Activity Of Platelet-derived Growth Factor Research Articles

Advanced Cell Culture Models Illuminate the Interplay between Mammary Tumor Cells and Activated Fibroblasts.

The interaction between tumor cells and activated fibroblasts determines malignant features of desmoplastic carcinomas such as rapid growth, progression towards a metastatic phenotype, and resistance to chemotherapy. On one hand, tumor cells can activate normal fibroblasts and even reprogram them into CAFs through complex mechanisms that also involve soluble factors. Among them, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF) have an established role in the acquisition of pro-tumorigenic phenotypes by fibroblasts. On the other hand, activated fibroblasts release Interleukin-6 (IL-6), which increases tumor-cell invasiveness and chemoresistance. However, the interplay between breast cancer cells and fibroblasts, as well as the modes of action of TGF-β, PDGF, and IL-6, are difficult to investigate in vivo. Here, we validated the usage of advanced cell culture models as tools to study the interplay between mammary tumor cells and fibroblasts, taking mouse and human triple-negative tumor cells and fibroblasts as a case study. We employed two different settings, one permitting only paracrine signaling, the other both paracrine and cell-contact-based signaling. These co-culture systems allowed us to unmask how TGF-β, PDGF and IL-6 mediate the interplay between mammary tumor cells and fibroblasts. We found that the fibroblasts underwent activation induced by the TGF-β and the PDGF produced by the tumor cells, which increased their proliferation and IL-6 secretion. The IL-6 secreted by activated fibroblasts enhanced tumor-cell proliferation and chemoresistance. These results show that these breast cancer avatars possess an unexpected high level of complexity, which resembles that observed in vivo. As such, advanced co-cultures provide a pathologically relevant tractable system to study the role of the TME in breast cancer progression with a reductionist approach.

The E3 Ubiquitin Ligase TRIM21 Regulates Basal Levels of PDGFRβ.

Activation of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptors α and β (PDGFRα and PDGFRβ) at the cell surface by binding of PDGF isoforms leads to internalization of receptors, which affects the amplitude and kinetics of signaling. Ubiquitination of PDGF receptors in response to ligand stimulation is mediated by the Casitas b-lineage lymphoma (Cbl) family of ubiquitin ligases, promoting internalization and serving as a sorting signal for vesicular trafficking of receptors. We report here that another E3 ligase, i.e., tripartite motif-containing protein 21 (TRIM21), contributes to the ubiquitination of PDGFRβ in human primary fibroblasts AG1523 and the osteosarcoma cell line U2OS and regulates basal levels of PDGFRβ. We found that siRNA-mediated depletion of TRIM21 led to decreased ubiquitination of PDGFRβ in response to PDGF-BB stimulation, while internalization from the cell surface and the rate of ligand-induced degradation of the receptor were not affected. Moreover, induction of TRIM21 decreased the levels of PDGFRβ in serum-starved cells, and even more in growing cells, in the absence of PDGF stimulation. Consistently, siRNA knockdown of TRIM21 caused accumulation of the total amount of PDGFRβ, both in the cytoplasm and on the cell surface, without affecting mRNA levels of the receptor. We conclude that TRIM21 acts post-translationally and maintains basal levels of PDGFRβ, thus suggesting that ubiquitination of PDGFRβ by TRIM21 may direct a portion of receptor for degradation in growing cells in a ligand-independent manner.

Macrophage-mediated PDGF Activation Correlates with Regenerative Outcomes Following Musculoskeletal Trauma.

