding to APJ attenuates early brain injury by reducing ER stress-mediated oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, which is at least partly mediated by the AMPK/TXNIP/NLRP3 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weilin Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Rd, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Rd, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liansheng Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Rd, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jingwei Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Rd, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jun Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Jianmin Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Rd, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China. .,Brain Research Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China. .,Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Anwen Shao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 88 Jiefang Rd, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.
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Marsault E, Llorens-Cortes C, Iturrioz X, Chun HJ, Lesur O, Oudit GY, Auger-Messier M. The apelinergic system: a perspective on challenges and opportunities in cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2019; 1455:12-33. [PMID: 31236974 PMCID: PMC6834863 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.14123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The apelinergic pathway has been generating increasing interest in the past few years for its potential as a therapeutic target in several conditions associated with the cardiovascular and metabolic systems. Indeed, preclinical and, more recently, clinical evidence both point to this G protein-coupled receptor as a target of interest in the treatment of not only cardiovascular disorders such as heart failure, pulmonary arterial hypertension, atherosclerosis, or septic shock, but also of additional conditions such as water retention/hyponatremic disorders, type 2 diabetes, and preeclampsia. While it is a peculiar system with its two classes of endogenous ligand, the apelins and Elabela, its intricacies are a matter of continuing investigation to finely pinpoint its potential and how it enables crosstalk between the vasculature and organ systems of interest. In this perspective article, we first review the current knowledge on the role of the apelinergic pathway in the above systems, as well as the associated therapeutic indications and existing pharmacological tools. We also offer a perspective on the challenges and potential ahead to advance the apelinergic system as a target for therapeutic intervention in several key areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Marsault
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Catherine Llorens-Cortes
- Collège de France, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, INSERM U1050, CNRS UMR7241, Paris, France
| | - Xavier Iturrioz
- Collège de France, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, INSERM U1050, CNRS UMR7241, Paris, France
| | - Hyung J. Chun
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Departments of Internal Medicine and Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Olivier Lesur
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
- Department of Medicine – Division of Intensive Care Units, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Gavin Y. Oudit
- Department of Medicine, Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Mannix Auger-Messier
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
- Department of Medicine – Division of Cardiology, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
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Usefulness of the Adipokines as Biomarkers of Ischemic Cardiac Dysfunction. DISEASE MARKERS 2018; 2018:3406028. [PMID: 30405857 PMCID: PMC6199856 DOI: 10.1155/2018/3406028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among both women and men, but there is still a great percentage of misdiagnosis and lack of clearly defined criteria. Advances in biomolecular science have proven the crucial role of inflammation and, more importantly, the role of adipokines in mediating all stages of coronary artery disease. It has also been suggested that regional fat deposits, more precisely from thoracic region, have a major influence on the development of coronary artery disease by creating a local proatherogenic environment. The immune system closely interacts with metabolic risk factors to initiate, promote, and further aggravate the atherosclerotic lesions on the arterial wall all with the "help" of adipokines. So nowadays, research extensively focuses on uncovering biomarkers that would provide an increased chance of detecting subclinical cardiac distress and also add a consistent value to current guideline-imposed risk criteria.
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Kurowska P, Barbe A, Różycka M, Chmielińska J, Dupont J, Rak A. Apelin in Reproductive Physiology and Pathology of Different Species: A Critical Review. Int J Endocrinol 2018; 2018:9170480. [PMID: 29977292 PMCID: PMC6011052 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9170480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Apelin has been isolated from the bovine stomach extracts as an endogenous ligand of the previously orphan receptor APJ. Expression of the apelinergic system (apelin and APJ) was described in many organs where pleiotropic effects like regulation of food intake, body weight, or cardiovascular and immune function were described. Recent studies have shown that apelin also plays an important role in the regulation of female and male reproduction. Some data showed that the gene and protein of apelin/APJ are expressed in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad (HPG) axis tissue. Thus, apelin is synthesized locally in the hypothalamus, pituitary, ovaries, and testis of many species and has autocrine and/or paracrine effects. Most research indicates that apelin has an inhibitory effect on gonadotropin secretion and participates in the direct regulation of steroidogenesis, cell proliferation, and apoptosis in gonads. The article summarizes also results of a series of recent studies on the effect of apelin on reproduction pathology, like polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, and ovarian cancer. Many of these pathologies are still in critical need of therapeutic intervention, and recent studies have found that apelin can be targets in reproductive pathological states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Kurowska
