RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of vascular calcification (VC) in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients remains substantial, but currently, there are no effective pharmaceutical therapies available. BRCA1/BRCA2-containing complex subunit 36 (BRCC36) has been implicated in osteoblast osteogenic conversion; however, its specific role in VC remains to be fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the role and underlying mechanisms of BRCC36 in VC. METHODS: The association between BRCC36 expression and VC was examined in radial arteries from patients with CKD, high-adenine-induced CKD mice, and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Western blotting, real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry were used to analyse gene expression. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments were performed to comprehensively investigate the effects of BRCC36 on VC. Coimmunoprecipitation and TOPFlash luciferase assays were utilized to further investigate the regulatory effects of BRCC36 on the Wnt/ß-catenin pathway. RESULTS: BRCC36 expression was downregulated in human calcified radial arteries, calcified aortas from CKD mice, and calcified VSMCs. VSMC-specific BRCC36 overexpression alleviated calcium deposition in the vasculature, whereas BRCC36 depletion aggravated VC progression. Furthermore, BRCC36 inhibited the osteogenic differentiation of VSMCs in vitro. Rescue experiments revealed that BRCC36 exerts the protective effects on VC partly by regulating the Wnt/ß-catenin signalling pathway. Mechanistically, BRCC36 inhibited the Wnt/ß-catenin pathway by decreasing the K63-linked ubiquitination of ß-catenin. Additionally, pioglitazone attenuated VC partly through upregulating BRCC36 expression. CONCLUSIONS: Our research results emphasize the critical role of the BRCC36-ß-catenin axis in VC, suggesting that BRCC36 or ß-catenin may be promising therapeutic targets to prevent the progression of VC in CKD patients.

Asunto(s)

Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Insuficiencia Renal Crónica , Ubiquitinación , Calcificación Vascular , Vía de Señalización Wnt , beta Catenina , Calcificación Vascular/metabolismo , Calcificación Vascular/patología , Insuficiencia Renal Crónica/metabolismo , Insuficiencia Renal Crónica/patología , Insuficiencia Renal Crónica/complicaciones , Animales , beta Catenina/metabolismo , Humanos , Masculino , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Ratones , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Osteogénesis , Persona de Mediana Edad , Diferenciación Celular

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Visceral adipose tissue in individuals with obesity is an independent cardiovascular risk indicator. However, it remains unclear whether adipose tissue influences common cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis, through its secreted exosomes. METHODS: The exosomes secreted by adipose tissue from diet-induced obesity mice were isolated to examine their impact on the progression of atherosclerosis and the associated mechanism. Endothelial apoptosis and the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) within the atherosclerotic plaque were evaluated. Statistical significance was analyzed using GraphPad Prism 9.0 with appropriate statistical tests. RESULTS: We demonstrate that adipose tissue-derived exosomes (AT-EX) exacerbate atherosclerosis progression by promoting endothelial apoptosis, proliferation, and migration of VSMCs within the plaque in vivo. MicroRNA-132/212 (miR-132/212) was detected within AT-EX cargo. Mechanistically, miR-132/212-enriched AT-EX exacerbates palmitate acid-induced endothelial apoptosis via targeting G protein subunit alpha 12 and enhances platelet-derived growth factor type BB-induced VSMC proliferation and migration by targeting phosphatase and tensin homolog in vitro. Importantly, melatonin decreases exosomal miR-132/212 levels, thereby mitigating the pro-atherosclerotic impact of AT-EX. CONCLUSION: These data uncover the pathological mechanism by which adipose tissue-derived exosomes regulate the progression of atherosclerosis and identify miR-132/212 as potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets for atherosclerosis.

Asunto(s)

Apoptosis , Aterosclerosis , Movimiento Celular , Proliferación Celular , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Progresión de la Enfermedad , Exosomas , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , MicroARNs , Músculo Liso Vascular , Miocitos del Músculo Liso , Placa Aterosclerótica , Animales , MicroARNs/metabolismo , MicroARNs/genética , Exosomas/metabolismo , Exosomas/patología , Aterosclerosis/metabolismo , Aterosclerosis/patología , Aterosclerosis/genética , Proliferación Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Apoptosis/efectos de los fármacos , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/efectos de los fármacos , Movimiento Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/efectos de los fármacos , Masculino , Transducción de Señal , Células Cultivadas , Obesidad/metabolismo , Obesidad/patología , Ratones Noqueados para ApoE , Células Endoteliales/metabolismo , Células Endoteliales/patología , Células Endoteliales/efectos de los fármacos , Enfermedades de la Aorta/patología , Enfermedades de la Aorta/metabolismo , Enfermedades de la Aorta/genética , Becaplermina/farmacología , Becaplermina/metabolismo , Grasa Intraabdominal/metabolismo , Grasa Intraabdominal/patología , Ratones , Humanos