Our objective was to identify macrophage subpopulations and gene signatures associated with regenerative or fibrotic healing across different musculoskeletal injury types. Subpopulations of macrophages are hypothesized to fine tune the immune response after damage, promoting either normal regenerative, or aberrant fibrotic healing. Mouse single-cell RNA sequencing data before and after injury were assembled from models of musculoskeletal injury, including regenerative and fibrotic mouse volumetric muscle loss (VML), regenerative digit tip amputation (DTA), and fibrotic heterotopic ossification (HO). R packages Harmony , MacSpectrum and Seurat were used for data integration, analysis and visualizations. There was substantial overlap between macrophages from the regenerative VML (2mm injury) and regenerative bone (DTA) models, as well as a separate overlap between the fibrotic VML (3mm injury) and fibrotic bone (HO) models. We identified 2 fibrotic-like (FL 1 and FL 2) along with 3 regenerative-like (RL 1, RL 2, and RL 3) subpopulations of macrophages, each of which was transcriptionally distinct. We found that regenerative and fibrotic conditions had similar compositions of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory macrophages, suggesting that macrophage polarization state did not correlate with healing outcomes. Receptor/ligand analysis of macrophage-to-mesenchymal progenitor cell (MPC) crosstalk showed enhanced transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) in fibrotic conditions and enhanced platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) signaling in regenerative conditions. Characterization of macrophage subtypes could be used to predict fibrotic responses following injury and provide a therapeutic target to tune the healing microenvironment towards more regenerative conditions.

Platelet‑derived growth factor‑BB mediates pancreatic cancer malignancy via regulation of the Hippo/Yes‑associated protein signaling pathway.

Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is a potent mitogen and chemoattractant that serves a role in the development of several types of solid cancer, and abnormal PDGF activity has been reported in numerous human tumors. Tumor-derived PDGF ligands are considered to act in either a paracrine or autocrine manner, serving roles in the phosphorylation of receptors on tumor and stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment. Despite the well-established association between PDGF and tumor progression, the precise mechanisms of autocrine PDGF signaling in pancreatic tumor cells remain elusive. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze the influence of PDGF-BB in pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma BxPC-3 cells were cultured and treated with recombinant human PDGF-BB in vitro. Cell proliferation was tested using an MTT assay. Cell apoptosis was measured using flow cytometry. Tumor cell migration and invasion were examined via wound-healing and Transwell assays, respectively. The expression and subcellular localization of Yes-associated protein (YAP) was determined using western blotting and immunofluorescence. The transcriptional activity of target genes was tested using a luciferase assay and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. The present study revealed that PDGF-BB significantly promoted cell proliferation in pancreatic adenocarcinoma BxPC-3 cells and enhanced the aggressiveness of this cell line, as demonstrated by Transwell and wound-healing assays. Anoikis resistance is an important mechanism by which metastatic cells avoid apoptosis when detaching from adjacent cells or the extracellular matrix. PDGF-BB treatment inhibited anoikis under anchorage-independent conditions. Mechanistic experiments revealed that PDGF-BB promoted the upregulation and activation of the transcriptional coactivator YAP, an effector of the Hippo signaling pathway. RhoA or protein phosphatase-1 (PP-1) inhibition partially abolished the accumulation and activation of YAP, suggesting PDGF-BB-mediated YAP dephosphorylation and transactivation via the RhoA/PP-1 cascade. Pharmacologic inhibition of the PDGF receptor directly downregulated YAP activity and the expression levels of downstream genes. Furthermore, verteporfin, a small molecular inhibitor of the Hippo/YAP signaling pathway, partially reversed the effects of PDGF-BB on cell proliferation, anoikis resistance and cell migration. In conclusion, the present study revealed that the Hippo/YAP signaling pathway may be involved in the tumor-promoting activity of PDGF-BB in pancreatic cancer.

Freeze-Dried Platelet-Rich Plasma Induces Osteoblast Proliferation via Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor-Mediated Signal Transduction.

Study DesignControlled laboratory study.Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro pharmacological activity of growth factors (GFs) in freeze-dried platelet-rich plasma (FD-PRP) after storage for 4 weeks.Overview of LiteratureFreshly prepared PRP is a rich source of many GFs. We reported that FD-PRP stored for 8 weeks accelerated bone union in a rat posterolateral fusion model equally well as fresh-PRP. However, the pharmacological activity of FD-PRP after long-term storage has not been shown in vitro.MethodsImmediately after preparation, as well as 4 weeks after freeze-dried storage, the platelet count was measured. Human osteoblasts were treated with fresh-PRP and FD-PRP, respectively. Western blotting was used to assess the phosphorylation of the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor (PDGFR) and its downstream target, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). The proliferation rates of osteoblasts were investigated by immunocytochemistry and MTT cell viability assays. Furthermore, we used western blotting to evaluate the effect of PDGFR knockdown on the phosphorylation of ERK stimulated with fresh-PRP and FD-PRP.Results Platelet counts in both the fresh-PRP and FD-PRP samples were approximately 10-fold higher than in peripheral blood samples. The phosphorylation and activation of the PDGFR and ERK were evenly induced by fresh-PRP and FD-PRP stimulation. Both freshPRP and FD-PRP significantly induced osteoblast proliferation in MTT cell viability assays. Furthermore, osteoblast PDGFR knockdown attenuated the downstream ERK activation by fresh PRP and FD-PRP.ConclusionsWe demonstrated the pharmacological activity of PDGF in FD-PRP in vitro after 4 weeks of storage.

