Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Expression Research Articles

VEGF inhibition increases expression of HIF-regulated angiogenic genes by the RPE limiting the response of wet AMD eyes to aflibercept

Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nvAMD) is the leading cause of severe vision loss in the elderly in the developed world. While the introduction of therapies targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has provided the first opportunity to significantly improve vision in patients with nvAMD, many patients respond inadequately to current anti-VEGF therapies. It was recently demonstrated that expression of a second angiogenic mediator, angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4), synergizes with VEGF to promote choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in mice and correlates with reduced response to anti-VEGF therapy in patients with nvAMD. Here, we report that expression of ANGPTL4 in patients with nvAMD increases following treatment with anti-VEGF therapy and that this increase is dependent on accumulation of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α in response to inhibition of VEGF/KDR signaling in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). We therefore explored HIF-1 inhibition with 32-134D, a recently developed pharmacologic HIF-inhibitor, for the treatment of nvAMD. 32-134D prevented the expression of both VEGF and ANGPTL4 and was at least as effective as aflibercept in treating CNV in mice. Moreover, by preventing the increase in HIF-1α accumulation in the RPE in response to anti-VEGF therapy, combining 32-134D with aflibercept was more effective than either drug alone for the treatment of CNV. Collectively, these results help explain why many patients with nvAMD respond inadequately to anti-VEGF therapy and suggest that the HIF inhibitor 32-134D will be an effective drug-alone or in combination with current anti-VEGF therapies-for the treatment of patients with this blinding disease.

Wound healing after surgical therapy for multiple myeloma: a case-control study.

The aim of this study was to observe the surgical wound healing process in patients with multiple myeloma who had undergone surgery. We collected clinical data on patients with multiple myeloma and observed wound healing following surgical therapy. Additionally, we compared the expression of angiogenesis markers in patients with and without multiple myeloma (undergoing surgical excision of other tumour tissues). In patients who had multiple myeloma bone disease, we examined several clinical features: haemoglobin levels; albumin levels; blood glucose levels; and surgery programme. We then compared expression levels of the angiogenesis markers CD31, CD34 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in samples scraped from the skin margin of the surgical incision in 12 patients without multiple myeloma (control) and nine patients with multiple myeloma. All 61 patients with multiple myeloma observed showed no disunion, no delayed union and no infection in their wound healing. CD31 and VEGF expression was higher in the nine patients with multiple myeloma compared with the 12 control patients without. We observed no difference in CD34 expression between control and experimental groups. The results of this study suggest that patients with multiple myeloma who have undergone surgery recover well and produce higher quantities of new vessels compared with patients without multiple myeloma. This occurs through increased expression of CD31 and VEGF, angiogenic factors which promote wound healing. We did not observe higher expression of these factors contributing to increased incisional implantation metastasis.

Intravenous Regeneration-associated Cell Transplantation Enhances Tissue Recovery in Mice with Acute Ischemic Stroke.

Previously, we reported that transplantation of regeneration-associated cells (RACs) via the ipsilateral external carotid artery reduced stroke volume in mice with permanent occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCA). However, intracarotid arterial transplantation is invasive and requires skill, and severe complications may occur, such as thromboembolism, infection, and decreased cerebral blood flow. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of intravenous injection of RACs in reducing stroke volume and increasing anti-inflammatory and angiogenic factors in mice with focal cerebral ischemia. Mice with occluded MCAs received intravenous injections of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) (control), low-dose RACs, or high-dose RACs. The proximal part of the left MCA was occluded to induce permanent focal ischemia. After 3 days, we administered PBS or low-dose (1 × 104 /50 µL) or high-dose RACs (1 × 105 /50 µL) through the tail vein and assessed the infarct volume on day 7. High-dose RACs significantly decreased infarct volume compared to PBS, whereas low-dose RACs showed no effect. The number of interleukin-10 (IL-10)-positive and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-positive cells in the peri-infarct area on day 7 was significantly higher in mice treated with low-dose and high-dose RACs than in the PBS control group. Intravenous injection of RACs can reduce ischemic stroke volume; however, a higher dose of RACs is required than the dose used in intraarterial transplantation. By assessing IL-10 and VEGF expression, the study sheds light on the underlying mechanisms of RAC therapy, revealing its potential anti-inflammatory and angiogenic properties in the treatment of cerebral ischemia.

