Background and objectives Proliferation of human vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) induced by hyperinsulinemia is a very common clinical pathology. Extensive research has focused on PKC (Protein kinase C)-MAPK (mit...Background and objectives Proliferation of human vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) induced by hyperinsulinemia is a very common clinical pathology. Extensive research has focused on PKC (Protein kinase C)-MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase)intracellular signal transduction and the phenotypic modulation accompanied by reorganization of intracellular F-actins in VSMCs.Methods DNA synthesis, signaling of ERK1/2 MAPKs, and changes in α-smooth muscle (SM) actin and F-actin were studied in hypertensive and normotensive human arterial VSMCs exposed to insulin and PMA with and without the PKC inhibitor, GF109203X.Results Differences among cell types in MAPK signaling, α-SM actin, and F-actin isoforms in VSMCs harvested from the arteries of patients with essential hypertension (EH) and normotension (NT) were identified in response to insulin treatment. Proliferation and activation of MAPK were more pronounced in EH VSMCs than in NEH VSMCs. Insulin exposure decreased expression of α-SM actin and was accompanied by rearrangement of intracellular F-actins in VSMCs, especially in the EH group. These effects were reversed by treatment with the PKC inhibitor. Conclusions Human mesenteric VSMCs of EH and NT patients differed in proliferation, MAPK signaling, and degree of changes in α-SM actin and F-actin isoforms immediately following insulin exposure in vitro.展开更多
In order to investigate the origin of neointimal smooth muscle cells in transplant arterio- sclerosis in rat aortic allograft, sex-mismatched bone marrow transplantation was performed from male Wistar rats to female W...In order to investigate the origin of neointimal smooth muscle cells in transplant arterio- sclerosis in rat aortic allograft, sex-mismatched bone marrow transplantation was performed from male Wistar rats to female Wistar rats. Four weeks after transplantation, the aortic transplant model was established by means of micro-surgery in rats. The recipients were divided into 4 groups: female Wistar-female Wistar aortic isografts, female SD-female Wistar aortic allografts, male SD-male Wis- tar aortic allografts, female SD-chimera Wistar aortic allografts. Eight weeks after transplantation, aortic grafts were removed at autopsy and processed for histological evaluation and immunohisto- chemistry. The results indicated that excessive accumulation of α-SMA-positive smooth muscle cells resulted in significant neointima formation and vascular lumen stricture in rat aortic allografts. Neointima assay revealed that the neointimal area and NIA/MA ratio of transplanted artery were sig- nificantly increased in all of aortic allograft groups as compared with those in aortic isograft group (P<0.01). Neointimal smooth muscle cells were harvested from cryostat sections of aortic allograft by microdissection method. The Sry gene-specific PCR was performed, and the result showed that a dis- tinct DNA band of 225 bp emerged in the male-male aortic allograft group and chimera aortic al- lograft group respectively, but not in the female-female aortic allograft group. It was suggested that recipient bone-marrow cells, as the origin of neointimal smooth muscle cells, contributed to the pathological neointimal hyperplasia of aortic allograft and transplant arteriosclerosis.展开更多
Functional responses to angiotensin Ⅱ (AT-Ⅱ) were determined in aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from experimental cirrhotic rats. Our data showed that AT-Ⅱ-stimulated extracellular acidification rate (E...Functional responses to angiotensin Ⅱ (AT-Ⅱ) were determined in aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from experimental cirrhotic rats. Our data showed that AT-Ⅱ-stimulated extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), which was measured by Cytosensor microphysiometry, was significantly reduced in the aortic VSMCs from the cirrhotic rats as compared to those from the control animals. The ability of AT-Ⅱ to promote formation of inositol phosphates, the second messenger produced by the activation of Gq-coupled receptors, was also considerably suppressed in the cirrhotic VSMCs. Furthermore, the maximal p42/44 MAPK phosphorylation stimulated by AT-Ⅱ was significantly reduced in the cirrhotic VSMCs in contrast to that in the normal VSMCs. Taken together, our data clearly demonstrated that the functional responses to AT-Ⅱ was severely suppressed in aortic VSMCs in cirrhosis, indicating the impairment of general Gq-coupled receptor signaling and subsequent biological function in the cirrhotic VSMCs.展开更多
