tbuckley/cabot-search huggingface dataset:
Role of Orai1 and Ca2+-stimulated adenylyl cyclase 8 in the adverse cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction
Authors: D Falcon Boyano, E Calderon Sanchez, M Martin-Bornez, J A Rosado, A Ordonez, T Smani
Journal: Cardiovascular Research (2024)

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Agencia Estatal de Investigación. Background It is well established that abnormalities in the regulation of the intracellular concentration of Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) occurs in diseased heart such as under acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Recent studies have demonstrated that proteins related to the Store Operated Calcium Entry (SOCE), such as Orai1/2/3 and TRPC channels, play a role in the adverse cardiac remodelling. Previously, we demonstrated that the expression of Orai1 increased in heart subjected to ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) syndrome. However, the signalling pathway implicated in Orai1 regulation has not been addressed. Objective The aim of this study was to examine the molecular mechanism and signalling pathways involved in the of Orai1 upregulation after I/R in cardiomyocytes. Materials and Methods The experiments were performed in adult (ARVM) and neonatal rat ventricular cardiomyocytes (NRVM), in a rat model of myocardial I/R and in ventricular biopsies of patients with ischemic heart failure. Ca2+ studies were realized using microfluorimetric technique in FURA-2AM loaded cardiomyocytes. Immunofluorescence was used to investigate CREB activation using a specific phospho-CREB antibody and Orai1 and AC8 protein expression were analysed by Western Blot. This study was performed in accordance with the recommendations of the Royal Decree 53/2013 in agreement to the Directive 2010/63/EU of the European Parliament and approved by the local Ethics Committee on human Research and the Animal Research Committee. Results We found that under I/R diastolic level of [Ca2+]i was significantly increased in cardiac myocytes isolated from I/R hearts, which was inhibited by SOCE blockers. Moreover, we found that Orai1 and Ca2+-sensitive adenylyl cyclase 8 (AC8) are overexpressed in the heart isolated from I/R rat model, as compared to sham. Similarly, we found significant increase in the expression of Orai1 and AC8 in ventricle biopsies of post-infarction patients with HF. We also observed that I/R stimulated cAMP production, involving Orai1 and AC8 activation in rats, indicating that Ca2+ entry through Orai1 stimulated AC8. Moreover, I/R phosphorylated cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) through PKA activation, but not via EPAC2 or ERK1/2. Interestingly, we found that CREB facilitated I/R-induced Orai1 upregulation and related exacerbated SOCE by its activation of Orai1 promoter under I/R. Finally, the intramyocardial administration of AAV9 holding AC8 shRNA decreased the expression of AC8, Orai1 and CREB, which restored diastolic [Ca2+]i. Conclusions Our results show that the activation of Orai1/AC8/CREB axis plays a key role in the I/R-induced Orai1 upregulation, which participated in diastolic [Ca2+]i mishandling related to the adverse cardiac remodelling.
Metabolic plasma signatures in thoracic aortic aneurysm associated to tricuspid and bicuspid aortic valves
Authors: A Martin Blazquez, M Martin Lorenzo, A Donado, A Heredero, C Diaz Navarro, P Mena Garcia, M Anfaiha Sanchez, A Santiago Hernandez, G Aldamiz Echevarria, G Alvarez Llamas
Journal: Cardiovascular Research (2024)

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Instituto de Salud Carlos III with co-funding from the ERDF and Comunidad de Madrid Background/Introduction Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) develops asymptomatic with life-threatening consequences and its diagnosis is usually fortuitous. TAA is mostly idiopathic, although its prevalence is significantly higher in subjects with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) for unknown reasons. We hypothesize that it is essential to investigate idiopathic TAA by differentiating between BAV and tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) patients for personalized diagnosis and treatment. Purpose We aimed to identify plasma metabolic profiles of aortic dilatation in idiopathic TAA, differentiating between subjects with BAV or TAV. Methods Plasma samples from 41 idiopathic TAA patients and 57 subjects without aortic dilatation (control, C) were collected and classified according to aortic valve type (BAV or TAV). Full metabolomics coverage was carried out by 1H RMN and LC-MS/MS untargeted analysis, including reverse phase and hydrophilic interaction chromatography and positive and negative electrospray ionization modes. Significant variation in metabolite levels were considered if FDR-adjusted p-value &amp;lt;0.05. Results Our analyses highlighted a metabolic signature specific for BAV and TAV subjects. BAV patients presented a marked glycerophospholipid metabolism alteration involving different lysophospholipids (LPAs, LPCs and LPEs) and phospholipids (PCs, PEs, PAs and PIs). Particularly, LPCs and LPEs were increased in BAV-TAA vs BAV-C, being an indicator of stimulation of glucose utilization through glycolysis and suppression of fatty acid biosynthesis. In contrast, carnitine-related metabolism was the most altered pathway observed in TAV subjects. In particular, we detected an increment in plasma acylcarnitines in TAV-TAA compared to TAV-C suggesting an altered β-oxidation of fatty acids and mitochondrial overload. Conclusions Idiopathic TAA development is differentially reflected in plasma from BAV and TAV patients, supporting an individualized diagnosis valve-dependent and suggesting also differential therapeutic targets.