Molecular Imaging of Melanoma VEGF-expressing Tumors through [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-Fab(Bevacizumab).

Angiogenesis is a process that many tumors depend on for growth, development, and metastasis. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the major players in tumor angiogenesis in several tumor types, including melanoma. VEGF inhibition is achieved by bevacizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody that binds with high affinity to VEGF and prevents its function. In order to successfully enable in vivo VEGF expression imaging in a murine melanoma model, we previously labeled bevacizumab with [99mTc]Tc. We observed that this was feasible, but it had prolonged blood circulation and delayed tumor uptake. The aim of this study was to develop a radiolabeled Fab bevacizumab fragment, [99mTc]Tc-HYNICFab( bevacizumab), for non-invasive in vivo VEGF expression molecular imaging. Flow cytometry was used to examine VEGF presence in the murine melanoma cell line (B16-F10). Bevacizumab was digested with papain for six hours at 37°C to produce Fab(bevacizumab), which was then conjugated to NHS-HYNIC-Tfa for radiolabeling with [99mTc]Tc. Stability and binding affinity assays were also evaluated. Biodistribution and single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) were performed at 1, 3, and 6 h (n = 4) after injection of [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-Fab(Bevacizumab) in normal and B16-F10 tumor-bearing C57Bl/6J mice. Using flow cytometry, it was shown that the B16-F10 murine melanoma cell line has intracellular VEGF expression. Papain incubation resulted in the complete digestion of bevacizumab with good purity and homogeneity. The radiolabeling yield of [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-Fab(bevacizumab) was 85.00 ± 6.06%, with a specific activity of 291.87 ± 18.84 MBq/mg (n=3), showing in vitro stability. Binding assays demonstrated significant intracellular in vitro VEGF expression. Fast blood clearance and high kidney and tumor uptake were observed in biodistribution and SPECT/CT studies. We present the development and evaluation of [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-Fab(bevacizumab), a novel molecular VEGF expression imaging agent that may be used for precision medicine in melanoma and potentially in other VEGF-expressing tumors.

Updated Survival Follow-Up for Phase Ib Trial of the Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Abexinostat With Pazopanib in Patients With Solid Tumor Malignancies

PURPOSE Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition downregulates hypoxia-inducible factor-1α and modulates multiple metabolomic pathways relevant in cancer. Here we report a potential novel biomarker to predict exceptional responders (>3 years) in patients receiving HDAC and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibition. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with solid tumor malignancies were enrolled in this phase Ib trial of abexinostat (4/7 ×21 days) and pazopanib (28/28 days), with a dose expansion in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Plasma was analyzed for metabolomics and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) for VEGF and HDAC2 expression levels. RESULTS Fifty-one patients were enrolled: n = 36 patients in dose escalation and n = 15 in dose expansion. After the initial report in 2017, six patients had remained on study: four with RCC and one each with medullary thyroid and thymic neuroendocrine carcinoma. One patient with RCC remains on treatment for >11 years after progression on five systemic therapies. Overall, the median duration of therapy measured 5.6 (1-133) months. The median duration of therapy in exceptional responders measured 44.1 (39.8-133+) months. The median overall survival in patients with high PBMC HDAC2 expression versus low HDAC2 was 32.3 versus 9.2 months ( P = .004) for all patients and 43.3 versus 25.1 months for patients with RCC ( P = .09). Exceptional responders had lower kynurenine levels both pre- and post-treatment ( P = .002, P < .001, respectively). HDAC2 and kynurenine expression levels were inversely correlated ( P = .02). CONCLUSION Abexinostat added to pazopanib shows extended tolerability and long-term responses and survival. PBMC HDAC2 levels, the abexinostat target, are relevant predictors of response. In addition, metabolomic assessment points to kynurenine as a predictor for exceptional response to combined VEGF plus HDAC inhibition.

