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de Klerk JA, Bijkerk R, Beulens JWJ, van Zonneveld AJ, Muilwijk M, Harms PP, Blom MT, 't Hart LM, Slieker RC. Branched-chain amino acid levels are inversely associated with incident and prevalent chronic kidney disease in people with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Obes Metab 2024; 26:1706-1713. [PMID: 38303102 DOI: 10.1111/dom.15475] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the association of plasma metabolites with incident and prevalent chronic kidney disease (CKD) in people with type 2 diabetes and establish whether this association is causal. MATERIALS AND METHODS The Hoorn Diabetes Care System cohort is a large prospective cohort consisting of individuals with type 2 diabetes from the northwest part of the Netherlands. In this cohort we assessed the association of baseline plasma levels of 172 metabolites with incident (Ntotal = 462/Ncase = 81) and prevalent (Ntotal = 1247/Ncase = 120) CKD using logistic regression. Additionally, replication in the UK Biobank, body mass index (BMI) mediation and causality of the association with Mendelian randomization was performed. RESULTS Elevated levels of total and individual branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)-valine, leucine and isoleucine-were associated with an increased risk of incident CKD, but with reduced odds of prevalent CKD, where BMI was identified as an effect modifier. The observed inverse effects were replicated in the UK Biobank. Mendelian randomization analysis did not provide evidence for a causal relationship between BCAAs and prevalent CKD. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows the intricate relationship between plasma BCAA levels and CKD in individuals with type 2 diabetes. While an association exists, its manifestation varies based on disease status and BMI, with no definitive evidence supporting a causal link between BCAAs and prevalent CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliette A de Klerk
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Joline W J Beulens
- Amsterdam Public Health, Health Behaviors & Chronic Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Mirte Muilwijk
- Amsterdam Public Health, Health Behaviors & Chronic Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Peter P Harms
- Amsterdam Public Health, Health Behaviors & Chronic Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of General Practice Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marieke T Blom
- Amsterdam Public Health, Health Behaviors & Chronic Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of General Practice Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Leendert M 't Hart
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Health Behaviors & Chronic Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Section Molecular Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Roderick C Slieker
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Health Behaviors & Chronic Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Gerrits T, Dijkstra KL, Bruijn JA, Scharpfenecker M, Bijkerk R, Baelde HJ. Antisense oligonucleotide-mediated terminal intron retention of endoglin: A potential strategy to inhibit renal interstitial fibrosis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167186. [PMID: 38642778 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167186] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
TGF-β is considered an important cytokine in the development of interstitial fibrosis in chronic kidney disease. The TGF-β co-receptor endoglin (ENG) tends to be upregulated in kidney fibrosis. ENG has two membrane bound isoforms generated via alternative splicing. Long-ENG was shown to enhance the extent of renal fibrosis in an unilateral ureteral obstruction mouse model, while short-ENG inhibited renal fibrosis. Here we aimed to achieve terminal intron retention of endoglin using antisense-oligo nucleotides (ASOs), thereby shifting the ratio towards short-ENG to inhibit the TGF-β1-mediated pro-fibrotic response. We isolated mRNA from kidney biopsies of patients with chronic allograft disease (CAD) (n = 12) and measured total ENG and short-ENG mRNA levels. ENG mRNA was upregulated 2.3 fold (p < 0.05) in kidneys of CAD patients compared to controls, while the percentage short-ENG of the total ENG mRNA was significantly lower (1.8 fold; p < 0.05). Transfection of ASOs that target splicing regulatory sites of ENG into TK173 fibroblasts led to higher levels of short-ENG (2 fold; p < 0.05). In addition, we stimulated these cells with TGF-β1 and measured a decrease in upregulation of ACTA2, COL1A1 and FN1 mRNA levels, and protein expression of αSMA, collagen type I, and fibronectin. These results show a potential for ENG ASOs as a therapy to reduce interstitial fibrosis in CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Gerrits
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, Netherlands.
| | - Kyra L Dijkstra
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jan Anthonie Bruijn
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Marion Scharpfenecker
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Hans J Baelde
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, Netherlands
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van der Pluijm LA, Koudijs A, Stam W, Roelofs JJ, Danser AJ, Rotmans JI, Gross KW, Pieper MP, van Zonneveld AJ, Bijkerk R. SGLT2 inhibition promotes glomerular repopulation by cells of renin lineage in experimental kidney disease. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2024; 240:e14108. [PMID: 38314444 PMCID: PMC10923162 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14108] [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] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
AIM Sodium glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors stimulate renal excretion of sodium and glucose and exert renal protective effects in patients with (non-)diabetic chronic kidney disease (CKD) and may as well protect against acute kidney injury (AKI). The mechanism behind this kidney protective effect remains unclear. Juxtaglomerular cells of renin lineage (CoRL) have been demonstrated to function as progenitors for multiple adult glomerular cell types in kidney disease. This study assesses the impact of SGLT2 inhibition on the repopulation of glomerular cells by CoRL and examines their phenotypic commitment. METHODS Experiments were performed in Ren1cre-tdTomato lineage-trace mice. Either 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6NX) modeling CKD or bilateral ischaemia reperfusion injury (bIRI) mimicking AKI was applied, while the SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin (10 mg/kg) was administered daily via oral gavage for 14 days. RESULTS Both 5/6NX and bIRI-induced kidney injury increased the number of glomerular CoRL-derived cells. SGLT2 inhibition improved kidney function after 5/6NX, indicated by decreased blood creatinine and urea levels, but not after bIRI. In line with this, empagliflozin in 5/6NX animals resulted in less glomerulosclerosis, while it did not affect histopathological features in bIRI. Treatment with empagliflozin resulted in an increase in the number of CoRL-derived glomerular cells in both 5/6NX and bIRI conditions. Interestingly, SGLT2 inhibition led to more CoRL-derived podocytes in 5/6NX animals, whereas empagliflozin-treated bIRI mice presented with increased levels of parietal epithelial and mesangial cells derived from CoRL. CONCLUSION We conclude that SGLT2 inhibition by empagliflozin promotes CoRL-mediated glomerular repopulation with selective CoRL-derived cell types depending on the type of experimental kidney injury. These findings suggest a previously unidentified mechanism that could contribute to the renoprotective effect of SGLT2 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loïs A.K. van der Pluijm
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Angela Koudijs
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Wendy Stam
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Joris J.T.H. Roelofs
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A.H. Jan Danser
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joris I. Rotmans
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Kenneth W. Gross
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Michael P. Pieper
- CardioMetabolic Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co KG, Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
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4
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van Zonneveld AJ, Zhao Q, Rotmans JI, Bijkerk R. Circulating non-coding RNAs in chronic kidney disease and its complications. Nat Rev Nephrol 2023; 19:573-586. [PMID: 37286733 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-023-00725-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Post-transcriptional regulation by non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) can modulate the expression of genes involved in kidney physiology and disease. A large variety of ncRNA species exist, including microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, piwi-interacting RNAs, small nucleolar RNAs, circular RNAs and yRNAs. Despite early assumptions that some of these species may exist as by-products of cell or tissue injury, a growing body of literature suggests that these ncRNAs are functional and participate in a variety of processes. Although they function intracellularly, ncRNAs are also present in the circulation, where they are carried by extracellular vesicles, ribonucleoprotein complexes or lipoprotein complexes such as HDL. These systemic, circulating ncRNAs are derived from specific cell types and can be directly transferred to a variety of cells, including endothelial cells of the vasculature and virtually any cell type in the kidney, thereby affecting the function of the host cell and/or its response to injury. Moreover, chronic kidney disease itself, as well as injury states associated with transplantation and allograft dysfunction, is associated with a shift in the distribution of circulating ncRNAs. These findings may provide opportunities for the identification of biomarkers with which to monitor disease progression and/or the development of therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Qiao Zhao
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Joris I Rotmans
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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Nicese MN, Bijkerk R, Van Zonneveld AJ, Van den Berg BM, Rotmans JI. Sodium Butyrate as Key Regulator of Mitochondrial Function and Barrier Integrity of Human Glomerular Endothelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13090. [PMID: 37685905 PMCID: PMC10487840 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiota has emerged as an important modulator of cardiovascular and renal homeostasis. The composition of gut microbiota in patients suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD) is altered, where a lower number of bacteria producing short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) is observed. It is known that SCFAs, such as butyrate and acetate, have protective effects against cardiovascular diseases and CKD but their mechanisms of action remain largely unexplored. In the present study, we investigated the effect of butyrate and acetate on glomerular endothelial cells. Human glomerular microvascular endothelial cells (hgMVECs) were cultured and exposed to butyrate and acetate and their effects on cellular proliferation, mitochondrial mass and metabolism, as well as monolayer integrity were studied. While acetate did not show any effects on hgMVECs, our results revealed that butyrate reduces the proliferation of hgMVECs, strengthens the endothelial barrier through increased expression of VE-cadherin and Claudin-5 and promotes mitochondrial biogenesis. Moreover, butyrate reduces the increase in oxygen consumption induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPS), revealing a protective effect of butyrate against the detrimental effects of LPS. Taken together, our data show that butyrate is a key player in endothelial integrity and metabolic homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Novella Nicese
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (M.N.N.); (R.B.); (A.J.V.Z.); (B.M.V.d.B.)
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (M.N.N.); (R.B.); (A.J.V.Z.); (B.M.V.d.B.)
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan Van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (M.N.N.); (R.B.); (A.J.V.Z.); (B.M.V.d.B.)
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Bernard M. Van den Berg
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (M.N.N.); (R.B.); (A.J.V.Z.); (B.M.V.d.B.)
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Joris I. Rotmans
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (M.N.N.); (R.B.); (A.J.V.Z.); (B.M.V.d.B.)
