Including Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 Research Articles

Association of endothelial dysfunction and peripheral arterial disease with sarcopenia in chronic kidney disease.

Endothelial dysfunction and peripheral arterial disease (PAD), which disturb skeletal muscle microperfusion, are highly prevalent in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We evaluated the association of endothelial dysfunction and PAD with sarcopenia in patients with non-dialysis CKD. This cross-sectional study included 420 patients with stages 3-5 non-dialysis CKD aged 69.0±11.8years. Skeletal muscle index (skeletal muscle mass/height2), handgrip strength, 6-m gait speed and strength of hip flexion and knee extension were measured. Sarcopenia was defined according to the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019. Endothelial dysfunction and PAD were assessed using the vascular reactivity index (VRI) and ankle-brachial index (ABI), respectively. A VRI<1.0 was classified as poor endothelial function, and an ABI<0.9 was defined as PAD. Additionally, endothelial and inflammatory biomarkers, including intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), asymmetric dimethylarginine, endothelin-1 (ET-1) and interleukin-6, were measured in a subgroup of 262 patients. Among the participants, 103 (24.5%) were classified as having sarcopenia. Compared with patients without sarcopenia, those with sarcopenia had significantly lower ABI (1.04±0.16 vs. 1.08±0.15, P=0.028 for the right ABI; 1.01±0.16 vs. 1.06±0.16, P=0.002 for the left ABI) and VRI (0.83±0.57 vs. 1.08±0.56, P<0.001) and had higher serum levels of ICAM-1 (P<0.001), VCAM-1 (P=0.003) and ET-1 (P=0.037). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that, beyond age and body mass index, the average ABI (odds ratio [OR]: 0.81/0.1 increase; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.67-0.98; P=0.032) and VRI (OR: 0.93/0.1 increase; 95% CI: 0.88-0.98; P=0.010) were independently associated with sarcopenia. Among the endothelial biomarkers measured, ICAM-1 (OR: 2.47/1-SD increase; 95% CI: 1.62-3.75) and VCAM-1 (OR: 1.91/1-SD increase; 95% CI: 1.27-2.87) were independent predictors of sarcopenia. Group stratification based on the cut-offs of VRI and ABI showed that those with both poor VRI and ABI had the greatest risk for sarcopenia (OR: 4.22; 95% CI: 1.69-10.49), compared with those with normal VRI and ABI. Endothelial dysfunction and PAD are independently associated with sarcopenia in patients with stages 3-5 CKD, suggesting the dominant role of vascular dysfunction in sarcopenia.

Cellular adhesion molecules in drug-naïve and previously medicated patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders

BackgroundEndothelial inflammation may be involved in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia, and cellular adhesion molecules (CAMs) on endothelial cells may facilitate leukocyte binding and transendothelial migration of cells and inflammatory factors. The aim of the present study was to assess levels of soluble cellular adhesion molecules, including intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, vascular adhesion molecule (VCAM)-1, mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule (MADCAM), junctional adhesion molecule (JAM-A) and neural cadherin (N-CAD) in patients with schizophrenia compared to healthy controls. MethodsThe study population consists of 138 patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorder, of whom 54 were drug-naïve, compared to 317 general population controls. The potential confounders age, gender, smoking and body mass index (BMI) were adjusted for in linear regression models. ResultsThe total patient group showed significantly higher levels of ICAM-1 (p < 0.001) and VCAM-1 (p < 0.001) compared to controls. Previously medicated patients showed higher ICAM-1 levels compared to drug-naïve patients (p = 0.042) and controls (p < 0.001), and elevated VCAM-1 levels compared to controls (p < 0.001). Drug-naive patients had elevated levels of VCAM-1 (p = 0.031) compared to controls. ConclusionsIn our study, patients with schizophrenia – including the drug-naïve – have higher levels of soluble CAMs compared to healthy controls. These findings suggest activation of the endothelial system as in inflammation.