SUN-186 IMATINIB ATTENUATES PERYCITE-MYOFIBROBLAST TRANSITION IN RENAL CONGESTION IN RATS.

Some reports have demonstrated that central venous pressure (CVP) is an indicator of both renal dysfunction and congestive heart failure, and increased CVP raises renal venous pressure (RVP), which leads to renal congestion and renal dysfunction. We have recently reported about pathophysiological and molecular mechanisms in renal congestion in a novel rat model (Sci Rep, in press). In that study, we demonstrated that increase in inferior vena cava (IVC) pressure induces a reduction of renal blood flow together with renal interstitial hydrostatic pressure, and hypoxia and physical stress induce pericyte detachment and podocyte injury. We could suggest that pericyte detachment induced by renal congestion activates Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGFR), one of tyrosine kinase receptors, which was the main factor in extracellular matrix expansion. Here we report the efficacy of Imatinib, a PDGFR inhibitor, to renal fibrosis and podocyte injury in rat renal congestion model. All rats (Male Sprague-Dawly rats, 7 to 9 weeks) were anesthetized before surgery. The IVC between the renal veins was ligated. Each rat was given Imatinib Mesylate (50mg/kg) orally 2 hours before and every 12 hours after surgery. The control group were given the same amount of water. Three days after surgery, the IVC pressure was measured and the urine samples were collected separately from each kidney, and then the renal tissues were removed under anesthisia. Both kidneys were immediately sectioned and fixed for histological analyses, and then divided into the cortex and medulla for RNA analyses. Formalin-fixed renal paraffin-embedded renal tissues were undergone immunostaining of Transgelin (Tagln), Pdgfra, Pdgfrb as perycite-myofibroblast transision (PMT) markers, and Desmin as a podocyte marker, and Kidney injury molecule 1 (Kim1) as a renal proximal tubule injury marker. Total RNA extracted from the renal cortex and medulla underwent quantitative PCR (qPCR) for Tagln, Pdgfra, Pdgfrb, Desmin, Kim1. The relative mRNA expression levels were normalized by glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (Gapdh). Staining intensity and mRNA expression levels of Tagln, Pdgfra, Pdgfrb were higher in the control kidneys, especially in the cortex. Imatinib attenuated the intensity and mRNA expression levels. Desmin staining was higher in the control kidneys and imatinib lowered the intensity. On the other hand, as for Kim1, staining intensity showed no significant difference between the groups and mRNA expression level was elevated in an imatinib group. Podocyte and tubular injury occurred in rat renal congestion model together with pericyte detachment, which leads to renal fibrosis. Activation of PDGFRs was detected and Imatinib attenuates the elevation of PMT markers. These results may suggest that imatinib has some potentiality against renal fibrosis in renal congestion.

Interactions between cadherin-11 and platelet-derived growth factor receptor-alpha signaling link cell adhesion and proliferation