Uniaxial static strain enhances osteogenic and angiogenic potential under hypoxic conditions in distraction osteogenesis

ObjectiveBone incision leads to interrupted and sluggish blood flow in the process of distraction osteogenesis (DO), creating a hypoxia (0–2% oxygen tension) at the center of the bone callus. This hypoxia is critical in the coupling of osteogenesis and angiogenesis during DO. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Uniaxial Static Strain (USS) on osteogenesis in osteoblasts under hypoxic conditions, with a focus on the expression of osteogenic markers and angiogenic factors.MethodsThe USS was made by a multi-unit tension compression device.Osteoblasts were subjected to 10% USS made under hypoxic conditions to mimic the process of DO in vitro. The cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, mineralized nodule formation, and expression of osteogenic and angiogenic markers were evaluated by using a CCK-8 assay, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, ALP activity assay, alizarin red S staining, qRT-PCR, Western blotting and ELISA.ResultsHypoxia inhibited osteoblast cell proliferation, ALP activity, mineralized nodule formation, and the expression of runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx- 2), osteopontin(OPN), osteocalcin (OCN), collagen type I (Col1a1). Conversely, hypoxia upregulated the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which are associated with angiogenesis. However, the application of USS enhanced osteoblasts’ osteogenic capacity and upregulated angiogenic factors under hypoxic conditions.ConclusionUSS can enhance osteogenesis in osteoblasts under hypoxic conditions. Moreover, it may stimulate angiogenesis by promoting the expression of VEGF, which further contributes to bone formation. This finding provides important implications for understanding the mechanisms involved in bone regeneration and may have clinical applications in optimizing the effectiveness of DO techniques.

New insights in the mechanisms of opioid analgesia and tolerance: Ultramicronized palmitoylethanolamide down-modulates vascular endothelial growth factor-A in the nervous system

Growing evidence suggests that opioid analgesics modulate angiogenesis during pathophysiological processes. Vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) was recently proposed to be involved in pain development. To date, no anti-angiogenic drug is used for pain management. When administered in a bioavailable formulation, (i.e., ultramicronized) N-palmitoylethanolamine (PEA) delays the onset of morphine tolerance, improves morphine analgesic activity and reduces angiogenesis in in vivo models. This study aimed at investigating whether VEGF-A is involved in PEA-induced delay of morphine tolerance. The anti-VEGF-A monoclonal antibody bevacizumab was used as a reference drug. Preemptive and concomitant treatment with ultramicronized PEA delayed morphine tolerance and potentiated the analgesic effect of morphine, while counteracting morphine-induced increase of VEGF-A in the nervous system. Similar results were obtained when bevacizumab was administered together with morphine. Of note, bevacizumab showed an analgesic effect per se. In equianalgesic treatment regimens (obtained through increasing morphine doses and associating PEA), PEA resulted in lower expression of VEGF-A in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and spinal cord compared to morphine alone. Similar results were observed for plasma levels of the soluble VEGF receptor 1 (sFLT-1). Moreover, in morphine-treated animals, two pain-related genes (i.e., Serpina3n and Eaat2) showed a more than 3-fold increase in their expression at spinal cord and DRG level, with the increase being significantly counteracted by PEA treatment. This study supports the hypothesis that the effects of PEA on morphine analgesia and tolerance may be mediated by the down-modulation of VEGF-A and sFLT-1 in the nervous system and plasma, respectively.

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) expressions in Ethiopian female breast cancer and their association with histopathologic features.

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGF) play important role in breast tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, patient survival and drug resistance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protein expression status of EGFR and VEGF-A, as well as their association with hormone receptor status and histopathological characteristics in the invasive type of female breast cancer among Ethiopians. The primary breast tumor tissues were obtained from 85 Ethiopian invasive breast cancer cases that underwent modified radical mastectomy (MRM) from June 2014 to June 2015. Their FFPE blocks were analyzed for EGFR and VEGF protein expressions using immunohistochemical techniques. The expressions were also correlated with histopathologic features. Epidermal growth factor receptor over-expression was observed in 22% of the tumor samples. VEGF-A expression was negative in 13.41%, low in 63.41%, moderate in 20.73%, and high in 2.44%. EGFR expression, but not VEGF-A, showed a significant inverse correlation with both estrogen receptor (ER) (P = 0.01) and progesterone receptor (PR) statuses (P = 0.04). EGFR and VEGF expressions did not show significant association with tumor size, grade, lymph node status or age at diagnosis. Epidermal growth factor receptor expression was most likely associated with ER and PR negative tumors. Assessments of multiple molecular markers aid to understand the biological behavior of the disease in Ethiopian population. It might also help to predict which group of patients might get more benefit from the selected treatment strategies and which are not.