MiR-92b-3p modulates apoptosis in smooth muscle cells through BCL2L11 regulation, unravelling novel therapeutic strategies for unstable plaques
Authors: J Koester, K Kalies, S Boettcher, S Guerlach, F Daniel, L Hehl, D G Sedding
Journal: Cardiovascular Research (2024)

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Smooth muscle cell (SMC) apoptosis is a contributory factor to plaque rupture in atherosclerosis, thereby promoting plaque destabilization through various mechanisms such as thrombogenic activation and plaque microcalcification. Immunohistochemical analysis has revealed elevated expression of proteins associated with intrinsic apoptosis, such as BCL2L11 (Bim), in unstable atherosclerotic plaques. Our hypothesis posits that Bim is a direct target of miR-92b-3p, an understudied microRNA, prompting an investigation into its role in regulating apoptosis in SMCs. Our objective is to discern a novel therapeutic axis for preventing plaque rupture by employing miRNA-based targeted interventions. Within a model of primary human vascular cells, we employed various in vitro techniques, including PCR, Western Blot, Live cell imaging, and ELISA. Lipotransfection facilitated transient modulation of miR-92b-3p, using both knockdown and elevation, while an siRNA transfection model was also utilized. MiR-92b-3p exhibits robust expression in late atherosclerotic lesions in vivo (p&amp;lt;0.001) and demonstrates heightened levels in smooth muscle cells (SMCs) compared to endothelial cells (ECs) in vitro (p&amp;lt;0.01) and in vivo in respective tissues (p&amp;lt;0.01). Bim, a direct target of miR-92b-3p, experiences upregulation post-miR-92b-3p knockdown and downregulation following pre-miR-92b-3p introduction into SMCs, both at mRNA and protein levels (p&amp;lt;0.01, p&amp;lt;0.01). Apoptosis increases in growth-medium cultured SMCs after miR-92b-3p knockdown (p&amp;lt;0.05), but not in senescent SMCs, ECs, or basal-medium treated SMCs. Live-cell imaging reveals a reduction in SMC count after anti-miR-92b-3p transfection (p&amp;lt;0.01), accompanied by cell shrinkage indicative of apoptosis 72 hours post-transfection (p&amp;lt;0.05). Growth factor stimulation results in miR-92b-3p upregulation (p&amp;gt;0.05) and Bim downregulation in SMCs. SiRNA knockdown of BIM in SMCs abolishes apoptosis induction through miR-92b-3p knockdown (p&amp;lt;0.05). Conversely, in apoptotic SMCs, miR-92b-3p upregulation protects cells from apoptosis (p&amp;lt;0.05). MiR-92b-3p effectively modulates mitochondrial apoptosis in SMCs by targeting BIM. This regulatory impact is exclusive to proliferative SMCs, known for their deleterious involvement in atherosclerotic plaques. Cumulatively, the elevation of miR-92b-3p via targeted miRNA therapeutics or miRNA-drug interactions in the advanced stages of atherosclerosis presents a potential therapeutic avenue for averting plaque rupture.