Cystic Fibrosis Mice Are Highly Susceptible to Repeated Acute Pseudomonas aeruginosa Pneumonia after Intranasal Inoculation.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) that controls chloride current. A number of different CFTR transgenic mouse lines have been developed and subjected to both acute and chronic infection models. However, prior studies showed no substantial differences in bacterial clearance between CF and non-CF mice after single inoculations. Here, using F508del transgenic CF mice, we examined the role of repeated acute Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) infection, with the second inoculation 7 days after the first. We found that CF mice were more susceptible to PA infection than non-CF mice following the second inoculation, with non-CF mice showing better neutrophil recruitment and effector functions. We further investigated the characteristics of lung immune cells using single-cell RNA sequencing, finding that non-CF lung neutrophils had more prominent upregulation of adhesion molecules including intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) compared to CF lung neutrophils. Although people with CF are often colonized with bacteria and have high numbers of neutrophils in the airways during chronic infection, these data suggest that CF neutrophils have deficient effector functions in the setting of repeated acute infection.

P-797 Single-cell analysis sheds light on investigation of epithelial stem/progenitor cells in human endometrial organoid

Abstract Study question How to find endometrial epithelial stem cell (eeSC) in the human endometrial gland? Summary answer Endometrial organoid culture model combined with omics techniques can be a promising platform for investigating eeSC functions and endometrial gland development. What is known already Endometrial stem/progenitor cells are thought to be involved in endometrial regeneration, with endometrial stromal stem cells having already been extensively studied. On the other hand, study of human eeSC is challenging due to the lack of specific markers to isolate and examine their functional properties. In addition, the in vivo phenotype of primary endometrial epithelial cells cannot be maintained for a long duration in two-dimensional culture. The development of three-dimensional endometrial organoid model provides suitable alternatives for studying eeSC, as they can be tailored to be biomimetic and accurately recapitulate the native in vivo scenario of the glandular epithelial cells. Study design, size, duration This is a basic science study of endometrial organoids. Endometrial biopsies were performed on day 2 after the injection of human chorionic gonadotrophin in women undergoing in vitro fertilization treatment (IVF) but having no fresh embryo transfer in Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong. Endometrial organoids were derived from human endometrial gland fragments. The established organoids were digested into single cells for droplet-based single-cell sequencing to investigate their cellular population and component. Participants/materials, setting, methods The filtered high-quality single-cell analysis data were clustered and assigned to specific cell types according to their expressions of classical markers. Potential stem cells cluster was identified by trajectory analysis, RNA velocity, CytoTRACE and literature search. The existence of specific eeSC markers was validated by immunofluorescence staining and flow cytometric analysis of primary endometrial tissues/endometrial organoids. The clonogenicity of the isolated eeSCs was determined by clonogenic assay. Main results and the role of chance The endometrial organoid exhibit morphology and marker expression pattern of human endometrial glands. They can also be expanded for long-term culture. The resemblance between in vitro generated organoid and the in vivo endometrial gland was further supported by single-cell RNA-seq analysis. Seurat clustering identifies 8 cell clusters in endometrial organoids. RNA velocity analysis revealed a potential eeSC cluster at the starting point of the differentiation trajectory from the immature cell cluster toward the most mature one. Besides, the eeSC cluster had relatively high expression of known stem-cell markers including Tumor-Associated Calcium Signal Transducer 2 (TACSTD2) and Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 1 Family Member A3 (ALDH1A3). Five genes including Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1 (ICAM1), L1 Cell Adhesion Molecule (L1CAM), Annexin A2 (ANXA2), Mesothelin (MSLN), Integrin Subunit Alpha 3 (IGTA3) were subsequently identified as potential markers of the eeSC cluster. Further analysis by immunostaining demonstrated the expressions of CD54 and ANXA2 in ∼1% and ∼30% of the whole organoids cell suspensions, respectively. The expressions of CD54 and ANXA2 were also identified in the glandular tissue of human endometrium. Limitations, reasons for caution With basal out/apical in phenotype, the endometrial organoids are not exactly similar to the endometrium in vivo, hampering the exploration of their surface marker in cell interaction experiments. Like other organoid systems, it is inevitable for endometrial organoids to have heterogeneity in cells and inconsistency in expansion and biological performance. Wider implications of the findings Gene manipulation technology like CRISPR-Cas9 could be utilized to genetically alter the eeSc to study their biological properties. The construction of eeSC biobank will offer an opportunity for the development of personalized regenerative medicine with diagnosis, preventive intervention, and treatment approaches for gynecological diseases. Trial registration number Not applicableNot applicable

PbO nanoparticles increase the expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 by increasing reactive oxygen species production in choroid plexus.