Effects of propranolol on the biological behavior of human umbilical vein endothelial cells and the expression of SOX18, MMP-7, and VEGFA

To investigate the effects of propranolol on the proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and tube formation ability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), as well as its impact on the expression of sex-determining region Y-box 18 (SOX18), matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA). HUVEC were treated with different concentrations of propranolol, and cell viability was assessed using the CCK-8 method to determine the optimal concentration and treatment duration. The experiment consisted of a control group and groups treated with different concentrations of propranolol (50, 100, 150 μmol/L). Apoptosis, migration, and tube formation of HUVEC were observed using flow cytometry, wound healing assays, and tube formation assays. Western blot and real-time quantitative PCR were used to detect the expression levels of SOX18, MMP-7, and VEGFA proteins and mRNA. Compared to the control group, the apoptosis rate in the propranolol treatment groups increased significantly (P<0.05), and it rose significantly with increasing drug concentration (P<0.05). The wound healing rate decreased in the propranolol treatment groups, and both the number of tube formation nodes and total tube length were reduced (P<0.05). The expression levels of SOX18, MMP-7, and VEGFA proteins and mRNA were downregulated in the propranolol treatment groups (P<0.05). Propranolol can inhibit the proliferation, migration, and tube formation ability of HUVEC and promote cell apoptosis, resulting in decreased expression levels of SOX18, MMP-7, and VEGFA.

Fluorescence detection of pituitary neuroendocrine tumour during endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery using bevacizumab-800CW: a non-randomised, non-blinded, single centre feasibility and dose finding trial [DEPARTURE trial

Achieving endocrine remission by gross total resection is challenging in pituitary neuroendocrine tumours (PitNETs) with cavernous sinus invasion. This study aims to assess the safety, feasibility, and optimal dose for intraoperative fluorescence imaging as an added instrument to discriminate PitNET from surrounding tissue using bevacizumab-800CW, targeting vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A). In part I, dose-escalation (0-4∙5-10-25mg) was performed in 4 groups of 3 patients with PitNETs Knosp grade 3-4. In part II, after interim analysis, the 10mg and 25mg groups were expanded to a total of 6 patients. Quantitative fluoroscence molecular endoscopy consisted of wide field fluorescence molecular endoscopy and multi-diameter single fiber reflectance / single fiber fluorescence spectroscopy. Mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of the fresh surgical specimen was calculated and VEGF-staining was performed. Eighteen patients were included. All doses were well tolerated. Three serious adverse events were registered, but none were tracer-related. Part I showed an adequate in-vivo tumour-to-background ratio for both 10mg (TBR 2∙00 [1∙86, 2∙19]) and 25mg (TBR 2∙10, [1∙86, 2∙58]). Part II revealed a substantially higher MFI in the 25mg group. With both 10mg and 25mg a statistically significant difference between tumour and surrounding tissue was detected (p < 0∙0001). All surgical specimens had VEGF-A expression. This study demonstrates the safety and feasibility of quantitative fluorescence molecular endoscopy during PitNET surgery. Both 10mg and 25mg bevacizumab-800CW result in clear differentiation in-vivo, with improved contrast ex-vivo (MFI) in the 25mg group. NCT04212793 / Study Details| Detection of PitNET Tissue During TSS Using Bevacizumab800CW| ClinicalTrials.gov.