Endothelial cellular response to oxidative stress key to proteasome inhibitor cardiovascular toxicity profile
Authors: A G N E T A Mansson Broberg, E V A Wardell, M Sjoborg Alpman, J L Lund, C Sylven
Journal: Cardiovascular Research (2024)

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Karolinska Institutet Background/Introduction Proteasome inhibitors (PI) have contributed to longer survival in multiple myeloma although PI related cardiovascular adverse events are common. Associated to carfilzomib hypertension, coronary ischemic events and heart failure (both with reduced and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction). Here we explore the effect of PIs on endothelial gene expression. Methods Human aortic endothelial cells (HAEC) were incubated for 24 h with carfilzomib or bortezomib at different concentrations. Gene expression determined using using bcl2fastq (v2.20.0), and read quality was assessed using FastQC (v0.11.8). For each group the 100 genes with highest ratio were used for analysis of gene ontology (GO), biological processes using ClusterProfiler. The carfilzomib / bortezomib &amp;gt;1.5 was determined in the relevant GO groups. Results PIs induce gene expression related to inflammatory response and oxidative stress, more pronounced for carfilzomib. 44 / 31 genes related to "cytokine-mediated signaling pathway" and "response to oxidative stress pathway. NR4A3 was 15.5 fold above control while its increase with bortezomib was modest. Discussion Both carfilzomib and bortezomib induce genes related in inflammation and oxidative stress. Carfilzomib induced more pronounced upregulations in several genes, that stimulates expression of increased cellular respiration. Our result show a differentiated effect on endothelial cell gene expression by carfilzomib and bortezomib -a possible explanation to the differences in cardiovascular toxicity profile. Figure 1. Selected GO, Biological function characteristics calculated on the top 100 fold-change genes in each group. C2 high dose carfilzomib, B1 and B2 low and high dose bortezomib. C1 did not converge to any GO characteristics.
Mitochondrial players as novel therapeutic options in arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy
Authors: C Volani, A Medici, R Philippe, A Lavdas, I Della Corte, M Lang, L S Frommelt, M Blumer, E Sommariva, G Pompilio, J Troppmair, A Rossini
Journal: Cardiovascular Research (2024)

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Joint Project Südtirol- FWF (grant number 23623; Italy-Austria) and the Department of Innovation, Research and University of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano-South Tyrol (Italy) Background Mitochondria are dynamic organelles that sense and respond to environmental, nutritional, and pathological changes. These organelles can smartly adapt to different stressful conditions, by changing the way they network or the energy sources they use. Over the past years, numerous disorders have been associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, including cardiomyopathies. Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a cardiac disease characterized by the progressive replacement of the myocardium with fibro-fatty tissue. The current treatment primarily focuses on managing the symptoms rather than addressing the underlying issue of tissue substitution. Purpose: Therefore, in this study, we explored the mitochondrial and metabolic phenotype in ACM and tested the efficacy of a mitochondria-targeting library to rescue the fibro-fatty phenotype in ACM Methods: Human primary cardiac stromal cells (CStCs) were cultured in adipogenic medium (AM), a condition used to model the ACM fibro-fatty phenotype. Mitochondria-related analyses of ultrastructure, membrane potential, network connection, respiratory capacity, ROS production and redox system were performed at day (d) d0, d3, d7, d15 of AM exposure. A mitochondria-targeting library (MedChem Express) was tested on ACM-CStCs exposed to AM for 7 days. The extent of lipid accumulation was determined using the neutral lipid staining dye BODIPY 493/503, cell numbers were measured using Hoechst counterstaining, and images acquired using a high-content imaging system Results: At d0, the mitochondrial network was more fragmented in ACM compared to healthy CStCs (CTR). This result was in line with the observation of a decrease in mitochondrial respiratory capacity and an increase in ROS production. In addition, AM exposure led to faster and higher lipid accumulation in ACM CStCs, which was associated with higher mitochondrial oxygen consumption rates observed in ACM CStCs after 7 days of AM exposure. When ACM CStCs were simultaneously exposed to AM and 407 mitochondrial-directed compounds, about 25% of the compounds demonstrated the ability to reduce lipid accumulation Conclusion: ACM CStCs demonstrate an increased risk for mitochondrial network impairment. Moreover, prolonged exposure of ACM CStCs cells to AM negatively affects lipid deposition as well as mitochondrial and metabolic parameters. This highlights the potential for using specific mitochondria-targeting compounds to reduce lipid accumulation.
