oxLDL Uptake Research Articles

339 - Reactive Oxygen Species via Activation of Bruton Tyrosine Kinase Mediate Cholesterol Crystals-Induced CD36 Expression and Foam Cell Formation

In understanding the mechanisms of cholesterol in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, previous studies from other laboratories have demonstrated that cholesterol crystals (CCs) induce scavenger receptor CD36 expression and NLRP3-mediated inflammasome formation. In understanding the mechanisms by which CCs could enhance CD36 expression and foam cell formation, here we report that CCs via NADPH oxidase and xanthine oxidase-mediated ROS production activates BTK, a non-receptor tyrosine kinase. In addition, CCs induce p300 tyrosine phosphorylation and activation in a BTK-dependent manner, which in turn, leads to STAT1 acetylation and its interaction with PPARγ in CD36 expression, oxLDL uptake and foam cell formation. Furthermore, p300, STAT1 and PPARγ bound to a STAT binding site at 107 nt in CD36 promoter and enhanced its activity in ROS-mediated BTK activation-dependent manner. Disruption of this STAT binding site by site-directed mutagenesis abolished CCs-induced CD36 promoter activity. Together these results reveal that CCs via producing ROS and activating BTK causes p300-mediated STAT1 acetylation and its interaction with PPARγ in CD36 expression, oxLDL uptake and foam cell formation in macrophages.

Gly[14]-humanin inhibits ox-LDL uptake and stimulates cholesterol efflux in macrophage-derived foam cells

Foam cell formation, which is caused by imbalanced cholesterol influx and efflux by macrophages, plays a vital role in the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis. Humanin (HN), a mitochondria-derived peptide, can prevent the production of reactive oxygen species and death of human aortic endothelial cells exposed to oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) and has a protective effect on patients with in early atherosclerosis. However, the effects of HN on the regulation of cholesterol metabolism in RAW 264.7 macrophages are still unknown. This study was designed to investigate the role of [Gly14]-humanin (HNG) in lipid uptake and cholesterol efflux in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Flow cytometry and live cell imaging results showed that HNG reduced Dil-ox-LDL accumulation in the RAW 264.7 macrophages. A similar result was obtained for lipid accumulation by measuring cellular cholesterol content. Western blot analysis showed that ox-LDL treatment upregulated not only the protein expression of CD36 and LOX-1, which mediate ox-LDL endocytosis, but also ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter A1 and ABCG1, which mediate ox-LDL exflux. HNG pretreatment inhibited the upregulation of CD36 and LOX-1 levels, prompting the upregulation of ABCA1 and ABCG1 levels induced by ox-LDL. Therefore we concluded that HNG could inhibit ox-LDL-induced macrophage-derived foam cell formation, which occurs because of a decrease in lipid uptake and an increase in cholesterol efflux from macrophage cells.

Prevention of oxLDL uptake leads to decreased atherosclerosis in hematopoietic NPC1-deficient Ldlr−/− mice

Background and aimsAtherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of medium and large vessels and is typically characterized by the predominant accumulation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol inside macrophages that reside in the vessel walls. Previous studies clearly demonstrated an association specifically between the oxidized type of LDL (oxLDL) and atherosclerotic lesion formation. Further observations revealed that these atherosclerotic lesions displayed enlarged, lipid-loaded lysosomes. By increasing natural antibodies against oxLDL, pneumococcal vaccination has been shown to reduce atherosclerosis in LDL receptor knockout (Ldlr−/−) mice. Relevantly, loss of the lysosomal membrane protein Niemann-Pick Type C1 (NPC1) led to lysosomal accumulation of various lipids and promoted atherosclerosis. Yet, the importance of lysosomal oxLDL accumulation inside macrophages, compared to non-modified LDL, in atherosclerosis has never been established. MethodsBy transplanting NPC1 bone marrow into lethally irradiated Ldlr−/− mice, a hematopoietic mouse model for lysosomal cholesterol accumulation was created. Through injections with heat-inactivated pneumococci, we aimed to demonstrate the specific contribution of lysosomal oxLDL accumulation inside macrophages in atherosclerosis development. ResultsWhile there were no differences in plaque morphology, a reduction in plaque size and plaque inflammation was found in immunized NPC1mut-transplanted mice, compared to non-immunized NPC1mut-transplanted mice. ConclusionsLysosomal oxLDL accumulation within macrophages contributes to murine atherosclerosis. Future intervention strategies should focus specifically on preventing oxLDL, unlike non-modified LDL, from being internalized into lysosomes. Such an intervention can have an additive effect to current existing treatments against atherosclerosis.