Cadherins are homophilic cell-to-cell adhesion molecules that help cells respond to environmental changes. Newly formed cadherin junctions are associated with increased cell phosphorylation, but the pathways driving this signaling response are largely unknown. Since cadherins have no intrinsic signaling activity, this phosphorylation must occur through interactions with other signaling molecules. We previously reported that cadherin-11 engagement activates joint synovial fibroblasts, promoting inflammatory and degradative pathways important in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pathogenesis. Our objective in this study was to discover interacting partners that mediate cadherin-11 signaling. Protein array screening showed that cadherin-11 extracellular binding domains linked to an Fc domain (cad11Fc) induced platelet-derived growth factor (PDGFR)-α phosphorylation in synovial fibroblasts and glioblastoma cells. PDGFRs are growth factor receptor tyrosine kinases that promote cell proliferation, survival, and migration in mesodermally derived cells. Increased PDGFR activity is implicated in RA pathology and associates with poor prognosis in several cancers, including sarcoma and glioblastoma. PDGFRα activation by cadherin-11 signaling promoted fibroblast proliferation, a signaling pathway independent from cadherin-11-stimulated IL-6 or matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3 release. PDGFRα phosphorylation mediated most of the cad11Fc-induced phosphatidyl-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt activation, but only part of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) response. PDGFRα-dependent signaling did not require cell cadherin-11 expression. Rather, cad11Fc immunoprecipitated PDGFRα, indicating a direct interaction between cadherin-11 and PDGFRα extracellular domains. This study is the first to report an interaction between cadherin-11 and PDGFRα and adds to our growing understanding that cadherin-growth factor receptor interactions help balance the interplay between tissue growth and adhesion.

Caracterização estrutural e papel do fator de crescimento derivado de plaquetas (PDGF) na foliculogênese ovariana

Background: : : : The platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is expressed in a wide variety of cell types, exerts a potent mitogenic role and acts on the growth, differentiation and cell chemotaxis. Studies have shown that during folliculogenesis, PDGF and their receptors are expressed in oocytes, granulosa cells and thecal cells of ovarian follicles at different developmental stages in several species. Although exist many information about its expression sites, as well as about its action in different cells types, the role of PDGF on ovarian folliculogenesis remains understudied. Thus, this article aims to review issues related to PDGF, suggesting the involvement of this mitogenic factor during follicular development. Review: Along this work, it was shown aspects related to structural characterization of PDGF and its receptors, as well as PDGF expression in different cells types, emphasizing its importance to follicular development. PDGF family is composed by four polypeptide chains (each encoded by a different gene), which are synthesized in the form of inactive pro-proteins. After a proteolytic processing, these chains undergo homo or heterodimerization, resulting in five isoforms (PDGF-AA, -BB, -AB, -CC e -DD). The cellular effects of these different PDGF isoforms are mediated by binding, with different specificities, to three transmembrane receptors isoforms of type tyrosine kinase generated by the association of subunits ? e ? (PDGFR- ??, - ??, - ??). PDGF was initially purified from platelets, being later verified its production by many varieties of cell types. It acts as an important mitogenic factor, especially to cells of mesenchymal origin as fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells, and also exerts a role on cellular migration and survival. Studies with PDGF and its receptors have demonstrated its importance as a paracrine growth factor for normal embryo development and angiogenesis. Although the action of this growth factor has been shown in several cellular responses, its role in ovarian folliculogenesis of mammals is understudied. Folliculogenesis, event initiated at pre-natal life in most species, can be defined as the process of follicular formation, growth and maturation, beggining with the primordial follicle formation and resulting in preovulatory stage. Until the present moment, the different PDGF types and their receptors were detected in ovarian follicles of murines, rodents, swines and humans according to developmental stage. Evidences suggest that this growth factor may acts as a potent regulator of ovarian function, increasing DNA synthesis in granulosa cells and stimulating theca cells growth in swines. In addition, PDGF has shown benefic effects in in vitro maturation of bovine oocytes when associated with follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). Conclusion: Nevertheless, the specific actions of PDGF on ovarian follicles development have not been described due to lack of data available in the literature about this subject. Therefore, this review was performed to clarify the involvement of this growth factor in the regulation of ovarian function in mammals. However, it is necessary to perform additional studies that may provide a greater understanding about the importance of PDGF during folicullogenesis.