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Remodeling of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), as a pathological hallmark of cardiovascular diseases, is related to the molecular rewiring of Calcium signaling, which induces upregulation of stromal interaction molecule (STIM) proteins. This study analyzed the influence of STIM1 proteins on the remodeling of VSMCs in atherosclerosis (AS). METHODS: After oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) treatment and transfection, VSMC viability, migration, and invasion were separately measured using Cell Counting Kit-8, Scratch assay, and Transwell assay. An animal AS model was constructed, and histological analysis via hematoxylin-eosin staining was conducted on the aorta. RESULTS: Ox-LDL promoted expression of STIM1 and Orai calcium release-activated calcium modulator 1 (Orai1). STIM1 or Orai1 downregulation suppressed viability, migration, invasion, and phenotypic switching of ox-LDL-treated VSMCs, whereas STIM1 or Orai1 upregulation had opposite effects. Orai1 level was upregulated by STIM1 overexpression. Orai1 silencing reversed the effects of STIM1 overexpression in VSMCs. STIM1 deficiency alleviated AS and regulated expression of Orai1 and phenotypic switch-related factors in vivo. CONCLUSION: STIM1 deficiency suppresses viability, migration, invasion, and phenotypic switching of ox-LDL-induced VSMCs and alleviates AS by inhibiting Orai1.

Asunto(s)

Aterosclerosis , Movimiento Celular , Lipoproteínas LDL , Músculo Liso Vascular , Miocitos del Músculo Liso , Proteína ORAI1 , Molécula de Interacción Estromal 1 , Animales , Humanos , Masculino , Ratones , Aterosclerosis/patología , Aterosclerosis/metabolismo , Movimiento Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Supervivencia Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Lipoproteínas LDL/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Proteínas de Neoplasias/metabolismo , Proteínas de Neoplasias/genética , Proteína ORAI1/metabolismo , Proteína ORAI1/genética , Proteína ORAI1/antagonistas & inhibidores , Molécula de Interacción Estromal 1/metabolismo , Molécula de Interacción Estromal 1/genética , Remodelación Vascular/efectos de los fármacos

RESUMEN

Aberrant vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) homeostasis and proliferation characterize vascular diseases causing heart attack and stroke. Here we elucidate molecular determinants governing VSMC proliferation by reconstructing gene regulatory networks from single-cell transcriptomics and epigenetic profiling. We detect widespread activation of enhancers at disease-relevant loci in proliferation-predisposed VSMCs. We compared gene regulatory network rewiring between injury-responsive and nonresponsive VSMCs, which suggested shared transcription factors but differing target loci between VSMC states. Through in silico perturbation analysis, we identified and prioritized previously unrecognized regulators of proliferation, including RUNX1 and TIMP1. Moreover, we showed that the pioneer transcription factor RUNX1 increased VSMC responsiveness and that TIMP1 feeds back to promote VSMC proliferation through CD74-mediated STAT3 signaling. Both RUNX1 and the TIMP1-CD74 axis were expressed in human VSMCs, showing low levels in normal arteries and increased expression in disease, suggesting clinical relevance and potential as vascular disease targets.

Asunto(s)

Proliferación Celular , Redes Reguladoras de Genes , Músculo Liso Vascular , Miocitos del Músculo Liso , Factor de Transcripción STAT3 , Inhibidor Tisular de Metaloproteinasa-1 , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Músculo Liso Vascular/citología , Humanos , Proliferación Celular/genética , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Inhibidor Tisular de Metaloproteinasa-1/metabolismo , Inhibidor Tisular de Metaloproteinasa-1/genética , Factor de Transcripción STAT3/metabolismo , Factor de Transcripción STAT3/genética , Transducción de Señal/genética , Células Cultivadas , Análisis de la Célula Individual , Epigénesis Genética , Transcriptoma , Animales , Subunidad alfa 2 del Factor de Unión al Sitio Principal

RESUMEN

Drugs that lower plasma apolipoprotein B (ApoB)-containing lipoproteins are central to treating advanced atherosclerosis and provide partial protection against clinical events. Previous research showed that lowering ApoB-containing lipoproteins stops plaque inflammation, but how these drugs affect the heterogeneous population of plaque cells derived from smooth muscle cells (SMCs) is unknown. SMC-derived cells are the main cellular component of atherosclerotic lesions and the source of structural components that determine the size of plaques and their propensity to rupture and trigger thrombosis, the proximate cause of heart attack and stroke. Using lineage tracing and single-cell techniques to investigate the full SMC-derived cellular compartment in progressing and regressing plaques in mice, here we show that lowering ApoB-containing lipoproteins reduces nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells signaling in SMC-derived fibromyocytes and chondromyocytes and leads to depletion of these abundant cell types from plaques. These results uncover an important mechanism through which cholesterol-lowering drugs can achieve plaque regression.