I4, a synthetic anti-diabetes agent, attenuates atherosclerosis through its lipid-lowering, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptosis properties

Here, we investigated whether I4, which was initially developed as a hypoglycemic agent, possesses anti-atherosclerotic activity and attempted to elucidate the probable mechanism of action underlying this activity. ApoE−/− mice were fed a Western diet and simultaneously administered I4, glimepiride, or pioglitazone once daily for 12 weeks, and the atherosclerotic vascular lesions, lipid content, and expression levels of LOX-1, ICAM-1, VCAM-1 and Bax/Bcl-2 in mouse aortas were assessed. RAW264.7 macrophage-derived foam cells were obtained via ox-LDL stimulation to investigate the lipid-lowering, anti-atherosclerotic inflammation and anti-apoptotic effect of I4. The data indicated that I4 significantly decreased the lipid accumulation in the circulation and tissue, especially for TG and FFA levels (p < 0.05 vs model group), alleviating the arterial and liver lesions induced by lipotoxicity. Its lipid-reducing effects may due to LOX-1and CD36 expression suppression. I4, at doses of 20 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg, significantly decreased serum IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α production and suppressed the expression of p-ERK, p-p38, VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 protein. I4 attenuated atherosclerotic inflammation by blocking NF-κB nuclear translocation, suppressing MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway and diminishing NF-κB-VCAM-1 promoter region binding. Additionally, I4 suppressed p-p53 and cleaved-caspase-3 expression to inhibit foam cell apoptosis induced by ox-LDL uptake. Overall, I4 exerts potent inhibitory effects on atherosclerosis onset and development.

Endophilin-A2-mediated increase in scavenger receptor expression contributes to macrophage-derived foam cell formation

Background and aimsMacrophage-derived foam cell formation (MFCF) is a crucial step in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Uptake of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) by scavenger receptors is indispensable for MFCF. Endophilin-A2 has been reported to regulate clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME). In this study, we tested the hypothesis that endophilin-A2 regulates oxLDL uptake and MFCF by mediating CME of oxLDL-scavenger receptor complexes. MethodsIn vitro MFCF was induced by oxLDL treatment. Involvement of endophilin-A2 in oxLDL cytomembrane binding, cellular uptake, and MFCF was evaluated by manipulation of endophilin-A2. ResultsEndophilin-A2 was involved in MFCF via scavenger receptor CD36 and scavenger receptor-A (SR-A)-mediated positive feedback pathways. We observed that oxLDL triggered interaction of endophilin-A2 with CD36 or SR-A, and induced an endophilin-A2-dependent activation of the apoptosis signal-regulating kinase-1 (ASK1)/Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/p38 signaling pathway. The activation of ASK1-JNK/p38 signal increased expression of both CD36 and SR-A, which promoted oxLDL cytomembrane binding, cellular uptake, and MFCF. In the absence of oxLDL, endophilin-A2 up-regulated the expression of receptors and Dil-oxLDL binding and uptake, but not the intracellular accumulation of lipids. In the presence of oxLDL, the CME inhibitors pitstop2 and ikarugamycin mimicked the inhibiting effect of endophilin-A2 knockdown and eliminated the elevating effect of endophilin-A2 overexpression on oxLDL uptake and MFCF. ConclusionsEndophilin-A2 was identified as a novel molecule regulating MFCF by mechanisms attributable to CME and beyond CME.

Advanced glycation end products increase lipids accumulation in macrophages through upregulation of receptor of advanced glycation end products: increasing uptake, esterification and decreasing efflux of cholesterol.