To evaluate cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression induced by insulin in cultured rat vascularmuscle smooth cells (VSMCs). Methods: The rat VSMCs were isolated and cultured in 60 mm plates, pre-treated with in-sulin 10, ...To evaluate cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression induced by insulin in cultured rat vascularmuscle smooth cells (VSMCs). Methods: The rat VSMCs were isolated and cultured in 60 mm plates, pre-treated with in-sulin 10, 100, 500, 1 000 mU/L for 6 h, and 100 mU/L for 3, 6, 12, and 24 h, respectively. RT-PCR was performed tomeasure COX-2 mRNA induction, and Western-blot was used to measure protein expression. In regard to the COX-2 enzymeactivity, after stimulation for a specified duration, the culture medium was collected; Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) released byVSMCs was measured with an EIA kit. Results: Three hours after insulin (100 mU/L) stimulation, the induction of COX-2mRNA was detectable and increased with the time and dosage of insulin. Insulin induced COX-2 protein expression occurredin a time- and dose-dependent manner. In rat VSMCs, COX-2 induced by insulin resulted in PGE2 production, which wasincreased with insulin action. Conclusion: Insulin could induce COX-2 expression and PGE2 production in VSMCs in time-and dose-dependent manners.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the production of nitric oxide(NO) and the expression of indurible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). and their possible role in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Methods: A total of 28 patients wit...Objective:To investigate the production of nitric oxide(NO) and the expression of indurible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). and their possible role in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Methods: A total of 28 patients with AAA, 10 healthy controls, and 8 patients with arterial occlusive disease were enrolled into this study. Standard colorimetric assay was used to examine NO concentration in plasma from patients with AAA and normal controls, and in cultured smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Expression of iNOS in aortas and cultured SMCs were detected by immunochemistry. The correlation of iNOS expression with age of the patient, size of aneurysm, and degree of inflammation was also investigated by Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel X2 test and Kendall correlation. Results: Expression of iNOS increased significantly in the wall of aneurism in the patients with AAA compared to the healthy controls (P<0. 05) and the patients with occlusive arteries (P<0. 05). iNOS protein and media NOx (nitrite + nitrate) also increased in cultured SMCs from human AAA (n = 4, P<0. 05), while plasma NOx decreased in patients with AAA (n = 25) compared to the healthy controls (n = 20). There was a positive correlation between iNOS protein and the degree of inflammation in aneurismal wall (Kendall coefficient = 0. 5032, P = 0. 0029). Conclusion: SMCs and inflammatory cells are main cellular sources of increased iNOS in AAA, and NO may play a part in pathogenesis in AAA through inflammation, SMCs and oxidative stress.展开更多
The effects of captopril (Cap) and verapamil (Ver)alone and in combination on intracellular Na+ concentration ([Na+]i) in cultured aortic smooth muscle cells (ASMC) of rabbits was evaluated by a direct measurement of ...The effects of captopril (Cap) and verapamil (Ver)alone and in combination on intracellular Na+ concentration ([Na+]i) in cultured aortic smooth muscle cells (ASMC) of rabbits was evaluated by a direct measurement of [Na+]i with fluorescent dye sodium-binding benzofuran isophthalate (SBFI) combined with digital image. [Na+]i in resting cells was found to be 11.9 ± 0. 7 mmol/L. Angiotensin II (Ang-II, 0.1-10μmol/L) induced an increase of [Na+]i in concentration-dependent manner. Ver (0.1-10μmol/L) inhibited Ang-II (1 μmol/L)-induced increase in [Na+]i, while Cap enhanced Ang-II-induced increase in [Na+]i at 10μmol/L but not at 0.1-1μmol/L. Ver (0.1-1μmol/L)abolished enhancement of Ang-II-induced increase in [Na+]i by Cap. Thus, the inhibition of Capenhanced [Na+]i by Ver may provide a new hypothesis for the underlying molecular mechanism of synergistic effect of the combination of Ca2+ antagonists and angiotensinconverting enzyme inhibitors in controlling blood pressure.