PbO nanoparticles (nano-PbO) are widely used in the production of electrode materials, but exposure to them can cause brain damage. The first barrier preventing nano-PbO from entering the brain is the choroid plexus. However, the effect of nano-PbO on the choroid plexus remains unclear. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of nano-PbO exposure on lymphocyte cells infiltration, the adhesion protein of the choroid plexus as well as the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during the process. Results showed that nano-PbO exposure increased the percentage of lymphocyte cells in the brain and upregulated the expression of surface adhesion proteins, including intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) in choroid plexus. Meanwhile, nano-PbO treatment also resulted in the increase of intercellular ROS production, and significantly decrease glutathione (GSH) content, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) activity, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in Z310 cells beside the increase of ICAM and VCAM-1 expression. Treatment with ROS inhibitor N-acetylcysteine (NAC) significantly downregulated the expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1expression. In conclusion, exposure to nano-PbO increases the expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 through oxidative stress, which may contribute to peripheral lymphocyte cells infiltration into the brain.

Modulation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Multiplication, Apoptosis, and Inflammatory Damage by miR-21 in Coronary Heart Disease.

This study is aimed at exploring the role and potential molecular mechanism of microRNA-21 (miR-21) in coronary heart disease (CHD). RT-qPCR analysis was conducted to detect the expression of miR-21, Sprouty 1 (SPRY1), and connexin 43 (CX43). The protein expression of SPRY1 and CX43 was measured by western blot. ELISA was performed for measuring inflammatory factors, including intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β). The target relationship between miR-21 and SPRY1 was determined by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Cell multiplication and apoptosis were detected using CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry analysis, respectively. Our results indicated that miR-21, CX43, and the level of inflammatory cytokines including ICAM-1 and IL-1β were upregulated, while SPRY1 was downregulated in blood samples from CHD patients compared with the controls. Besides, miR-21 directly targeted SRPY-1. miR-21 could suppress SPRY1 expression and enhance CX43 expression in VSMCs. Moreover, miR-21 accelerated cell multiplication and attenuated cell apoptosis in VSMCs. Collectively, these findings suggested that miR-21 could effectively elevate VSMC multiplication and repress apoptosis by targeting SPRY1 in CHD, providing a potential target for therapeutic strategy of CHD.

Effects of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure on Cell Adhesion Molecules in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Meta-Analysis.

Previous studies have confirmed that patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have higher systemic inflammatory markers, including intercellular adhesion molecule-1(ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1(VCAM-1), and E-selectin compared to control subjects. However, the effects of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy on circulating levels of ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin in OSA patients remain inconsistent. Therefore, the primary purpose of the present meta-analysis is to estimate the effect of CPAP therapy on these cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) in patients with OSA. The PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched. The overall effects were measured by the standardized mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). A random effects model or a fixed-effects model was used, depending on the heterogeneity of the studies. A total of 11 studies were included, comprising 650 OSA patients. The pooled results showed that CPAP therapy significantly decreased ICAM-1 (SMD = - 0.283, 95% CI - 0.464 to - 0.101, p = 0.002) and E-selectin levels (SMD = - 0.349, 95% CI - 0.566 to - 0.133, p = 0.002). In contrast, there was no significant improvement of VCAM-1 levels after CPAP treatment (SMD = - 0.160, 95% CI - 0.641 to 0.320, p = 0.513). Our meta-analysis demonstrated that CPAP treatment significantly decreased the circulating levels of ICAM-1 and E-selectin in OSA patients. Thus, ICAM-1 and E-selectin may be effective markers to evaluate CPAP therapy for reducing OSA cardiovascular risk in clinical practice.