Early activation of macrophage-2 with IL-4 in stromal vascular fraction increases VEGF levels and adipocyte count and maintains volume of fat graft in Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus)

Several previous studies have demonstrated the benefits of early macrophage 2 activation fat grafts supplemented with macrophage culture. However, this approach is considered impractical in clinical settings because of intraperitoneal induction use. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of early stromal vascular fraction (SVF) macrophage-2 activation with IL-4 on fat graft survival compared to SVF alone using an animal model for better fat graft viability. This experimental study included inguinal fat harvesting, isolated with collagenases to retrieve the SVF, and then injected with a combination of fat graft and SVF (0.3 mL) into the scalp region. The intervention group received an IL-4 intralesional injection on the third day, and the fat grafts were biopsied on days 7, 14, and 30. The primary outcomes were the final volume of the fat graft, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, and the adipocyte cell count using perilipin staining on immunohistochemistry examination. The group receiving IL-4 exhibited significantly higher VEGF on days 7, 14, and 30 (p=0.009, 0.009, and 0.021, respectively). Similarly, the IL-4 treatment significantly increased the perilipin concentration on days 7, 14, and 30 (p=0.008, 0.008, and 0.029, respectively). In this group, VEGF concentration was significantly increased on day 14 as compared to day 7 (p=0.009), while no significant difference was observed in the control group (p=0.090). Additionally, the IL-4 group displayed significantly less reduction of fat graft volume than the control group, as observed on days 7, 14, and 30 (p=0.009, 0.009, and 0.021, respectively). Overall, the study underscores the potential benefits of early M2 polarization in fat grafting, as well as providing practical advantages for improving fat graft volume retention.

Poly (ADP-Ribose) Polymerase-1 (PARP-1) Inhibitors in Diabetic Retinopathy: An Attractive but Elusive Choice for Drug Development.

Owing to its promiscuous roles, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) is involved in various neurological disorders including several retinal pathologies. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most common microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus affecting the retina. In the present review, we highlight the importance of PARP-1 participation in pathophysiology of DR and discuss promising potential inhibitors for treatment. A high glucose level enhances PARP-1 expression; PARP inhibitors have gained attention due to their potential therapeutic effects in DR. They target different checkpoints (blocking nuclear transcription factor (NF-κB) activation; oxidative stress protection, influence on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, impacting neovascularization). Nowadays, there are several improved clinical PARP-1 inhibitors with different allosteric effects. Combining PARP-1 inhibitors with other compounds is another promising option in DR treatments. Besides pharmacological inhibition, genetic disruption of the PARP-1 gene is another approach in PARP-1-initiated therapies. In terms of future treatments, the limitations of single-target approaches shift the focus onto combined therapies. We emphasize the importance of multi-targeted therapies, which could be effective not only in DR, but also in other ischemic conditions.

YTHDF1-regulated ALOX5 in retinal pigment epithelial cells under hypoxia enhances VEGF expression and promotes viability, migration, and angiogenesis of vascular endothelial cells

Upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and enhanced angiogenesis have been implicated in the severe progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Abnormal arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase (ALOX5) is associated with AMD pathogenesis. However, no reports have shown the causal role of ALOX5 in angiogenesis during AMD. In the present study, ARPE-19 cells were exposed to hypoxia, an inducer of VEGF expression. Potential proteins implicated in AMD progression were predicted using bioinformatics. RNA affinity antisense purification-mass spectrometry (RAP-MS) was applied to identify the binding proteins of ALOX5 3′UTR. Expression of ALOX5 and YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA-binding protein 1 (YTHDF1) was detected by qRT-PCR and western blotting. VEGF expression and secretion were assessed by immunofluorescence and ELISA, respectively. The chicken embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) was used to analyze the effect of ALOX5 on angiogenesis. RNA stability was assayed using the Actinomycin D assay. The results show that hypoxia promoted cell growth and increased VEGF expression in ARPE-19 cells. ALOX5 was associated with AMD progression, and hypoxia upregulated ALOX5 expression in ARPE-19 cells. ALOX5 silencing reduced VEGF expression induced by hypoxia in ARPE-19 cells. Moreover, the conditioned medium of ALOX5-silenced ARPE-19 cells could suppress the viability and migration of HUVECs and diminish angiogenesis in the CAM. Furthermore, YTHDF1 was validated to bind to ALOX5 3′UTR, and YTHDF1 promoted ALOX5 expression by elevating the stability of ALOX5 mRNA. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that YTHDF1-regulated ALOX5 increases VEGF expression in hypoxia-exposed ARPE-19 cells and enhances the viability, migration, and angiogenesis of vascular endothelial cells.