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the role of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-7 (IGFBP-7) in the activation and transdifferentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) in vitro.METHODS:Rat HSC-T6 cells were cultured in separ...AIM:To investigate the role of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-7 (IGFBP-7) in the activation and transdifferentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) in vitro.METHODS:Rat HSC-T6 cells were cultured in separate dishes and treated with various concentration of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1,IGFBP-7 or antiIGFBP-7 antibody for 24 h.The supernatant or a cytoplasm suspension was obtained from cultured HSC,followed by transfer of cells to form cell-coated dishes.Immunocytochemistry and Western blotting were used to analyze the expression of IGFBP-7 induced by TGF-β1 and the level of fibronectin,collagen and α-smooth muscle actin (SMA).The pro-apoptotic effect of antiIGFBP-7 antibody was determined by flow cytometry.RESULTS:Immunocytochemistry and Western blotting revealed that the expression of IGFBP-7 in TGF-β1 treated HSC was significantly up-regulated compared to that in the control group.In addition,fibronectin,collagen and α-SMA also showed enhanced expression in accordance with the transdifferentiation process in a dose-dependent manner to some extent.Moreover,flow cytometry suggested that anti-IGFBP-7 antibody induced apoptosis of activated HSC,which is responsible for the development of liver fibrosis,and may represent a novel pathway and target for therapeutic intervention.CONCLUSION:IGFBP-7 showed increased expression in activated HSC and played an important role in the activation and transdifferentiation process of HSC.AntiIGFBP-7 antibody may ameliorate liver fibrogenesis.展开更多
BACKGROUND: We previously showed that insulin-like growth factor binding protein-related protein 1 (IGFBPrP1) is a novel mediator in liver fibrosis. Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF beta 1) is known as the stron...BACKGROUND: We previously showed that insulin-like growth factor binding protein-related protein 1 (IGFBPrP1) is a novel mediator in liver fibrosis. Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF beta 1) is known as the strongest effector of liver fibrosis. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the detailed interaction between IGFBPrP1 and TGF beta 1 in primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). METHODS: We overexpressed TGF beta 1 or IGFBPrP1 and inhibited TGF beta 1 expression in primary HSCs for 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours to investigate their interaction and observe the accompanying expressions of a-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA), collagen I, fibronectin, and phosphorylated-mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2/3 (p-Smad2/3). RESULTS: We found that the adenovirus vector encoding the TGF beta 1 gene (AdTGF beta 1) induced IGFBPrP1 expression while that of alpha-SMA, collagen I, fibronectin, and TGF beta 1 increased gradually. Concomitantly, AdIGFBPrP1 upregulated TGF beta 1, alpha-SMA, collagen I, fibronectin, and p-Smad2/3 in a time-dependent manner while IGFBPrP1 expression was decreased at 96 hours. Inhibition of TGF beta 1 expression reduced the IGFBPrP1-stimulated expression of alpha-SMA, collagen I, fibronectin, and p-Smad2/3. CONCLUSIONS: These findings for the first time suggest the existence of a possible mutually regulation between IGFBPrP1 and TGF beta 1, which likely accelerates liver fibrosis progression. Furthermore, IGFBPrP1 likely participates in liver fibrosis in a TGF beta 1-depedent manner, and may act as an upstream regulatory factor of TGF beta 1 in the Smad pathway.展开更多
AIM: To investigate whether the reduction of stem cell factor (SCF) is mediated by decreased endogenous insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 in diabetic rat colon smooth muscle. METHODS: Sixteen Sprague-Dawley rats were...AIM: To investigate whether the reduction of stem cell factor (SCF) is mediated by decreased endogenous insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 in diabetic rat colon smooth muscle. METHODS: Sixteen Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups: control group and streptozotocin-induced diabetic group. After 8 wk of streptozotocin administration, colonic motility function and contractility of circular muscle strips were measured. The expression of endogenous IGF-1 and SCF was tested in colonic tissues. Colonic smooth muscle cells were cultured from normal adult rats. IGF-1 siRNA transfection was used to investigate whether SCF expression was affected by endogenous IGF-1 