Asunto(s)

Aterosclerosis , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Miocitos del Músculo Liso , Placa Aterosclerótica , Animales , Placa Aterosclerótica/patología , Placa Aterosclerótica/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/efectos de los fármacos , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Aterosclerosis/patología , Aterosclerosis/tratamiento farmacológico , Aterosclerosis/metabolismo , Condrocitos/efectos de los fármacos , Condrocitos/patología , Condrocitos/metabolismo , Transducción de Señal/efectos de los fármacos , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Anticolesterolemiantes/farmacología , Anticolesterolemiantes/uso terapéutico , Masculino , Colesterol/metabolismo , Colesterol/sangre , Ratones , Enfermedades de la Aorta/patología , Enfermedades de la Aorta/metabolismo , Análisis de la Célula Individual , Músculo Liso Vascular/efectos de los fármacos , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , FN-kappa B/metabolismo

RESUMEN

Smooth muscle cell (SMC) phenotypic modulation, primarily driven by PDGFRß signaling, is implicated in occlusive cardiovascular diseases. However, the promotive and restrictive regulation mechanism of PDGFRß and the role of protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 14 (PTPN14) in neointimal hyperplasia remain unclear. Our study observes a marked upregulation of PTPN14 in SMCs during neointimal hyperplasia. PTPN14 overexpression exacerbates neointimal hyperplasia in a phosphatase activity-dependent manner, while SMC-specific deficiency of PTPN14 mitigates this process in mice. RNA-seq indicates that PTPN14 deficiency inhibits PDGFRß signaling-induced SMC phenotypic modulation. Moreover, PTPN14 interacts with intracellular region of PDGFRß and mediates its dephosphorylation on Y692 site. Phosphorylation of PDGFRßY692 negatively regulates PDGFRß signaling activation. The levels of both PTPN14 and phospho-PDGFRßY692 are correlated with the degree of stenosis in human coronary arteries. Our findings suggest that PTPN14 serves as a critical modulator of SMCs, promoting neointimal hyperplasia. PDGFRßY692, dephosphorylated by PTPN14, acts as a self-inhibitory site for controlling PDGFRß activation.

Asunto(s)

Hiperplasia , Miocitos del Músculo Liso , Neointima , Receptor beta de Factor de Crecimiento Derivado de Plaquetas , Transducción de Señal , Receptor beta de Factor de Crecimiento Derivado de Plaquetas/metabolismo , Receptor beta de Factor de Crecimiento Derivado de Plaquetas/genética , Animales , Hiperplasia/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Humanos , Neointima/metabolismo , Neointima/patología , Ratones , Fosforilación , Masculino , Proteínas Tirosina Fosfatasas no Receptoras/metabolismo , Proteínas Tirosina Fosfatasas no Receptoras/genética , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Ratones Noqueados , Vasos Coronarios/patología , Vasos Coronarios/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología

RESUMEN

Restenosis following percutaneous revascularization is a major challenge in patients with insulin resistance and diabetes. Currently, the vascular effects of insulin are not fully understood. In vitro, insulin's effects on endothelial cells (ECs) are beneficial, whereas on vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs), they are mitogenic. We previously demonstrated a suppressive effect of insulin on neointimal growth under insulin-sensitive conditions that was abolished in insulin-resistant conditions. Here, we aimed to determine the cell-specific effects of insulin on neointimal growth in a model of restenosis under insulin-sensitive and insulin-resistant conditions. Vascular cell-specific insulin receptor (IR)-deficient mice were fed a low-fat diet (LFD) or a high-fat, high-sucrose diet (HFSD) and implanted with an insulin pellet or vehicle prior to femoral artery wire injury. In insulin-sensitive conditions, insulin decreased neointimal growth only in controls. However, under insulin-resistant conditions, insulin had no effect in either control, EC-specific or SMC-specific IR-deficient mice. These data demonstrate that EC and SMC IRs are required for the anti-restenotic effect of insulin in insulin-sensitive conditions and that, in insulin resistance, insulin has no adverse effect on vascular SMCs in vivo.

Asunto(s)

Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Células Endoteliales , Resistencia a la Insulina , Insulina , Receptor de Insulina , Animales , Insulina/metabolismo , Insulina/farmacología , Ratones , Receptor de Insulina/metabolismo , Células Endoteliales/metabolismo , Células Endoteliales/efectos de los fármacos , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/efectos de los fármacos , Neointima/patología , Neointima/metabolismo , Masculino , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/efectos de los fármacos , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL

RESUMEN

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play a critical role in maintaining vascular integrity. VSMC dysfunction leads to numerous vascular diseases. Adenosine deaminases acting on RNA 1 (ADAR1), an RNA editing enzyme, has shown both RNA editing and non-editing functions. Global deletion of ADAR1 causes embryonic lethality, but the phenotype of homozygous ADAR1 deletion specifically in SMCs (ADAR1sm-/-) remains to be determined. By crossing ADAR1fl/fl mice with Myh11-CreERT2 mice followed by Tamoxifen induction, we found that ADAR1sm-/- leads to lethality in adult mice 14 days after the induction. Gross examination revealed extensive hemorrhage and detrimental vascular damage in different organs. Histological analyses revealed destruction of artery structural integrity with detachment of elastin laminae from VSMCs in ADAR1sm-/- aortas. Furthermore, ADAR1sm-/- resulted in severe VSMC apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction. RNA sequencing analyses of ADAR1sm-/- aorta segments demonstrated profound transcriptional alteration of genes impacting vascular health including a decrease in fibrillin-1 expression. More importantly, ADAR1sm-/- disrupts the elastin and fibrillin-1 interaction, a molecular event essential for artery structure. Our results indicate that ADAR1 plays a critical role in maintaining SMC survival and vascular stability and resilience.