12334 Harnessing Protective Diets: Phytoestrogens As A Strategy To Alleviate Estradiol-driven Progression And Symptomatology In Endometriosis

Abstract Disclosure: A.D. Strong: None. S. Andrisse: None. D. Antani: None. Endometriosis (EMS) is a prevalent gynecological disorder affecting 10% of reproductive-age women with up to 50% experiencing infertility. It is characterized by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, leading to symptoms such as pelvic pain and infertility. While the exact cause of EMS remains elusive, hormonal dysregulation and the succeeding inflammation play a crucial role in its pathogenesis. Phytoestrogens (PEs) are a diverse group of plant-derived compounds that exhibit structural and functional similarities to endogenous estrogens and have emerged as potential therapeutic agents due to their ability to modulate hormonal signaling and inflammatory pathways. This integrative review aimed to provide a summation of the current evidence on the mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic applications of PEs in the context of EMS. PEs exhibit weak estrogenic activity and can interact with estrogen receptors (ERs), influencing hormonal and molecular pathways relevant to the pathology. These compounds have shown promise in regulating estrogen levels, inhibiting cell proliferation, and modulating insulin-like growth factor 1 signaling, all of which are critical in developing and progressing the disease state. Notably, curcumin and resveratrol have demonstrated anti-proliferative effects on endometrial cells by targeting key pathways involved in cell growth and angiogenesis. Curcumin has been shown to downregulate inflammatory factors like COX-2 and TNF-α while reducing vascular endothelial growth factor expression associated with angiogenesis. Similarly, resveratrol has been found to suppress inflammatory responses in endometrial stromal cells through the sirtuin 1 pathway. Studies indicate PEs can enhance antioxidant defenses and counteract reactive oxygen species levels implicated in endometriotic pain and disease progression. By restoring antioxidant balance and mitigating oxidative damage, PEs may offer therapeutic benefits in managing EMS symptoms. In conclusion, their multifaceted effects on estrogen signaling, inflammation, and oxidative stress highlight their potential as adjunctive or alternative treatments for symptomatic women with active disease. Plausible evidence supports that certain dietary components can reduce or exacerbate inflammation associated with EMS symptoms and progression. Foods that are rich in phytoestrogens include soy, fruits, vegetables, spinach, sprouts, beans, cabbages, and grain. Specifically, curcumin is a primary component in turmeric and resveratrol is found in high amounts in black and red grapes, red wine, berries, and nuts. While more research is still needed to fully understand the relationship between diet and endometriosis, utilizing therapeutic dietary interventions appears to be a promising self-management strategy for improving quality of life and symptom management. Presentation: 6/3/2024

Emodin combined with 5-aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy inhibits condyloma acuminate angiogenesis by targeting SerRS.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection can cause condyloma acuminatum (CA), which is characterized by a high incidence and a propensity for recurrence after treatment. Angiogenesis plays an important role in the occurrence and development of CA. Seryl-tRNA synthetase (SerRS) is a newly identified, potent anti-angiogenic factor that directly binds to the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGFA) promoter, thereby suppressing its transcription. Emodin is a natural anthraquinone derivative that can promote SerRS expression. This study aimed to investigate the effects of emodin on CA and explore combined treatment strategies. The HPV-infected cell line SiHa was treated with either DMSO, emodin, ALA-PDT or a combination of emodin and ALA-PDT. We observed the effects on cell proliferation, apoptosis and the SerRS-VEGFA pathway. Our findings demonstrated that emodin targets angiogenesis through the SerRS-VEGFA pathway, resulting in the inhibition of SiHa cell proliferation and promotion of apoptosis (p < 0.001). To verify the therapeutic effect of emodin combined with ALA-PDT on HPV-associated tumours invivo, we established an animal xenograft model by subcutaneously inoculating mice with SiHa cells (n = 4). The results showed that the combination of emodin and ALA-PDT significantly inhibited the expression of VEGFA to inhibit angiogenesis (p < 0.001), thus showing an inhibitory effect on tumour (p < 0.001). Furthermore, we determined that the mechanism underlying the decrease in VEGFA expression after emodin combined with ALA-PDT in CA may be attributed to the promotion of SerRS expression (p < 0.001). The combination of emodin and ALA-PDT holds promise as a novel therapeutic target for CA by targeting neovascularization in condyloma tissues.

