VEGF-induced Akt Phosphorylation Research Articles

Activation of the sweet taste receptor T1R3 by sucralose attenuates VEGF-induced vasculogenesis in a cell model of the retinal microvascular endothelium

BackgroundOne of the most prevalent microvascular complications for patients with diabetes is diabetic retinopathy (DR) associated with increased retinal endothelial blood vessel formation. Treatments to reduce vascularisation in the retinal endothelium are linked to improved sight in patients with DR. Recently, we have demonstrated the novel protective role of the artificial sweetener, sucralose, and the sweet taste receptor, T1R3, in the pulmonary endothelium to reduce vascular leak. In the present study, we examined the role of sucralose and sweet taste receptors on vasculogenic processes (proliferation, migration, adhesion and tube formation) in a cell model of the retinal endothelium.MethodsWe exposed human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (RMVEC) to VEGF as an in vitro model of DR in the presence and absence of T1R3 agonist sucralose.ResultsIn RMVEC, we observed increased VEGF-induced cell proliferation, migration, adhesion and tube formation, which was significantly attenuated by exposure to the artificial sweetener sucralose. Following siRNA knockdown of the sweet taste receptor, T1R3, but not T1R2, the protective effect of sucralose on VEGF-induced RMVEC vasculogenic processes was blocked. We further demonstrate that sucralose attenuates VEGF-induced Akt phosphorylation to protect the retinal microvasculature.ConclusionThese studies are the first to demonstrate a protective effect of an artificial sweetener, through the sweet taste receptor T1R3, on VEGF-induced vasculogenesis in a retinal microvascular endothelial cell line.

Specific Deletion of PKC Delta in Endothelial Cells Restores VEGF 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 vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR2) activity in ischemic muscle of diabetic mice, which was not observed in protein kinase C (PKC)-Δ deficient mice. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of a specific deletion of PKC-Δ in endothelial cells in diabetic mice. Methods: Nondiabetic (NDM) and 3 months diabetic (DM) mice with deletion of PKC-Δ specifically in endothelial cells (PrckdEC-) were used. Ligation of the femoral artery was performed and blood flow reperfusion was measured by laser Doppler for 4 weeks. Primary lung endothelial cells (EC) isolated from each group of mice were exposed to normal (5.6mM; NG) or high glucose concentrations (25mM; HG) for 48 hours, in normoxia (20% oxygen) or hypoxia (1%) for the last 24 hour in presence of VEGF, a pro-angiogenic factor. Results: Blood flow was recovered to 43% in DM mice compared to 78% in NDM mice. Specific EC deletion of PKC-Δ enhanced reperfusion in NDM and DM mice up to 88% and 71%, respectively. Expression of VEGFR2 was decreased in ischemic muscle of DM mice, but not in DM-PrkcdEC- mice. In vitro, VEGF-induced Akt phosphorylation was reduced by 40% in EC isolated from DM mice compared to NDM mice, which was prevented in EC isolated from DM-PrkcdEC- exposed to HG+hypoxia. Conclusion: Diabetes induced PKC-Δ activity and caused inhibition of VEGF actions in EC, whereas the deletion of PKC-Δ specifically in EC restored VEGF action, VEGFR2 expression and blood flow reperfusion in diabetic mice. Disclosure P. Geraldes: None.

Inhibition of metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 suppresses tumor growth and angiogenesis in experimental non-small cell lung cancer

Metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (mGlu1 receptor) is expressed in many cancer cell types as compared to normal counterparts underscoring its potential role in tumor behavior. The aim of present study was to test the role of mGlu1 receptor in experimental non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). First, protein expression of mGlu1 receptor was higher in human NSCLC cell lines, including both adenocarcinoma and squamous carcinoma subtypes, when compared to normal bronchial epithelial cells. Inhibition of mGlu1 receptor by BAY36-7620 (an mGlu1 receptor-specific inhibitor) inhibited tumor growth and prolonged survival of mice with tumors of A549 or H1299. Treatment with BAY36-7620 suppressed AKT phosphorylation in A549 tumors and pre-treatment with BAY36-7620 blocked the L-quisqualate (a potent mGlu1 receptor agonist)-induced AKT phosphorylation in A549 cells. Treatment with BAY36-7620 reduced cellular proliferation of A549 cells. Treatment with BAY36-7620 enhanced cleaved PARP levels and reduced protein expression of bcl-2, HIF-1α, and VEGF. In contrast, treatment with L-quisqualate reduced cleaved PARP levels and enhanced protein expression of bcl-2, HIF-1α, VEGF, and IL-8, which was reversed by co-incubation with MK2206 (an AKT inhibitor). Pre-treatment with BAY36-7620 blocked the VEGF-induced AKT phosphorylation in HUVECs. Treatment of HUVECs with L-quisqualate resulted in enhancement of capillary tube formation, which was reversed by co-incubation with MK2206. Furthermore, mGlu1 receptor knockdown suppressed tumor growth and prolonged survival of mice with tumors of A549 or H1299. Collectively, inhibition of mGlu1 receptor suppressed tumor growth and angiogenesis in experimental NSCLC.

Investigating the Effect of Inhibiting 'Reactive Oxygen Species' on Intracellular Signaling Pathways in Endothelial Cells

ObjectiveElevated Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in Endothelial Cells (EC's) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, and much research has gone into elucidating the mechanisms through which oxidative stress leads to these diseases. Research in the last decade, however, has uncovered the central role lower levels of ROS play in physiological intracellular signaling pathways, such as those stimulated by Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and Tumour Necrosis Factor‐α (TNF‐α) in EC's. Our objective in this study was to determine the effect of a lack of ROS in EC's on the intracellular signaling pathways stimulated by VEGF and TNF‐α.MethodsThe activity of these pathways can be measured by the expression of key downstream proteins that are common to these two pathways such as Akt, ERK‐1/2, IKKα/B, AMPK, eNOS, mTOR and FOXO1. To investigate these pathways in vitro, Bovine Endothelial Aortic Cells (BAEC's) were treated with ROS inhibitors (NAC, DPI) and then exposed to VEGF or TNF‐α to stimulate their respective pathways. Protein was then extracted and transferred to a membrane by Western Blotting then visualized by immunoflourescence.ResultsWestern blots demonstrated that reduction of ROS levels by NAC inhibited VEGF‐induced Akt phosphorylation but not phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in BAEC. The findings of TNF‐induced signaling activation were not conclusive.ConclusionWhereas VEGF‐mediated activation of PI3K‐Akt activation requires ROS, ERK1/2 activation is independent of ROS in ECs.This research was funded by National Institutes of Health (NIH) and American Heart Association (AHA) grants.

Is there a pAkt between VEGF and oral cancer cell migration?

The PI3K-Akt signalling pathway is a well-established driver of cancer progression. One key process promoted by Akt phosphorylation is tumour cell motility; however the mechanism of VEGF-induced Akt phosphorylation leading to motility remains poorly understood. Previously, we have shown that Akt phosphorylation induced by different factors causes both stimulation and inhibition of motility in different cell types. However, differential phosphorylation of Akt at T308 and S473 residues by VEGF and its role in head and neck cancer cell motility and progression is unknown. The cell lines investigated in this study exhibited a change in phosphorylation of Akt in response to VEGF. However, in terms of motility, VEGF stimulated oral cancer and its associated cell lines, but not normal keratinocytes or oral mucosal fibroblasts. The addition of a PI3 kinase and mTOR inhibitor, inhibited the phosphorylation of Akt and also effectively blocked VEGF-induced oral cancer cell motility, whereas only the PI3 kinase inhibitor blocked oral cancer associated fibroblast cell motility. This study therefore discloses that two different mechanisms of Akt phosphorylation control the motility potential of different cell lines. Akt phosphorylated at both residues controls oral cancer cell motility. Furthermore, immunohistochemical analysis of VEGF positive human head and neck tumour tissues showed a significant increase in Akt phosphorylation at the T308 residue, suggesting that pAkt T308 may be associated with tumour progression in vivo.