expression in smooth muscle cells, and IGF-1 induced SCF expression effects were studied. The effect of high glucose on the expression of endogenous IGF-1 and SCF was also investigated. RESULTS: Diabetic rats showed prolonged colonic transit time (252 ± 16 min vs 168 ± 9 min, P < 0.01) and weakness of circular muscle contraction (0.81 ± 0.09 g vs 2.48 ± 0.23 g, P < 0.01) compared with the control group. Endogenous IGF-1 and SCF protein expression was significantly reduced in the diabetic colonic muscle tissues. IGF-1 and SCF mRNA expression also showed a paralleled reduction in diabetic rats. In the IGF-1 siRNA transfected smooth muscle cells, SCF mRNA and protein expression was significantly decreased. IGF-1 could induce SCF expression in a concentration and time-dependent manner, mainly through the extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signal pathway. High glucose inhibited endogenous IGF-1 and SCF expression and the addition of IGF-1 to the medium reversed the SCF expression. CONCLUSION: Myopathy may resolve in colonic motility dysfunction in diabetic rats. Deficiency of endogenous IGF-1 in colonic smooth muscle cells leads to reduction of SCF expression.展开更多
The aim of the present study is to address the effect of rapamycin on abdominal aortic aneurysm（AAA） and the potential mechanisms. A clinically relevant AAA model was induced in apolipoprotein E-deficient（ApoE-/-）...The aim of the present study is to address the effect of rapamycin on abdominal aortic aneurysm（AAA） and the potential mechanisms. A clinically relevant AAA model was induced in apolipoprotein E-deficient（ApoE-/-） mice, in which miniosmotic pump was implanted subcutaneously to deliver angiotensin Ⅱ（Ang Ⅱ） for 14 days. Male ApoE-/-mice were randomly divided into 3 groups： saline infusion, Ang Ⅱ infusion, and Ang Ⅱ infusion plus intraperitoneal injection of rapamycin. The diameter of the supra-renal abdominal aorta was measured by ultrasonography at the end of the infusion. Then aortic tissue was excised and examined by Western blotting and histoimmunochemistry. Ang Ⅱ with or without rapamycin treatment was applied to the cultured vascular smooth muscle cells（VSMCs） in vitro. The results revealed that rapamycin treatment significantly attenuated the incidence of Ang Ⅱinduced-AAA in ApoE-/-mice. Histologic analysis showed that rapamycin treatment decreased disarray of elastin fibers and VSMCs hyperplasia in the medial layer. Immunochemistry staining and Western blotting documented the increased phospho-ERKl/2 and ERK1/2 expression in aortic walls in Ang Ⅱ induced-AAA,as well as in human lesions. Whereas in the rapamycintreated group, decreased phospho-ERK1/2 expression level was detected. Moreover, rapamycin reversed Ang Ⅱ-induced VSMCs phenotypic change both in vivo and in vitro. Based on those results, we confirmed that rapamycin therapy suppressed Ang Ⅱ-induced AAA formation in mice, partially via VSMCs phenotypic modulation and down-regulation of ERK1/2 activity.展开更多
Objecitve To explore whether phosphoinositide specific phospholipase C (PLC) activation via G protein in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is altered in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Methods The VSMCs ...Objecitve To explore whether phosphoinositide specific phospholipase C (PLC) activation via G protein in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is altered in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Methods The VSMCs derived from aortae of SHR and Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats were loaded for 48 hours with myo inositol. Inositol phosphate release was initiated by the addition of 10 5 mol/L norepinephrine in intact cells or by guanosine 5' 0 (3 thio tri sphosphate) (GTP gamma S) in permeabilized cells. In the meantime, growth arrested VSMCs were stimulated by 10% calf serum for 0, 30, 45, or 60 min, then gene expressions of Gq alpha subunit (G alph a q) were observed. Results There were no significant differences in inositol 1, 4,5 triphosphate (IP 3) level and expression of G alpha q mRNA between quiescent VSMCs from SHR and that from WKY. When stimulated by norepinephrine, IP 3 production increased transiently with a peak level at 10 s in VSMCs from WKY, and a rapid biphasic IP 3 response, which was significantly higher than that of WKY, in VSMCs from SHR had been observed. G proteins activated by GTP gamma S significantly raised IP 3 production in VSMCs from SHR compared to WKY (SHR vs WKY: 234.8%±29.2% vs 142.4%±12.0% of basal IP 3, P<0.05). In addition, the serum effect showed an significant increase in expression of G alpha q mRNA in VSMCs from SHR. Conclusions The hereditary factors are not the only variable regulating IP 3 metabolism and G alpha q gene expression. Influences of multi environmental factors such as vasoactive compounds, together with genetic predisposition, palys an important role in the highly sensitive response of IP 3 production and G alpha q gene over expression in SHR.展开更多