Asunto(s)

Adenosina Desaminasa , Homeostasis , Músculo Liso Vascular , Miocitos del Músculo Liso , Animales , Adenosina Desaminasa/metabolismo , Adenosina Desaminasa/genética , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Ratones , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Aorta/metabolismo , Aorta/patología , Apoptosis/genética , Fibrilina-1/genética , Fibrilina-1/metabolismo , Elastina/metabolismo , Ratones Noqueados , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Proteínas de Unión al ARN/metabolismo , Proteínas de Unión al ARN/genética

RESUMEN

ABSTRACT: Aneurysms are localized dilations of blood vessels, which can expand to 50% of the original diameter. They are more common in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular vessels. Rupture is one of the most dangerous complications. The pathophysiology of aneurysms is complex and diverse, often associated with progressive vessel wall dysfunction resulting from vascular smooth muscle cell death and abnormal extracellular matrix synthesis and degradation. Multiple studies have shown that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a significant role in the progression of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Therefore, it is necessary to find and summarize them. LncRNAs control gene expression and disease progression by regulating target mRNA or miRNA and are biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of aneurysmal cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. This review explores the role, mechanism, and clinical value of lncRNAs in aneurysms, providing new insights for a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular aneurysms.

Asunto(s)

Aneurisma Intracraneal , Músculo Liso Vascular , Miocitos del Músculo Liso , Fenotipo , ARN Largo no Codificante , Humanos , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , ARN Largo no Codificante/genética , ARN Largo no Codificante/metabolismo , Aneurisma Intracraneal/genética , Aneurisma Intracraneal/patología , Aneurisma Intracraneal/metabolismo , Aneurisma Intracraneal/fisiopatología , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Animales , Regulación de la Expresión Génica , Aneurisma/genética , Aneurisma/patología , Aneurisma/metabolismo , Enfermedades Cardiovasculares/genética , Enfermedades Cardiovasculares/patología , Enfermedades Cardiovasculares/metabolismo , Enfermedades Cardiovasculares/fisiopatología , Transducción de Señal

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a complex vascular disorder characterized by the progressive dilation of the abdominal aorta, with a high risk of rupture and mortality. Understanding the cellular interactions and molecular mechanisms underlying AAA development is critical for identifying potential therapeutic targets. METHODS: This study utilized datasets GSE197748, GSE164678 and GSE183464 from the GEO database, encompassing bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing data from AAA and control samples. We performed principal component analysis, differential expression analysis, and functional enrichment analysis to identify key pathways involved in AAA. Cell-cell interactions were investigated using CellPhoneDB, focusing on fibroblasts, vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), and macrophages. We further validated our findings using a mouse model of AAA induced by porcine pancreatic enzyme infusion, followed by gene expression analysis and co-immunoprecipitation experiments. RESULTS: Our analysis revealed significant alterations in gene expression profiles between AAA and control samples, with a pronounced immune response and cell adhesion pathways being implicated. Single-cell RNA sequencing data highlighted an increased proportion of pro-inflammatory macrophages, along with changes in the composition of fibroblasts and VSMCs in AAA. CellPhoneDB analysis identified critical ligand-receptor interactions, notably collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COL1A1)/COL1A2-CD18 and thrombospondin 1 (THBS1)-CD3, suggesting complex communication networks between fibroblasts and VSMCs. In vivo experiments confirmed the upregulation of these genes in AAA mice and demonstrated the functional interaction between COL1A1/COL1A2 and CD18. CONCLUSION: The interaction between fibroblasts and VSMCs, mediated by specific ligand-receptor pairs such as COL1A1/COL1A2-CD18 and THBS1-CD3, plays a pivotal role in AAA pathogenesis.

Asunto(s)

Aneurisma de la Aorta Abdominal , Músculo Liso Vascular , Análisis de Secuencia de ARN , Análisis de la Célula Individual , Aneurisma de la Aorta Abdominal/genética , Aneurisma de la Aorta Abdominal/patología , Aneurisma de la Aorta Abdominal/metabolismo , Animales , Ratones , Análisis de la Célula Individual/métodos , Humanos , Análisis de Secuencia de ARN/métodos , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Macrófagos/metabolismo , Progresión de la Enfermedad , Fibroblastos/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Masculino , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Perfilación de la Expresión Génica/métodos , Comunicación Celular/genética , Colágeno Tipo I/genética , Colágeno Tipo I/metabolismo

RESUMEN

Neoatherosclerosis (NA) within stents has become an important clinical problem after coronary artery stent implantation. In-stent restenosis and in-stent thrombosis are the two major complications following coronary stent placement and seriously affect patient prognosis. As the common pathological basis of these two complications, NA plaques, unlike native atherosclerotic plaques, often grow around residual oxidized lipids and stent struts. The main components are foam cells formed by vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) engulfing oxidized lipids at lipid residue sites. Current research mainly focuses on optical coherence tomography (OCT) and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), but the specific pathogenesis of NA is still unclear. A thorough understanding of the pathogenesis and pathological features of NA provides a theoretical basis for clinical treatment. This article reviews the previous research of our research group and the current situation of domestic and foreign research.