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
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6
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Laboyrie SL, de Vries MR, Bijkerk R, Rotmans JI. Building a Scaffold for Arteriovenous Fistula Maturation: Unravelling the Role of the Extracellular Matrix. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10825. [PMID: 37446003 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular access is the lifeline for patients receiving haemodialysis as kidney replacement therapy. As a surgically created arteriovenous fistula (AVF) provides a high-flow conduit suitable for cannulation, it remains the vascular access of choice. In order to use an AVF successfully, the luminal diameter and the vessel wall of the venous outflow tract have to increase. This process is referred to as AVF maturation. AVF non-maturation is an important limitation of AVFs that contributes to their poor primary patency rates. To date, there is no clear overview of the overall role of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in AVF maturation. The ECM is essential for vascular functioning, as it provides structural and mechanical strength and communicates with vascular cells to regulate their differentiation and proliferation. Thus, the ECM is involved in multiple processes that regulate AVF maturation, and it is essential to study its anatomy and vascular response to AVF surgery to define therapeutic targets to improve AVF maturation. In this review, we discuss the composition of both the arterial and venous ECM and its incorporation in the three vessel layers: the tunica intima, media, and adventitia. Furthermore, we examine the effect of chronic kidney failure on the vasculature, the timing of ECM remodelling post-AVF surgery, and current ECM interventions to improve AVF maturation. Lastly, the suitability of ECM interventions as a therapeutic target for AVF maturation will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne L Laboyrie
- Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Margreet R de Vries
- Department of Surgery and the Heart and Vascular Center, Brigham & Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Joris I Rotmans
- Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
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7
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de Klerk JA, Beulens JWJ, Mei H, Bijkerk R, van Zonneveld AJ, Koivula RW, Elders PJM, 't Hart LM, Slieker RC. Altered blood gene expression in the obesity-related type 2 diabetes cluster may be causally involved in lipid metabolism: a Mendelian randomisation study. Diabetologia 2023; 66:1057-1070. [PMID: 36826505 PMCID: PMC10163084 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-023-05886-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS The aim of this study was to identify differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and mRNAs in whole blood of people with type 2 diabetes across five different clusters: severe insulin-deficient diabetes (SIDD), severe insulin-resistant diabetes (SIRD), mild obesity-related diabetes (MOD), mild diabetes (MD) and mild diabetes with high HDL-cholesterol (MDH). This was to increase our understanding of different molecular mechanisms underlying the five putative clusters of type 2 diabetes. METHODS Participants in the Hoorn Diabetes Care System (DCS) cohort were clustered based on age, BMI, HbA1c, C-peptide and HDL-cholesterol. Whole blood RNA-seq was used to identify differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs in a cluster compared with all others. Differentially expressed genes were validated in the Innovative Medicines Initiative DIabetes REsearCh on patient straTification (IMI DIRECT) study. Expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) for differentially expressed RNAs were obtained from a publicly available dataset. To estimate the causal effects of RNAs on traits, a two-sample Mendelian randomisation analysis was performed using public genome-wide association study (GWAS) data. RESULTS Eleven lncRNAs and 175 mRNAs were differentially expressed in the MOD cluster, the lncRNA AL354696.2 was upregulated in the SIDD cluster and GPR15 mRNA was downregulated in the MDH cluster. mRNAs and lncRNAs that were differentially expressed in the MOD cluster were correlated among each other. Six lncRNAs and 120 mRNAs validated in the IMI DIRECT study. Using two-sample Mendelian randomisation, we found 52 mRNAs to have a causal effect on anthropometric traits (n=23) and lipid metabolism traits (n=10). GPR146 showed a causal effect on plasma HDL-cholesterol levels (p = 2×10-15), without evidence for reverse causality. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION Multiple lncRNAs and mRNAs were found to be differentially expressed among clusters and particularly in the MOD cluster. mRNAs in the MOD cluster showed a possible causal effect on anthropometric traits, lipid metabolism traits and blood cell fractions. Together, our results show that individuals in the MOD cluster show aberrant RNA expression of genes that have a suggested causal role on multiple diabetes-relevant traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliette A de Klerk
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Joline W J Beulens
- Amsterdam Public Health Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hailiang Mei
- Sequencing Analysis Support Core, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Robert W Koivula
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Genetic and Molecular Epidemiology, CRC, Skåne University Hospital Malmö, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Petra J M Elders
- Amsterdam Public Health Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Leen M 't Hart
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Section Molecular Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Roderick C Slieker
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
- Amsterdam Public Health Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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8
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Li J, Takasato M, Xu Q, Bijkerk R. Editorial: Epithelial plasticity and complexity in development, disease and regeneration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 10:1105402. [PMID: 36712966 PMCID: PMC9877212 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1105402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Joan Li
- Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia,*Correspondence: Joan Li,
| | - Minoru Takasato
- Laboratory for Human Organogenesis, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan
| | - Qihe Xu
- Renal Sciences and Integrative Chinese Medicine Laboratory, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences an Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) & Einthoven Laboratory of Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
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9
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Wang G, Heijs B, Kostidis S, Mahfouz A, Rietjens RGJ, Bijkerk R, Koudijs A, van der Pluijm LAK, van den Berg CW, Dumas SJ, Carmeliet P, Giera M, van den Berg BM, Rabelink TJ. Analyzing cell-type-specific dynamics of metabolism in kidney repair. Nat Metab 2022; 4:1109-1118. [PMID: 36008550 PMCID: PMC9499864 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-022-00615-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
A common drawback of metabolic analyses of complex biological samples is the inability to consider cell-to-cell heterogeneity in the context of an organ or tissue. To overcome this limitation, we present an advanced high-spatial-resolution metabolomics approach using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) combined with isotope tracing. This method allows mapping of cell-type-specific dynamic changes in central carbon metabolism in the context of a complex heterogeneous tissue architecture, such as the kidney. Combined with multiplexed immunofluorescence staining, this method can detect metabolic changes and nutrient partitioning in targeted cell types, as demonstrated in a bilateral renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (bIRI) experimental model. Our approach enables us to identify region-specific metabolic perturbations associated with the lesion and throughout recovery, including unexpected metabolic anomalies in cells with an apparently normal phenotype in the recovery phase. These findings may be relevant to an understanding of the homeostatic capacity of the kidney microenvironment. In sum, this method allows us to achieve resolution at the single-cell level in situ and hence to interpret cell-type-specific metabolic dynamics in the context of structure and metabolism of neighboring cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gangqi Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) & Einthoven Laboratory of Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Bram Heijs
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Center of Proteomics and Metabolomics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Sarantos Kostidis
- Center of Proteomics and Metabolomics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Ahmed Mahfouz
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Leiden Computational Biology Center, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Delft Bioinformatics Lab, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Rosalie G J Rietjens
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) & Einthoven Laboratory of Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) & Einthoven Laboratory of Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Angela Koudijs
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) & Einthoven Laboratory of Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Loïs A K van der Pluijm
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) & Einthoven Laboratory of Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Cathelijne W van den Berg
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) & Einthoven Laboratory of Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Sébastien J Dumas
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Peter Carmeliet
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Heterogeneity, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Martin Giera
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Center of Proteomics and Metabolomics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Bernard M van den Berg
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) & Einthoven Laboratory of Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Ton J Rabelink
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) & Einthoven Laboratory of Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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10
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van der Pluijm L, Koudijs A, Stam W, Rotmans J, Gross KW, Paul Pieper M, Jan van Zonneveld A, Bijkerk R. MO074: SGLT2 Inhibition Promotes Intrinsic Kidney Regeneration by Cells of the Renin Lineage. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfac063.026] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS
With chronic kidney disease (CKD) prevalence rapidly increasing, the need for novel therapies is rising. Sodium glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors were originally developed to treat hyperglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Clinical trials with the SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin revealed a marked attenuation of the slope of kidney function decline, also in patients with non-diabetic CKD. The exact mechanism of this kidney sparing effect still remains to be clarified. Interestingly, cells of renin lineage (CoRL), residing in the juxtaglomerular apparatus to regulate blood pressure and fluid balance, have been demonstrated to harbor a stem cell like potential. CoRL have the ability to replenish glomerular cell number by dedifferentiating, migrating and subsequently replacing various glomerular cell types in different kidney injury mouse models. Considering that empagliflozin treatment affects renin plasma levels and electrolyte balance in patients, we hypothesized that empagliflozin could have an effect on CoRL-induced glomerular regeneration.
METHOD
Experiments were performed in a Ren1cre; tdTomato lineage-trace mouse strain that expresses a tomato fluorescent label in all cells derived from renin lineage. Two kidney injury mouse models were applied; bilateral ischemia reperfusion injury (bIRI) and 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6NTx). Empagliflozin (10 mg/kg) was administered daily via oral gavage for 14 days. Subsequently, mice were sacrificed and kidneys were harvested for histological analysis.
RESULTS
In both the bIRI and 5/6NTx model, empagliflozin intake led to an increase (>2-fold) of CoRL found in the intraglomerular regions compared with vehicle control littermates. These CoRL seemed to selectively differentiate towards different glomerular cell types per model: bIRI combined with empagliflozin administration resulted in an increase of claudin- (10-fold) and integrin-α8- (1.5-fold) tomato double positive cells, suggesting favored differentiation from CoRL to respectively a parietal epithelial or mesangial cell type. In contrast, in the empagliflozin treated 5/6NTx model, an increase (1.5-fold) in tomato-podocyn double positive cells was observed, implying more restocking of glomerular podocytes by CoRL in this model.
CONCLUSION
SGLT2 inhibition by empagliflozin treatment leads to increased CoRL-mediated intrinsic regeneration potential and provides the kidney with different replenished cell types in different kidney disease models. Our findings demonstrate a novel mechanism via which SGLT2 inhibition might protect against kidney injury.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angela Koudijs
- Leiden University Medical Center, Nephrology, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Wendy Stam
- Leiden University Medical Center, Nephrology, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Joris Rotmans
- Leiden University Medical Center, Nephrology, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Kenneth W Gross
- Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Molecular and Cellular Biology, NY, USA
| | - Michael Paul Pieper
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co KG, CardioMetabolic Diseases Research, Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | | | - Roel Bijkerk
- Leiden University Medical Center, Nephrology, Leiden, The Netherlands
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11
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Zhao Q, Nooren SJL, Zijlstra LE, Westenberg JJM, Kroft LJM, Jukema JW, Berkhout-Byrne NC, Rabelink TJ, van Zonneveld AJ, van Buren M, Mooijaart SP, Bijkerk R. Circulating miRNAs and Vascular Injury Markers Associate with Cardiovascular Function in Older Patients Reaching End-Stage Kidney Disease. Noncoding RNA 2022; 8:ncrna8010002. [PMID: 35076541 PMCID: PMC8788543 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna8010002] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) is rapidly increasing and mostly occurring in patients aged 65 years or older. The main cause of death in these patients is cardiovascular disease (CVD). Novel markers of vascular integrity may thus be of clinical value for identifying patients at high risk for CVD. Here we associated the levels of selected circulating angiogenic miRNAs, angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) with cardiovascular structure and function (as determined by cardiovascular MRI) in 67 older patients reaching ESKD that were included from ‘The Cognitive decline in Older Patients with End stage renal disease’ (COPE) prospective, multicentered cohort study. We first determined the association between the vascular injury markers and specific heart conditions and observed that ESKD patients with coronary heart disease have significantly higher levels of circulating ADMA and miR-27a. Moreover, circulating levels of miR-27a were higher in patients with atrial fibrillation. In addition, the circulating levels of the vascular injury markers were associated with measures of cardiovascular structure and function obtained from cardiovascular MRI: pulse wave velocity (PWV), ejection fraction (EF) and cardiac index (CI). We found Ang-2 and miR-27a to be strongly correlated to the PWV, while Ang-2 also associated with ejection fraction. Finally, we observed that in contrast to miR-27a, Ang-2 was not associated with a vascular cause of the primary kidney disease, suggesting Ang-2 may be an ESKD-specific marker of vascular injury. Taken together, among older patients with ESKD, aberrant levels of vascular injury markers (miR-27a, Ang-2 and ADMA) associated with impaired cardiovascular function. These markers may serve to identify individuals at higher risk of CVD, as well as give insight into the underlying (vascular) pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao Zhao
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (Q.Z.); (S.J.L.N.); (N.C.B.-B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.); (M.v.B.)
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sabine J. L. Nooren
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (Q.Z.); (S.J.L.N.); (N.C.B.-B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.); (M.v.B.)
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Laurien E. Zijlstra
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (L.E.Z.); (J.W.J.)
| | - Jos J. M. Westenberg
- Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (J.J.M.W.); (L.J.M.K.)
| | - Lucia J. M. Kroft
- Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (J.J.M.W.); (L.J.M.K.)
| | - J. Wouter Jukema
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (L.E.Z.); (J.W.J.)
- Netherlands Heart Institute, Moreelsepark 1, 3511 EP Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Noeleen C. Berkhout-Byrne
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (Q.Z.); (S.J.L.N.); (N.C.B.-B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.); (M.v.B.)
| | - Ton J. Rabelink
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (Q.Z.); (S.J.L.N.); (N.C.B.-B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.); (M.v.B.)
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (Q.Z.); (S.J.L.N.); (N.C.B.-B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.); (M.v.B.)
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolijn van Buren
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (Q.Z.); (S.J.L.N.); (N.C.B.-B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.); (M.v.B.)
- Department of Nephrology, HAGA Hospital, 2545 AA The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Simon P. Mooijaart
- Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (Q.Z.); (S.J.L.N.); (N.C.B.-B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.); (M.v.B.)