基金This work was supported by grants from the National Science Foundation of China (No. 30170384 and No. 30570764)
文摘Background and objectives Proliferation of human vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) induced by hyperinsulinemia is a very common clinical pathology. Extensive research has focused on PKC (Protein kinase C)-MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase)intracellular signal transduction and the phenotypic modulation accompanied by reorganization of intracellular F-actins in VSMCs.Methods DNA synthesis, signaling of ERK1/2 MAPKs, and changes in α-smooth muscle (SM) actin and F-actin were studied in hypertensive and normotensive human arterial VSMCs exposed to insulin and PMA with and without the PKC inhibitor, GF109203X.Results Differences among cell types in MAPK signaling, α-SM actin, and F-actin isoforms in VSMCs harvested from the arteries of patients with essential hypertension (EH) and normotension (NT) were identified in response to insulin treatment. Proliferation and activation of MAPK were more pronounced in EH VSMCs than in NEH VSMCs. Insulin exposure decreased expression of α-SM actin and was accompanied by rearrangement of intracellular F-actins in VSMCs, especially in the EH group. These effects were reversed by treatment with the PKC inhibitor. Conclusions Human mesenteric VSMCs of EH and NT patients differed in proliferation, MAPK signaling, and degree of changes in α-SM actin and F-actin isoforms immediately following insulin exposure in vitro.
基金grants from the National Natural Sciences Foundation of China (No. 30271242, 30371396)
文摘In order to investigate the origin of neointimal smooth muscle cells in transplant arterio- sclerosis in rat aortic allograft, sex-mismatched bone marrow transplantation was performed from male Wistar rats to female Wistar rats. Four weeks after transplantation, the aortic transplant model was established by means of micro-surgery in rats. The recipients were divided into 4 groups: female Wistar-female Wistar aortic isografts, female SD-female Wistar aortic allografts, male SD-male Wis- tar aortic allografts, female SD-chimera Wistar aortic allografts. Eight weeks after transplantation, aortic grafts were removed at autopsy and processed for histological evaluation and immunohisto- chemistry. The results indicated that excessive accumulation of α-SMA-positive smooth muscle cells resulted in significant neointima formation and vascular lumen stricture in rat aortic allografts. Neointima assay revealed that the neointimal area and NIA/MA ratio of transplanted artery were sig- nificantly increased in all of aortic allograft groups as compared with those in aortic isograft group (P<0.01). Neointimal smooth muscle cells were harvested from cryostat sections of aortic allograft by microdissection method. The Sry gene-specific PCR was performed, and the result showed that a dis- tinct DNA band of 225 bp emerged in the male-male aortic allograft group and chimera aortic al- lograft group respectively, but not in the female-female aortic allograft group. It was suggested that recipient bone-marrow cells, as the origin of neointimal smooth muscle cells, contributed to the pathological neointimal hyperplasia of aortic allograft and transplant arteriosclerosis.
文摘Functional responses to angiotensin Ⅱ (AT-Ⅱ) were determined in aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from experimental cirrhotic rats. Our data showed that AT-Ⅱ-stimulated extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), which was measured by Cytosensor microphysiometry, was significantly reduced in the aortic VSMCs from the cirrhotic rats as compared to those from the control animals. The ability of AT-Ⅱ to promote formation of inositol phosphates, the second messenger produced by the activation of Gq-coupled receptors, was also considerably suppressed in the cirrhotic VSMCs. Furthermore, the maximal p42/44 MAPK phosphorylation stimulated by AT-Ⅱ was significantly reduced in the cirrhotic VSMCs in contrast to that in the normal VSMCs. Taken together, our data clearly demonstrated that the functional responses to AT-Ⅱ was severely suppressed in aortic VSMCs in cirrhosis, indicating the impairment of general Gq-coupled receptor signaling and subsequent biological function in the cirrhotic VSMCs.