BackgroundPrevious reports have suggested that advanced glycation end products (AGEs) participate in the pathogenesis of diabetic macroangiopathy. Our previous study have found that AGEs can increase the lipid droplets accumulation in aortas of diabetic rats, but the current understanding of the mechanisms remains incomplete by which AGEs affect lipids accumulation in macrophages and accelerate atherosclerosis. In this study, we investigated the role of AGEs on lipids accumulation in macrophages and the possible molecular mechanisms including cholesterol influx, esterification and efflux of macrophages.MethodsTHP-1 cells were incubated with PMA to differentiate to be macrophages which were treated with AGEs in the concentration of 300 μg/ml and 600 μg/ml with or without anti-RAGE (receptor for AGEs) antibody and then stimulated by oxidized-LDL (oxLDL) or Dil-oxLDL. Lipids accumulation was examined by oil red staining. The cholesterol uptake, esterification and efflux were detected respectively by fluorescence microscope, enzymatic assay kit and fluorescence microplate. Quantitative RT-PCR and Western blot were used to measure expression of the moleculars involved in cholesterol uptake, synthesis/esterification and efflux.ResultsAGEs increased lipids accumulation in macrophages in a concentration-dependent manner. 600 μg/ml AGEs obviously upregulated oxLDL uptake, increased levels of cholesterol ester in macrophages, and decreased the HDL-mediated cholesterol efflux by regulating the main molecular expression including CD36, Scavenger receptors (SR) A2, HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR), ACAT1 and ATP-binding cassette transporter G1 (ABCG1). The changes above were inversed when the cells were pretreated with anti-RAGE antibody.ConclusionsThe current study suggest that AGEs can increase lipids accumulation in macrophages by regulating cholesterol uptake, esterification and efflux mainly through binding with RAGE, which provide a deep understanding of mechanisms how AGEs accelerating diabetic atherogenesis.

Consumption of a high-fat meal was associated with an increase in monocyte adhesion molecules, scavenger receptors, and Propensity to Form Foam Cells.

Macrophage-derived foam cells are the predominant component of arterial plaques in the early stages of atherosclerosis. One factor that poses a major risk for plaque development is high levels of plasma low-density lipoprotein (LDL) as a result of a high-fat meal. In order to better understand how an individuals' diet affects arterial plaque deposition via the process of foam cell formation, we measured the acute circulating monocyte activity response after consuming a high-fat meal (85% of daily fat allowance). Venous blood samples from 17 participants were acquired on a FlowSight. Samples were analyzed to identify nonclassical (CD14+/16+) and classical (CD14+/16-) monocytes. We measured monocyte concentration, adhesion molecule expression, CD36 expression, and oxidized LDL (oxLDL) endocytosis for preprandial 1, 3, and 5h postprandial. Consuming a high-fat meal caused increases in oxLDL uptake, adhesion molecule expression, and CD36 expression in both classical and nonclassical monocytes, with the nonclassical monocytes responding with larger increases than the classical monocytes. These results suggest that consumption of a high-fat meal increased the potential of monocytes to become foam cells, and implicates nonclassical monocytes as having greater potential than classical monocytes to become foam cells. © 2016 International Clinical Cytometry Society.

Oxidized Lipoprotein Uptake Through the CD36 Receptor Activates the NLRP3 Inflammasome in Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells.

PurposeAccumulation of oxidized phospholipids/lipoproteins with age is suggested to contribute to the pathogenesis of AMD. We investigated the effect of oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) on human RPE cells.MethodsPrimary human fetal RPE (hf-RPE) and ARPE-19 cells were treated with different doses of LDL or ox-LDL. Assessment of cell death was measured by lactate dehydrogenase release into the conditioned media. Barrier function of RPE was assayed by measuring transepithelial resistance. Lysosomal accumulation of ox-LDL was determined by immunostaining. Expression of CD36 was determined by RT-PCR; protein blot and function was examined by receptor blocking. NLRP3 inflammasome activation was assessed by RT-PCR, protein blot, caspase-1 fluorescent probe assay, and inhibitor assays.ResultsTreatment with ox-LDL, but not LDL, for 48 hours caused significant increase in hf-RPE and ARPE-19 (P < 0.001) cell death. Oxidized LDL treatment of hf-RPE cells resulted in a significant decrease in transepithelial resistance (P < 0.001 at 24 hours and P < 0.01 at 48 hours) relative to LDL-treated and control cells. Internalized ox-LDL was targeted to RPE lysosomes. Uptake of ox-LDL but not LDL significantly increased CD36 protein and mRNA levels by more than 2-fold. Reverse transcription PCR, protein blot, and caspase-1 fluorescent probe assay revealed that ox-LDL treatment induced NLRP3 inflammasome when compared with LDL treatment and control. Inhibition of NLRP3 activation using 10 μM isoliquiritigenin significantly (P < 0.001) inhibited ox-LDL induced cytotoxicity.ConclusionsThese data are consistent with the concept that ox-LDL play a role in the pathogenesis of AMD by NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Suppression of NLRP3 inflammasome activation could attenuate RPE degeneration and AMD progression.