MiR-32-5p as potential key mediator of vascular remodeling enhances cell proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: T D Wils, K Kalies, S Guerlach, J M Koester, S Boettcher, F Daniel, L Hehl, K Knoepp, J Dutzmann, D G Sedding
Journal: Cardiovascular Research (2024)

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): University Hospital Halle, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg Background and purpose The dysfunctionality of endothelial cells (EC) and smooth muscle cells (SMC) contributes to the progression of vascular remodeling and subsequent cardiovascular pathologies. Several microRNAs (miRNA) have been revealed as key regulators of EC and SMC function, therefore suggesting them as potential targets in the modulation of vascular remodeling. Here, we investigate the potential role of miR-32-5p in vascular cell function and its potential as a therapeutic target in vascular remodeling. Material and Methods Initial screenings by qRT-PCR analysis for miR-32-5p expression were performed in murine femoral artery tissue on day 10 and 21 after wire-induced injury in C57Bl6 mice, serving as restenosis model. MiR-32-5p expression was assessed using qRT-PCR in human vascular endothelial (HVECs) and human vascular smooth muscle cells (HVSMC). The role of miR-32-5p on cellular functions, as migration and proliferation, was determined by performing scratch wound and BrdU assays. Potential miR-32-5p downstream targets were identified from literature and their expression levels upon interference with miR-32-5p evaluated on mRNA and protein levels. Results MiR-32-5p expression was decreased over time in the wire-induced injury model. In vitro, miR-32-5p expression was significantly decreased in replicative senescent HVSMC and HVEC (p&amp;lt;0,05) and relatively higher in HVSMC than in HVEC for all conditions. Under growth conditions an elevated expression of miR-32-5p in HVEC and significantly increased expression in HVSMC was detected (p&amp;lt;0,01). Proliferation in HVSMC increased significantly (p&amp;lt;0,05) by pre-miR-32-5p transfection, but remained unaffected in HVEC. Migration of HVECs and HVSMCs was improved by miR-32-5p and decelerated after antagomiR interference. Systemic literature target research revealed several potential targets in both cell types, of which the following were significantly downregulated in HVSMC after pre-miR transfection including PIK3r3 (p&amp;lt;0,05), KLF4 (p&amp;lt;0,05), CD69 (p&amp;lt;0,01), MAP2K4 (p&amp;lt;0,05) and BCL211 (p&amp;lt;0,01). Additionally, CD69 and KLF4 expression increased significantly either in HVECs (p&amp;lt;0,05). Conclusion Our results suggest that miR-32-5p may be a substantial regulator in HVEC and HVSMC senescence and function and subsequently in vascular remodeling. To fully evaluate its role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and therefore, its therapeutic potential in cardiovascular diseases, further investigations are needed. Additional experiments with the purpose of investigating miR-32-5p-target interactions and apoptotic effects will be performed shortly.
Mutation in PDGFRbeta: a potential new pathogenic variant for acquired mitral valve prolapse
Authors: H W Wu, M El Ouraoui, A L Van Wijnwaarden, B Mousavi Gourabi, A M Smits, D Q C M Barge-Schaapveld, A A F De Vries, J W Jukema, B P T Kruithof, N Ajmone Marsan
Journal: Cardiovascular Research (2024)

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Background Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) due to myxomatous degeneration is characterized by familial clustering, but few pathogenic genes have been identified. In a genetic screening program for MVP patients, we identified a platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFRβ)-E162K missense variant in a family with a bi-leaflet MVP phenotype in four affected family members. PDGFRβ is a receptor tyrosine kinase, which plays an important role in vascular development. Purpose In this study, we investigated whether the E162K substitution in PDGFRβ could lead to mitral valve abnormalities. Methods To assess the functional effects of the missense variant, proliferation and migration assays were performed using HeLa cells overexpressing wild-type (WT) or mutant PDGFRβ. Immunostainings were performed to determine PDGFRβ expression in the diseased valves from a family member undergoing surgical operation and from additional patients operated for