文摘To evaluate cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression induced by insulin in cultured rat vascularmuscle smooth cells (VSMCs). Methods: The rat VSMCs were isolated and cultured in 60 mm plates, pre-treated with in-sulin 10, 100, 500, 1 000 mU/L for 6 h, and 100 mU/L for 3, 6, 12, and 24 h, respectively. RT-PCR was performed tomeasure COX-2 mRNA induction, and Western-blot was used to measure protein expression. In regard to the COX-2 enzymeactivity, after stimulation for a specified duration, the culture medium was collected; Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) released byVSMCs was measured with an EIA kit. Results: Three hours after insulin (100 mU/L) stimulation, the induction of COX-2mRNA was detectable and increased with the time and dosage of insulin. Insulin induced COX-2 protein expression occurredin a time- and dose-dependent manner. In rat VSMCs, COX-2 induced by insulin resulted in PGE2 production, which wasincreased with insulin action. Conclusion: Insulin could induce COX-2 expression and PGE2 production in VSMCs in time-and dose-dependent manners.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 39800177)
文摘Objective:To investigate the production of nitric oxide(NO) and the expression of indurible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). and their possible role in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Methods: A total of 28 patients with AAA, 10 healthy controls, and 8 patients with arterial occlusive disease were enrolled into this study. Standard colorimetric assay was used to examine NO concentration in plasma from patients with AAA and normal controls, and in cultured smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Expression of iNOS in aortas and cultured SMCs were detected by immunochemistry. The correlation of iNOS expression with age of the patient, size of aneurysm, and degree of inflammation was also investigated by Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel X2 test and Kendall correlation. Results: Expression of iNOS increased significantly in the wall of aneurism in the patients with AAA compared to the healthy controls (P<0. 05) and the patients with occlusive arteries (P<0. 05). iNOS protein and media NOx (nitrite + nitrate) also increased in cultured SMCs from human AAA (n = 4, P<0. 05), while plasma NOx decreased in patients with AAA (n = 25) compared to the healthy controls (n = 20). There was a positive correlation between iNOS protein and the degree of inflammation in aneurismal wall (Kendall coefficient = 0. 5032, P = 0. 0029). Conclusion: SMCs and inflammatory cells are main cellular sources of increased iNOS in AAA, and NO may play a part in pathogenesis in AAA through inflammation, SMCs and oxidative stress.
文摘The effects of captopril (Cap) and verapamil (Ver)alone and in combination on intracellular Na+ concentration ([Na+]i) in cultured aortic smooth muscle cells (ASMC) of rabbits was evaluated by a direct measurement of [Na+]i with fluorescent dye sodium-binding benzofuran isophthalate (SBFI) combined with digital image. [Na+]i in resting cells was found to be 11.9 ± 0. 7 mmol/L. Angiotensin II (Ang-II, 0.1-10μmol/L) induced an increase of [Na+]i in concentration-dependent manner. Ver (0.1-10μmol/L) inhibited Ang-II (1 μmol/L)-induced increase in [Na+]i, while Cap enhanced Ang-II-induced increase in [Na+]i at 10μmol/L but not at 0.1-1μmol/L. Ver (0.1-1μmol/L)abolished enhancement of Ang-II-induced increase in [Na+]i by Cap. Thus, the inhibition of Capenhanced [Na+]i by Ver may provide a new hypothesis for the underlying molecular mechanism of synergistic effect of the combination of Ca2+ antagonists and angiotensinconverting enzyme inhibitors in controlling blood pressure.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China No.30740031,No.30871146the New Century Excellent Talent of the Ministry of Education of China,No.NCET-06-0264