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Alix Barbe
- INRA, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, 37-380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Marta Różycka
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Justyna Chmielińska
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Joelle Dupont
- INRA, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, 37-380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Agnieszka Rak
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
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Abstract
Apelin and apela (ELABELA/ELA/Toddler) are two peptide ligands for a class A G-protein-coupled receptor named the apelin receptor (AR/APJ/APLNR). Ligand-AR interactions have been implicated in regulation of the adipoinsular axis, cardiovascular system, and central nervous system alongside pathological processes. Each ligand may be processed into a variety of bioactive isoforms endogenously, with apelin ranging from 13 to 55 amino acids and apela from 11 to 32, typically being cleaved C-terminal to dibasic proprotein convertase cleavage sites. The C-terminal region of the respective precursor protein is retained and is responsible for receptor binding and subsequent activation. Interestingly, both apelin and apela exhibit isoform-dependent variability in potency and efficacy under various physiological and pathological conditions, but most studies focus on a single isoform. Biophysical behavior and structural properties of apelin and apela isoforms show strong correlations with functional studies, with key motifs now well determined for apelin. Unlike its ligands, the AR has been relatively difficult to characterize by biophysical techniques, with most characterization to date being focused on effects of mutagenesis. This situation may improve following a recently reported AR crystal structure, but there are still barriers to overcome in terms of comprehensive biophysical study. In this review, we summarize the three components of the apelinergic system in terms of structure-function correlation, with a particular focus on isoform-dependent properties, underlining the potential for regulation of the system through multiple endogenous ligands and isoforms, isoform-dependent pharmacological properties, and biological membrane-mediated receptor interaction. © 2018 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 8:407-450, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyungsoo Shin
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Calem Kenward
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Jan K Rainey
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Apelin Compared With Dobutamine Exerts Cardioprotection and Extends Survival in a Rat Model of Endotoxin-Induced Myocardial Dysfunction. Crit Care Med 2017; 45:e391-e398. [PMID: 27571457 DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0000000000002097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Dobutamine is the currently recommended β-adrenergic inotropic drug for supporting sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction when cardiac output index remains low after preload correction. Better and safer therapies are nonetheless mandatory because responsiveness to dobutamine is limited with numerous side effects. Apelin-13 is a powerful inotropic candidate that could be considered as an alternative noncatecholaminergic support in the setting of inflammatory cardiovascular dysfunction. DESIGN Interventional controlled experimental animal study. SETTING Tertiary care university-based research institute. SUBJECTS One hundred ninety-eight adult male rats. INTERVENTIONS Using a rat model of "systemic inflammation-induced cardiac dysfunction" induced by intraperitoneal lipopolysaccharide injection (10 mg/kg), hemodynamic efficacy, cardioprotection, and biomechanics were assessed under IV osmotic pump infusions of apelin-13 (0.25 μg/kg/min) or dobutamine (7.5 μg/kg/min). MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS In this model and in both in vivo and ex vivo studies, apelin-13 compared with dobutamine provoked distinctive effects on cardiac function: 1) optimized cardiac energy-dependent workload with improved cardiac index and lower vascular resistance, 2) upgraded hearts' apelinergic responsiveness, and 3) consecutive downstream advantages, including increased urine output, enhanced plasma volume, reduced weight loss, and substantially improved overall outcomes. In vitro studies confirmed that these apelin-13-driven processes encompassed a significant and rapid reduction in systemic cytokine release with dampening of myocardial inflammation, injury, and apoptosis and resolution of associated molecular pathways. CONCLUSIONS In this inflammatory cardiovascular dysfunction, apelin-13 infusion delivers distinct and optimized hemodynamic support (including positive fluid balance), along with cardioprotective effects, modulation of circulatory inflammation and extended survival.