Asunto(s)

Tomografía de Coherencia Óptica , Humanos , Reestenosis Coronaria/etiología , Reestenosis Coronaria/diagnóstico por imagen , Reestenosis Coronaria/terapia , Reestenosis Coronaria/patología , Aterosclerosis/terapia , Aterosclerosis/diagnóstico por imagen , Aterosclerosis/metabolismo , Aterosclerosis/patología , Placa Aterosclerótica/patología , Placa Aterosclerótica/terapia , Placa Aterosclerótica/diagnóstico por imagen , Stents/efectos adversos , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Ultrasonografía Intervencional/métodos , Enfermedad de la Arteria Coronaria/terapia , Enfermedad de la Arteria Coronaria/diagnóstico por imagen , Enfermedad de la Arteria Coronaria/etiología , Enfermedad de la Arteria Coronaria/patología , Células Espumosas/patología , Células Espumosas/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo

RESUMEN

The proliferative and migratory abilities of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play a crucial role in neointima formation following vascular injury. Skp2 facilitates proliferation and migration in cells through cell cycle regulation, presenting an important therapeutic target for atherosclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, and vascular restenosis. This study aimed to identify a natural product capable of inhibiting neointima formation post vascular injury. Here, we demonstrate that troxerutin, a flavonoid, significantly reduced viability and downregulated Skp2 in VSMCs. Moreover, troxerutin exhibited anti-proliferative effects on VSMCs and mitigated neointima formation. These findings collectively elucidate the intrinsic mechanism of troxerutin in treating atherosclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, and vascular restenosis by targeting the E3-linked enzyme Skp2.

Asunto(s)

Proliferación Celular , Hidroxietilrutósido , Músculo Liso Vascular , Neointima , Proteínas Quinasas Asociadas a Fase-S , Hidroxietilrutósido/análogos & derivados , Hidroxietilrutósido/farmacología , Proteínas Quinasas Asociadas a Fase-S/metabolismo , Proteínas Quinasas Asociadas a Fase-S/antagonistas & inhibidores , Neointima/tratamiento farmacológico , Neointima/patología , Neointima/metabolismo , Animales , Proliferación Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Músculo Liso Vascular/efectos de los fármacos , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/citología , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/efectos de los fármacos , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Proteolisis/efectos de los fármacos , Supervivencia Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Humanos , Movimiento Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Regulación hacia Abajo/efectos de los fármacos , Ratas

RESUMEN

Human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (HA-VSMCs) play vital roles in the pathogenesis of vascular diseases, including Atherosclerosis (AS). Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to regulate the biological functions of HA-VSMCs. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the role and mechanism of hsa_circRNA_102353 (circ_0007765) in platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB)-induced HA-VSMCs. Circ_0007765, microRNA-654-3p (miR-654-3p), and Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor Substrate 2 (FRS2) expression were measured using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Cell proliferative ability, invasion, and migration were detected by 3-(4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT), 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU), Transwell, and wound healing assays. CyclinD1, MMP2, and FRS2 protein levels were assessed using a Western blot assay. Binding between miR-654-3p and circ_0007765 or FRS2 was predicted by Circinteractome or TargetScan, and verified using dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays. PDGF-BB induced HA-VSMC proliferation, invasion, and migration. Circ_0007765 and FRS2 expression levels were increased in PDGF-BB-treated HA-VSMCs, and the miR-654-3p level was reduced. Moreover, circ_0007765 absence hindered PDGF-BB-induced HA-VSMC proliferation, invasion, and migration in vitro. At the molecular level, circ_0007765 increased FRS2 expression by acting as a sponge for miR-654-3p. Our findings revealed that circ_0007765 boosted PDGF-BB-induced HA-VSMC proliferation and migration through elevating FRS2 expression via adsorbing miR-654-3p, providing a feasible therapeutic strategy for AS.

Asunto(s)

Proteínas Adaptadoras Transductoras de Señales , Aterosclerosis , Becaplermina , Movimiento Celular , Proliferación Celular , Proteínas de la Membrana , MicroARNs , Músculo Liso Vascular , Miocitos del Músculo Liso , ARN Circular , Transducción de Señal , Humanos , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/efectos de los fármacos , Proliferación Celular/efectos de los fármacos , ARN Circular/metabolismo , ARN Circular/genética , Becaplermina/farmacología , Movimiento Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/efectos de los fármacos , MicroARNs/metabolismo , MicroARNs/genética , Aterosclerosis/patología , Aterosclerosis/metabolismo , Aterosclerosis/genética , Células Cultivadas , Proteínas Adaptadoras Transductoras de Señales/metabolismo , Proteínas Adaptadoras Transductoras de Señales/genética , Proteínas de la Membrana/metabolismo , Proteínas de la Membrana/genética , Aorta/patología , Aorta/metabolismo , Metaloproteinasa 2 de la Matriz/metabolismo , Metaloproteinasa 2 de la Matriz/genética , Regulación de la Expresión Génica , Ratones Noqueados para ApoE , Animales

RESUMEN

The phenotypic switch of vascular smooth cells (VSMCs) from a contractile to a synthetic state is associated with the development and progression of aortic aneurysm (AA). However, the mechanism underlying this process remains unclear. In this issue of the JCI, Song et al. identified SLC44A2 as a regulator of the phenotypic switch in VSMCs. Inhibition of SLC44A2 facilitated the switch to the synthetic state, contributing to the development of AA. Mechanistically, SLC44A2 interacted with NRP1 and ITGB3 to activate the TGF-ß/SMAD signaling pathway, resulting in VSMCs with a contractile phenotype. Furthermore, VSMC-specific SLC44A2 overexpression by genetic or pharmacological manipulation reduced AA in mouse models. These findings suggest the potential of targeting the SLC44A2 signaling pathway for AA prevention and treatment.