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-(0)71-526-8138; Fax: +31-(0)71-526-6868
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12
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Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of endogenously expressed regulatory RNAs with a single-stranded circular structure. They are generated by back splicing and their expression can be tightly regulated by RNA binding proteins. Cytoplasmic circRNAs can function as molecular sponges that inhibit microRNA-target interactions and protein function or as templates for the efficient generation of peptides via rolling circle amplification. They can also act as molecular scaffolds that enhance the reaction kinetics of enzyme-substrate interactions. In the nucleus, circRNAs might facilitate chromatin modifications and promote gene expression. CircRNAs are resistant to degradation and can be packaged in extracellular vesicles and transported in the circulation. Initial studies suggest that circRNAs have roles in kidney disease and associated cardiovascular complications. They have been implicated in hypertensive nephropathy, diabetic kidney disease, glomerular disease, acute kidney injury and kidney allograft rejection, as well as in microvascular and macrovascular complications of chronic kidney disease, including atherosclerotic vascular disease. In addition, several circRNAs have been reported to have oncogenic or tumour suppressor roles or to regulate drug resistance in kidney cancer. The available data suggest that circRNAs could be promising diagnostic and/or prognostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for kidney disease, cardiovascular disease and kidney cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Malte Kölling
- Division of Nephrology, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Johan M Lorenzen
- Division of Nephrology, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
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13
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Florijn BW, Bijkerk R, Kruyt ND, van Zonneveld AJ, Wermer MJH. Sex-Specific MicroRNAs in Neurovascular Units in Ischemic Stroke. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11888. [PMID: 34769320 PMCID: PMC8585074 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence pinpoints sex differences in stroke incidence, etiology and outcome. Therefore, more understanding of the sex-specific mechanisms that lead to ischemic stroke and aggravation of secondary damage after stroke is needed. Our current mechanistic understanding of cerebral ischemia states that endothelial quiescence in neurovascular units (NVUs) is a major physiological parameter affecting the cellular response to neuron, astrocyte and vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) injury. Although a hallmark of the response to injury in these cells is transcriptional activation, noncoding RNAs such as microRNAs exhibit cell-type and context dependent regulation of gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. This review assesses whether sex-specific microRNA expression (either derived from X-chromosome loci following incomplete X-chromosome inactivation or regulated by estrogen in their biogenesis) in these cells controls NVU quiescence, and as such, could differentiate stroke pathophysiology in women compared to men. Their adverse expression was found to decrease tight junction affinity in endothelial cells and activate VSMC proliferation, while their regulation of paracrine astrocyte signaling was shown to neutralize sex-specific apoptotic pathways in neurons. As such, these microRNAs have cell type-specific functions in astrocytes and vascular cells which act on one another, thereby affecting the cell viability of neurons. Furthermore, these microRNAs display actual and potential clinical implications as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in ischemic stroke and in predicting therapeutic response to antiplatelet therapy. In conclusion, this review improves the current mechanistic understanding of the molecular mechanisms leading to ischemic stroke in women and highlights the clinical promise of sex-specific microRNAs as novel diagnostic biomarkers for (silent) ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barend W. Florijn
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZR Leiden, The Netherlands; (N.D.K.); (M.J.H.W.)
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.B.); (A.J.v.Z.)
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.B.); (A.J.v.Z.)
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Nyika D. Kruyt
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZR Leiden, The Netherlands; (N.D.K.); (M.J.H.W.)
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.B.); (A.J.v.Z.)
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke J. H. Wermer
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZR Leiden, The Netherlands; (N.D.K.); (M.J.H.W.)
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14
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Florijn BW, Duijs JMGJ, Klaver M, Kuipers EN, Kooijman S, Prins J, Zhang H, Sips HCM, Stam W, Hanegraaf M, Limpens RWAL, Nieuwland R, van Rijn BB, Rabelink TJ, Rensen PCN, den Heijer M, Bijkerk R, van Zonneveld AJ. Estradiol-driven metabolism in transwomen associates with reduced circulating extracellular vesicle microRNA-224/452. Eur J Endocrinol 2021; 185:539-552. [PMID: 34342596 PMCID: PMC8436186 DOI: 10.1530/eje-21-0267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sex steroid hormones like estrogens have a key role in the regulation of energy homeostasis and metabolism. In transwomen, gender-affirming hormone therapy like estradiol (in combination with antiandrogenic compounds) could affect metabolism as well. Given that the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are not fully understood, this study assessed circulating estradiol-driven microRNAs (miRs) in transwomen and their regulation of genes involved in metabolism in mice. METHODS Following plasma miR-sequencing (seq) in a transwomen discovery (n = 20) and validation cohort (n = 30), we identified miR-224 and miR-452. Subsequent systemic silencing of these miRs in male C57Bl/6 J mice (n = 10) was followed by RNA-seq-based gene expression analysis of brown and white adipose tissue in conjunction with mechanistic studies in cultured adipocytes. RESULTS Estradiol in transwomen lowered plasma miR-224 and -452 carried in extracellular vesicles (EVs) while their systemic silencing in mice and cultured adipocytes increased lipogenesis (white adipose) but reduced glucose uptake and mitochondrial respiration (brown adipose). In white and brown adipose tissue, differentially expressed (miR target) genes are associated with lipogenesis (white adipose) and mitochondrial respiration and glucose uptake (brown adipose). CONCLUSION This study identified an estradiol-drive post-transcriptional network that could potentially offer a mechanistic understanding of metabolism following gender-affirming estradiol therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barend W Florijn
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Correspondence should be addressed to B W Florijn;
| | - Jacques M G J Duijs
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maartje Klaver
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eline N Kuipers
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine (Endocrinology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sander Kooijman
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine (Endocrinology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jurrien Prins
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Huayu Zhang
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Hetty C M Sips
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine (Endocrinology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Wendy Stam
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maaike Hanegraaf
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ronald W A L Limpens
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology (Section Electron Microscopy), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Rienk Nieuwland
- Laboratory of Experimental Clinical Chemistry, Department of Clinical Chemistry and Vesicle Observation Center, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bas B van Rijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ton J Rabelink
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Patrick C N Rensen
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine (Endocrinology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Martin den Heijer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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15
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Apelt K, Bijkerk R, Lebrin F, Rabelink TJ. Imaging the Renal Microcirculation in Cell Therapy. Cells 2021; 10:cells10051087. [PMID: 34063200 PMCID: PMC8147454 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal microvascular rarefaction plays a pivotal role in progressive kidney disease. Therefore, modalities to visualize the microcirculation of the kidney will increase our understanding of disease mechanisms and consequently may provide new approaches for evaluating cell-based therapy. At the moment, however, clinical practice is lacking non-invasive, safe, and efficient imaging modalities to monitor renal microvascular changes over time in patients suffering from renal disease. To emphasize the importance, we summarize current knowledge of the renal microcirculation and discussed the involvement in progressive kidney disease. Moreover, an overview of available imaging techniques to uncover renal microvascular morphology, function, and behavior is presented with the associated benefits and limitations. Ultimately, the necessity to assess and investigate renal disease based on in vivo readouts with a resolution up to capillary level may provide a paradigm shift for diagnosis and therapy in the field of nephrology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Apelt
- Department of Internal Medicine-Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (K.A.); (R.B.); (F.L.)
- Einthoven Laboratory of Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine-Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (K.A.); (R.B.); (F.L.)
- Einthoven Laboratory of Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Franck Lebrin
- Department of Internal Medicine-Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (K.A.); (R.B.); (F.L.)
- Einthoven Laboratory of Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Physics for Medicine Paris, Inserm, CNRS, ESPCI Paris, Paris Sciences et Lettres University, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Ton J. Rabelink
- Department of Internal Medicine-Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (K.A.); (R.B.); (F.L.)
- Einthoven Laboratory of Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Correspondence:
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16
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Bijkerk R, Kallenberg MH, Zijlstra LE, van den Berg BM, de Bresser J, Hammer S, Bron EE, Achterberg H, van Buchem MA, Berkhout-Byrne NC, Bos WJW, van Heemst D, Rabelink TJ, van Zonneveld AJ, van Buren M, Mooijaart S. Circulating angiopoietin-2 and angiogenic microRNAs associate with cerebral small vessel disease and cognitive decline in older patients reaching end stage renal disease. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2020; 37:498-506. [PMID: 33355649 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfaa370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is increasing worldwide, with the majority of new ESRD cases diagnosed in patients aged >60 years. These older patients are at increased risk for impaired cognitive functioning, potentially through cerebral small vessel disease (SVD). Novel markers of vascular integrity may be of clinical value for identifying patients at high risk for cognitive impairment. METHODS We aimed to associate the levels of Angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), and a selection of eight circulating angiogenic miRNAs with SVD and cognitive impairment in older patients reaching ESRD that did not initiate renal replacement therapy yet (n = 129; mean age 75.3 years; mean eGFR 16.4 mL/min). We assessed brain MRI changes of SVD (white matter hyperintensity volume, microbleeds and presence of lacunes) and measures of cognition in domains of memory, psychomotor speed and executive function, comprised in a neuropsychological test battery. RESULTS Older patients reaching ESRD showed an unfavorable angiogenic profile, as indicated by aberrant levels of Ang-2 and five angiogenic miRNAs (miR-27a, miR-126, miR-132, miR-223, miR-326), compared to healthy persons and patients with diabetic nephropathy. Moreover, Ang-2 associated with SVD and with the domains of psychomotor speed and executive function, while miR-223 and miR-29a associated with memory function. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these novel angiogenic markers might serve to identify older patients with ESRD at risk of cognitive decline, as well as give insight into the underlying (vascular) pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology).,Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine
| | - Marije H Kallenberg
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology).,Department of Internal Medicine (Gerontology and Geriatrics)
| | - Laurien E Zijlstra
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Bernard M van den Berg
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology).,Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine
| | - Jeroen de Bresser
- Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Esther E Bron
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hakim Achterberg
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mark A van Buchem
- Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Willem Jan W Bos
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology).,Department of Internal Medicine, St Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ton J Rabelink
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology).,Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology).,Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine
| | - Marjolijn van Buren
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology).,Department of Nephrology, HAGA Hospital, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Simon Mooijaart
