1
|
Boen JRA, Gevaert AB, Dendooven A, Krüger D, Tubeeckx M, Van Fraeyenhove J, Bruyns T, Segers VFM, Van Craenenbroeck EM. Divergent cardiac and renal effects of miR-181c-5p inhibition in a rodent heart failure model. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1383046. [PMID: 38725830 PMCID: PMC11079209 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1383046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Aims MiR-181c-5p overexpression associates with heart failure (HF) and cardiac damage, but the underlying pathophysiology remains unclear. This study investigated the effect of miR-181c-5p inhibition on cardiac function and fibrosis in a rodent model of diastolic dysfunction, and evaluated additional effects on kidney as relevant comorbid organ. Methods and results Diastolic dysfunction was induced in male C57/BL6J mice (n = 20) by combining high-fat diet, L-NG-nitroarginine methyl ester, and angiotensin II administration, and was compared to sham controls (n = 18). Mice were randomized to subcutaneous miR-181c-5p antagomiR (INH) or scrambled antagomiR injections (40 mg/kg/week). HF mice demonstrated diastolic dysfunction and increased fibrosis, which was attenuated by INH treatment. Remarkably, HF + INH animals had a threefold higher mortality rate (60%) compared to HF controls (20%). Histological examination revealed increased glomerular damage in all INH treated mice, and signs of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) in mice who died prematurely. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction demonstrated a miR-181c-5p-related downregulation of cardiac but not renal Tgfbr1 in HF + INH mice, while INH treatment reduced renal but not cardiac Vegfa expression in all mice. Conclusion This study demonstrates cardiac anti-fibrotic effects of miR-181c-5p inhibition in a rodent HF model through targeting of Tgfbr1 in the heart. Despite improved diastolic function, HF + INH mice had higher mortality due to increased predisposition for TMA, increased renal fibrosis and glomerular damage, associated with Vegfa downregulation in kidneys.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jente R. A. Boen
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Andreas B. Gevaert
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
- Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Edegem, Belgium
| | - Amélie Dendooven
- Department of Pathology, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Dustin Krüger
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Michiel Tubeeckx
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Jens Van Fraeyenhove
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Tine Bruyns
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Vincent F. M. Segers
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
- Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Edegem, Belgium
| | - Emeline M. Van Craenenbroeck
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
- Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Edegem, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Boen JRA, Pintelon I, Gevaert AB, Segers VFM, van Craenenbroeck EM. Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization for miRNA Combined with Staining of Proteins. Curr Protoc 2023; 3:e880. [PMID: 37728252 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
The last decades have illustrated the importance of microRNAs (miRNAs) in various biological and pathological processes. The combined visualization of miRNAs using fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) and proteins using immunofluorescence (IF) can reveal their spatiotemporal distribution in relation to the cell and tissue morphology and can provide interesting insights into miRNA-protein interactions. However, standardized protocols for co-localization of miRNAs and proteins are currently lacking, and substantial technical obstacles still need to be addressed. In particular, the incompatibility of protein IF protocols with steps required for miRNA FISH, such as proteolytic pretreatments and ethylcarbodiimide post-fixation, as well as hurdles related to low signal intensity of low-copy miRNAs, remains challenging. Our technique may considerably enhance miRNA-based research, as current detection techniques lack the ability to elucidate cellular and subcellular localization. Here, we describe an optimized 2-day protocol for combined detection of low-abundant miRNAs and proteins in cryosections of cardiac tissue, without the need for protease-dependent pretreatment or post-fixation treatment. We successfully demonstrate endothelial-specific localization of low-abundant miR-181c-5p in cardiac tissue. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol: Fluorescent in situ hybridization for miRNA combined with staining of proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jente R A Boen
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Isabel Pintelon
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology and Histology, Antwerp Centre for Advanced Microscopy, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Andreas B Gevaert
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Vincent F M Segers
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, GENCOR Department, Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Emeline M van Craenenbroeck