Simvastatin inhibited oxLDL-induced proatherogenic effects through calpain-1-PPARγ-CD36 pathway.

We previously reported that simvastatin, an inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase, inhibits atherosclerosis in rats. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of simvastatin on mouse peritoneal macrophage foam cell formation, the early feature of atherosclerosis, and explore its mechanisms. The results showed that simvastatin decreased cholesterol content and DiI-oxLDL (1,1'-didodecyl 3,3,3',3'-indocarbocyanine perchlorate - oxidized low-density lipoprotein) uptake, reduced the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the medium, down-regulated the mRNA and protein expression of CD36 (a fatty acid receptor), and reduced the mRNA expressions of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), TNF-α, and IL-6 in macrophages treated with oxLDL. However, PPARγ agonist troglitazone partly abolished the effects of simvastatin on foam cells. In addition, simvastatin reduced the protein expression of calpain-1, a Ca2+-sensitive cysteine protease, in oxLDL-treated macrophages. Furthermore, PD150606, a specific calpain inhibitor, reduced mRNA expressions of PPARγ and CD36 in macrophages treated with oxLDL. Combination of simvastatin and PD150606 had no further effect on mRNA expression of PPARγ and CD36 compared with either alone. However, over-expression of calpain-1 in macrophages partly reversed the simvastatin effects, including cell cholesterol content, mRNA expressions of PPARγ, and CD36. The results suggested that simvastatin inhibits foam cell formation of oxLDL-treated macrophages through a calpain-1-PPARγ-CD36 pathway.

Lectin-like Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Receptor (LOX-1): A Chameleon Receptor for Oxidized LDL.

LOX-1, one of the main receptors for oxLDL, is found mainly on the surface of endothelial cells. It is a multifacet 52 kDa type II transmembrane protein that structurally belongs to the C-type lectin family. It exists with short intracellular N-terminal and long extracellular C-terminal hydrophilic domains separated by a hydrophobic domain of 26 amino acids. LOX-1 acts like a bifunctional receptor either showing pro-atherogenicity by activating the NFκB-mediated down signaling cascade for gene activation of pro-inflammatory molecules or playing an atheroprotective agent by receptor-mediated uptake of oxLDL in the presence of an anti-inflammatory molecule like IL-10. Mildly, moderately, and highly oxidized LDL show their characteristic features upon LOX-1 activation and its ligand binding indenture. The polymorphic LOX-1 genes are intensively associated with increased susceptibility to myocardial diseases. The splicing variant LOX IN dimerizes with the native form of LOX-1 and protects cells from damage by oxidized LDL. In the developing field of regenerating medicine, LOX-1 is a potential target for therapeutic intervention.

Ticagrelor promotes atherosclerotic plaque stability in a mouse model of advanced atherosclerosis.

ObjectiveThere is increasing evidence supporting the role of platelets in atherosclerotic vascular disease. The G-protein-coupled receptor P2Y12 is a central mediator of platelet activation and aggregation but has also been linked to platelet-independent vascular disease. Ticagrelor is an oral P2Y12 antagonist that is used as a standard treatment in patients after acute myocardial infarction. However, the effects of ticagrelor on advanced atherosclerosis have not been investigated.Materials and methodsTwenty-week-old apolipoprotein-E-deficient mice received standard chow or standard chow supplemented with 0.15% ticagrelor (approximately 270 mg/kg/day) for 25 weeks. The lesion area was evaluated in the aortic sinus by Movat’s pentachrome staining and lesion composition, thickness of the fibrous cap, and size of the necrotic core evaluated by morphometry. RAW 264.7 macrophages were serum starved and treated with ticagrelor in vitro for the detection and quantification of apoptosis. In addition, oxLDL uptake in RAW 264.7 macrophages was evaluated.ResultsA trend toward the reduction of total lesion size was detected. However, data did not reach the levels of significance (control, n=11, 565,881 μm2 [interquartile range {IQR} 454,778–603,925 μm2] versus ticagrelor, n=13, 462,595 μm2 [IQR 379,740–546,037 μm2]; P=0.1). A significant reduction in the relative area of the necrotic core (control, n=11, 0.46 [IQR 0.4–0.51] versus ticagrelor, n=13, 0.34 [IQR 0.31–0.39]; P=0.008), and a significant increase in fibrous caps thickness (control, n=11, 3.7 μm [IQR 3.4–4.2 μm] versus ticagrelor, n=13, 4.7 [IQR 4.3–5.5 μm], P=0.04) were seen in ticagrelor-treated mice. In vitro studies demonstrated a reduction in apoptotic RAW 264.7 macrophages (control 0.07±0.03 versus ticagrelor 0.03±0.03; P=0.0002) when incubated with ticagrelor. Uptake of oxLDL in RAW 264.7 was significantly reduced when treated with ticagrelor (control 9.2 [IQR 5.3–12.9] versus ticagrelor 6.4 [IQR 2.5–9.5], P=0.02).ConclusionThe present study demonstrates for the first time a plaque-stabilizing effect of ticagrelor in a model of advanced vascular disease, potentially induced by a reduction of oxLDL uptake or an inhibition of apoptosis as seen in vitro.