Increased vascular endothelial growth factor expression is associated with cruciate ligament degeneration in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in cruciate ligaments from patients with osteoarthritis (OA). It was hypothesized that the expression level of VEGF is associated with the extent of degeneration of the cruciate ligaments.MethodsRemnants of anterior cruciate ligaments (ACLs) from patients with acute ACL injury due to trauma, and ACLs and posterior cruciate ligaments (PCLs) from patients with primary OA were assessed histologically. Samples were immunohistochemically stained with VEGF and tenomodulin, and immunopositive cells were quantitatively assessed by the histological grades of ligament degeneration.ResultsHistological analysis showed significant degeneration of the ACLs from OA patients compared with trauma patients, with increased expression of VEGF correlating with higher grades of degeneration. Conversely, tenomodulin expression was lower in more degenerated cruciate ligaments. The percentage of VEGF-positive cells was correlated inversely with that of tenomodulin-positive cells.ConclusionsIncreased VEGF expression is associated with degeneration of cruciate ligaments in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee.

Sex Differences in Skeletal Muscle Pathology in Patients With Heart Failure and Reduced Ejection Fraction.

Women with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) have greater symptoms and a lower quality of life compared with men; however, the role of noncardiac mechanisms remains poorly resolved. We hypothesized that differences in skeletal muscle pathology between men and women with HFrEF may explain clinical heterogeneity. Muscle biopsies from both men (n=22) and women (n=16) with moderate HFrEF (New York Heart Association classes I-III) and age- and sex-matched controls (n=18 and n=16, respectively) underwent transcriptomics (RNA-sequencing), myofiber structural imaging (histology), and molecular signaling analysis (gene/protein expression), with serum inflammatory profiles analyzed (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). Two-way ANOVA was conducted (interaction sex and condition). RNA-sequencing identified 5629 differentially expressed genes between men and women with HFrEF, with upregulated terms for catabolism and downregulated terms for mitochondria in men. mRNA expression confirmed an effect of sex (P<0.05) on proatrophic genes related to ubiquitin proteasome, autophagy, and myostatin systems (higher in all men versus all women), whereas proanabolic IGF1 expression was higher (P<0.05) in women with HFrEF only. Structurally, women compared with men with HFrEF showed a pro-oxidative phenotype, with smaller but higher numbers of type I fibers, alongside higher muscle capillarity (Pinteraction<0.05) and higher type I fiber areal density (Pinteraction<0.05). Differences in gene/protein expression of regulators of muscle phenotype were detected between sexes, including HIF1α, ESR1, VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), and PGC1α expression (P<0.05), and for upstream circulating factors, including VEGF, IL (interleukin)-6, and IL-8 (P<0.05). Sex differences in muscle pathology in HFrEF exist, with men showing greater abnormalities compared with women related to the transcriptome, fiber phenotype, capillarity, and circulating factors. These preliminary data question whether muscle pathology is a primary mechanism contributing to greater symptoms in women with HFrEF and highlight the need for further investigation.

The effectiveness of edible bird's nest in lowering VEGF, CD31, and PDGFR-β levels in diabetic retinopathy in rats with type 1 diabetes.

Diabetic eye disease, known as diabetic retinopathy (DR), is one of the problems that can arise from having high blood sugar for an extended period. This study aimed to investigate the effect of the edible bird's nest (EBN) on retinal angiogenesis in diabetic rats. The 50 rats were separated into five different groups, each containing 10 rats: control, diabetes (DM), bird's nest-fed diabetes (75 mg/kg Body weight; BW), (EBN 75), (150 mg/kg BW) (EBN 150), and glyburide (GR) for an eight-week study. H&E and Masson's trichrome staining were utilized to investigate the retinal tissue and vascular changes. The immunofluorescence study was used to detect angiogenic protein expression. The vascular corrosion cast/SEM method was also used to evaluate capillary plexus formation within the retinal layer. From histological studies, DM rats have thinning of the retinal layer. Remarkably, the retinal vessels displayed dilations resembling ruptured blood vessels. The expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (30.51±2.62), cluster of differentiation 31 (CD31) (28.18±0.22), and platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFR-β) (141.67±0.97) were increased. EBN 75 exhibited some small improvements in their blood vessels and eye tissue. At a dose of 150 mg/kg BW, EBN proved to be more effective. There was a significant decrease in VEGF and CD31 expression compared with the diabetic group (p<0.001 and p<0.01, respectively). These studies have demonstrated that EBN can lower the growth levels of VEGF, CD31, and PDGFR-β, which results in a decrease in angiogenesis and a recovery from a variety of diabetic retinopathy-related diseases.