Abstract 12416: Modeling Diabetic Endothelial Cell Dysfunction With Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells

Introduction: Diabetes is one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which is mediated by vascular endothelial dysfunction. Currently, there is no in vitro disease model of endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction in diabetic patients, which hinders mechanistic understanding and therapeutic discovery. The goal of this study is to develop a comprehensive model of diabetic EC dysfunction using patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and recapitulating the diabetic microenvironment. Methods: Our model utilizes iPSC derived ECs from the following sources: healthy subjects and diabetic patients with underlying CVDs (n=3). To simulate in situ conditions of diabetes, we used the following treatment for 5 days: hyperglycemia (25 mM glucose); high urea (9 mM); and inflammatory stimulation with tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α, 8 pg/ml). EC dysfunction was assessed through oxidative stress, inflammation, permeability, and thrombosis. Immunofluorescence identified localization for surface adhesion molecules, including intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), endothelial selectin (E-sel), and platelet selectin (P-sel). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) quantitatively measured expression of these surface adhesion molecules. Results: Overall, the qualitative effect of the diabetic microenvironment resulted in increased expression of ICAM-1, E-sel, and P-sel. After TNF-α treatment, we observed a stronger increase in expression of P-sel in healthy subject-derived cells than diabetic patient-derived cells. This indicates a possible pre-conditioned tolerance of pro-inflammatory conditions. Ongoing experimentation will provide results for quantitative expression of ICAM-1, E-sel, and P-sel after treatment with the diabetic microenvironment. Conclusion: The development of a robust in vitro model of diabetic endothelial dysfunction, similar to the onset of type 2 diabetes, will allow for high-throughput testing of pharmacological agents to ultimately treat the disease’s effects within the vascular bed. The widespread implications of type 2 diabetes on the vascular bed further amplify the significance of this study in the development of pharmacological agents to treat the disease.

Carbon Monoxide-Releasing Molecule-2 Ameliorates Particulate Matter-Induced Aorta Inflammation via Toll-Like Receptor/NADPH Oxidase/ROS/NF-κB/IL-6 Inhibition.

Particulate matter (PM), a major air pollutant, may be associated with adverse cardiovascular effects. Reactive oxygen species- (ROS-) dependent proinflammatory cytokine production, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), is a possible underlying mechanism. Carbon monoxide- (CO-) releasing molecule-2 (CORM-2) which liberates exogenous CO can exert many beneficial effects, particularly anti-inflammation and antioxidant effects. The purpose of this study was to explore the protective effects and underpinning mechanisms of CORM-2 on PM-induced aorta inflammation. Here, human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) were utilized as in vitro models for the assessment of signaling pathways behind CORM-2 activities against PM-induced inflammatory responses, including Toll-like receptors (TLRs), NADPH oxidase, ROS, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), and IL-6. The modulation of monocyte adherence and HASMC migration, that are two critical cellular events of inflammatory process, along with their regulators, including intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9, in response to PM by CORM-2, were further evaluated. Finally, mice experiments under different conditions were conducted for the in vivo evaluation of CORM-2 benefits on the expression of inflammatory molecules including IL-6, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9. Our results found that PM could induce aorta inflammation in vitro and in vivo, as evidenced by the increase of IL-6 expression that was regulated by the TLR2 and TLR4/NADPH oxidase/ROS/NF-κB signaling pathway, thereby promoting ICAM-1- and VCAM-1-dependent monocyte adhesion and MMP-2- and MMP-9-dependent HASMC migration. Importantly, our experimental models demonstrated that CORM-2-liberated CO effectively inhibited the whole identified PM-induced inflammatory cascade in HASMCs and tissues. In conclusion, CORM-2 treatment may elicit multiple beneficial effects on inflammatory responses of aorta due to PM exposure, thereby providing therapeutic value in the context of inflammatory diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Interleukin-1β enhances cell adhesion in human endothelial cells via microRNA-1914–5p suppression

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease and the underlying cause of most cardiovascular diseases. Interleukin (IL)-1β facilitates early atherogenic lesion formation by increasing monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells via upregulation of adhesion molecules, including intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to be associated with inflammatory conditions in the vascular system. The expression of circulating miR-1914–5p is reportedly downregulated in patients with cardiovascular diseases. However, the role of miR-1914–5p downregulation in IL-1β–induced endothelial cell dysfunction and the effect of miR-1914–5p on lesion formation remain unclear. Therefore, we investigated whether miR-1914–5p is associated with monocyte adhesion in human endothelial cells. IL-1β decreased miR-1914–5p expression in EA.hy926 cells. In addition, miR-1914–5p depletion enhanced ICAM-1 expression and monocyte adhesion in EA.hy926 cells. Moreover, miR-1914–5p mimic suppressed monocyte adhesion and ICAM-1 expression induced by IL-1β in endothelial cells. These results suggest that suppression of miR-1914–5p expression by IL-1β may be an important regulator in mediating monocyte adhesion in endothelial cells. Further investigation of miR-1914–5p may lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for atherosclerosis.

Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects of Pluchea indica Leaf Extract in TNF-α-Induced Human Endothelial Cells

Pluchea indica is a shrub plant found in mangrove forests. The leaves are consumed as food and herbal tea and exhibit various biological effects, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, in macrophages and animal models. However, the inhibitory activity of P. indica leaf extract on vascular inflammation remains unknown. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of an ethanol extract from P. indica herbal tea leaves (PIE) on tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-induced human vascular endothelial EA.hy926 cells. The cytotoxic effect of PIE was determined by thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide assays. PIE at concentrations of 12.5 - 50 µg/mL did not show significant cytotoxicity, whereas PIE at concentrations ≥ 100 µg/mL decreased cell viability. PIE inhibited the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in TNF-α-stimulated endothelial cells. To evaluate the PIE’s anti-vascular inflammatory activity, the protein expression of cell adhesion molecules, including intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), was determined by western blot. PIE significantly decreased TNF-α-induced ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, PIE upregulated heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Inhibiting the activity of HO-1 by tin protoporphyrin IX significantly blocked the suppressive effect of PIE on ICAM-1 but not VCAM-1 expression. Therefore, PIE exerts anti-inflammatory activity on vascular endothelial cells, at least in part, by suppressing ROS production and the induction of HO-1. The obtained data suggest that PIE is a promising substance for developing therapeutic agents or as an ingredient of functional food. HIGHLIGHTS Pluchea indica leaf extract (PIE) at non-toxic doses inhibited ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 in TNF-α-induced human vascular endothelial cells PIE suppressed the production of ROS in TNF-α-stimulated endothelial cells PIE exerts anti-inflammatory activity on vascular endothelial cells mediated partly through the upregulation of HO-1

Elevated plasma ICAM1 levels predict 28-day mortality in cirrhotic patients with COVID-19 or bacterial sepsis

Background & AimsEndothelial injury and dysfunction play a detrimental role in the pathogenesis of infections. Endothelium-related molecules have been reported as potential diagnostic and/or prognostic biomarkers of infection. The prognostic value of these biomarkers in patients with cirrhosis and infections remains elusive.MethodsIn this study, we investigated the performance of key soluble endothelial injury biomarkers, including intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1), von Willebrand factor (vWF), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR1), and angiopoietin 1 and 2 (Ang1, 2) as mortality predictors in patients with cirrhosis and severe COVID-19 or bacterial sepsis.ResultsA total of 66 hospitalized patients (admitted to the COVID-19 ward or liver intensive care unit [ICU]) were included. Twenty-two patients had COVID-19 alone, while 20 patients had cirrhosis plus COVID-19. Twenty-four patients had cirrhosis plus bacterial sepsis. Among patients with cirrhosis, the most common aetiology of liver disease was alcohol. ICAM1 was increased (p = 0.003) while VEGFR1 (p <0.0001) and Ang1 (p <0.0001) were reduced in patients with COVID-19 and cirrhosis, compared to patients with COVID-19 alone. Endothelial biomarker levels did not differ significantly between patients with cirrhosis and severe COVID-19 or bacterial sepsis in the ICU. In these patients, ICAM1 levels significantly and independently predicted mortality (hazard ratio 3.24; 95% CI 1.19–8.86) along with model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score, renal and coagulation failures. The AUC for ICAM1 was 0.74, MELD was 0.60 and combined ICAM1 and MELD was 0.70. ICAM1 also positively correlated with the composite organ failure scores recorded 3–5 days post ICU admission (CLIF-OF and SOFA) in this subgroup of patients.ConclusionThe study indicates that in patients with cirrhosis, elevated plasma ICAM1 serves as an independent predictor of severe COVID-19- or sepsis-associated 28-day mortality.Lay summaryBacterial sepsis and COVID-19 lead to increased mortality in patients with cirrhosis. In this study, we demonstrate that high plasma levels of ICAM1, an endothelial injury biomarker, is one of the important factors predicting mortality in critically ill cirrhotic patients with severe COVID-19 or bacterial sepsis.