Activation of Peroxisome Proliferator-activated Receptor γ (PPARγ) and CD36 Protein Expression: THE DUAL PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL ROLES OF PROGESTERONE

Progesterone or its analog, one of components of hormone replacement therapy, may attenuate the cardioprotective effects of estrogen. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Expression of CD36, a receptor for oxidized LDL (oxLDL) that enhances macrophage/foam cell formation, is activated by the transcription factor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ). CD36 also functions as a fatty acid transporter to influence fatty acid metabolism and the pathophysiological status of several diseases. In this study, we determined that progesterone induced macrophage CD36 expression, which is related to progesterone receptor (PR) activity. Progesterone enhanced cellular oxLDL uptake in a CD36-dependent manner. Mechanistically, progesterone increased PPARγ expression and PPARγ promoter activity in a PR-dependent manner and the binding of PR with the progesterone response element in the PPARγ promoter. Specific deletion of macrophage PPARγ (MφPPARγ KO) expression in mice abolished progesterone-induced macrophage CD36 expression and cellular oxLDL accumulation. We also determined that, associated with gestation and increased serum progesterone levels, CD36 and PPARγ expression in mouse adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and peritoneal macrophages were substantially activated. Taken together, our study demonstrates that progesterone can play dual pathophysiological roles by activating PPARγ expression, in which progesterone increases macrophage CD36 expression and oxLDL accumulation, a negative effect on atherosclerosis, and enhances the PPARγ-CD36 pathway in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle, a protective effect on pregnancy.

Porphyromonas gingivalis infected macrophages upregulate CD36 expression via ERK/NF-κB pathway

CD36, a scavenger receptor, plays an important role in the progression of atherosclerosis through its interaction with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL). Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis, Pg) has been shown to promote macrophage-derived foam cell formation by affecting the expression of CD36. However, the regulatory role of CD36 in macrophages infected with Pg remains largely unknown. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to explore the molecular mechanism of Pg induced CD36 expression in macrophages. Our results showed that Pg promoted ox-LDL uptake by macrophages and the formation of foam cells. Pg infection increased CD36 mRNA and protein levels in ox-LDL-untreated macrophages. Moreover, small interferon RNA (siRNA) targeting CD36 significantly reduced foam cell formation induced by Pg. Additionally, Pg stimulated nuclear translocation of p65, which directly bound to the promoters of CD36 to facilitate its transcription. Inhibition of p65, NF-κB or ERK1/2 blocked Pg-induced CD36 production; whereas, overexpression of NF-κB subunits p65 and p50 upregulated CD36. Furthermore, Ras inhibitors significantly attenuated ERK1/2 activation and CD36 expression. Taken together, the data indicated that stimulation of the ERK/NF-κB pathway by Pg led to transactivation of the CD36 promoters, thereby upregulating CD36 expression in the infected macrophages. These findings may help design new treatment strategies in atherosclerosis.

Endotoxin Disrupts Circadian Rhythms in Macrophages via Reactive Oxygen Species.