- Department of Internal Medicine (Gerontology and Geriatrics).,Institute of Evidence-Based Medicine in Old Age, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Groeneweg KE, Au YW, Duijs JMGJ, Florijn BW, van Kooten C, de Fijter JW, Reinders MEJ, van Zonneveld AJ, Bijkerk R. Diabetic nephropathy alters circulating long noncoding RNA levels that normalize following simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation. Am J Transplant 2020; 20:3451-3461. [PMID: 32353171 PMCID: PMC7754299 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.15961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation (SPKT) replaces kidney function and restores endogenous insulin secretion in patients with diabetic nephropathy (DN). Here, we aimed to identify circulating long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) that are associated with DN and vascular injury in the context of SPKT. Based on a pilot study and a literature-based selection of vascular injury-related lncRNAs, we assessed 9 candidate lncRNAs in plasma samples of patients with diabetes mellitus with a kidney function >35 mL/min/1.73 m2 (DM; n = 12), DN (n = 14), SPKT (n = 35), healthy controls (n = 15), and renal transplant recipients (KTx; n = 13). DN patients were also studied longitudinally before and 1, 6, and 12 months after SPKT. Of 9 selected lncRNAs, we found MALAT1, LIPCAR, and LNC-EPHA6 to be higher in DN compared with healthy controls. SPKT caused MALAT1, LIPCAR, and LNC-EPHA6 to normalize to levels of healthy controls, which was confirmed in the longitudinal study. In addition, we observed a strong association between MALAT1, LNC-EPHA6, and LIPCAR and vascular injury marker soluble thrombomodulin and a subset of angiogenic microRNAs (miR-27a, miR-130b, miR-152, and miR-340). We conclude that specific circulating lncRNAs associate with DN-related vascular injury and normalize after SPKT, suggesting that lncRNAs may provide a promising novel monitoring strategy for vascular integrity in the context of SPKT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koen E. Groeneweg
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology)Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Yu Wah Au
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology)Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Jacques M. G. J. Duijs
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology)Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Barend W. Florijn
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology)Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Cees van Kooten
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology)Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Johan W. de Fijter
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology)Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Marlies E. J. Reinders
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology)Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology)Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology)Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative MedicineLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
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18
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Florijn BW, Valstar GB, Duijs JMGJ, Menken R, Cramer MJ, Teske AJ, Ghossein-Doha C, Rutten FH, Spaanderman MEA, den Ruijter HM, Bijkerk R, van Zonneveld AJ. Sex-specific microRNAs in women with diabetes and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction or HFpEF associate with microvascular injury. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13945. [PMID: 32811874 PMCID: PMC7435264 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70848-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) are microcirculation defects following diabetes mellitus (DM). Unrecognized HFpEF is more prevalent in women with diabetes compared to men with diabetes and therefore sex-specific diagnostic strategies are needed. Previously, we demonstrated altered plasma miRs in DM patients with microvascular injury [defined by elevated plasma Angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) levels]. This study hypothesized the presence of sex-differences in plasma miRs and Ang-2 in diabetic (female) patients with LVDD or HFpEF. After a pilot study, we assessed 16 plasma miRs in patients with LVDD (n = 122), controls (n = 244) and female diabetic patients (n = 10). Subsequently, among these miRs we selected and measured plasma miR-34a, -224 and -452 in diabetic HFpEF patients (n = 53) and controls (n = 52). In LVDD patients, miR-34a associated with Ang-2 levels (R2 0.04, R = 0.21, p = 0.001, 95% CI 0.103–0.312), with plasma levels being diminished in patients with DM, while women with an eGFR < 60 ml/min and LVDD had lower levels of miR-34a, -224 and -452 compared to women without an eGFR < 60 ml/min without LVDD. In diabetic HFpEF women (n = 28), plasma Ang-2 levels and the X-chromosome located miR-224/452 cluster increased compared to men. We conclude that plasma miR-34a, -224 and -452 display an association with the microvascular injury marker Ang-2 and are particularly targeted to women with LVDD or HFpEF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barend W Florijn
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands. .,Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Gideon B Valstar
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jacques M G J Duijs
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Roxana Menken
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten J Cramer
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Arco J Teske
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Chahinda Ghossein-Doha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research School GROW, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Frans H Rutten
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marc E A Spaanderman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research School GROW, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Hester M den Ruijter
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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19
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Florijn BW, Duijs JMGJ, Levels JH, Dallinga-Thie GM, Wang Y, Boing AN, Yuana Y, Stam W, Limpens RWAL, Au YW, Nieuwland R, Rabelink TJ, Reinders MEJ, Jan van Zonneveld A, Bijkerk R. Erratum. Diabetic Nephropathy Alters the Distribution of Circulating Angiogenic MicroRNAs Among Extracellular Vesicles, HDL, and Ago-2. Diabetes 2019;68:2287-2300. Diabetes 2020; 69:1855. [PMID: 32522718 DOI: 10.2337/db20-er08b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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20
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Bijkerk R, van Zonneveld AJ, van der Veer EP. [RNAissance: is there a future for RNA therapeutics?]. Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd 2020; 164:D4472. [PMID: 32613788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The central dogma in molecular biology states that genetic information is transmitted from DNA to RNA to proteins, but not the other way round. Thanks to a recent technological revolution - the 'RNAissance' - it has, however, become clear that RNA is not solely a messenger for passing on the genetic information necessary for protein synthesis, but that RNA also plays an important role in sickness and health. In the past 5 years alone more than 100 therapies with (complementary) RNA molecules have been investigated in Phase 1 trials, and a quarter of these have also been investigated in Phase 2 or 3 trials. The dramatic increase in the number of pharmaceutical companies that are developing RNA therapeutics illustrates the enormous potential of these medicines. Once the toxicity and the costs of RNA therapeutics can be limited, these medicines - personalized or not - could soon be prescribed for patients with a wide range of chronic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Bijkerk
- LUMC, afd. Interne Geneeskunde, Leiden (tevens: EinthovenLaboratoryforVascularandRegenerativeMedicine)
- Contact: R. Bijkerk
| | - A J van Zonneveld
- LUMC, afd. Interne Geneeskunde, Leiden(tevens: EinthovenLaboratoryforVascularandRegenerativeMedicine)
| | - E P van der Veer
- LUMC, afd. Interne Geneeskunde, Leiden(tevens: EinthovenLaboratoryforVascularandRegenerativeMedicine)
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21
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de Bruin RG, Vogel G, Prins J, Duijs JMJG, Bijkerk R, van der Zande HJP, van Gils JM, de Boer HC, Rabelink TJ, van Zonneveld AJ, van der Veer EP, Richard S. Targeting the RNA-Binding Protein QKI in Myeloid Cells Ameliorates Macrophage-Induced Renal Interstitial Fibrosis. Epigenomes 2020; 4:epigenomes4010002. [PMID: 34968236 PMCID: PMC8594696 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes4010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In the pathophysiologic setting of acute and chronic kidney injury, the excessive activation and recruitment of blood-borne monocytes prompts their differentiation into inflammatory macrophages, a process that leads to progressive glomerulosclerosis and interstitial fibrosis. Importantly, this differentiation of monocytes into macrophages requires the meticulous coordination of gene expression at both the transcriptional and post-transcriptional level. The transcriptomes of these cells are ultimately determined by RNA-binding proteins such as QUAKING (QKI), that define their pre-mRNA splicing and mRNA transcript patterns. Using two mouse models, namely (1) quaking viable mice (qkv) and (2) the conditional deletion in the myeloid cell lineage using the lysozyme 2-Cre (QKIFL/FL;LysM-Cre mice), we demonstrate that the abrogation of QKI expression in the myeloid cell lineage reduces macrophage infiltration following kidney injury induced by unilateral urethral obstruction (UUO). The qkv and QKIFL/FL;LysM-Cre mice both showed significant diminished interstitial collagen deposition and fibrosis in the UUO-damaged kidney, as compared to wild-type littermates. We show that macrophages isolated from QKIFL/FL;LysM-Cre mice are associated with defects in pre-mRNA splicing. Our findings demonstrate that reduced expression of the alternative splice regulator QKI in the cells of myeloid lineage attenuates renal interstitial fibrosis, suggesting that inhibition of this splice regulator may be of therapeutic value for certain kidney diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben G. de Bruin
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, C7-36, PO Box 9600, 2300RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.G.d.B.); (J.P.); (J.M.J.G.D.); (R.B.); (H.J.P.v.d.Z.); (J.M.v.G.); (H.C.d.B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.)
- Segal Cancer Center, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research and Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology and Departments of Biochemistry, Human Genetics and Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada;
| | - Gillian Vogel
- Segal Cancer Center, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research and Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology and Departments of Biochemistry, Human Genetics and Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada;
| | - Jurrien Prins
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, C7-36, PO Box 9600, 2300RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.G.d.B.); (J.P.); (J.M.J.G.D.); (R.B.); (H.J.P.v.d.Z.); (J.M.v.G.); (H.C.d.B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.)
| | - Jacques M. J. G. Duijs
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, C7-36, PO Box 9600, 2300RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.G.d.B.); (J.P.); (J.M.J.G.D.); (R.B.); (H.J.P.v.d.Z.); (J.M.v.G.); (H.C.d.B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.)
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, C7-36, PO Box 9600, 2300RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.G.d.B.); (J.P.); (J.M.J.G.D.); (R.B.); (H.J.P.v.d.Z.); (J.M.v.G.); (H.C.d.B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.)
| | - Hendrik J. P. van der Zande
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, C7-36, PO Box 9600, 2300RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.G.d.B.); (J.P.); (J.M.J.G.D.); (R.B.); (H.J.P.v.d.Z.); (J.M.v.G.); (H.C.d.B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.)
| | - Janine M. van Gils
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, C7-36, PO Box 9600, 2300RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.G.d.B.); (J.P.); (J.M.J.G.D.); (R.B.); (H.J.P.v.d.Z.); (J.M.v.G.); (H.C.d.B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.)
| | - Hetty C. de Boer
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, C7-36, PO Box 9600, 2300RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.G.d.B.); (J.P.); (J.M.J.G.D.); (R.B.); (H.J.P.v.d.Z.); (J.M.v.G.); (H.C.d.B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.)
| | - Ton J. Rabelink
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, C7-36, PO Box 9600, 2300RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.G.d.B.); (J.P.); (J.M.J.G.D.); (R.B.); (H.J.P.v.d.Z.); (J.M.v.G.); (H.C.d.B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.)
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, C7-36, PO Box 9600, 2300RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.G.d.B.); (J.P.); (J.M.J.G.D.); (R.B.); (H.J.P.v.d.Z.); (J.M.v.G.); (H.C.d.B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.)
| | - Eric P. van der Veer
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, C7-36, PO Box 9600, 2300RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.G.d.B.); (J.P.); (J.M.J.G.D.); (R.B.); (H.J.P.v.d.Z.); (J.M.v.G.); (H.C.d.B.); (T.J.R.); (A.J.v.Z.)
- Correspondence: (E.P.v.d.V.); (S.R.)
| | - Stéphane Richard
- Segal Cancer Center, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research and Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology and Departments of Biochemistry, Human Genetics and Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada;
- Correspondence: (E.P.v.d.V.); (S.R.)
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22
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Florijn BW, Duijs JMGJ, Levels JH, Dallinga-Thie GM, Wang Y, Boing AN, Yuana Y, Stam W, Limpens RWAL, Au YW, Nieuwland R, Rabelink TJ, Reinders MEJ, van Zonneveld AJ, Bijkerk R. Diabetic Nephropathy Alters the Distribution of Circulating Angiogenic MicroRNAs Among Extracellular Vesicles, HDL, and Ago-2. Diabetes 2019; 68:2287-2300. [PMID: 31506344 DOI: 10.2337/db18-1360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Previously, we identified plasma microRNA (miR) profiles that associate with markers of microvascular injury in patients with diabetic nephropathy (DN). However, miRs circulate in extracellular vesicles (EVs) or in association with HDL or the RNA-binding protein argonaute-2 (Ago-2). Given that the EV- and HDL-mediated miR transfer toward endothelial cells (ECs) regulates cellular quiescence and inflammation, we hypothesized that the distribution of miRs among carriers affects microvascular homeostasis in DN. Therefore, we determined the miR expression in EV, HDL, and Ago-2 fractions isolated from EDTA plasma of healthy control subjects, patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) with or without early DN (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] >30 mL/min/1.73 m2), and patients with DN (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2). Consistent with our hypothesis, we observed alterations in miR carrier distribution in plasma of patients with DM and DN compared with healthy control subjects. Both miR-21 and miR-126 increased in EVs of patients with DN, whereas miR-660 increased in the Ago-2 fraction and miR-132 decreased in the HDL fraction. Moreover, in vitro, differentially expressed miRs improved EC barrier formation (EV-miR-21) and rescued the angiogenic potential (HDL-miR-132) of ECs cultured in serum from patients with DM and DN. In conclusion, miR measurement in EVs, HDL, and Ago-2 may improve the biomarker sensitivity of these miRs for microvascular injury in DN, while carrier-specific miRs can improve endothelial barrier formation (EV-miR-21/126) or exert a proangiogenic response (HDL-miR-132).