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gevaert AB, Wood N, Boen JRA, Davos CH, Hansen D, Hanssen H, Krenning G, Moholdt T, Osto E, Paneni F, Pedretti RFE, Plösch T, Simonenko M, Bowen TS. Epigenetics in the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease: influence of exercise and nutrition. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2022; 29:2183-2199. [PMID: 35989414 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwac179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Increasing evidence links changes in epigenetic systems, such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA expression, to the occurrence of cardiovascular disease (CVD). These epigenetic modifications can change genetic function under influence of exogenous stimuli and can be transferred to next generations, providing a potential mechanism for inheritance of behavioural intervention effects. The benefits of exercise and nutritional interventions in the primary and secondary prevention of CVD are well established, but the mechanisms are not completely understood. In this review, we describe the acute and chronic epigenetic effects of physical activity and dietary changes. We propose exercise and nutrition as potential triggers of epigenetic signals, promoting the reshaping of transcriptional programmes with effects on CVD phenotypes. Finally, we highlight recent developments in epigenetic therapeutics with implications for primary and secondary CVD prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas B Gevaert
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie Eiken D.T.228, Universiteitsplein 1, Antwerp 2610, Belgium.,Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Edegem, Belgium
| | - Nathanael Wood
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Jente R A Boen
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie Eiken D.T.228, Universiteitsplein 1, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Constantinos H Davos
- Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dominique Hansen
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Center Hasselt, Jessa Hospital, Hasselt, Belgium.,BIOMED-REVAL-Rehabilitation Research Centre, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Henner Hanssen
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Health, Sports and Exercise Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Guido Krenning
- Laboratory for Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Trine Moholdt
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian Institute of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway.,Department of Women's Health, St Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Elena Osto
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,University Heart Center, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Laboratory of Translational Nutrition Biology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH), Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Paneni
- University Heart Center, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Research and Education, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Roberto F E Pedretti
- Cardiovascular Department, IRCCS MultiMedica, Care and Research Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Torsten Plösch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Perinatal Neurobiology, Department of Human Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Maria Simonenko
- Physiology Research and Blood Circulation Department, Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test SRL, Federal State Budgetary Institution, 'V.A. Almazov National Medical Research Centre' of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Saint-Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - T Scott Bowen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Boen JRA, Kruger D, Dendooven A, Tubeeckx M, Bruyns T, Van Fraeyenhove J, Feyen E, Gevaert AB, Segers VFM, Van Craenenbroeck EM. Epigenetic regulation of miR-181c-5p in a cardiorenal mouse model with co-occurring thrombotic microangiopathy. Eur Heart J 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac544.2620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
MiR-181c-5p is described to induce heart failure (HF), while its role in renal pathology and healthy mice is rather undetermined. Renal dysfunction is present in 40–60% of HF patients and associated with high morbidity and mortality rate.
Purpose
This study aims to investigate the role of miR-181c-5p in a new mouse model of metabolic cardiorenal disease (CRD). Our hypothesis states a protective effect of miR-181c-5p inhibition on HF development by regulation of Tgfbr1.
Methods
CRD was induced by feeding male C57BL/6J mice (n=20) a high-fat diet (HFD) and L-NAME in drinking water (5g/L) for 6 weeks, angiotensin-II was co-administered via osmotic minipumps (1000ng/kg/min) during the final 2 weeks. Healthy controls (n=16) were given normal chow and drinking water, and underwent sham-surgery. Mice were randomly assigned to weekly injections (40mg/kg) with miR-181c-5p antagomiR (INH) or scrambled control for the duration of the study. We assessed cardiac function (echocardiography, invasive hemodynamics), renal function (plasma creatinine), target expression (RT-qPCR), and histology.