Predicting angiogenesis in adrenal pheochromocytoma: the role of modified parameters from contrast-enhanced CT

ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to investigate the value of modified parameters derived from dual-phase contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) in predicting angiogenesis within pheochromocytoma.MethodA total of 31 patients with pathologically confirmed pheochromocytoma underwent preoperative dual-phase contrast-enhanced CT scanning, wherein modified CT enhancement parameters, namely maximum enhancement difference (∆H) and maximum enhancement velocity (V), were quantified. Subsequently, postoperative specimens were evaluated by pathological section, while microvessel density (MVD) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels were counted. We conducted comparative analyses to assess disparities in maximum enhancement difference and enhancement velocity between groups characterized by high and low VEGF expression. Furthermore, correlations between maximum enhancement difference, enhancement velocity, and MVD were examined, along with an assessment of the association between maximum enhancement difference, VEGF expression, and MVD at the point of maximal enhancement difference occurrence.ResultsIn the study group, unilateral pheochromocytoma was observed in 31 cases, with 19 cases of arterial phase enhancement and 12 cases displaying venous phase enhancement. The range of maximum enhancement difference (ΔH) spanned from 24 to 102 HU, while the range of maximum enhancement velocity (V) extended from 0.40 HU/s to 4.08 HU/s. Analysis revealed a significant elevation in MVD value within the arterial phase enhancement group compared to the venous phase enhancement group. Additionally, a positive correlation was discerned between the maximum enhancement difference, V, and MVD. Notably, both ∆H and V exhibited statistically significant elevations in the high VEGF expression group relative to the low VEGF expression group. Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between both ΔH and V and VEGF expression levels.ConclusionIncreased values of ∆H and V are indicative of heightened MVD and VEGF expression. Consequently, the modified parameters derived from dual-phase contrast-enhanced CT scanning serve as predictive markers for angiogenesis in adrenal pheochromocytoma.

The VEGFA-Induced MAPK-AKT/PTEN/TGFβ Signal Pathway Enhances Progression and MDR in Gastric Cancer.

Gastric cancer (GC) is a globally frequent cancer, in particular leading in mortality caused by digestive tract cancers in China. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) is excessively expressed in cancers including GC; its involvement in GC development, particularly in multidrug resistance (MDR), and the signal route it affects in GC remain unknown. To explore the roles VEGFA plays during progression and MDR formation in GC, we studied its function in a VEGFA-deleted GC cell platform. We initially assessed the importance of VEGFA in GC and MDR using database analysis. Then, using CCK8, wound healing, transwell, scanning electron microscopy, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, and other techniques, the alterations in tumor malignancy-connected cell behaviors and microstructures were photographed and evaluated in a VEGFA-gene-deleted GC cell line (VEGFA-/-SGC7901). Finally, the mechanism of VEGFA in GC progression and MDR was examined by Western blot. Database analysis revealed a strong correlation between high VEGFA expression and a poor prognosis for GC. The results showed that VEGFA deletion reduced GC cell proliferation and motility and altered microstructures important for motility, such as the depolymerized cytoskeleton. VEGFA deletion inhibited the growth of pseudopodia/filopodia and suppressed the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The occurrence of MDR is induced by overactivation of the MAPK-AKT and TGFβ signaling pathways, while PTEN inhibits these pathways. All findings suggested that VEGFA acts as a cancer enhancer and MDR inducer in GC via the MAPK-AKT/PTEN/TGFβ signal pathway.