MVP. Mouse models were created with the mouse equivalent of the human PDGFRβ-E162K variant (PDGFRβ-E161K) using CRISPR/CAS9. The variant was not lethal and transthoracic echocardiography was performed on adult homozygous PDGFRβE161K/E161K mice, heterozygous PDGFRβE161K/- mice, and WT mice . In addition, histology was performed in adult and neonatal mice to detect potential valvular defects. Results HeLa cells expressing PDGFRβ-E162K and stimulated with PDGFD showed reduced proliferation and migration, suggesting a loss of function of the mutant receptor. PDGFRβ was expressed in human diseased mitral valves. Echocardiographic evaluation revealed a significant larger mitral valve annulus diameter in both PDGFRβE161K/- and PDGFRβE161K/E161K compared to WT (WT: 1.97 mm; PDGFRβE161K/-:2.13, p=0.031; PDGFRβE161K/E161K:2.42 mm, p&amp;lt;0.0001). Histological data in PDGFRβE161K/E161K mice showed significant leaflet thickening in the free edge (FE) of the posterior mitral valve leaflet (PMVL) compared to WT (WT: 72.34 ɥm; PDGFRβE161K/E161K: 109.6 ɥm, p=0.040) and a larger leaflet area of the PMVL compared to WT (WT: 25280 ɥm²; PDGFRβE161K/E161K: 44494 ɥm², p=0.020). Moreover, an altered organization of the extracellular matrix reminiscent of the myxomatous degeneration in MVP was observed. These alterations were not observed in mutant neonatal hearts. Conclusions The PDGFRβ-E162K variant is associated with familial MVP and alters the function of PDGFRβ. Mice harboring this mutation display acquired mitral valve defects.
HCN2-based biological pacing in a modified rat AV-block model
Authors: T Jonker, K Park, S Schroedel, K Neef, M Klerk, O F Kirzner, H L Tan, V M Christoffels, G J J Boink
Journal: Cardiovascular Research (2024)

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – EU funding. Main funding source(s): Eurostars - Heartpace 114245 Background Electronic pacemakers have several important shortcomings which are difficult to overcome due to their hardware-based design. Gene therapy-based biological pacemakers may provide a different platform which can overcome these limitations. Such biological pacemaker strategies center around overexpression of the pacemaker ion channel HCN2, either alone or with other transgenes to potentiate pacemaker performance, such as the skeletal muscle sodium channel SkM1. In order to develop clinically applicable pacemaker gene therapies further engineering is needed, which would benefit from a reliable small animal model. At present it is unknown if the rat AV block model can be used to evaluate ion channel-based biological pacing. Aim In the present study, we aim to validate a modified rat AV-block model for the evaluation of HCN2 and SKM1-based biological pacing. Methods AV-block was generated in female rats by epicardially applied needle ablation of the AV-nodal region, as previously described (N.K. ). Complete AV-block was confirmed 7 days post-ablation by loss of P-wave and QRS-complex association on the body surface ECG. Seven days post-ablation, 3 groups of animals were injected into the left ventricular apex with Ad5-TNNT2-HCN2, Ad5-TNNT2-SkM1 or saline (control). 14 days post-ablation, ECG analysis was performed during anesthesia under baseline and after i.v. administration of isoprenaline. Upon completion of functional testing, tissue samples were harvested followed by gene expression analysis using qPCR. Results Injection of Ad5-TNNT2-HCN2, Ad5-TNNT2-SkM1 or saline did not result in ectopic activation patterns in baseline conditions 7 days after injection. Administration of isoprenaline results in reversal of the QRS complexes 90% of total measurement time in Ad5-TNNT2-HCN2 injected animals. Saline and Ad5-TNNT2-SkM1 showed no change in activation pattern upon isoprenaline administration. Gene expression analysis revealed expression of HCN2 in the injection site following Ad5-TNNT2-HCN2 injection, with minimal spread to non-target regions. However, this analysis also showed Ad5-TNNT2-SkM1 did not express well in this context. Conclusion Our modified rat AV-block model, when administered with isoprenaline, recapitulated expected biological pacemaker activity of HCN2 gene delivery. However, lack of effective expression of SkM1 renders direct comparison of these relevant transgenes difficult. Nevertheless, we expect this rat AV-block model can provide a valuable tool for the evaluation of novel ion channel-based biological pacemaker strategies.