Regulation of VEGF Gene Expression in Mouse Macrophages by Cottonseed Extracts, Gossypol and Lipopolysaccharides (P06-035-19)

Abstract

ObjectivesVascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a key mediator of adipogenesis and a mitogenic and angiogenic factor involved in inflammation, tumor progression, collateral vessel formation, and diabetic retinopathy. VEGFa and VEGFb play a balance role in adipose differentiation and gene expression. Plant extracts and chemical compounds that can regulate VEGF gene expression may have positive effect on nutrition and health. The objective was to investigate the regulation of VEGF gene expression by cottonseed extracts, gossypol and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in mouse RAW264.7 macrophages. MethodsMouse RAW264.7 macrophages were treated with various concentrations of cottonseed extracts, gossypol and LPS for 2, 8 and 24 h. qPCR and immunoblotting were used to detect the expression of VEGF mRNA and protein. ResultsqPCR assay showed that cottonseed extracts exhibited modest effects on VEGF gene expression with significant increases in VEGFa mRNA by glanded coat extract and VEGFb mRNA by glanded kernel and glandless coat extracts. Immunoblotting showed that only glandless seed extracts modestly increased VEGF protein. Gossypol stimulated VEGFa and VEGFb mRNA levels by 30- and 4-fold, respectively, and increased VEGF protein in macrophages. LPS increased VEGFa mRNA by 6-fold but decreased VEGFb mRNA under higher concentration for longer treatment. LPS increased VEGF protein in 2–4 h but decreased in 8–24 h. ConclusionsThese results demonstrate that cottonseed extracts have modest effect but gossypol and LPS have strong effect on VEGF gene expression in mouse macrophages. Funding SourcesThis work was supported by the USDA-ARS Quality and Utilization of Agricultural Products National Program 306 through CRIS 6054–41,000-103–00-D. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.