LncRNA LPAL2/miR-1287-5p/EGFR Axis Modulates TED-Derived Orbital Fibroblast Activation Through Cell Adhesion Factors.

The activation of orbital fibroblasts, the prime targets in thyroid eye disease (TED), is central to its underlying pathogenesis. We aimed to investigate the mechanism of TED orbital fibroblast activation from the perspective of noncoding RNA regulation. Immunofluorescence (IF) staining was applied to evaluate the fibrotic changes in target cells. Cell proliferation was evaluated by 5-ethoxy 2-deoxyuridine and colony-formation assays. Collagen I concentration was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Human microarray analysis was performed on 3 TED and 3 healthy control orbital tissue samples. Bioinformatics analysis showed that cell adhesion signaling factors were differentially expressed in TED tissues, including intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, ICAM-4, vascular cell adhesion molecule, and CD44, which were all upregulated in diseased orbital tissues. Long noncoding RNA LPAL2 level was also upregulated in orbital tissues and positively correlated with ICAM-1 and ICAM-4 expression. Stimulation of the TED orbital fibroblasts by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) significantly increased the expression of ICAM-1, ICAM-4, and LPAL2. Knockdown of LPAL2 in orbital fibroblasts inhibited TGF-β1-induced increases in cell adhesion factor levels and orbital fibroblast activation. Microarray profiling was performed on TED and normal orbital tissues to identify differentially expressed microRNAs, and miR-1287-5p was remarkably reduced within diseased orbital samples. miR-1287-5p was directly bound to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) 3' untranslated region and LPAL2, and LPAL2 modulated EGFR/protein kinase B (AKT) signaling through targeting miR-1287-5p. The LPAL2/miR-1287-5p axis modulated TGF-β1-induced increases in cell adhesion factor levels and TED orbital fibroblast activation through EGFR/AKT signaling.

Expression of Adhesion Molecules in a Gastroduodenal Reflux Murine Model

BackgroundVarious adhesion molecules, including intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), have been shown to play a role in inflammation as well as contribute to tumor progression and prognosis. We hypothesized that gastroduodenal reflux upregulates ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression in the distal esophagus, serving as possible early markers of pathologic esophageal disease. MethodsNormal human esophageal epithelial cells (HET1A), Barrett cells (CPB), and esophageal adenocarcinoma cells (FLO1 and OE33) were treated with deoxycholic acid at increasing concentrations for 24 hours. Adhesion molecule expression was assessed using immunoblotting. A surgical mouse reflux model was generated by performing a side-to-side anastomosis between the gastroesophageal junction and the first portion of the duodenum (duodenum-gastroesophageal anastomosis). Esophageal sections were evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. ResultsDeoxycholic acid induced a significant increase in ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression in HET1A, CPB, FLO1, and OE33 cells. Animals undergoing duodenum-gastroesophageal anastomosis demonstrated a significant increase in mucosal hyperplasia (P < .0001) and cellular proliferation (P < .0001) compared with control animals. Immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis of the lower esophagus demonstrated significant upregulation of ICAM-1 (P = .005), with no change in VCAM-1 expression (P = .82). ConclusionsOur results reveal that ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 are upregulated in response to in vitro reflux treatment of normal esophageal epithelial cells. However, our investigation using a mouse reflux model found ICAM-1 is noticeably upregulated without a concomitant increase in VCAM-1. These findings identify ICAM-1, but not VCAM-1, as a potential player in early esophageal disease developing from chronic reflux exposure.