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Affiliation(s)
- Barend W Florijn
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jacques M G J Duijs
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes H Levels
- Department of Vascular Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Geesje M Dallinga-Thie
- Department of Vascular Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yanan Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine (Endocrinology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Anita N Boing
- Laboratory of Experimental Clinical Chemistry, Department of Clinical Chemistry, and Vesicle Observation Center, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yuana Yuana
- Laboratory of Experimental Clinical Chemistry, Department of Clinical Chemistry, and Vesicle Observation Center, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Wendy Stam
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ronald W A L Limpens
- Section Electron Microscopy, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Yu Wah Au
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rienk Nieuwland
- Laboratory of Experimental Clinical Chemistry, Department of Clinical Chemistry, and Vesicle Observation Center, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ton J Rabelink
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marlies E J Reinders
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Dudink E, Florijn B, Weijs B, Duijs J, Luermans J, Peeters F, Schurgers L, Wildberger J, Schotten U, Bijkerk R, Crijns HJ, van Zonneveld AJ. Vascular Calcification and not Arrhythmia in Idiopathic Atrial Fibrillation Associates with Sex Differences in Diabetic Microvascular Injury miRNA Profiles. Microrna 2019; 8:127-134. [PMID: 30465521 DOI: 10.2174/2211536608666181122125208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial Fibrillation (AF) in patients without concomitant cardiovascular pathophysiological disease, is called idiopathic Atrial Fibrillation (iAF). Nonetheless, iAF patients have often times subclinical coronary (micro) vascular dysfunction and, particularly in women, a higher prevalence of subsequent cardiovascular comorbidities. Previously, we identified a plasma miRNA association with diabetes and microvascular injury in Diabetic Nephropathy (DN) patients. Therefore, in this study we assessed whether plasma levels of these diabetic, microvascular injury associated miRNAs reflect microvascular integrity in iAF patients, associated with the presence of paroxysmal arrhythmia or instead are determined by concealed coronary artery disease. METHODS Circulating levels of a pre-selected set of diabetic, (micro) vascular injury associated miRNAs, were measured in 59 iAF patients compared to 176 Sinus Rhythm (SR) controls. Furthermore, the presence of coronary artery and aortic calcification in each patient was assessed using Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA). RESULTS Paroxysmal arrhythmia in iAF patients did not result in significant miRNA expression profile differences in iAF patients compared to SR controls. Nonetheless, coronary artery calcification (CAC) was associated with higher levels of miRNAs-103, -125a-5p, -221 and -223 in men. In women, CAC was associated with higher plasma levels of miRNA-27a and miRNA-126 and correlated with Agatston scores. Within the total population, ascending Aortic Calcification (AsAC) patients displayed increased plasma levels of miRNA-221, while women, in particular, demonstrated a Descending Aorta Calcification (DAC) associated increase in miRNA-212 levels. CONCLUSIONS Diabetic microvascular injury associated miRNAs in iAF are associated with subclinical coronary artery disease in a sex-specific way and confirm the notion that biological sex identifies iAF subgroups that may require dedicated clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elton Dudink
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Barend Florijn
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center and Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Bob Weijs
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Jacques Duijs
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center and Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Justin Luermans
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Frederique Peeters
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Leon Schurgers
- Department of Biochemistry,Maastricht University and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Joachim Wildberger
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center and Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Harry J Crijns
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center and Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, Netherlands
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Bijkerk R, Au YW, Stam W, Duijs JMGJ, Koudijs A, Lievers E, Rabelink TJ, van Zonneveld AJ. Long Non-coding RNAs Rian and Miat Mediate Myofibroblast Formation in Kidney Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:215. [PMID: 30914951 PMCID: PMC6421975 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [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: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an increasing prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD), which associates with the development of interstitial fibrosis. Pericytes (perivascular fibroblasts) provide a major source of α-SMA-positive myofibroblasts that are responsible for the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix. In order to identify pericyte long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) that could serve as a target to decrease myofibroblast formation and counteract the progression of kidney fibrosis we employed two models of experimental kidney injury, one focused on kidney fibrosis (unilateral ureteral obstruction; UUO), and one focused on acute kidney injury that yields kidney fibrosis in the longer term (unilateral ischemia-reperfusion injury; IRI). This was performed in FoxD1-GC;tdTomato stromal cell reporter mice that allowed pericyte fate tracing. Tomato red-positive FoxD1-derivative cells of control and injured kidneys were FACS-sorted and used for lncRNA and mRNA profiling yielding a distinctive transcriptional signature of pericytes and myofibroblasts with 244 and 586 differentially expressed lncRNAs (>twofold, P < 0.05), in the UUO and IRI models, respectively. Next, we selected two differentially expressed and conserved lncRNAs, Rian (RNA imprinted and accumulated in nucleus) and Miat (Myocardial infarction associated transcript), and explored their potential regulatory role in myofibroblast formation through knockdown of their function with gapmers. While Miat was upregulated in myofibroblasts of UUO and IRI in mice, gapmer silencing of Miat attenuated myofibroblast formation as evidenced by decreased expression of α-SMA, col1α1, SMAD2, and SMAD3, as well as decreased α-SMA and pro-collagen-1α1 protein levels. In contrast, silencing Rian, which was found to be downregulated in kidney myofibroblast after IRI and UUO, resulted in increased myofibroblast formation. In addition, we found microRNAs that were previously linked to Miat (miR-150) and Rian (14q32 miRNA cluster), to be dysregulated in the FoxD1-derivative cells, suggesting a possible interaction between miRNAs and these lncRNAs in myofibroblast formation. Taken together, lncRNAs play a regulatory role in myofibroblast formation, possibly through interacting with miRNA regulation, implicating that understanding their biology and their modulation may have the potential to counteract the development of renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Yu Wah Au
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Wendy Stam
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jacques M G J Duijs
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Angela Koudijs
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Ellen Lievers
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Ton J Rabelink
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
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Bijkerk R, Esguerra JLS, Ellenbroek JH, Au YW, Hanegraaf MAJ, de Koning EJ, Eliasson L, van Zonneveld AJ. In Vivo Silencing of MicroRNA-132 Reduces Blood Glucose and Improves Insulin Secretion. Nucleic Acid Ther 2019; 29:67-72. [PMID: 30672723 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2018.0763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysfunctional insulin secretion is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Interestingly, several islet microRNAs (miRNAs) are upregulated in T2D, including miR-132. We aimed to investigate whether in vivo treatment with antagomir-132 lowers expression of miR-132 in islets thereby improving insulin secretion and lowering blood glucose. Mice injected with antagomir-132 for 24 h, had reduced expression of miR-132 expression in islets, decreased blood glucose, and increased insulin secretion. In isolated human islets treated with antagomir-132, insulin secretion from four of six donors increased. Target prediction coupled with analysis of miRNA-messenger RNA expression in human islets revealed DESI2, ARIH1, SLC25A28, DIAPH1, and FOXA1 to be targets of miR-132 that are conserved in both species. Increased expression of these targets was validated in mouse islets after antagomir-132 treatment. In conclusion, we identified a post-transcriptional role for miR-132 in insulin secretion, and demonstrated that systemic antagomir-132 treatment in mice can be used to improve insulin secretion and reduce blood glucose in vivo. Our study is a first step towards utilizing antagomirs as therapeutic agents to modulate islet miRNA levels to improve beta cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roel Bijkerk
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.,2 Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Jonathan L S Esguerra
- 3 Unit of Islet Cell Exocytosis, Lund University Diabetes Centre, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden.,4 Clinical Research Centre, SUS Malmö, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Johanne H Ellenbroek
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Yu Wah Au
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Maaike A J Hanegraaf
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Eelco J de Koning
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Lena Eliasson
- 3 Unit of Islet Cell Exocytosis, Lund University Diabetes Centre, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden.,4 Clinical Research Centre, SUS Malmö, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.,2 Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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26
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Bijkerk R, Trimpert C, van Solingen C, de Bruin RG, Florijn BW, Kooijman S, van den Berg R, van der Veer EP, Bredewold EOW, Rensen PCN, Rabelink TJ, Humphreys BD, Deen PMT, van Zonneveld AJ. MicroRNA-132 controls water homeostasis through regulating MECP2-mediated vasopressin synthesis. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2018; 315:F1129-F1138. [DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00087.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Fine-tuning of the body’s water balance is regulated by vasopressin (AVP), which induces the expression and apical membrane insertion of aquaporin-2 water channels and subsequent water reabsorption in the kidney. Here we demonstrate that silencing of microRNA-132 (miR-132) in mice causes severe weight loss due to acute diuresis coinciding with increased plasma osmolality, reduced renal total and plasma membrane expression of aquaporin-2, and abrogated increase in AVP levels. Infusion with synthetic AVP fully reversed the antagomir-132-induced diuresis, and low-dose intracerebroventricular administration of antagomir-132 similarly caused acute diuresis. Central and intracerebroventricular antagomir-132 injection both decreased hypothalamic AVP mRNA levels. At the molecular level, antagomir-132 increased the in vivo and in vitro mRNA expression of methyl-CpG-binding protein-2 (MECP2), which is a miR-132 target and which blocks AVP gene expression by binding its enhancer region. In line with this, treatment of hypothalamic N6 cells with a high-salt solution increased its miR-132 levels, whereas it attenuated endogenous Mecp2 mRNA levels. In conclusion, we identified miR-132 as a first miRNA regulating the osmotic balance by regulating the hypothalamic AVP gene mRNA expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Christiane Trimpert
- Department of Physiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Coen van Solingen
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Marc and Ruti Bell Vascular Biology and Disease Program, Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, New York University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Ruben G. de Bruin
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Barend W. Florijn
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sander Kooijman
- Department of Internal Medicine (Endocrinology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Rosa van den Berg
- Department of Internal Medicine (Endocrinology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Eric P. van der Veer
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Edwin O. W. Bredewold
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Patrick C. N. Rensen
- Department of Internal Medicine (Endocrinology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ton J. Rabelink
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Benjamin D. Humphreys
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Renal Division, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Peter M. T. Deen
- Department of Physiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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27
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van Solingen C, Sharma M, Bijkerk R, Afonso MS, Koelwyn GJ, Scacalossi KR, van Zonneveld AJ, Moore KJ. Abstract 027: A Micropeptide Concealed in a Putative Long Non-coding RNA Directs Inflammation. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2018. [DOI: 10.1161/atvb.38.suppl_1.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), once considered ‘genomic junk’, have been found to regulate diverse biological processes and their study continues to reveal novel insights into lncRNA functions. Recent studies revealed that some lncRNAs may harbor small open reading frames (ORFs) that code for functional micropeptides. While investigating an unannotated primate-specific lncRNA, lncVLDLR, that is altered in patients with type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease, we discovered a previously unrecognized ORF encoding a 44 amino acid micropeptide.
In vitro
transcription and translation of the IMP coding sequence in the presence of
35
S-methionine produced a single 8 kDa peptide, which we have named Inflammation-modulating MicroPeptide (IMP). To dissect IMP function, we focused on its amino acid sequence and putative structure. These analyses revealed high sequence homology between IMP and transcription factors such as NFκB, c-myb and zinc finger proteins, and the presence of a hydrophobic region with an LxxLL motif often found in transcriptional regulators. Circular dichroism spectroscopy of synthesized IMP predicted an intrinsically disordered peptide, which is a common characteristic of transcriptional coactivators. To investigate a potential role of IMP in regulating gene transcription, we cloned a MYC-epitope tag in-frame with IMP within the full-length transcript of lncVLDLR and expressed it in HEK293 cells. Immunofluorescence staining, and cell fractionation combined with western blotting, confirmed nuclear localization of IMP. RNA-seq analysis of THP1 macrophages overexpressing IMP revealed an increase in inflammatory genes, including cytokines and chemokines. Moreover, analysis of upstream regulators of these genes suggests that IMP may interact with KIX domain-containing transcriptional coactivators to regulate inflammatory gene expression. Together our data identify a novel human micropeptide, encoded within a putative lncRNA that is dysregulated in diabetes and cardiovascular disease, that regulates inflammatory gene transcription. Further characterization of IMP and its regulatory network may uncover novel opportunities for therapeutic intervention in cardiovascular and other inflammatory diseases.