Circulating vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2/pAkt-positive cells as a functional pharmacodynamic marker in metastatic colorectal cancers treated with antiangiogenic agent

The anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) antibody bevacizumab has received considerable attention as a first-line treatment of advanced colorectal cancers. Difficulties associated with effectively monitoring the activity of this drug have prompted us to seek a pharmacodynamic marker suitable for defining the optimum biological dose and schedule of bevacizumab administration against colon cancer in early clinical trials. We evaluated inhibitory effects of bevacizumab on VEGF signaling and tumor growth in vitro and in vivo, and assessed phosphorylation of VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and downstream signaling in endothelial cells as pharmacodynamic markers using phospho-flow cytometry. We also validated markers in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) treated with bevacizumab-based chemotherapy. In in vitro studies, bevacizumab inhibited proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells in association with reduced VEGF signaling. Notably, bevacizumab inhibited VEGF-induced phosphorylation of VEGFR-2, Akt, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). In vivo, treatment with bevacizumab inhibited growth of xenografted tumors and attenuated VEGF-induced phosphorylation of Akt and ERK. The median percentages of VEGFR2 + pAkt + and VEGFR2 + pERK + cells, determined by phospho-flow cytometry, were approximately 3-fold higher in mCRC patients than in healthy controls. Bevacizumab treatment decreased VEGFR2 + pAkt + cells in 18 of 24 patients on day 3. Bevacizumab combined with chemotherapy decreased the number of VEGFR2 + pAkt + cells, reflecting impaired VEGFR2 signaling. Together, these data suggest that changes in the proportion of circulating VEGFR2 + pAkt + cells may be a potential pharmacodynamic marker of the efficacy of antiangiogenic agents, and could prove valuable in determining drug dosage and administration schedule.

VEGF-Induced Retinal Angiogenic Signaling Is Critically Dependent on Ca2+Signaling by Ca2+/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II

The authors conducted an in vitro investigation of the role of Ca(2+)-dependent signaling in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced angiogenesis in the retina. Bovine retinal endothelial cells (BRECs) were stimulated with VEGF in the presence or absence of 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid-acetoxymethyl ester (BAPTA-AM; intracellular Ca(2+) chelator), U73122 (phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor), xestospongin C (Xe-C), and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2APB) (inhibitors of inositol-1,4,5 triphosphate (IP(3)) signaling). Intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) was estimated using fura-2 Ca(2+) microfluorometry, Akt phosphorylation quantified by Western blot analysis, and angiogenic responses assessed using cell migration, proliferation, tubulogenesis, and sprout formation assays. The effects of the Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) inhibitor KN93 were also evaluated on VEGF-induced Akt signaling and angiogenic activity. Stimulation of BRECs with 25 ng/mL VEGF induced a biphasic increase in [Ca(2+)](i), with an initial transient peak followed by a sustained plateau phase. VEGF-induced [Ca(2+)](i) increases were almost completely abolished by pretreating the cells with BAPTA-AM, U73122, Xe-C, or 2APB. These agents also inhibited VEGF-induced phosphorylation of Akt, cell migration, proliferation, tubulogenesis, and sprouting angiogenesis. KN93 was similarly effective at blocking the VEGF-induced activation of Akt and angiogenic responses. VEGF increases [Ca(2+)](i) in BRECs through activation of the PLC-IP(3) signal transduction pathway. VEGF-induced phosphorylation of the proangiogenic protein Akt is critically dependent on this increase in [Ca(2+)](i) and the subsequent activation of CaMKII. Pharmacologic inhibition of Ca(2+)-mediated signaling in retinal endothelial cells blocks VEGF-induced angiogenic responses. These results suggest that the PLC/IP(3)/Ca(2+)/CaMKII signaling pathway may be a rational target for the treatment of angiogenesis-related disorders of the eye.