文摘AIM:To investigate the role of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-7 (IGFBP-7) in the activation and transdifferentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) in vitro.METHODS:Rat HSC-T6 cells were cultured in separate dishes and treated with various concentration of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1,IGFBP-7 or antiIGFBP-7 antibody for 24 h.The supernatant or a cytoplasm suspension was obtained from cultured HSC,followed by transfer of cells to form cell-coated dishes.Immunocytochemistry and Western blotting were used to analyze the expression of IGFBP-7 induced by TGF-β1 and the level of fibronectin,collagen and α-smooth muscle actin (SMA).The pro-apoptotic effect of antiIGFBP-7 antibody was determined by flow cytometry.RESULTS:Immunocytochemistry and Western blotting revealed that the expression of IGFBP-7 in TGF-β1 treated HSC was significantly up-regulated compared to that in the control group.In addition,fibronectin,collagen and α-SMA also showed enhanced expression in accordance with the transdifferentiation process in a dose-dependent manner to some extent.Moreover,flow cytometry suggested that anti-IGFBP-7 antibody induced apoptosis of activated HSC,which is responsible for the development of liver fibrosis,and may represent a novel pathway and target for therapeutic intervention.CONCLUSION:IGFBP-7 showed increased expression in activated HSC and played an important role in the activation and transdifferentiation process of HSC.AntiIGFBP-7 antibody may ameliorate liver fibrogenesis.
基金supported by a grant from the Shanxi Province Foundation for Returness(2012-4)
文摘BACKGROUND: We previously showed that insulin-like growth factor binding protein-related protein 1 (IGFBPrP1) is a novel mediator in liver fibrosis. Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF beta 1) is known as the strongest effector of liver fibrosis. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the detailed interaction between IGFBPrP1 and TGF beta 1 in primary hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). METHODS: We overexpressed TGF beta 1 or IGFBPrP1 and inhibited TGF beta 1 expression in primary HSCs for 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours to investigate their interaction and observe the accompanying expressions of a-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA), collagen I, fibronectin, and phosphorylated-mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2/3 (p-Smad2/3). RESULTS: We found that the adenovirus vector encoding the TGF beta 1 gene (AdTGF beta 1) induced IGFBPrP1 expression while that of alpha-SMA, collagen I, fibronectin, and TGF beta 1 increased gradually. Concomitantly, AdIGFBPrP1 upregulated TGF beta 1, alpha-SMA, collagen I, fibronectin, and p-Smad2/3 in a time-dependent manner while IGFBPrP1 expression was decreased at 96 hours. Inhibition of TGF beta 1 expression reduced the IGFBPrP1-stimulated expression of alpha-SMA, collagen I, fibronectin, and p-Smad2/3. CONCLUSIONS: These findings for the first time suggest the existence of a possible mutually regulation between IGFBPrP1 and TGF beta 1, which likely accelerates liver fibrosis progression. Furthermore, IGFBPrP1 likely participates in liver fibrosis in a TGF beta 1-depedent manner, and may act as an upstream regulatory factor of TGF beta 1 in the Smad pathway.