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28
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Pelzer N, Bijkerk R, Reinders ME, van Zonneveld AJ, Ferrari MD, van den Maagdenberg AM, Eikenboom J, Terwindt GM. Circulating Endothelial Markers in Retinal Vasculopathy With Cerebral Leukoencephalopathy and Systemic Manifestations. Stroke 2017; 48:3301-3307. [DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.117.018556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Pelzer
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P., M.D.F., A.M.J.M.v.d.M., G.M.T.), Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) (R.B., M.E.J.R., A.J.v.Z.), Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine (R.B., A.J.v.Z., J.E.), Department of Human Genetics (A.M.J.M.v.d.M.), and Department of Internal Medicine, Section Thrombosis and Hemostasis (J.E.), Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P., M.D.F., A.M.J.M.v.d.M., G.M.T.), Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) (R.B., M.E.J.R., A.J.v.Z.), Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine (R.B., A.J.v.Z., J.E.), Department of Human Genetics (A.M.J.M.v.d.M.), and Department of Internal Medicine, Section Thrombosis and Hemostasis (J.E.), Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands
| | - Marlies E.J. Reinders
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P., M.D.F., A.M.J.M.v.d.M., G.M.T.), Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) (R.B., M.E.J.R., A.J.v.Z.), Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine (R.B., A.J.v.Z., J.E.), Department of Human Genetics (A.M.J.M.v.d.M.), and Department of Internal Medicine, Section Thrombosis and Hemostasis (J.E.), Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P., M.D.F., A.M.J.M.v.d.M., G.M.T.), Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) (R.B., M.E.J.R., A.J.v.Z.), Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine (R.B., A.J.v.Z., J.E.), Department of Human Genetics (A.M.J.M.v.d.M.), and Department of Internal Medicine, Section Thrombosis and Hemostasis (J.E.), Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands
| | - Michel D. Ferrari
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P., M.D.F., A.M.J.M.v.d.M., G.M.T.), Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) (R.B., M.E.J.R., A.J.v.Z.), Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine (R.B., A.J.v.Z., J.E.), Department of Human Genetics (A.M.J.M.v.d.M.), and Department of Internal Medicine, Section Thrombosis and Hemostasis (J.E.), Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands
| | - Arn M.J.M. van den Maagdenberg
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P., M.D.F., A.M.J.M.v.d.M., G.M.T.), Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) (R.B., M.E.J.R., A.J.v.Z.), Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine (R.B., A.J.v.Z., J.E.), Department of Human Genetics (A.M.J.M.v.d.M.), and Department of Internal Medicine, Section Thrombosis and Hemostasis (J.E.), Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Eikenboom
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P., M.D.F., A.M.J.M.v.d.M., G.M.T.), Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) (R.B., M.E.J.R., A.J.v.Z.), Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine (R.B., A.J.v.Z., J.E.), Department of Human Genetics (A.M.J.M.v.d.M.), and Department of Internal Medicine, Section Thrombosis and Hemostasis (J.E.), Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands
| | - Gisela M. Terwindt
- From the Department of Neurology (N.P., M.D.F., A.M.J.M.v.d.M., G.M.T.), Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) (R.B., M.E.J.R., A.J.v.Z.), Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine (R.B., A.J.v.Z., J.E.), Department of Human Genetics (A.M.J.M.v.d.M.), and Department of Internal Medicine, Section Thrombosis and Hemostasis (J.E.), Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands
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Florijn BW, Bijkerk R, van der Veer EP, van Zonneveld AJ. Gender and cardiovascular disease: are sex-biased microRNA networks a driving force behind heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in women? Cardiovasc Res 2017; 114:210-225. [DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvx223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [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] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractCardiovascular disease (CVD) is the primary cause of death among men and women worldwide. Nevertheless, our comprehension of how CVD progresses in women and elicits clinical outcomes is lacking, leading CVD to be under-diagnosed and under-treated in women. A clear example of this differential presentation of CVD pathophysiologies in females is the strikingly higher prevalence of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Women with a history of pre-eclampsia or those who present with co-morbidities such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus are at increased risk of developing HFpEF. Long understood to be a critical CVD risk factor, our understanding of how gender differentially affects the development of CVD has been greatly expanded by extensive genomic and transcriptomic studies. These studies uncovered a pivotal role for differential microRNA (miRNA) expression in response to systemic inflammation, where their co-ordinated expression forms a post-transcriptional regulatory network that instigates microcirculation defects. Importantly, the potential sex-biased expression of the given miRNAs may explain sex-specific cardiovascular pathophysiologies in women, such as HFpEF. Sex-biased miRNAs are regulated by oestrogen (E2) in their transcription and processing or are expressed from loci on the X-chromosome due to incomplete X-chromosome inactivation. Interestingly, while E2-induced miRNAs predominantly appear to serve protective functions, it could be argued that many X-linked miRNAs have been found to challenge microvascular and myocardial integrity. Therefore, menopausal E2 deficiency, resulting in protective miRNA loss, and the augmentation of X-linked miRNA expression, may well contribute to the molecular mechanisms that underlie the female-specific cardiovascular aetiology in HFpEF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barend W Florijn
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Eric P van der Veer
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology), Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
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30
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Rothuizen TC, Kemp R, Duijs JM, de Boer HC, Bijkerk R, van der Veer EP, Moroni L, van Zonneveld AJ, Weiss AS, Rabelink TJ, Rotmans JI. Promoting Tropoelastin Expression in Arterial and Venous Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Fibroblasts for Vascular Tissue Engineering. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2016; 22:923-931. [DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2016.0173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tonia C. Rothuizen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Raymond Kemp
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jacques M.G.J. Duijs
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Hetty C. de Boer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Eric P. van der Veer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Lorenzo Moroni
- MERLN Institute for Technology Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Complex Tissue Regeneration, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Anthony S. Weiss
- School of Molecular Bioscience, Charles Perkins Centre, Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ton J. Rabelink
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Joris I. Rotmans
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Nephrology and Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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van Solingen C, Bijkerk R, de Boer HC, Rabelink TJ, van Zonneveld AJ. The Role of microRNA-126 in Vascular Homeostasis. Curr Vasc Pharmacol 2016; 13:341-51. [PMID: 23713864 DOI: 10.2174/15701611113119990017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2013] [Revised: 02/05/2013] [Accepted: 02/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs are negative regulators of gene expression that have been shown to be essential elements in the coordination of complex regulatory pathways. One of these short non-coding RNAs, microRNA-126, is highly enriched in the vascular endothelium and was shown to play distinct roles in angiogenesis, vasculogenesis and endothelial inflammation. Abrogation of this microRNA leads to severe complications in the response in vascular development as well as vital repair mechanisms carried out by endothelial cells. Interestingly, recent data suggest that the homeostatic role of microRNA-126 may reach far beyond its endothelial functions as this microRNA was also found to be present in cells of the hematopoietic system and in microvesicles or 'free-form' in the periphery. MicroRNA-126 is controlling the fate and/or function of a variety of cells differentiating from the hematopoietic lineage, including megakaryocytes and erythrocytes. Recent studies identified circulating microRNA-126 as a biomarker for myocardial injury and vascular damage in diabetes. Furthermore, reports have suggested a protective role of circulating microRNA-126 in murine models of organ ischemia. Here, we review current insights in the role of microRNA-126 in vascular homeostasis and conclude that this microRNA may serve to integrate and facilitate both local as well as systemic functions in vascular maintenance and repair.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands.
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32
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Bijkerk R, de Bruin RG, van Solingen C, van Gils JM, Duijs JMGJ, van der Veer EP, Rabelink TJ, Humphreys BD, van Zonneveld AJ. Silencing of microRNA-132 reduces renal fibrosis by selectively inhibiting myofibroblast proliferation. Kidney Int 2016; 89:1268-80. [PMID: 27165825 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2016.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Revised: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease is associated with progressive renal fibrosis, where perivascular cells give rise to the majority of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) positive myofibroblasts. Here we sought to identify pericytic miRNAs that could serve as a target to decrease myofibroblast formation. Kidney fibrosis was induced in FoxD1-GC;Z/Red-mice by unilateral ureteral obstruction followed by FACS sorting of dsRed-positive FoxD1-derivative cells and miRNA profiling. MiR-132 selectively increased 21-fold during pericyte-to-myofibroblast formation, whereas miR-132 was only 2.5-fold up in total kidney lysates (both in obstructive and ischemia-reperfusion injury). MiR-132 silencing during obstruction decreased collagen deposition (35%) and tubular apoptosis. Immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and qRT-PCR confirmed a similar decrease in interstitial α-SMA(+) cells. Pathway analysis identified a rate-limiting role for miR-132 in myofibroblast proliferation that was confirmed in vitro. Indeed, antagomir-132-treated mice displayed a reduction in the number of proliferating Ki67(+) interstitial myofibroblasts. Interestingly, this was selective for the interstitial compartment and did not impair the reparative proliferation of tubular epithelial cells, as evidenced by an increase in Ki67(+) epithelial cells, as well as increased phospho-RB1, Cyclin-A and decreased RASA1, p21 levels in kidney lysates. Additional pathway and gene expression analyses suggest miR-132 coordinately regulates genes involved in TGF-β signaling (Smad2/Smad3), STAT3/ERK pathways, and cell proliferation (Foxo3/p300). Thus, silencing miR-132 counteracts the progression of renal fibrosis by selectively decreasing myofibroblast proliferation and could potentially serve as a novel antifibrotic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Nephrology and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, the Netherlands; Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - Ruben G de Bruin
- Department of Nephrology and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Coen van Solingen
- Department of Nephrology and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Janine M van Gils
- Department of Nephrology and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Jacques M G J Duijs
- Department of Nephrology and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Eric P van der Veer
- Department of Nephrology and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Ton J Rabelink
- Department of Nephrology and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Benjamin D Humphreys
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Renal Division, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Nephrology and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, the Netherlands
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Bijkerk R, van der Pol P, Khairoun M, van Gijlswijk-Jansen DJ, Lievers E, de Vries APJ, de Koning EJ, de Fijter HW, Roelen DL, Vossen RHAM, van Zonneveld AJ, van Kooten C, Reinders MEJ. Simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation in patients with type 1 diabetes reverses elevated MBL levels in association with MBL2 genotype and VEGF expression. Diabetologia 2016; 59:853-8. [PMID: 26768002 PMCID: PMC4779124 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-015-3858-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS High levels of circulating mannan-binding lectin (MBL) are associated with the development of diabetic nephropathy and hyperglycaemia-induced vasculopathy. Here, we aimed to assess the effect of glycaemic control on circulating levels of MBL and the relationship of these levels with vascular damage. METHODS We assessed MBL levels and corresponding MBL2 genotype, together with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels as a marker of vascular damage, in type 1 diabetes patients with diabetic nephropathy before and after simultaneous pancreas-kidney (SPK) transplantation. We included diabetic nephropathy patients (n = 21), SPK patients (n = 37), healthy controls (n = 19), type 1 diabetes patients (n = 15) and diabetic nephropathy patients receiving only a kidney transplant (n = 15). Fourteen diabetic nephropathy patients were followed up for 12 months after SPK. RESULTS We found elevated circulating MBL levels in diabetic nephropathy patients, and a trend towards elevated circulating MBL levels in type 1 diabetes patients, compared with healthy control individuals. MBL levels in SPK patients completely normalised and our data indicate that this predominantly occurs in patients with a polymorphism in the MBL2 gene. By contrast, MBL levels in kidney transplant only patients remained elevated, suggesting that glycaemic control but not reversal of renal failure is associated with decreased MBL levels. In line, levels of glucose and HbA1c, but not creatinine levels and estimated GFR, were correlated with MBL levels. VEGF levels were associated with levels of MBL and HbA1c in an MBL-polymorphism-dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION Taken together, circulating MBL levels are associated with diabetic nephropathy and are dependent on glycaemic control, possibly in an MBL2-genotype-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands.