Results
CRD animals showed mild systolic and diastolic cardiac dysfunction compared to healthy controls characterized by reduced dP/dt min (−4795±1164 vs −7728±1693 mmHg/s; p=0.01) and dP/dt max (6222±1069 vs 8706±1739 mmHg/s; p=0.038), and increased tau (9.88±3.09 vs 6.07±0.73 ms; p=0.02) with preserved ejection fraction (45±21 vs 51±8%; p=0.53). Histology shows cardiac fibrosis (2.5±0.3 vs 1.8±0.2% area; p=0.0004) and hypertrophy (0.11±0.03 vs 0.08±0.01g/cm; p=0.005). Renal dysfunction presents with kidney atrophy (0.07±0.006 vs 0.09±0.01g/cm; p=0.02), increased plasma creatinine (21±6 vs 10±5; p=0.01), renal fibrosis (0.26±0.22 vs 0.005±0.21% area; p=0.036) and glomerular abnormalities (glomerulosclerosis, hyperfiltration, mesangial matrix expansion, reduced podocyte number). CRD+INH animals had comparable cardiac phenotype to CRD (p>0.05), except a significantly reduced cardiac output compared to healthy controls (6±3 vs 18±3 μl/s; p=0.035). Their renal phenotype was exacerbated with elevated glomerular damage (26±3 vs 18±9; p=0.04) and significantly increased mortality rate (50%) (Kaplan-Meier p=0.01) compared to healthy controls (0%) or CRD (20%), associated with increased occurrence of tubular atrophy, endothelial swelling and systemic thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) that manifested in kidney and the heart. RT-qPCR analysis identified Vegf as potential target of miR-181c-5p in kidney and showed significantly reduced levels of Tgfbr1 in cardiac tissue of CRD+INH mice.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates a detrimental effect of miR-181c-5p inhibition on renal function in a CRD mouse model, driven by glomerular damage and TMA through Vegf signaling. Despite identification of Tgfbr1 as potential target of miR-181c-5p in the heart, cardiac function was rather unaffected.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): University of Antwerp
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J R A Boen
- University of Antwerp, GENCOR Department , Antwerp , Belgium
| | - D Kruger
- University of Antwerp, GENCOR Department , Antwerp , Belgium
| | - A Dendooven
- University Hospital Ghent, Department of Pathology , Gent , Belgium
| | - M Tubeeckx
- University of Antwerp, GENCOR Department , Antwerp , Belgium
| | - T Bruyns
- University of Antwerp, GENCOR Department , Antwerp , Belgium
| | | | - E Feyen
- University of Antwerp, GENCOR Department , Antwerp , Belgium
| | - A B Gevaert
- University Hospital Antwerp, Department of Cardiology , Edegem , Belgium
| | - V F M Segers
- University Hospital Antwerp, Department of Cardiology , Edegem , Belgium
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Gevaert AB, Witvrouwen I, Van Craenenbroeck AH, Van Laere SJ, Boen JRA, Van de Heyning CM, Belyavskiy E, Mueller S, Winzer E, Duvinage A, Edelmann F, Beckers PJ, Heidbuchel H, Wisløff U, Pieske B, Adams V, Halle M, Van Craenenbroeck EM. miR-181c level predicts response to exercise training in patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction: an analysis of the OptimEx-Clin trial. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2021; 28:1722-1733. [PMID: 34508569 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwab151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AIMS In patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), exercise training improves the quality of life and aerobic capacity (peakV·O2). Up to 55% of HF patients, however, show no increase in peakV·O2 despite adequate training. We hypothesized that circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) can distinguish exercise low responders (LR) from exercise high responders (HR) among HFpEF patients. METHODS AND RESULTS We selected HFpEF patients from the Optimizing Exercise Training in Prevention and Treatment of Diastolic HF (OptimEx) study which attended ≥70% of training sessions during 3 months (n = 51). Patients were defined as HR with a change in peakV·O2 above median (6.4%), and LR as below median (n = 30 and n = 21, respectively). Clinical, ergospirometric, and echocardiographic characteristics were similar between LR and HR. We performed an miRNA array (n = 377 miRNAs) in 14 age- and sex-matched patients. A total of 10 miRNAs were upregulated in LR, of which 4 correlated with peakV·O2. Validation in the remaining 37 patients indicated that high miR-181c predicted reduced peakV·O2 response (multiple linear regression, β = -2.60, P = 0.011), and LR status (multiple logistic regression, odds ratio = 0.48, P = 0.010), independent of age, sex, body mass index, and resting heart rate. Furthermore, miR-181c decreased in LR after exercise training (P-group = 0.030, P-time = 0.048, P-interaction = 0.037). An in silico pathway analysis identified several downstream targets involved in exercise adaptation. CONCLUSIONS Circulating miR-181c is a marker of the response to exercise training in HFpEF patients. High miR-181c levels can aid in identifying LR prior to training, providing the possibility for individualized management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas B Gevaert
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie Eiken D.T.228, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Edegem, Belgium
| | - Isabel Witvrouwen