The circadian clock is a transcriptional network that functions to regulate the expression of genes important in the anticipation of changes in cellular and organ function. Recent studies have revealed that the recognition of pathogens and subsequent initiation of inflammatory responses are strongly regulated by a macrophage-intrinsic circadian clock. We hypothesized that the circadian pattern of gene expression might be influenced by inflammatory stimuli and that loss of circadian function in immune cells can promote pro-inflammatory behavior. To investigate circadian rhythms in inflammatory cells, peritoneal macrophages were isolated from mPer2luciferase transgenic mice and circadian oscillations were studied in response to stimuli. Using Cosinor analysis, we found that LPS significantly altered the circadian period in peritoneal macrophages from mPer2luciferase mice while qPCR data suggested that the pattern of expression of the core circadian gene (Bmal1) was disrupted. Inhibition of TLR4 offered protection from the LPS-induced impairment in rhythm, suggesting a role for toll-like receptor signaling. To explore the mechanisms involved, we inhibited LPS-stimulated NO and superoxide. Inhibition of NO synthesis with L-NAME had no effect on circadian rhythms. In contrast, inhibition of superoxide with Tempol or PEG-SOD ameliorated the LPS-induced changes in circadian periodicity. In gain of function experiments, we found that overexpression of NOX5, a source of ROS, could significantly disrupt circadian function in a circadian reporter cell line (U2OS) whereas iNOS overexpression, a source of NO, was ineffective. To assess whether alteration of circadian rhythms influences macrophage function, peritoneal macrophages were isolated from Bmal1-KO and Per-TKO mice. Compared to WT macrophages, macrophages from circadian knockout mice exhibited altered balance between NO and ROS release, increased uptake of oxLDL and increased adhesion and migration. These results suggest that pro-inflammatory stimuli can disrupt circadian rhythms in macrophages and that impaired circadian rhythms may contribute to cardiovascular diseases by altering macrophage behavior.

Abstract 624: Endothelial Scavenger Receptor Class B, Type I (SR-BI) Mediates LDL Uptake by the Artery Wall and Promotes Atherosclerosis in Hypercholesterolemic Mice

In endothelial cells, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) binding to scavenger receptor class B, type I (SR-BI) promotes the production of the antiatherogenic signaling molecule nitric oxide (NO) and also endothelial repair. To study how SR-BI in endothelium impacts atherosclerosis, we bred newly-created floxed SR-BI mice, vascular endothelial cadherin promoter-driven Cre recombinase transgenic (VECad-Cre), and apoE -/- mice to generate apoE -/- with normal endothelial SR-BI expression (SR-BI ECIN ;apoE -/- ) or selective deletion of SR-BI from endothelium (SR-BI ECOUT ;apoE -/- ). At weaning all mice were placed on an atherogenic diet (20% fat, 1.25% cholesterol), and plasma lipid profiles and atherosclerosis were evaluated 8 weeks later. Endothelial deletion of SR-BI did not alter the plasma lipid profile. Surprisingly, male SR-BI ECOUT ;apoE -/- mice displayed 63% less atherosclerosis in the en face aorta than male SR-BI ECIN ;apoE -/- mice, aortic root lesions were comparably affected, and similar findings were obtained in females. Recognizing that SR-BI binds both HDL and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), to then discern how endothelial SR-BI promotes atherosclerosis we determined using Di-I-labeled oxidized LDL (oxLDL) if SR-BI influences oxLDL uptake by endothelial cells. Such uptake is the first step in the endothelial transcytosis that delivers LDL to the artery wall to initiate atherogenesis. OxLDL uptake by primary human aortic endothelial cells was blunted by 87% by SR-BI blocking antibody, and it was also decreased by SR-BI deletion via siRNA, and by the chemical inhibitor of SR-BI BLT-1. Furthermore, SR-BI blocking antibody and BLT-1 caused marked declines in endothelial oxLDL transcytosis. Moreover, 4 hours following IV administration, oxLDL uptake in aorta was decreased by 84% in SR-BI ECOUT ;apoE -/- versus SR-BI ECIN ;apoE -/- mice. These collective findings indicate that endothelial SR-BI plays an important role in atherogenesis, and that it likely does so by mediating LDL uptake into the artery wall. They further suggest that there are mechanisms that govern LDL transport across endothelium that may be targeted to provide novel means to combat atherosclerosis.