Abstract 680: Specific Deletion of SHP-1 in Smooth Muscle Cells Restores PDGF Action in Diabetes

Introduction: Ischemia due to narrowing of the femoral artery and distal vessels is also a major cause of peripheral arterial disease and morbidity affecting patients with diabetes. Our laboratory has previously shown that hyperglycemia reduced platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) activity in ischemic muscle of diabetic mice, which was associated with increased SHP-1 expression, a protein tyrosine phosphatase. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of SHP-1 deletion in smooth muscle cells both in vitro and in vivo. Methods: Non-diabetic (NDM) and 3 months diabetic (DM) mice with deletion of SHP-1 specifically in smooth muscle cells (SMC) were used. Ligation of the femoral artery was performed and blood flow reperfusion was measured by laser Doppler for 4 weeks. Primary SMC were exposed to normal (5.6mM; NG) or high glucose concentrations (25mM; HG) for 48h, in normoxia (20% oxygen) or hypoxia (1%) for the last 24h in presence of PDGF, a pro-angiogenic factor. Results: Blood flow was recovered to 47% in DM mice compared to 80% in NDM mice. Specific SMC deletion of SHP-1 enhanced reperfusion in NDM and DM mice up to 78% and 67%, respectively. In culture, PDGF-induced proliferation, migration, and Akt phosphorylation were reduced by 69%, 50% and 40%, respectively in SMC exposed to HG+hypoxia. Inhibition of PDGF actions was associated with increased SHP-1 phosphatase activity (40%) and enhanced interaction of SHP-1 with the PDGF receptor-β (5.6-fold). Overexpression of the dominant negative form of SHP-1 restored PDGF-induced proliferation and migration as well as Akt and ERK phosphorylation in SMC exposed to HG+hypoxia. Conclusion: High glucose level induced SHP-1 activity and caused inhibition of PDGF pro-angiogenic actions in SMC, whereas the deletion of SHP-1 specifically in SMC restored blood flow reperfusion in diabetes.

PDGF ENZYMATIC ACTIVITY IN PATIENTS WITH DELAYED FRACTURE CONSOLIDATION

Introduction. Techniques that use growth factors to improve bone fragment consolidation and to treat the inflammatory and degenerative diseases of the musculoskeletal system have become very popular. Many researchers are actively searching for personification of this therapy and the reasons for delayed consolidation. The purpose of the study – to identify the biomarker for delayed bone consolidation.Materials and Methods. The study groups consisted of patients with high-energy tibia open fractures with normal (group 1) and with delayed (2nd group) consolidation of bone fragments. The enzymatic activity of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) in blood serum was studied after 7 days and in 1, 3 and 6 months after bone fragments reduction. Spectrophotometric technique (Specord-200) was used.Results. In patients with normal consolidation of bone fragments, the enzymatic activity of PDGF was statistically significantly higher in comparison with the group with delayed healing. At the same time, the highest activity was reported on day 7, and by third month it was becoming lower.Conclusion. Bone healing depends on PDGF enzymatic activity, besides significant differences on various stages of healing were observed. Further study the reasons for the PDGF enzymatic deficiency and its correction are of a great interest for reducing the timing of consolidation.

MiR-4632 mediates PDGF-BB-induced proliferation and antiapoptosis of human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells via targeting cJUN.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can regulate the proliferative status of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs), which is a core factor modulating pulmonary vascular remodeling diseases, such as atherosclerosis and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Our previous work has shown that miR-4632, a rarely reported miRNA, is significantly downregulated in platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB-stimulated human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (HPASMCs), yet its cell function and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain to be elucidated. Here, we find that miR-4632 is highly expressed in HPASMCs and its expression significantly decreased in response to different stimuli. Functional studies revealed that miR-4632 inhibited proliferation and promoted apoptosis of HPASMCs but had no effects on cell contraction and migration. Furthermore, the cJUN was identified as a direct target gene of miR-4632, while knockdown of cJUN was necessary for miR-4632-mediated HPASMC proliferation and apoptosis. In addition, the downregulation of miR-4632 by PDGF-BB was found to associate with histone deacetylation through the activation of PDGF receptor/phosphatidylinositol 3'-kinase/histone deacetylase 4 signaling. Finally, the expression of miR-4632 was reduced in the serum of patients with PAH. Overall, our results suggest that miR-4632 plays an important role in regulating HPASMC proliferation and apoptosis by suppression of cJUN, providing a novel therapeutic miRNA candidate for the treatment of pulmonary vascular remodeling diseases. It also implies that serum miR-4632 has the potential to serve as a circulating biomarker for PAH diagnosis.