Preventive effect of cocoa flavanols against glucotoxicity-induced vascular inflammation in the arteria of diabetic rats and on the inflammatory process in TNF-α-stimulated endothelial cells

Hyperglycaemia induces a vascular inflammatory process that is a critical event in cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetes. Cocoa and its flavanols have been widely investigated for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and several clinical and pre-clinical studies support their vascular benefits. However, the effects of cocoa flavanols on vascular inflammation in diabetes remains to be elucidated. Herein, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory effect of a cocoa-rich diet on the aortas of Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats. Moreover, the potential role of flavanol-derived colonic metabolites to modulate the adhesion and inflammatory processes were also evaluated using TNF-α-stimulated endothelial cells. Results demonstrate that cocoa attenuates the levels of phospho-p65-nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) and the expression of inflammatory factors including intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and inducible nitric oxide synthase in the aortas of ZDF rats. Experiments with endothelial cells further confirm that a mix of flavanol-derived colonic metabolites effectively down-regulate the levels of p-p65-NF-κB and the cell adhesion molecules ICAM-1 and VCAM-1, preventing thus the increase of monocyte-endothelial adhesion induced by TNF-α. These novel data provide the first evidence of the relevant role of cocoa and their flavanol-derived metabolites to avoid the development of endothelial inflammation and diabetic complications.

Effect of pomegranate juice on vascular adhesion factors: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundCardiovascular diseases, obesity, and insulin resistance demonstrate elements of functional impairment of the endothelium. Treatment of endothelial dysfunction with natural products, such as pomegranate, can open new ways in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. PurposeThe present meta-analysis provides information in highlighting the role of pomegranate in endothelial dysfunction. MethodsVarious databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Google Scholar, were searched up to July 2020 using relevant keywords. We have selected the studies that investigated the effects of pomegranate on vascular adhesion factors, including intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), E-selectin, and interleukin-6 (IL-6). MD with 95% CrI with 100,000 iterations by using Markov chain Monte Carlo code were used. ResultsPooled effect size of articles in human studies indicated that pomegranate juice was not significantly effective on ICAM-1 [MD: −0.42; CrI: (−1.01, 0.17)], VCAM-1 [MD: −0.20; CrI: (−1.95, 1.40)], and E-selectin [MD: −0.21; CrI: (−1.62, 1.21)] compared to the control group. But it can significantly reduce IL-6 [MD: −1.07; CrI: (−1.90, -0.19)]. ConclusionGenerally, present study showed that pomegranate juice has no significant effect on vascular adhesion factors, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin, but can reduce IL-6 significantly. Future prospective randomized clinical trials with longer intervention duration are warranted to obtain a precise conclusion.

Triptolide attenuates laser-induced choroidal neovascularization via M2 macrophage in a mouse model

PurposeTo investigate whether triptolide has inhibitory effects on the development of choroidal neovascularization (CNV), together with its underlying anti-angiogenic mechanisms. MethodsCNV was induced in C57BL/6 J mice using laser photocoagulation. Triptolide at concentrations of 0.035 and 0.07 mg/kg body weight (BW) or the same volume of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) was intraperitoneally injected into mice 2 days before laser photocoagulation, which was continued daily till the end of the experiment. CNV areas were measured on day 7. The numbers of M1, M2, and F4/80+ macrophages were detected on day 1, 3, and 7 in each group. The levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and inflammatory molecules,including intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1,tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interleukin 6 (IL-6) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cell proliferation, migration, and tube-formation assays were performed in vitro. ResultsTriptolide at doses of 0.035 mg/kg BW (66,562 ± 39,253 μm2, n = 5, P＜0.05) and 0.07 mg/kg BW (37,271 ± 25,182 μm2, n = 5, P＜0.001) significantly reduced CNV areas by 54.9 and 74.8 %, respectively, compared with PBS control (147,699 ± 112,900 μm2, n = 5) in a dose-dependent manner. Protein levels of VEGF, ICAM-1, TNF-α, and IL-6 in the RPE-choroid-sclera complex were significantly downregulated by triptolide treatment on day 3, which was in accordance with the reduced number of infiltrated F4/80+ macrophages and the reduced ratio of M2/F4/80+ macrophages. However, no toxic effects of triptolide on the retina or other systemic organs were observed. In addition, triptolide treatment exerted inhibitory effects on cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation in vitro in a concentration-dependent manner. ConclusionsTriptolide has therapeutic potential in CNV owing to its anti-angiogenic effect.