Abstract 361: Oxidized Phospholipids Are Proinflammatory and Proatherogenic

Oxidized phospholipids (OxPL) are ubiquitously generated during inflammation, and found on apoptotic cells, OxLDL, and Lp(a). They facilitate uptake of OxLDL by macrophages (Mac) and mediate cellular inflammatory responses. The E06 natural IgM binds to the PC of OxPL, neutralizing biological effects and inhibiting OxLDL uptake by Mac. To determine the role of OxPL in atherogenesis, we generated transgenic mice expressing a single chain variant (scFv) of E06 in Ldlr background (E06-Tg). E06-scFv was secreted into plasma, bound to OxLDL and had sufficient titer to inhibit OxLDL uptake into Mac. E06-Tg or Ldlr mice were fed 1% Chol diet for 4, 7 or 12 months (n=12-15 mice/group). Plasma Chol was ~ 1600 mg/dL in all mice. Atherosclerosis decreased in E06-Tg mice: En face lesions decreased 57%, 34% and 28%, and aortic root lesions decreased 55%, 41% and 26% at 4, 7 and 12-months, respectively. OxLDL uptake by Macs was decreased: Thus, in E06-Tg mice, the uptake by peritoneal Mac of fluorescently-labeled OxLDL injected ip was decreased ~ 50%, as was peritoneal Mac Chol content. As Macs secrete E06-scFv, we performed BMT from E06-Tg donors into irradiated Ldlr recipients (n=10-12): This also decreased lesions 31% compared to BMT from control donors, even though plasma titers of E06-scFv were ~10% of Tg mice. Overexpression of E06-scFv was anti-inflammatory: Thus, in E06-Tg mice, both peritoneal and aortic wall resident macrophages exhibited decreased inflammatory gene expression, and phenotypic switches from M1 to M2 analyzed by RNAseq and FACS. Further, in E06-Tg mice, plasma SAA levels were reduced 32%, and hepatic steatosis was also decreased (-50% in both TG and Chol), as was hepatic inflammatory gene expression. Finally, E06-scFv attenuated both a progressive increase in aortic valve gradient (via echocardiography) and calcification in aged Ldlr mice. The E06-scFv lacks functional effects of an intact antibody other than the ability to “neutralize” OxPL. Thus, these data demonstrate that OxPL are profoundly proatherogenic and proinflammatory, which E06 counteracts in vivo . Neutralizing OxPL may therefore reduce the progression of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events and more generally, represents a novel strategy to safely attenuate inflammation.

Abstract 512: The Long Non-coding Rna MIAT Regulates Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation and Macrophage Activity in Advanced Atherosclerotic Lesions

Background: Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as critical epigenetic regulators in various biological processes and diseases. Here we sought to identify and functionally characterize the lncRNA MIAT as a novel regulator in atherosclerotic plaque stability. Methods and results: We profiled RNA transcript expression in patients with advanced atherosclerotic lesions from the Biobank of Karolinska Endarterectomies (BiKE). By microarray analysis, lncRNA MIAT was identified as one of the most highly up-regulated non-coding RNAs in carotid plaques compared to iliac artery controls, which was confirmed by qRT-PCR and in situ hybridization. Additional in silico analysis indicated a substantial positive correlation of MIAT with markers of inflammation, apoptosis and matrix degradation in carotid plaques. Experimental knock-down of MIAT, utilizing site-specific antisense oligonucleotides (LNA-GapmeRs) not only markedly decreased proliferation and migration rates of cultured human carotid artery smooth muscle cells (hCASMCs), but also increased their levels of apoptosis. In addition, MIAT inhibition significantly impaired oxidized LDL (oxLDL) uptake of murine peritoneal as well as human monocyte-differentiated macrophages in vitro. In contrast, induction of MIAT expression by lipoprotein-a (LPa) treatment, displayed the opposite effect. Conditioned medium from macrophage cultures after MIAT knock-down substantially decreased hCASMC proliferation, indicating a potential involvement of MIAT in macrophage-SMC interactions during advanced stages of atherosclerosis. Conclusion: The lncRNA MIAT is a novel regulator of cellular processes in atherosclerosis and plaque stability, which influences SMC proliferation and apoptosis and interacts with disease-triggering macrophages.