Phytanic acid attenuates insulin-like growth factor-1 activity via nitric oxide-mediated γ-secretase activation in rat aortic smooth muscle cells: possible implications for pathogenesis of infantile Refsum disease.

Infantile Refsum disease (IRD), a peroxisomal disease with defective phytanic acid oxidation, causes neurological impairment and development delay. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) regulates child development and to understand molecular mechanism(s) of IRD, we examined the effect of phytanic acid (PA) on IGF-1 activity. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation was measured in rat aortic smooth muscle cell (SMC) cultures following treatment with fetal bovine serum (FBS), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) or IGF-1 in the absence or presence of PA. Gene expression and protein contents of IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R) and PDGF receptor (PDGFR) were examined using quantitative PCR and western blotting. PA inhibited mitogenic activities of FBS, PDGF and IGF-1 with more pronounced effect on IGF-1-induced bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation. Palmitic acid or lignoceric acids did not inhibit IGF-1 activity. PA had no effect on PDGFR mRNA/protein levels but markedly increased IGF-1R mRNA levels. PA and nitric oxide (NO) markedly decreased IGF-1R protein. L-NAME, a NO synthase inhibitor and DAPT, a γ-secretase inhibitor, alleviated PA-induced decrease in IGF-1R protein. Both PA and NO donor increased γ-secretase activity which was alleviated by L-NAME. This study demonstrates that PA attenuates IGF-1 activity possibly through IGF-1R impairment and NO-mediated modulation of γ-secretase activity.

Expression and activation of platelet-derived growth factor β receptor, mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase (MEK) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) in canine mammary tumours

Canine mammary tumours are frequent neoplasms mostly affecting intact female dogs, for which no 100% efficient therapy is available. Platelet derived growth factor β receptor (PDGFβR) is a tyrosine kinase receptor (TKR) with a potential role in human breast cancer and a series of canine tumours. In this study we demonstrated, for the first time, expression of PDGFβR and its downstream transduction molecules, mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase (MEK) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), as well as their activated forms in canine mammary tumours by both biochemical analysis and immunohistochemistry. PDGFβR was expressed and hyperphosphorylated in the majority of tumour samples and tumour derived cell lines. Additionally, both MEK and ERK were expressed and activated in cell lines as well as biopsies. TKR inhibitors (TKRi) are currently under investigation as possible therapy in human breast and several canine tumours, thus our in vivo and in vitro findings pave the way for future studies aimed at establishing a potential therapeutic employment of TKRi for the treatment of canine mammary cancer.

NOX4-derived reactive oxygen species limit fibrosis and inhibit proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells in diabetic atherosclerosis

Smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation and fibrosis contribute to the development of advanced atherosclerotic lesions. Oxidative stress caused by increased production or unphysiological location of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a known major pathomechanism. However, in atherosclerosis, in particular under hyperglycaemic/diabetic conditions, the hydrogen peroxide-producing NADPH oxidase type 4 (NOX4) is protective. Here we aim to elucidate the mechanisms underlying this paradoxical atheroprotection of vascular smooth muscle NOX4 under conditions of normo- and hyperglycaemia both in vivo and ex vivo. Following 20-weeks of streptozotocin-induced diabetes, Apoe−/− mice showed a reduction in SM-alpha-actin and calponin gene expression with concomitant increases in platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), osteopontin (OPN) and the extracellular matrix (ECM) protein fibronectin when compared to non-diabetic controls. Genetic deletion of Nox4 (Nox4−/−Apoe−/−) exacerbated diabetes-induced expression of PDGF, OPN, collagen I, and proliferation marker Ki67. Aortic SMCs isolated from NOX4-deficient mice exhibited a dedifferentiated phenotype including loss of contractile gene expression, increased proliferation and ECM production as well as elevated levels of NOX1-associated ROS. Mechanistic studies revealed that elevated PDGF signalling in NOX4-deficient SMCs mediated the loss of calponin and increase in fibronectin, while the upregulation of NOX1 was associated with the increased expression of OPN and markers of proliferation. These findings demonstrate that NOX4 actively regulates SMC pathophysiological responses in diabetic Apoe−/− mice and in primary mouse SMCs through the activities of PDGF and NOX1.