基金Supported by The National Natural Science Foundation of China, No. 30971354The International Cooperation Project of Jiangsu Province Department of Health, No. SBZ201100103The Graduate Innovation Foundation of Jiangsu Province, China,No. CXZZ11_0704
文摘AIM: To investigate whether the reduction of stem cell factor (SCF) is mediated by decreased endogenous insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 in diabetic rat colon smooth muscle. METHODS: Sixteen Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups: control group and streptozotocin-induced diabetic group. After 8 wk of streptozotocin administration, colonic motility function and contractility of circular muscle strips were measured. The expression of endogenous IGF-1 and SCF was tested in colonic tissues. Colonic smooth muscle cells were cultured from normal adult rats. IGF-1 siRNA transfection was used to investigate whether SCF expression was affected by endogenous IGF-1 expression in smooth muscle cells, and IGF-1 induced SCF expression effects were studied. The effect of high glucose on the expression of endogenous IGF-1 and SCF was also investigated. RESULTS: Diabetic rats showed prolonged colonic transit time (252 ± 16 min vs 168 ± 9 min, P < 0.01) and weakness of circular muscle contraction (0.81 ± 0.09 g vs 2.48 ± 0.23 g, P < 0.01) compared with the control group. Endogenous IGF-1 and SCF protein expression was significantly reduced in the diabetic colonic muscle tissues. IGF-1 and SCF mRNA expression also showed a paralleled reduction in diabetic rats. In the IGF-1 siRNA transfected smooth muscle cells, SCF mRNA and protein expression was significantly decreased. IGF-1 could induce SCF expression in a concentration and time-dependent manner, mainly through the extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signal pathway. High glucose inhibited endogenous IGF-1 and SCF expression and the addition of IGF-1 to the medium reversed the SCF expression. CONCLUSION: Myopathy may resolve in colonic motility dysfunction in diabetic rats. Deficiency of endogenous IGF-1 in colonic smooth muscle cells leads to reduction of SCF expression.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81570325)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities
文摘The aim of the present study is to address the effect of rapamycin on abdominal aortic aneurysm（AAA） and the potential mechanisms. A clinically relevant AAA model was induced in apolipoprotein E-deficient（ApoE-/-） mice, in which miniosmotic pump was implanted subcutaneously to deliver angiotensin Ⅱ（Ang Ⅱ） for 14 days. Male ApoE-/-mice were randomly divided into 3 groups： saline infusion, Ang Ⅱ infusion, and Ang Ⅱ infusion plus intraperitoneal injection of rapamycin. The diameter of the supra-renal abdominal aorta was measured by ultrasonography at the end of the infusion. Then aortic tissue was excised and examined by Western blotting and histoimmunochemistry. Ang Ⅱ with or without rapamycin treatment was applied to the cultured vascular smooth muscle cells（VSMCs） in vitro. The results revealed that rapamycin treatment significantly attenuated the incidence of Ang Ⅱinduced-AAA in ApoE-/-mice. Histologic analysis showed that rapamycin treatment decreased disarray of elastin fibers and VSMCs hyperplasia in the medial layer. Immunochemistry staining and Western blotting documented the increased phospho-ERKl/2 and ERK1/2 expression in aortic walls in Ang Ⅱ induced-AAA,as well as in human lesions. Whereas in the rapamycintreated group, decreased phospho-ERK1/2 expression level was detected. Moreover, rapamycin reversed Ang Ⅱ-induced VSMCs phenotypic change both in vivo and in vitro. Based on those results, we confirmed that rapamycin therapy suppressed Ang Ⅱ-induced AAA formation in mice, partially via VSMCs phenotypic modulation and down-regulation of ERK1/2 activity.
文摘Objecitve To explore whether phosphoinositide specific phospholipase C (PLC) activation via G protein in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is altered in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Methods The VSMCs derived from aortae of SHR and Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats were loaded for 48 hours with myo inositol. Inositol phosphate release was initiated by the addition of 10 5 mol/L norepinephrine in intact cells or by guanosine 5' 0 (3 thio tri sphosphate) (GTP gamma S) in permeabilized cells. In the meantime, growth arrested VSMCs were stimulated by 10% calf serum for 0, 30, 45, or 60 min, then gene expressions of Gq alpha subunit (G alph a q) were observed. Results There were no significant differences in inositol 1, 4,5 triphosphate (IP 3) level and expression of G alpha q mRNA between quiescent VSMCs from SHR and that from WKY. When stimulated by norepinephrine, IP 3 production increased transiently with a peak level at 10 s in VSMCs from WKY, and a rapid biphasic IP 3 response, which was significantly higher than that of WKY, in VSMCs from SHR had been observed. G proteins activated by GTP gamma S significantly raised IP 3 production in VSMCs from SHR compared to WKY (SHR vs WKY: 234.8%±29.2% vs 142.4%±12.0% of basal IP 3, P<0.05). In addition, the serum effect showed an significant increase in expression of G alpha q mRNA in VSMCs from SHR. Conclusions The hereditary factors are not the only variable regulating IP 3 metabolism and G alpha q gene expression. Influences of multi environmental factors such as vasoactive compounds, together with genetic predisposition, palys an important role in the highly sensitive response of IP 3 production and G alpha q gene over expression in SHR.