Abstract 598: Puerarin Inhibits Oxldl-mediated Proinflammatory and Proatherogenic Effects in Human Macrophages

Puerarin, a major isoflavonoid compound isolated from the Chinese herb Kudzu roots, has been a long history and widely used for treatment of cerebral and cardiovascular diseases in China and other Asian countries, including coronary artery disease, heart failure and myocardial infarction. However, the underlying mechanisms by which puerarin inhibits vascular atherogenic diseases are largely unknown. The activated macrophages release of inflammatory cytokines and uptake of oxLDL forming foam cells are critical for the development of atherosclerotic plaque. The present study investigated whether puerarin inhibited atherogenic lipid oxLDL-mediated macrophage activation and foam cell formation in human THP1 macrophage. The Cells were cultured and differentiated into macrophages by pre-incubation with 100 ng/ml PMA. Treatment with oxLDL (50 μg/ml) significantly increased the mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor α(TNFα, 160%) and interleukin (IL)1β(13 fold) accompanied by upregulation of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4, 165%) and the ratio of phospho-I κ Bα/I κ Bα in THP1 macrophage. Puerarin dose-dependently prevented an increase in oxLDL-induced proinflammatory gene expression with downregulation of TLR4 and the ratio of phospho-I κ Bα/I κ Bα. Furthermore, puerarin prevented oxLDL-mediated lipid deposition and foam cell formation associated with downregulation of scavenger receptor CD36. Flow cytometry analysis showed that puerarin reduced the number of early apoptotic cells of macrophages induced by oxLDL. Our results show that puerarin has anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic effects in vitro, the underling mechanisms may involve the inhibition of TLR4/NF κ B pathway and downregulation of CD36 expression. The results from the present study provide scientific evidence and may expand our armamentarium to use puerarin for prevention and treatment of cardiovascular and atherosclerotic diseases.

Decreased OxLDL uptake and cholesterol efflux in THP1 cells elicited by cortisol and by cortisone through 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1

Background and aimsData about glucocorticoids role in the development of atherosclerosis are controversial showing different effects in human than in experimental animal models. Atherosclerosis is the result of a chronic inflammatory response to an injured endothelium where an uncontrolled uptake of OxLDL by macrophages triggers the development of foam cells, the main component of fatty streaks in atherosclerotic plaque. There are few data about the direct effect of glucocorticoids in macrophages of atherosclerotic plaque. The aim of the study was to elucidate the role of glucocorticoids in the development of foam cells in atherosclerosis initiation. MethodsFor this purpose we used THP1 cells differentiated to macrophages with phorbol esters and incubated with OxLDL alone or with cortisol or cortisone. THP1 cells were also incubated with cortisone plus an inhibitor of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 (11βHSD1) activity to determine the role of this enzyme on glucocorticoid action in this process. ResultsOurs results showed that cortisol and cortisone decreased significantly the inflammation promoted by OxLDL, and also diminished the expression of genes involved in influx and efflux of cholesterol resulting in a reduced lipid accumulation. Likewise cortisol and cortisone decreased 11βHSD1 expression in THP1 cells. The presence of the inhibitor of 11βHSD1 abolished all the effects elicited by cortisone. ConclusionOur results indicate a direct effect of glucocorticoids on macrophages braking atherosclerosis initiation, reducing pro-inflammatory markers and OxLDL uptake and cholesterol re-esterification, but also inhibiting cholesterol output. These effects appear to be mediated, at least in part, by 11βHSD1 activity.

MiRNA-133a attenuates lipid accumulation via TR4-CD36 pathway in macrophages.

lipid metabolism is the major causes of atherosclerosis. There is increasing evidence that miR-133a plays an important role in atherosclerosis. However, the regulatory mechanism of miR-133a in macrophages is still unclear. Several lines of evidence indicate that loss of TR4 leads to reduce lipid accumulation in liver and adipose tissues, etc, and lesional macrophages-derived TR4 can greatly increase the foam cell formation through increasing the CD36-mediated the uptake of ox-LDL. Interestingly, computational analysis suggests that TR4 may be a target gene of miR-133a. Here, we examined whether miR-133a regulates TR4 expression in ox-LDL-induced mouse RAW 264.7 macrophages, thereby affecting lipid accumulation. Using ox-LDL-treatment RAW 264.7 macrophages transfected with miR-133a mimics or inhibitors, we have showed that miR-133a can directly regulate the expression of TR4 in RAW 264.7cells, thereby attenuates CD36-medide lipid accumulation. Furthermore, our studies suggest an additional explanation for the regulatory mechanism of miR-133a regulation to its functional target, TR4 in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Thus, our findings suggest that miR-133a may regulate lipid accumulation in ox-LDL-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages via TR4-CD36 pathway.