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie Eiken D.T.228, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Edegem, Belgium
| | - Amaryllis H Van Craenenbroeck
- Research Group Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Steven J Van Laere
- Translational Cancer Research Unit, Center for Oncological Research (CORE), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jente R A Boen
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie Eiken D.T.228, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium.,Research Group Physiopharmacology, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Caroline M Van de Heyning
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie Eiken D.T.228, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Edegem, Belgium
| | - Evgeny Belyavskiy
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stephan Mueller
- Department of Prevention and Sports Medicine, University Hospital Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Ephraim Winzer
- Heart Center Dresden - University Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - André Duvinage
- Department of Prevention and Sports Medicine, University Hospital Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Frank Edelmann
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Paul J Beckers
- Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Edegem, Belgium
| | - Hein Heidbuchel
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie Eiken D.T.228, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Edegem, Belgium
| | - Ulrik Wisløff
- Cardiac Exercise Research Group at Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Burkert Pieske
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Volker Adams
- Heart Center Dresden - University Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Halle
- Department of Prevention and Sports Medicine, University Hospital Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Emeline M Van Craenenbroeck
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie Eiken D.T.228, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Edegem, Belgium
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Shakeri H, Boen JRA, De Moudt S, Hendrickx JO, Leloup AJA, Jacobs G, De Meyer GRY, De Keulenaer GW, Guns PJDF, Segers VFM. Neuregulin-1 compensates for endothelial nitric oxide synthase deficiency. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2021; 320:H2416-H2428. [PMID: 33989083 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00914.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) secrete different paracrine signals that modulate the function of adjacent cells; two examples of these paracrine signals are nitric oxide (NO) and neuregulin-1 (NRG1), a cardioprotective growth factor. Currently, it is undetermined whether one paracrine factor can compensate for the loss of another. Herein, we hypothesized that NRG1 can compensate for endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) deficiency. We characterized eNOS null and wild-type (WT) mice by cardiac ultrasound and histology and we determined circulating NRG1 levels. In a separate experiment, eight groups of mice were divided into four groups of eNOS null mice and WT mice; half of the mice received angiotensin II (ANG II) to induce a more severe phenotype. Mice were randomized to daily injections with NRG1 or vehicle for 28 days. eNOS deficiency increased NRG1 plasma levels, indicating that ECs increase their NRG1 expression when NO production is deleted. eNOS deficiency also increased blood pressure, lowered heart rate, induced cardiac fibrosis, and affected diastolic function. In eNOS null mice, ANG II administration not only increased cardiac fibrosis but also induced cardiac hypertrophy and renal fibrosis. NRG1 administration prevented cardiac and renal hypertrophy and fibrosis caused by ANG II infusion and eNOS deficiency. Moreover, Nrg1 expression in the myocardium is shown to be regulated by miR-134. This study indicates that administration of endothelium-derived NRG1 can compensate for eNOS deficiency in the heart and kidneys.NEW & NOTEWORTHY ECs compensate for eNOS deficiency by increasing the secretion of NRG1. NRG1 administration prevents cardiac and renal hypertrophy and fibrosis caused by ANG II infusion and eNOS deficiency. NRG1 expression is regulated by miR-134.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hadis Shakeri
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jente R A Boen
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Sofie De Moudt
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jhana O Hendrickx
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Arthur J A Leloup
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Griet Jacobs
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Guido R Y De Meyer
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Gilles W De Keulenaer
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Hartcentrum ZNA, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Vincent F M Segers