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Pieter van der Pol
- Department of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Meriem Khairoun
- Department of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | - Ellen Lievers
- Department of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Aiko P J de Vries
- Department of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Eelco J de Koning
- Department of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Hans W de Fijter
- Department of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Dave L Roelen
- Department of Immunohaematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Rolf H A M Vossen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Cees van Kooten
- Department of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Marlies E J Reinders
- Department of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands
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de Bruin RG, van der Veer EP, Prins J, Lee DH, Dane MJC, Zhang H, Roeten MK, Bijkerk R, de Boer HC, Rabelink TJ, van Zonneveld AJ, van Gils JM. The RNA-binding protein quaking maintains endothelial barrier function and affects VE-cadherin and β-catenin protein expression. Sci Rep 2016; 6:21643. [PMID: 26905650 PMCID: PMC4764852 DOI: 10.1038/srep21643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Proper regulation of endothelial cell-cell contacts is essential for physiological functioning of the endothelium. Interendothelial junctions are actively involved in the control of vascular leakage, leukocyte diapedesis, and the initiation and progression of angiogenesis. We found that the RNA-binding protein quaking is highly expressed by endothelial cells, and that its expression was augmented by prolonged culture under laminar flow and the transcription factor KLF2 binding to the promoter. Moreover, we demonstrated that quaking directly binds to the mRNA of VE-cadherin and β-catenin and can induce mRNA translation mediated by the 3′UTR of these genes. Reduced quaking levels attenuated VE-cadherin and β-catenin expression and endothelial barrier function in vitro and resulted in increased bradykinin-induced vascular leakage in vivo. Taken together, we report that quaking is essential in maintaining endothelial barrier function. Our results provide novel insight into the importance of post-transcriptional regulation in controlling vascular integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben G de Bruin
- Einthoven Laboratory of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Eric P van der Veer
- Einthoven Laboratory of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Jurriën Prins
- Einthoven Laboratory of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Dae Hyun Lee
- Einthoven Laboratory of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Martijn J C Dane
- Einthoven Laboratory of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Huayu Zhang
- Einthoven Laboratory of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Marko K Roeten
- Einthoven Laboratory of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Einthoven Laboratory of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Hetty C de Boer
- Einthoven Laboratory of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Ton J Rabelink
- Einthoven Laboratory of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Einthoven Laboratory of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Janine M van Gils
- Einthoven Laboratory of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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de Bruin RG, Dane MJ, Lee DH, Roeten MK, Schmidt I, Bijkerk R, van der Veer EP, de Boer HC, Rabelink TJ, van Zonneveld AJ, van Gils JM. Abstract 8: RNA-binding Protein Quaking Maintains Endothelial Barrier Function Through β-catenin and VE-cadherin. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2015. [DOI: 10.1161/atvb.35.suppl_1.8] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial barrier function plays a major role in the onset of atherosclerosis. This barrier is determined largely by adherens junctions. Remarkably little is known about their regulation at the post[[Unable to Display Character: ‐]]transcriptional level. We find that the RNA-binding protein Quaking (QKI), known for its function in embryonic blood vessel formation, is highly expressed in quiescent adult endothelial cells (EC) in vivo. In vitro, EC displayed increased levels of QKI when cultured under laminar atheroprotective flow. Using KLF2 overexpression and a human QKI promoter reporter gene, we found that KLF2 mediates this increase in QKI expression.
Subsequently we aimed to investigate the role of QKI in EC vascular integrity. Silencing of QKI markedly impaired (0.65 fold ±0.13; p<0.05) the capacity to form a high resistance endothelial monolayer, as measured using Electric cell-substrate impedance sensing. To confirm a role for QKI in maintaining EC barrier function in vivo, we measured Bradykinin-induced vascular leakage in QKI viable mice (QKIv), which express decreased levels of the QKI protein. Indeed, QKIv mice displayed a 20% (p<0.05) increase in extravascular accumulation of Evans blue-labeled albumin compared to wild type littermates. Interestingly, the mRNA of both β-catenin and VE-cadherin, the prime adhesion proteins in EC adherens junctions, contain conserved QKI-binding sites. Moreover the targeted reduction of QKI resulted in a reduction of β-catenin and VE-cadherin protein expression. Importantly, we identified a direct role for QKI in regulating mRNA biology of β-catenin and VE-cadherin, as RNA immunoprecipitation and luciferase-reporter assays revealed that QKI can directly bind to the mRNA and induces transcript translation, respectively. This effects was perturbed upon reduced QKI expression.
In conclusion, we show that QKI functions as a critical regulator of β-catenin and VE-cadherin in endothelial cells, and the modulation of QKI expression affects endothelial monolayer integrity, in vitro and in vivo. These studies provide novel insight into the importance of post-transcriptional regulation of components of the endothelial adherens junction, and may have wide ranging implications for the preservation of vascular integrity in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dae Hyun Lee
- Nephrology, Leiden Univ Med Cntr, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Iris Schmidt
- Nephrology, Leiden Univ Med Cntr, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Nephrology, Leiden Univ Med Cntr, Leiden, Netherlands
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36
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Bijkerk R, Duijs JMGJ, Khairoun M, Ter Horst CJH, van der Pol P, Mallat MJ, Rotmans JI, de Vries APJ, de Koning EJ, de Fijter JW, Rabelink TJ, van Zonneveld AJ, Reinders MEJ. Circulating microRNAs associate with diabetic nephropathy and systemic microvascular damage and normalize after simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation. Am J Transplant 2015; 15:1081-90. [PMID: 25716422 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.13072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2014] [Revised: 09/22/2014] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Because microvascular disease is one of the most important drivers of diabetic complications, early monitoring of microvascular integrity may be of clinical value. By assessing profiles of circulating microRNAs (miRNAs), known regulators of microvascular pathophysiology, in healthy controls and diabetic nephropathy (DN) patients before and after simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation (SPK), we aimed to identify differentially expressed miRNAs that associate with microvascular impairment. Following a pilot study, we selected 13 candidate miRNAs and determined their circulating levels in DN (n = 21), SPK-patients (n = 37), healthy controls (n = 19), type 1 diabetes mellitus patients (n = 15) and DN patients with a kidney transplant (n = 15). For validation of selected miRNAs, 14 DN patients were studied longitudinally up to 12 months after SPK. We demonstrated a direct association of miR-25, -27a, -126, -130b, -132, -152, -181a, -223, -320, -326, -340, -574-3p and -660 with DN. Of those, miR-25, -27a, -130b, -132, -152, -320, -326, -340, -574-3p and -660 normalized after SPK. Importantly, circulating levels of some of these miRNAs tightly associate with microvascular impairment as they relate to aberrant capillary tortuosity, angiopoietin-2/angiopoietin-1 ratios, circulating levels of soluble-thrombomodulin and insulin-like growth factor. Taken together, circulating miRNA profiles associate with DN and systemic microvascular damage, and might serve to identify individuals at risk of experiencing microvascular complications, as well as give insight into underlying pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Bijkerk
- Department of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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Bijkerk R, de Bruin RG, van Solingen C, Duijs JMGJ, Kobayashi K, van der Veer EP, ten Dijke P, Rabelink TJ, Goumans MJ, van Zonneveld AJ. MicroRNA-155 functions as a negative regulator of RhoA signaling in TGF-β-induced endothelial to mesenchymal transition. Microrna 2014; 1:2-10. [PMID: 25048084 DOI: 10.2174/2211536611201010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2012] [Revised: 06/05/2012] [Accepted: 06/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) has been proposed to be involved in the loss of microvascular capillaries in the pathophysiology of fibrosis and organ failure. In EndoMT, endothelial cells (EC) undergo a mesenchymal transition associated with the loss of cell-cell contacts and the acquisition of a synthetic, contractile phenotype. Here, we sought to identify microRNAs (miRNAs) that could play a central role in regulating EndoMT. In a TGF-β dependent in vitro model for EndoMT, we identified miRNAs that were differentially expressed in normoxic and hypoxic conditions. These studies identified miR-155 to be significantly upregulated in EndoMT, an effect that was enhanced under hypoxia, which further augments EndoMT. Silencing of miR-155 directly increased RhoA expression and activity in endothelial cells and affected phosphorylation of downstream LIMK. In contrast, overexpression of miR-155 counteracted RhoA function. Using a selective Rho kinase inhibitor, we could partly suppress EndoMT, strengthening the notion that RhoA plays a central role in EndoMT. Forced overexpression of miR-155 completely suppressed EndoMT, as evidenced by the maintenance of EC characteristics and blocking the acquisition of a mesenchymal phenotype, as compared to control cells. Our data demonstrate that miRNA-155 functions as a negative regulator of RhoA signaling in TGF-β-induced endothelial to mesenchymal transition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Anton J van Zonneveld
- Department of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
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38
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van der Pol P, van Gijlswijk-Jansen DJ, Bijkerk R, de Koning EJ, de Fijter JW, van Kooten C, Reinders ME. Elevated MBL levels in type 1 diabetic patients are reversed after simultaneous pancreas–kidney transplantation. Transpl Immunol 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2014.11.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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39
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Bijkerk R, Duijs J, Khairoun M, ter Horst C, Mallat M, Rotmans J, de Vries A, de Koning E, de Fijter J, Rabelink T, A.J. VZ, Reinders M. Circulating microRNAs correlate with diabetic nephropathy and systemic microvascular damage and normalize after simultaneous pancreas–kidney transplantation. Transpl Immunol 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2014.11.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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40
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de Bruin RG, Dane MJ, Lee D, van der Veer EP, Roeten MK, Schmidt I, Sundararajah J, Bijkerk R, de Boer HC, Rabelink TJ, van Zonneveld AJ, van Gils JM. Abstract 513: Endothelial Barrier Function is Maintained by the RNA-Binding Protein Quaking. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2014. [DOI: 10.1161/atvb.34.suppl_1.513] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial barrier function plays a major role in the onset of atherosclerosis. This barrier is maintained largely by adherens junctions. Remarkably, little is known about their regulation at the post–transcriptional level. We found that the RNA-binding protein Quaking (QKI), known for its function in embryonic blood vessel formation, is highly expressed in quiescent endothelial cells (EC) in vivo. In vitro, EC displayed increased levels of QKI when cultured under laminar, atheroprotective flow. Using KLF2 overexpression and a human QKI promoter reporter gene, we found that KLF2 mediates this increase in QKI expression.
Subsequently, we aimed to investigate the role of QKI in EC vascular integrity. Interestingly, the mRNA of VE-cadherin, the prime adhesion protein in EC adherens junctions, contains a conserved QKI-binding site. We identified that the targeted reduction of QKI results in a reduction of VE-cadherin expression and organization at the cell periphery. These studies revealed a direct role for QKI in regulating VE-cadherin mRNA biology, as RNA-immunoprecipitation and luciferase-reporter assays revealed that QKI can directly bind to the VE-cadherin mRNA and induce transcript translation (4 fold ± 0.4; p<0.01), respectively. This effect was perturbed when the QKI-binding site was mutated. These results suggest that QKI acts to enhance barrier function. Overexpression of QKI markedly increased the capacity to form a high resistance endothelial monolayer (1.3 fold ± 0.96), while silencing of QKI markedly impaired EC barrier function (0.65 fold ± 0.13; p<0.05). To validate in vivo, we measured Bradykinin-induced vascular leakage in QKI viable mice (QKIv), which express decreased levels of the QKI protein. Indeed, QKIv mice displayed a 20% (p<0.05) increase in extravascular accumulation of Evans blue-labeled albumin compared to WT littermates.