Asunto(s)

Aneurisma de la Aorta , Músculo Liso Vascular , Miocitos del Músculo Liso , Transducción de Señal , Animales , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Aneurisma de la Aorta/metabolismo , Aneurisma de la Aorta/patología , Aneurisma de la Aorta/genética , Ratones , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Humanos , Fenotipo , Factor de Crecimiento Transformador beta/metabolismo , Factor de Crecimiento Transformador beta/genética , Integrina beta3/metabolismo , Integrina beta3/genética , Proteínas de Transporte de Membrana/metabolismo , Proteínas de Transporte de Membrana/genética , Neuropilina-1/metabolismo , Neuropilina-1/genética

RESUMEN

Aortic aneurysm and dissection (AAD) is a cardiovascular disease that poses a severe threat to life and has high morbidity and mortality rates. Clinical and animal-based studies have irrefutably shown that fluoroquinolones, a commonly prescribed antibiotic for treating infections, significantly increase the risk of AAD. Despite this, the precise mechanism by which fluoroquinolones cause AAD remains unclear. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the molecular mechanism and role of Ciprofloxacin definitively-a type of fluoroquinolone antibiotic-in the progression of AAD. Aortic transcriptome data were collected from GEO datasets to detect the genes and pathways expressed differently between healthy donors and AAD patients. Human primary Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells (VSMCs) were isolated from the aorta. After 72 h of exposure to 110ug/ml Ciprofloxacin or 100 nmol/L AngII, either or combined, the senescent cells were identified through SA-ß-gal staining. MitoTracker staining was used to examine the morphology of mitochondria in each group. Cellular Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) levels were measured using MitoSox and DCFH-DA staining. Western blot assay was performed to detect the protein expression level. We conducted an analysis of transcriptome data from both healthy donors and patients with AAD and found that there were significant changes in cellular senescence-related signaling pathways in the latter group. We then isolated and identified human primary VSMCs from healthy donors (control-VSMCs) and patients' (AAD-VSMCs) aortic tissue, respectively. We found that VSMCs from patients exhibited senescent phenotype as compared to control-VSMCs. The higher levels of p21 and p16 and elevated SA-ß-gal activity demonstrated this. We also found that pretreatment with Ciprofloxacin promoted angiotensin-II-induced cellular senescence in control-VSMCs. This was evidenced by increased SA-ß-gal activity, decreased cell proliferation, and elevation of p21 and p16 protein levels. Additionally, we found that Angiotensin-II (AngII) induced VSMC senescence by promoting ROS generation. We used DCFH-DA and mitoSOX staining to identify that Ciprofloxacin and AngII pretreatment further elevated ROS levels than the vehicle or alone group. Furthermore, JC-1 staining showed that mitochondrial membrane potential significantly declined in the Ciprofloxacin and AngII combination group compared to others. Compared to the other three groups, pretreatment of Ciprofloxacin plus AngII could further induce mitochondrial fission, demonstrated by mitoTracker staining and western blotting assay. Mechanistically, we found that Ciprofloxacin impaired the balance of mitochondrial fission and fusion dynamics in VSMCs by suppressing the phosphorylation of AMPK signaling. This caused mitochondrial dysfunction and ROS generation, thereby elevating AngII-induced cellular senescence. However, treatment with the AMPK activator partially alleviated those effects. Our data indicate that Ciprofloxacin may accelerate AngII-induced VSMC senescence through modulating AMPK/ROS signaling and, subsequently, hasten the progression of AAD.

Asunto(s)

Proteínas Quinasas Activadas por AMP , Angiotensina II , Disección Aórtica , Senescencia Celular , Ciprofloxacina , Músculo Liso Vascular , Miocitos del Músculo Liso , Especies Reactivas de Oxígeno , Transducción de Señal , Humanos , Senescencia Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Músculo Liso Vascular/efectos de los fármacos , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/enzimología , Disección Aórtica/inducido químicamente , Disección Aórtica/patología , Disección Aórtica/enzimología , Disección Aórtica/metabolismo , Transducción de Señal/efectos de los fármacos , Especies Reactivas de Oxígeno/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/efectos de los fármacos , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/enzimología , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Angiotensina II/toxicidad , Células Cultivadas , Ciprofloxacina/farmacología , Proteínas Quinasas Activadas por AMP/metabolismo , Estudios de Casos y Controles , Aneurisma de la Aorta/inducido químicamente , Aneurisma de la Aorta/patología , Aneurisma de la Aorta/metabolismo , Aneurisma de la Aorta/enzimología , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Estrés Oxidativo/efectos de los fármacos