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Hall C, Ehrlich L, Venter J, O'Brien A, White T, Zhou T, Dang T, Meng F, Invernizzi P, Bernuzzi F, Alpini G, Lairmore TC, Glaser S. Inhibition of the apelin/apelin receptor axis decreases cholangiocarcinoma growth. Cancer Lett 2017; 386:179-188. [PMID: 27894959 PMCID: PMC5510601 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2016.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Revised: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a malignancy of the biliary epithelium that is associated with low five-year survival. The apelin receptor (APLNR), which is activated by the apelin peptide, has not been studied in CCA. The purpose of this study is to determine if inhibition of the apelin/APLNR axis can inhibit CCA growth. METHODS Immunohistochemistry, rtPCR, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, and ELISA was used to measure APLNR expression in human CCA cells and tissues. Mz-ChA-1 cells were treated with increasing concentrations of apelin and ML221, an APLNR antagonist. Expression of proliferative and angiogenic genes were measured via rtPCR. In vivo, Mz-ChA-1 cells were injected into the flanks of nu/nu mice, which were treated with ML221 (150 μg/kg) via tail vein injection. RESULTS Expression of the apelin/APLNR axis was increased in CCA. In vitro, CCA proliferation and angiogenesis was inhibited by ML221 treatment. ML221 treatment significantly decreased tumor growth in nu/nu mice. CONCLUSION The apelin/APLNR axis regulates CCA proliferation and angiogenesis. Inhibition of the apelin/APLNR axis decreases tumor growth in our xenograft model. Targeting APLNR signaling has the potential to serve as a novel, tumor directed therapy for CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad Hall
- Scott & White Medical Center, Department of Surgery, Temple, TX 76508, USA
| | - Laurent Ehrlich
- Scott & White Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Temple, TX 76508, USA; Scott & White Medical Center, Department of Surgery, Temple, TX 76508, USA
| | - Julie Venter
- Scott & White Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Temple, TX 76508, USA
| | - April O'Brien
- Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX 76504, USA
| | - Tori White
- Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX 76504, USA
| | - Tianhao Zhou
- Scott & White Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Temple, TX 76508, USA; Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Temple, TX 76504, USA
| | - Tien Dang
- Baylor Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Scott & White, Temple, TX 76504, USA
| | - Fanyin Meng
- Baylor Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Scott & White, Temple, TX 76504, USA
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Francesca Bernuzzi
- Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Alpini
- Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX 76504, USA; Baylor Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Scott & White, Temple, TX 76504, USA; Scott & White Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Temple, TX 76508, USA; Scott & White Medical Center, Department of Surgery, Temple, TX 76508, USA
| | - Terry C Lairmore
- Scott & White Medical Center, Department of Surgery, Temple, TX 76508, USA
| | - Shannon Glaser
- Research, Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Temple, TX 76504, USA; Baylor Scott & White Digestive Disease Research Center, Scott & White, Temple, TX 76504, USA; Scott & White Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Temple, TX 76508, USA.
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Goidescu CM, Anton FP, Leucuța DC, Mircea PA, Vida-Simiti LA. Serum level of apelin-13 negatively correlated with NT-proBNP in heart failure patients. REV ROMANA MED LAB 2016. [DOI: 10.1515/rrlm-2016-0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Apelin is a potent endogenous inotropic peptide with a major role in counteracting the aldosterone and angiotensin II and their negative effects on the cardiovascular system. The exact role of apelin in the patho-physiology of this disease is not well understood. We aimed to investigate the possible associations of apelin-13 with clinical and paraclinical characteristics in HF patients as well as studying its dynamics during the course of the heart failure.
Method: We performed a prospective observational cohort single-center study. We compared the baseline serum levels of apelin-13 and NT-proBNP level in 53 heart failure patients (acute heart failure, chronic compensated heart failure and chronic decompensated heart failure). We divided the patients according to the apelin-13 level: above and below the median, and we analyzed the relationship between serum apelin-13 and the clinical, echocardiographic, electrocardiographic and biological parameters. Twenty patients were followed-up (after an average time interval of 9 months), investigating the same parameters.
Results: The median of apelin-13 was 495pg/mL (IQR 276-845pg/mL). We found strong, negative correlation between the serum levels of apelin-13 and NT-proBNP (Spearman rho= −0.83, p<0.001). For the reassessed patients the median apelin level was significantly higher at follow-up (460 pg/mL, IQR 342-871 pg/mL) as compared with the baseline level (395 pg/mL, IQR 270-603 pg/mL), p=0.019, and maintained the negative correlation with NT-proBNP level (Spearman’s rho −0.7, p<0.001. The Low Apelin-13 group have higher NT-proBNP levels and also contains all the patients in NYHA IV class heart failure, 71% of the acute HF patients, and 7 of 8 patients who died before follow-up.
Conclusion: Apelin-13 was negatively correlated with NT-proBNP. The Low Apelin-13 group contained the majority of the patients with a negative outcome (death before follow-up), most of the patients who presented with acute HF and all the patients in NYHA IV class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cerasela Mihaela Goidescu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiology and Gastroenterology, 1 st Medical Clinic, UMF ‟Iuliu Hațieganu” Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Florin Petru Anton
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiology and Gastroenterology, 1 st Medical Clinic, UMF ‟Iuliu Hațieganu” Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Daniel Corneliu Leucuța
- Medical Informatics and Biostatistics Department, UMF ‟Iuliu Hațieganu” Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Petru Adrian Mircea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiology and Gastroenterology, 1 st Medical Clinic, UMF ‟Iuliu Hațieganu” Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Luminița Animarie Vida-Simiti
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiology and Gastroenterology, 1 st Medical Clinic, UMF ‟Iuliu Hațieganu” Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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