Sulforaphane improves dysregulated metabolic profile and inhibits leptin-induced VSMC proliferation: Implications toward suppression of neointima formation after arterial injury in western diet-fed obese mice

Sulforaphane (SFN), a dietary phase-2 enzyme inducer that mitigates cellular oxidative stress through nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation, is known to exhibit beneficial effects in the vessel wall. For instance, it inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation, a major event in atherosclerosis and restenosis after angioplasty. In particular, SFN attenuates the mitogenic and pro-inflammatory actions of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), respectively, in VSMCs. Nevertheless, the vasoprotective role of SFN has not been examined in the setting of obesity characterized by hyperleptinemia and insulin resistance. Using the mouse model of western diet-induced obesity, the present study demonstrates for the first time that subcutaneous delivery of SFN (0.5mg/Kg/day) for~3weeks significantly attenuates neointima formation in the injured femoral artery [↓ (decrease) neointima/media ratio by~60%; n=5–8]. This was associated with significant improvements in metabolic parameters, including ↓ weight gain by~52%, ↓ plasma leptin by~42%, ↓ plasma insulin by~63%, insulin resistance [↓ homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index by~73%], glucose tolerance (↓ AUCGTT by~24%), and plasma lipid profile (e.g., ↓ triglycerides). Under in vitro conditions, SFN significantly decreased leptin-induced VSMC proliferation by~23% (n=5) with associated diminutions in leptin-induced cyclin D1 expression and the phosphorylation of p70S6kinase and ribosomal S6 protein (n=3–4). The present findings reveal that, in addition to improving systemic metabolic parameters, SFN inhibits leptin-induced VSMC proliferative signaling that may contribute in part to the suppression of injury-induced neointima formation in diet-induced obesity.

The PDGF system and its antagonists in liver fibrosis

Platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) signaling plays an important role in activated hepatic stellate cells and portal fibroblast proliferation, chemotaxis, migration and cell survival. PDGF receptors and ligands are upregulated in experimental liver fibrotic models as well as in human liver fibrotic diseases. Blocking of PDGF signaling ameliorates experimental liver fibrogenesis. The plurality of molecular and cellular activities of PDGF and its involvement in initiation, progression and resolution of hepatic fibrogenesis offers an infinite number of therapeutic possibilities. These include the application of therapeutic antibodies (e.g. AbyD3263, MOR8457) which specifically sequester individual PDGF isoforms or the inhibition of PDGF isoforms by synthetic aptamers. In particular, the isolation of innovative slow off-rate modified aptamers (e.g., SOMAmer SL1 and SL5) that carry functional groups absent in natural nucleic acids by the Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential (SELEX) enrichment technique offers the possibility to design high affinity aptamers that target PDGF isoforms for clinical purposes. Dominant-negative soluble PDGF receptors are also effective in attenuation of hepatic stellate cell proliferation and hepatic fibrogenesis. Moreover, some multikinase inhibitors targeting PDGF signaling have been intensively tested during the last decade and are on the way into advanced preclinical studies and clinical trials. This narrative review aims to gauge the recent progression of research into PDGF systems and liver fibrosis.

Protective effects of the polyphenols (+)-episesamin and sesamin against PDGF-BB-induced activation of vascular smooth muscle cells are mediated by induction of haem oxygenase-1 and inhibition of mitogenic signalling

Activation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) represents a key event of atherosclerosis. It is triggered e.g. by the action of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF). The polyphenol (+)-episesamin (ES) is known to block the TNF-α-induced mitogenic VSMC response. Aiming to develop novel therapeutic options e.g. by dietary supplements, we studied if ES and its stereoisomer sesamin (SE) reduce PDGF-BB-induced growth and migration, which both promote atherosclerosis. ES and SE reduced basal and PDGF-BB-induced proliferation and migration of human, murine and rat VSMC by impaired activation of MAPK and PI3K pathways and reduced oxidative stress by induction of haem oxygenase-1 expression. Moreover, ES and SE blocked PDGF-BB-induced activation of NF-κB with subsequently reduced expression and secretion of the gelatinases matrix-metalloproteinase-(MMP)-2 and MMP-9. In conjunction with their natural origin and well-tolerable properties, these data suggest ES and SE as potential candidates for a complemental treatment of VSMC specific vascular diseases like atherosclerosis.