Mixed Lineage Kinase Domain-Like Protein Promotes Human Monocyte Cell Adhesion to Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells Via Upregulation of Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 Expression.

BackgroundAtherosclerosis is a progressive inflammatory disease that involves a variety of inflammatory and proinflammatory factors, including intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1. ICAM-1 plays an important role in atherosclerosis by promoting cell adhesion. Mixed lineage kinase domain-like (MLKL), a critical regulator of necroptotic cell death, is indicated to play an important role in atherosclerosis. This study investigated the effects of MLKL on ICAM-1 expression and cell adhesion, thus providing a new direction for the research of atherosclerosis pathogenesis.Material/MethodssiRNA-MLKL and pcDNA-MLKL were designed, and the expression of MLKL and ICAM-1 were estimated by real-time polymerase chain reaction at the mRNA level and Western blotting at the protein level. The adhesion of human monocyte cells (THP-1) to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was examined under immunofluorescence microscopy, and the ability of cell adhesion was evaluated by ImageJ software.ResultsOverexpression of MLKL greatly enhanced ICAM-1 expression in HUVECs and the adherence of THP-1 cells to HUVECs. Knockdown of MLKL by siRNA dramatically inhibited the expression of ICAM-1 and the adherence of THP-1 cells to HUVECs. MLKL could promote THP-1 adhesion to HUVECs by activating ICAM-1 expression in HUVECs.ConclusionsMLKL can promote THP-1 cell adhesion to HUVECs through up-regulation of ICAM-1 expression in HUVECs. Thus, MLKL might be a useful target for reducing adhesion of monocytes to endothelial cells and atherosclerosis.

HIF1α-dependent metabolic reprogramming governs mesenchymal stem/stromal cell immunoregulatory functions.

Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 α (HIF1α), a regulator of metabolic change, is required for the survival and differentiation potential of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSC). Its role in MSC immunoregulatory activity, however, has not been completely elucidated. In the present study, we evaluate the role of HIF1α on MSC immunosuppressive potential. We show that HIF1α silencing in MSC decreases their inhibitory potential on Th1 and Th17 cell generation and limits their capacity to generate regulatory T cells. This reduced immunosuppressive potential of MSC is associated with a metabolic switch from glycolysis to OXPHOS and a reduced capacity to express or produce some immunosuppressive mediators including Intercellular Adhesion Molecule (ICAM), IL-6, and nitric oxide (NO). Moreover, using the Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity murine model (DTH), we confirm, in vivo, the critical role of HIF1α on MSC immunosuppressive effect. Indeed, we show that HIF1α silencing impairs MSC capacity to reduce inflammation and inhibit the generation of pro-inflammatory T cells. This study reveals the pivotal role of HIF1α on MSC immunosuppressive activity through the regulation of their metabolic status and identifies HIF1α as a novel mediator of MSC immunotherapeutic potential.

Molecular mechanism of β-1, 4-galactosyltransferase 6 in regulating lymphocyte migration

Objective To study the molecular mechanism of β-1, 4-galactosyltransferase 6 (β4galt6) in regulating lymphocyte migration under inflammatory conditions. Methods CRISPR/Cas9 system was used to knock out the β4galt6 gene of mouse islet vascular endothelial cells (MS1). Adhesion assay was performed to compare the adhesion ability of lymphocytes to wild-type cells and gene knockout cells. Expression of adhesion molecules on the surface of wild-type cells and gene knockout cells were compared using RT-PCR and flow cytometry. Transwell model was used to compare the transmigration ability of lymphocytes across wild-type cells and gene knockout cells. Results The β4galt6 gene knockout cell line, β4galt6 KO, was successfully constructed. The percentage of lymphocytes adhereing to wild-type MS1 cells was significantly higher than that to β4galt6 KO cells under inflammatory conditions. The expression of adhesion molecules including intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1), vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1) and P-selectin on the surface of wild-type MS1 cells was significantly higher than that on β4galt6 KO cells. Moreover, the percentage of lymphocytes passing through wild-type MS1 cells was significantly higher than that through β4galt6 KO cells. Conclusion Under inflammatory conditions, β4galt6 could promote the migration of lymphocytes. Key words: β-1, 4-galactosyltransferase 6; Lymphocyte; Migration; Inflammation