RESUMEN

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) arises from increased pulmonary vascular resistance due to contraction and remodeling of the pulmonary arteries. The structural changes include thickening of the smooth muscle layer from increased proliferation and resistance to apoptosis. The mechanisms underlying apoptosis resistance in PH are not fully understood. In cancer cells, high expression of aquaporin 1 (AQP1), a water channel, is associated with apoptosis resistance. We showed AQP1 protein was expressed in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) and upregulated in preclinical PH models. In this study, we used PASMCs isolated from control male rats and the SU5416 plus hypoxia (SuHx) model to test the role of AQP1 in modulating susceptibility to apoptosis. We found the elevated level of AQP1 in PASMCs from SuHx rats was necessary for resistance to apoptosis and that apoptosis resistance could be conferred by increasing AQP1 in control PASMCs. In exploring the downstream pathways involved, we found AQP1 levels influence the expression of Bcl-2, with enhanced AQP1 levels corresponding to increased Bcl-2 expression, reducing the ratio of BAX to Bcl-2, consistent with apoptosis resistance. These results provide a mechanism by which AQP1 can regulate PASMC fate.

Asunto(s)

Apoptosis , Acuaporina 1 , Hipoxia , Indoles , Músculo Liso Vascular , Miocitos del Músculo Liso , Arteria Pulmonar , Pirroles , Animales , Acuaporina 1/metabolismo , Acuaporina 1/genética , Masculino , Arteria Pulmonar/metabolismo , Arteria Pulmonar/patología , Arteria Pulmonar/citología , Ratas , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Músculo Liso Vascular/citología , Pirroles/farmacología , Indoles/farmacología , Hipoxia/metabolismo , Ratas Sprague-Dawley , Hipertensión Pulmonar/metabolismo , Hipertensión Pulmonar/patología , Células Cultivadas , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-bcl-2/metabolismo , Proteínas Proto-Oncogénicas c-bcl-2/genética , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) intimal migration, proliferation, and phenotypic transformation from a contractile to a synthetic state are hallmarks of the progression of atherosclerotic plaques. This study aims to explore the effects of exosomes derived from M2 macrophages (ExoM2) on the pathological changes of VSMCs in atherosclerosis (AS). METHODS: Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) and wound healing assays were used to examine the impact of ExoM2 on platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB)-induced VSMC proliferation and migration, respectively. Western blotting was employed to analyze changes in the expression levels of contractile markers (e.g., alpha-smooth muscle actin [α-SMA]) and synthetic ones (e.g., osteopontin [OPN]) in VSMCs with or without ExoM2 treatment. ApoE-⁣/- mice on a high fat diet were utilized to observe the effects of ExoM2 on plaque progression and stability. Serial histopathological analysis was performed to elucidate the cellular mechanisms underlying the atheroprotective effects of ExoM2. RESULTS: Compared with controls, ExoM2 significantly inhibited PDGF-BB-induced VSMC proliferation, migration, and phenotypic transformation in vitro. In ApoE-⁣/- mice, ExoM2 treatment led to a marked reduction in plaque size, necrotic core area, the CD68/α-SMA ratio, and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) and OPN levels, while enhancing plaque stability. CONCLUSIONS: ExoM2 inhibit AS progression by regulating VSMC proliferation, migration, and phenotypic transformation.

Asunto(s)

Aterosclerosis , Becaplermina , Movimiento Celular , Proliferación Celular , Exosomas , Macrófagos , Músculo Liso Vascular , Miocitos del Músculo Liso , Fenotipo , Animales , Aterosclerosis/patología , Aterosclerosis/metabolismo , Macrófagos/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Exosomas/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/citología , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Becaplermina/metabolismo , Becaplermina/farmacología , Ratones , Masculino , Progresión de la Enfermedad , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Placa Aterosclerótica/patología , Placa Aterosclerótica/metabolismo , Células Cultivadas

RESUMEN

Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), often resulting in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), such as myocardial infarction and stroke due to the rupture or erosion of vulnerable plaques. Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of cell death, has been implicated in the development of atherosclerosis. Despite its involvement in CVDs, the specific role of ferroptosis in atherosclerotic plaque stability remains unclear. In this study, we confirmed the presence of ferroptosis in unstable atherosclerotic plaques and demonstrated that the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) stabilizes atherosclerotic plaques in apolipoprotein E knockout (Apoe-/-) mice. Using bioinformatic analysis combining RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) with single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), we identified Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) as a potential key regulator of ferroptosis in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) of unstable plaques. In vitro, we found that YAP1 protects against oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL)-induced ferroptosis in VSMCs. Mechanistically, YAP1 exerts its anti-ferroptosis effects by regulating the expression of glutaminase 1 (GLS1) to promote the synthesis of glutamate (Glu) and glutathione (GSH). These findings establish a novel mechanism where the inhibition of ferroptosis promotes the stabilization of atherosclerotic plaques through the YAP1/GLS1 axis, attenuating VSMC ferroptosis. Thus, targeting the YAP1/GLS1 axis to suppress VSMC ferroptosis may represent a novel strategy for preventing and treating unstable atherosclerotic plaques.