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Boen JRA, Gevaert AB, De Keulenaer GW, Van Craenenbroeck EM, Segers VFM. The role of endothelial miRNAs in myocardial biology and disease. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2019; 138:75-87. [PMID: 31756323 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2019.11.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The myocardium is a highly structured pluricellular tissue which is governed by an intricate network of intercellular communication. Endothelial cells are the most abundant cell type in the myocardium and exert crucial roles in both healthy myocardium and during myocardial disease. In the last decade, microRNAs have emerged as new actors in the regulation of cellular function in almost every cell type. Here, we review recent evidence on the regulatory function of different microRNAs expressed in endothelial cells, also called endothelial microRNAs, in healthy and diseased myocardium. Endothelial microRNA emerged as modulators of angiogenesis in the myocardium, they are implicated in the paracrine role of endothelial cells in regulating cardiac contractility and homeostasis, and interfere in the crosstalk between endothelial cells and cardiomyocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jente R A Boen
- Research group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - Andreas B Gevaert
- Research group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Wilrijkstraat 10, Edegem, Belgium.
| | - Gilles W De Keulenaer
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; Department of Cardiology, ZNA Middelheim Hospital, Lindendreef 1, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Emeline M Van Craenenbroeck
- Research group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Wilrijkstraat 10, Edegem, Belgium.
| | - Vincent F M Segers
- Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Wilrijkstraat 10, Edegem, Belgium; Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Segers VFM, Gevaert AB, Boen JRA, Van Craenenbroeck EM, De Keulenaer GW. Epigenetic regulation of intercellular communication in the heart. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2019; 316:H1417-H1425. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00038.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The myocardium is a highly structured tissue consisting of different cell types including cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells, inflammatory cells, and stem cells. Microvascular endothelial cells are the most abundant cell type in the myocardium and play crucial roles during cardiac development, in normal adult myocardium, and during myocardial diseases such as heart failure. In the last decade, epigenetic changes have been described regulating cellular function in almost every cell type in the organism. Here, we review recent evidence on different epigenetic changes that regulate intercellular communication in normal myocardium and during myocardial diseases, including cardiac remodeling. Epigenetic changes influence many intercellular communication signaling systems, including the nitric oxide, angiotensin, and endothelin signaling systems. In this review, we go beyond discussing classic endothelial function (for instance nitric oxide secretion) and will discuss epigenetic regulation of intercellular communication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincent F. M. Segers
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Andreas B. Gevaert
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jente R. A. Boen
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Emeline M. Van Craenenbroeck
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Gilles W. De Keulenaer
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Cardiology, Ziekenhuisnetwerk Antwerpen, Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gevaert AB, Boen JRA, Segers VF, Van Craenenbroeck EM. Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction: A Review of Cardiac and Noncardiac Pathophysiology. Front Physiol 2019; 10:638. [PMID: 31191343 PMCID: PMC6548802 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is one of the largest unmet clinical needs in 21st-century cardiology. It is a complex disorder resulting from the influence of several comorbidities on the endothelium. A derangement in nitric oxide bioavailability leads to an intricate web of physiological abnormalities in the heart, blood vessels, and other organs. In this review, we examine the contribution of cardiac and noncardiac factors to the development of HFpEF. We zoom in on recent insights on the role of comorbidities and microRNAs in HFpEF. Finally, we address the potential of exercise training, which is currently the only available therapy to improve aerobic capacity and quality of life in HFpEF patients. Unraveling the underlying mechanisms responsible for this improvement could lead to new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for HFpEF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas B Gevaert
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Edegem, Belgium.,Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jente R A Boen
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Vincent F Segers
- Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Edegem, Belgium.,Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Emeline M Van Craenenbroeck
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR Department, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Edegem, Belgium.,Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|