In conclusion, we show that QKI functions as a critical regulator of VE-cadherin, and the modulation of QKI expression affects endothelial monolayer integrity. These studies provide novel insight into the importance of post-transcriptional regulation on endothelial barrier function, and may have wide ranging implications for the preservation of vascular integrity in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Martijn J Dane
- Dept of Nephrology, Leiden Univ Med Cntr, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - DaeHyun Lee
- Dept of Nephrology, Leiden Univ Med Cntr, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Marko K Roeten
- Dept of Nephrology, Leiden Univ Med Cntr, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Iris Schmidt
- Dept of Nephrology, Leiden Univ Med Cntr, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Roel Bijkerk
- Dept of Nephrology, Leiden Univ Med Cntr, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Hetty C de Boer
- Dept of Nephrology, Leiden Univ Med Cntr, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Ton J Rabelink
- Dept of Nephrology, Leiden Univ Med Cntr, Leiden, Netherlands
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Bijkerk R, van Solingen C, de Boer HC, van der Pol P, Khairoun M, de Bruin RG, van Oeveren-Rietdijk AM, Lievers E, Schlagwein N, van Gijlswijk DJ, Roeten MK, Neshati Z, de Vries AAF, Rodijk M, Pike-Overzet K, van den Berg YW, van der Veer EP, Versteeg HH, Reinders MEJ, Staal FJT, van Kooten C, Rabelink TJ, van Zonneveld AJ. Hematopoietic microRNA-126 protects against renal ischemia/reperfusion injury by promoting vascular integrity. J Am Soc Nephrol 2014; 25:1710-22. [PMID: 24610930 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2013060640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) is a central phenomenon in kidney transplantation and AKI. Integrity of the renal peritubular capillary network is an important limiting factor in the recovery from IRI. MicroRNA-126 (miR-126) facilitates vascular regeneration by functioning as an angiomiR and by modulating mobilization of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells. We hypothesized that overexpression of miR-126 in the hematopoietic compartment could protect the kidney against IRI via preservation of microvascular integrity. Here, we demonstrate that hematopoietic overexpression of miR-126 increases neovascularization of subcutaneously implanted Matrigel plugs in mice. After renal IRI, mice overexpressing miR-126 displayed a marked decrease in urea levels, weight loss, fibrotic markers, and injury markers (such as kidney injury molecule-1 and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin). This protective effect was associated with a higher density of the peritubular capillary network in the corticomedullary junction and increased numbers of bone marrow-derived endothelial cells. Hematopoietic overexpression of miR-126 increased the number of circulating Lin(-)/Sca-1(+)/cKit(+) hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. Additionally, miR-126 overexpression attenuated expression of the chemokine receptor CXCR4 on Lin(-)/Sca-1(+)/cKit(+) cells in the bone marrow and increased renal expression of its ligand stromal cell-derived factor 1, thus favoring mobilization of Lin(-)/Sca-1(+)/cKit(+) cells toward the kidney. Taken together, these results suggest overexpression of miR-126 in the hematopoietic compartment is associated with stromal cell-derived factor 1/CXCR4-dependent vasculogenic progenitor cell mobilization and promotes vascular integrity and supports recovery of the kidney after IRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Nephrology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine
| | - Coen van Solingen
- Department of Nephrology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine
| | - Hetty C de Boer
- Department of Nephrology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine
| | | | | | - Ruben G de Bruin
- Department of Nephrology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine
| | | | | | | | | | - Marko K Roeten
- Department of Nephrology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine
| | | | | | - Mark Rodijk
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, and
| | | | - Yascha W van den Berg
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Department of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Eric P van der Veer
- Department of Nephrology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine
| | - Henri H Versteeg
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Department of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Ton J Rabelink
- Department of Nephrology, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine
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Bijkerk R, van Solingen C, de Boer HC, de Vries DK, Monge M, van Oeveren-Rietdijk A, van der Veer EP, Schaapherder AF, Rabelink TJ, van Zonneveld AJ. Silencing of miRNA-126 in kidney ischemia reperfusion is associated with elevated SDF-1 levels and mobilization of Sca-1+/Lin- progenitor cells. Microrna 2014; 3:144-149. [PMID: 25541911 DOI: 10.2174/2211536604666150121000340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2014] [Revised: 01/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Integrity of the capillary network in the kidney is essential in the recovery from ischemia/ reperfusion injury (IRI), a phenomenon central to kidney transplantation and acute kidney injury. MicroRNA- 126 (miR-126) is known to be important in maintaining vascular homeostasis by facilitating vascular regeneration and modulating the mobilization of vascular progenitor cells. Stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1), important in the mobilization of vascular progenitor cells, is a direct target of miR-126 and modulation of miR-126 was previously shown to affect the number of circulating Sca-1(+)/Lin(-) vascular progenitor cells in a mouse model for hind limb ischemia. Here, we assessed the in vivo contribution of miR-126 to progenitor cell mobilization and kidney function following IRI in mice. A three day follow up of blood urea levels following kidney IRI demonstrated that systemic antagomir silencing of miR-126 did not impact the loss or subsequent restoration of kidney function. However, whole kidney lysates displayed elevated gene expression levels of Sdf-1, Vegf-A and eNOS after IRI as a result of systemic silencing of miR-126. Furthermore, FACS-analysis on whole blood three days after surgery revealed a marked up regulation of the number of circulating Sca-1(+)/Lin(-) progenitor cells in the antagomir-126 treated mice, in an ischemia dependent manner. Our data indicate that silencing of miR-126 can enhance renal expression of Sdf-1 after IRI, leading to the mobilization of vascular progenitor cells into the circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Anton J van Zonneveld
- Department of Nephrology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
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van der Veer EP, de Bruin RG, Kraaijeveld AO, de Vries MR, Bot I, Pera T, Segers FM, Trompet S, van Gils JM, Roeten MK, Beckers CM, van Santbrink PJ, Janssen A, van Solingen C, Swildens J, de Boer HC, Peters EA, Bijkerk R, Rousch M, Doop M, Kuiper J, Schalij MJ, van der Wal AC, Richard S, van Berkel TJC, Pickering JG, Hiemstra PS, Goumans MJ, Rabelink TJ, de Vries AAF, Quax PHA, Jukema JW, Biessen EAL, van Zonneveld AJ. Quaking, an RNA-binding protein, is a critical regulator of vascular smooth muscle cell phenotype. Circ Res 2013; 113:1065-75. [PMID: 23963726 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.113.301302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [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: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE RNA-binding proteins are critical post-transcriptional regulators of RNA and can influence pre-mRNA splicing, RNA localization, and stability. The RNA-binding protein Quaking (QKI) is essential for embryonic blood vessel development. However, the role of QKI in the adult vasculature, and in particular in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), is currently unknown. OBJECTIVE We sought to determine the role of QKI in regulating adult VSMC function and plasticity. METHODS AND RESULTS We identified that QKI is highly expressed by neointimal VSMCs of human coronary restenotic lesions, but not in healthy vessels. In a mouse model of vascular injury, we observed reduced neointima hyperplasia in Quaking viable mice, which have decreased QKI expression. Concordantly, abrogation of QKI attenuated fibroproliferative properties of VSMCs, while potently inducing contractile apparatus protein expression, rendering noncontractile VSMCs with the capacity to contract. We identified that QKI localizes to the spliceosome, where it interacts with the myocardin pre-mRNA and regulates the splicing of alternative exon 2a. This post-transcriptional event impacts the Myocd_v3/Myocd_v1 mRNA balance and can be modulated by mutating the quaking response element in exon 2a of myocardin. Furthermore, we identified that arterial damage triggers myocardin alternative splicing and is tightly coupled with changes in the expression levels of distinct QKI isoforms. CONCLUSIONS We propose that QKI is a central regulator of VSMC phenotypic plasticity and that intervention in QKI activity can ameliorate pathogenic, fibroproliferative responses to vascular injury.
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van Solingen C, de Boer HC, Bijkerk R, Monge M, van Oeveren-Rietdijk AM, Seghers L, de Vries MR, van der Veer EP, Quax PHA, Rabelink TJ, van Zonneveld AJ. MicroRNA-126 modulates endothelial SDF-1 expression and mobilization of Sca-1(+)/Lin(-) progenitor cells in ischaemia. Cardiovasc Res 2011; 92:449-55. [PMID: 21856785 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvr227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [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: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS MicroRNA-126 (miR-126), which is enriched in endothelial cells, plays a role in angiogenesis. Based on the seed sequence, miR-126 can also be predicted to regulate vasculogenesis by modulating the endothelial expression of stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1). METHODS AND RESULTS Using miR-reporter constructs, we first validated that miR-126 inhibits SDF-1 expression in endothelial cells in vitro. Next, we investigated the potential relevance of this observation with respect to the mobilization of progenitor cells. For this, we studied the migration of human CD34+ progenitor cells towards chemotactic factors present in endothelial cell-conditioned medium. Antagomir-induced silencing of miR-126 elevated SDF-1 expression by human umbilical vein endothelial cells and enhanced migration of the CD34+ cells. In a murine model of hind limb ischaemia, a striking increase in the number of circulating Sca-1(+)/Lin(-) progenitor cells in antagomir-126-treated mice was observed when compared with scramblemir-treated controls. Immunohistochemical staining of capillaries in the post-ischaemic gastrocnemius muscle of miR-126-silenced mice revealed elevated SDF-1 expressing CD31-positive capillaries, whereas a mobilizing effect of miR-126 inhibition was not detected in healthy control animals. CONCLUSION miR-126 can regulate the expression of SDF-1 in endothelial cells. In the context of an ischaemic event, systemic silencing of miR-126 leads to the mobilization of Sca-1(+)/Lin(-) progenitor cells into the peripheral circulation, potentially in response to elevated SDF-1 expression by endothelial cells present in the ischaemic tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coen van Solingen
- Department of Nephrology, LUMC, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Seekles L, Havinga E, Bijkerk R. Ultramikroanalyse III: Uber eine Methode zur Anreicherung von Kupfer durch selektive Adsorption und über die Zerstörung von organischem Material zur Kupferbestimmung. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1002/recl.19450641006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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van Solingen C, Seghers L, Bijkerk R, Duijs JMGJ, Roeten MK, van Oeveren-Rietdijk AM, Baelde HJ, Monge M, Vos JB, de Boer HC, Quax PHA, Rabelink TJ, van Zonneveld AJ. Antagomir-mediated silencing of endothelial cell specific microRNA-126 impairs ischemia-induced angiogenesis. J Cell Mol Med 2010; 13:1577-85. [PMID: 19120690 PMCID: PMC3828868 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2008.00613.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are negative regulators of gene expression that play a key role in cell-type specific differentiation and modulation of cell function and have been proposed to be involved in neovascularization. Previously, using an extensive cloning and sequencing approach, we identified miR-126 to be specifically and highly expressed in human endothelial cells (EC). Here, we demonstrate EC-specific expression of miR-126 in capillaries and the larger vessels in vivo. We therefore explored the potential role of miR-126 in arteriogenesis and angiogenesis. Using miR-reporter constructs, we show that miR-126 is functionally active in EC in vitro and that it could be specifically repressed using antagomirs specifically targeting miR-126. To study the consequences of miR-126 silencing on vascular regeneration, mice were injected with a single dose of antagomir-126 or a control 'scramblemir' and exposed to ischemia of the left hindlimb by ligation of the femoral artery. Although miR-126 was effectively silenced in mice treated with a single, high dose (HD) of antagomir-126, laser Doppler perfusion imaging did not show effects on blood flow recovery. In contrast, quantification of the capillary density in the gastrocnemius muscle revealed that mice treated with a HD of antagomir-126 had a markedly reduced angiogenic response. Aortic explant cultures of the mice confirmed the role of miR-126 in angiogenesis. Our data demonstrate a facilitary function for miR-126 in ischemia-induced angiogenesis and show the efficacy and specificity of antagomir-induced silencing of EC-specific microRNAs in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coen van Solingen
- Department of Nephrology and the Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, LUMC, Leiden, The Netherlands
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