Asunto(s)

Ferroptosis , Músculo Liso Vascular , Placa Aterosclerótica , Proteínas Señalizadoras YAP , Animales , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Ratones , Placa Aterosclerótica/metabolismo , Placa Aterosclerótica/patología , Proteínas Señalizadoras YAP/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Humanos , Masculino , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Aterosclerosis/metabolismo , Aterosclerosis/patología , Aterosclerosis/genética , Ratones Noqueados , Proteínas Adaptadoras Transductoras de Señales/metabolismo , Proteínas Adaptadoras Transductoras de Señales/genética , Fenilendiaminas/farmacología , Ciclohexilaminas/farmacología , Apolipoproteínas E/metabolismo , Apolipoproteínas E/genética

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Exposure to ionizing radiation has been linked to cardiovascular diseases. However, the impact of moderate doses of radiation on abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) remains unknown. METHODS: Angiotensin II-infused Apoe-/- mice were irradiated (acute, 1 Gray) either 3 days before (Day-3) or 1 day after (Day+1) pomp implantation. Isolated primary aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were irradiated (acute 1 Gray) for mechanistic studies and functional testing in vitro. RESULTS: Day-3 and Day+1 irradiation resulted in a significant reduction in aorta dilation (Control: 1.39+/-0.12; Day-3: 1.12+/-0.11; Day+1: 1.15+/-0.08 mm, P<0.001) and AAA incidence (Control: 81.0%; Day-3: 33.3%, Day+1: 53.3%) compared to the non-irradiated group. Day-3 and Day+1 irradiation led to an increase in collagen content in the adventitia (Thickness control: 23.64+/-2.9; Day-3: 54.39+/-15.5; Day+1 37.55+/-10.8 mm, P = 0.006). However, the underlying protective mechanisms were different between Day-3 and Day+1 groups. Irradiation before Angiotensin II (AngII) infusion mainly modulated vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotype with a decrease in contractile profile and enhanced proliferative and migratory activity. Irradiation after AngII infusion led to an increase in macrophage content with a local anti-inflammatory phenotype characterized by the upregulation of M2-like gene and IL-10 expression. CONCLUSION: Moderate doses of ionizing radiation mitigate AAA either through VSCM phenotype or inflammation modulation, depending on the time of irradiation.

Asunto(s)

Angiotensina II , Aneurisma de la Aorta Abdominal , Músculo Liso Vascular , Miocitos del Músculo Liso , Radiación Ionizante , Animales , Aneurisma de la Aorta Abdominal/patología , Aneurisma de la Aorta Abdominal/metabolismo , Aneurisma de la Aorta Abdominal/etiología , Ratones , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/efectos de la radiación , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Angiotensina II/farmacología , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/efectos de la radiación , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Masculino , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Interleucina-10/metabolismo , Interleucina-10/genética , Colágeno/metabolismo , Proliferación Celular/efectos de la radiación

RESUMEN

The rupture of intracranial aneurysm (IA) is the primary reason contributing to the occurrence of life-threatening subarachnoid hemorrhages. The oxidative stress-induced phenotypic transformation from the contractile phenotype to the synthetic phenotype of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) plays a pivotal role in IA formation and rupture. Our study aimed to figure out the role of phoenixin-14 in VSMC phenotypic switching during the pathogenesis of IA by using both cellular and animal models. Primary rat VSMCs were isolated from the Willis circle of male Sprague-Dawley rats. VSMCs were stimulated by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to establish a cell oxidative damage model. After pretreatment with phoenixin-14 and exposure to H2O2, VSMC viability, migration, and invasion were examined through cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), wound healing, and Transwell assays. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in VSMCs was evaluated by using 2',7'-Dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFH-DA) fluorescence probes and flow cytometry. Rat IA models were established by ligation of the left common carotid arteries and posterior branches of both renal arteries. The histopathological changes of rat intracranial blood vessels were observed through hematoxylin and eosin staining. The levels of contractile phenotype markers (alpha-smooth muscle actin [α-SMA] and smooth muscle 22 alpha [SM22α]) in VSMCs and rat arterial rings were determined through real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blot analysis. Our results showed that H2O2 stimulated the production of intracellular ROS and induced oxidative stress in VSMCs, while phoenixin-14 pretreatment attenuated intracellular ROS levels in H2O2-exposed VSMCs. H2O2 exposure promoted VSMC migration and invasion, which, however, was reversed by phoenixin-14 pretreatment. Besides, phoenixin-14 administration inhibited IA formation and rupture in rat models. The decrease in α-SMA and SM22α levels in H2O2-exposed VSMCs and IA rat models was antagonized by phoenixin-14. Collectively, phoenixin-14 ameliorates the progression of IA through preventing the loss of the contractile phenotype of VSMCs.

Asunto(s)

Aneurisma Intracraneal , Músculo Liso Vascular , Miocitos del Músculo Liso , Ratas Sprague-Dawley , Animales , Músculo Liso Vascular/metabolismo , Músculo Liso Vascular/efectos de los fármacos , Músculo Liso Vascular/patología , Ratas , Masculino , Aneurisma Intracraneal/patología , Aneurisma Intracraneal/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/metabolismo , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/efectos de los fármacos , Miocitos del Músculo Liso/patología , Especies Reactivas de Oxígeno/metabolismo , Estrés Oxidativo/efectos de los fármacos , Peróxido de Hidrógeno/farmacología , Contracción Muscular/efectos de los fármacos