PDGFRβ signalling regulates local inflammation and synergizes with hypercholesterolaemia to promote atherosclerosis.

Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is a mitogen and chemoattractant for vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). However, the direct effects of PDGF receptor β (PDGFRβ) activation on VSMCs have not been studied in the context of atherosclerosis. Here, we present a new mouse model of atherosclerosis with an activating mutation in PDGFRβ. Increased PDGFRβ signaling induces chemokine secretion and leads to leukocyte accumulation in the adventitia and media of the aorta. Furthermore, PDGFRβD849V amplifies and accelerates atherosclerosis in hypercholesterolemic ApoE−/− or Ldlr−/− mice. Intriguingly, increased PDGFRβ signaling promotes advanced plaque formation at novel sites in the thoracic aorta and coronary arteries. However, deletion of the PDGFRβ-activated transcription factor STAT1 in VSMCs alleviates inflammation of the arterial wall and reduces plaque burden. These results demonstrate that PDGFRβ pathway activation has a profound effect on vascular disease and support the conclusion that inflammation in the outer arterial layers is a driving process for atherosclerosis.

Extracellular acidification synergizes with PDGF to stimulate migration of mouse embryo fibroblasts through activation of p38MAPK with a PTX-sensitive manner

The elucidation of the functional mechanisms of extracellular acidification stimulating intracellular signaling pathway is of great importance for developing new targets of treatment for solid tumors, and inflammatory disorders characterized by extracellular acidification. In the present study, we focus on the regulation of extracellular acidification on intracellular signaling pathways in mouse embryo fibroblasts (MEFs). We found extracellular acidification was at least partly involved in stimulating p38MAPK pathway through PTX-sensitive behavior to enhance cell migration in the presence or absence of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF). Statistical analysis showed that the actions of extracellular acidic pH and PDGF on inducing enhancement of cell migration were not an additive effect. However, we also found extracellular acidic pH did inhibit the viability and proliferation of MEFs, suggesting that extracellular acidification stimulates cell migration probably through proton-sensing mechanisms within MEFs. Using OGR1-, GPR4-, and TDAG8-gene knock out technology, and real-time qPCR, we found known proton-sensing G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1 (TRPV1), and acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) were unlikely to be involved in the regulation of acidification on cell migration. In conclusion, our present study validates that extracellular acidification stimulates chemotactic migration of MEFs through activation of p38MAPK with a PTX-sensitive mechanism either by itself, or synergistically with PDGF, which was not regulated by the known proton-sensing GPCRs, TRPV1, or ASICs. Our results suggested that others proton-sensing GPCRs or ion channels might exist in MEFs, which mediates cell migration induced by extracellular acidification in the presence or absence of PDGF.

Murrayafoline A Induces a G0/G1-Phase Arrest in Platelet-Derived Growth Factor-Stimulated Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells.

The increased potential for vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) growth is a key abnormality in the development of atherosclerosis and post-angioplasty restenosis. Abnormally high activity of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is believed to play a central role in the etiology of these pathophysiological situations. Here, we investigated the anti-proliferative effects and possible mechanism(s) of murrayafoline A, a carbazole alkaloid isolated from Glycosmis stenocarpa Guillamin (Rutaceae), on PDGF-BB-stimulated VSMCs. Murrayafoline A inhibited the PDGF-BB-stimulated proliferation of VSMCs in a concentration-dependent manner, as measured using a non-radioactive colorimetric WST-1 assay and direct cell counting. Furthermore, murrayafoline A suppressed the PDGF-BB-stimulated progression through G0/G1 to S phase of the cell cycle, as measured by [3H]-thymidine incorporation assay and cell cycle progression analysis. This anti-proliferative action of murrayafoline A, arresting cell cycle progression at G0/G1 phase in PDGF-BB-stimulated VSMCs, was mediated via down-regulation of the expression of cyclin D1, cyclin E, cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK)2, CDK4, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and the phosphorylation of retinoblastoma protein (pRb). These results indicate that murrayafoline A may be useful in preventing the progression of vascular complications such as restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty and atherosclerosis.