Acrolein Inhalation Prevents Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor–Induced Mobilization of Flk-1 + /Sca-1 + Cells in Mice

Acrolein is a toxic chemical present in tobacco, wood, and coal smoke, as well as automobile exhaust. Because exposure to these pollutants is associated with an increase in cardiovascular disease risk, we studied the effects of acrolein on Flk-1(+)/Sca-1(+) cells that are involved in vascular repair. In adult male C57BL/6 mice, inhalation of acrolein (1 part per million [ppm], 6 hours/day for 4 days or 5 ppm for 2 or 6 hours) led to the formation of protein-acrolein adducts in the bone marrow and diminished levels of plasma nitric oxide metabolites and circulating Flk-1(+)/Sca-1(+) but not Sca-1(+)-only cells. Acrolein exposure increased the number of apoptotic Flk-1(+)/Sca-1(+) cells in circulation and increased bone marrow-derived cells with endothelial characteristics (DiI-ac-low-density lipoprotein [DiI-acLDL]/UE-lectin and Flk-1(+)/Sca-1(+)) in culture. Deficits in the circulating levels of Flk-1(+)/Sca-1(+) cells were reversed after 7 days of recovery in acrolein-free air. Exposure to acrolein blocked vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/AMD3100-stimulated mobilization of Flk-1(+)/Sca-1(+) but not Sca-1(+)-only cells and prevented VEGF-induced phosphorylation of Akt and endothelial nitric oxide synthase in the aorta. Inhalation of acrolein increases apoptosis and suppresses the circulating levels of Flk-1(+)/Sca-1(+) cells while increasing these cells in the bone marrow and preventing their mobilization by VEGF. Exposure to acrolein-rich pollutants could impair vascular repair capacity.

Deciphering Mechanisms Controlling Placental Artery Endothelial Cell Migration Stimulated by Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) stimulated fetoplacental artery endothelial (oFPAE) cell migration and activated multiple signaling pathways including ERK2/1, p38MAPK, Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK1/2), v-Akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog 1 (Akt1), and c-Src in oFPAE cells. VEGF-induced cell migration was blocked by specific kinase inhibitors of JNK1/2 (SP600125), c-Src (4-amino-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-7-(t-butyl)pyrazolo[3,4-d] pyrimidine), and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt (wortmannin) but not ERK2/1 (U0126) and p38MAPK (SB203580). VEGF-induced cell migration was associated with dynamic actin reorganization and focal adhesion as evidenced by increased stress fiber formation and phosphorylation of cofilin-1 and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and paxillin. Inhibition of JNK1/2, c-Src, and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt suppressed VEGF-induced stress fiber formation and cofilin-1 phosphorylation. c-Src inhibition suppressed VEGF-induced phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase, paxillin, and focal adhesion. VEGF-induced cell migration requires endogenous nitric oxide (NO) as: 1) VEGF-stimulated phosphorylation of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) via activation of Akt, JNK1/2, and Src; 2) a NO donor diethylenetriamine-NO-stimulated cell migration; and 3) NO synthase inhibition blocked VEGF-induced cell migration. Targeted down-regulation and overexpression of caveolin-1 both inhibited VEGF-induced cell migration. Caveolin-1 down-regulation suppressed VEGF-stimulated phosphorylation of Akt, JNK, eNOS, c-Src, and FAK; however, basal activities of c-Src and FAK were elevated in parallel with increased stress fiber formation and focal adhesion. Caveolin-1 overexpression also inhibited VEGF-induced phosphorylation of Akt, JNK, c-Src, FAK, and eNOS. Thus, VEGF-induced placental endothelial cell migration requires activation of complex pathways that are paradoxically regulated by caveolin-1.

Heat Shock Cognate Protein 70 Is Essential for Akt Signaling in Endothelial Function

Heat shock protein 70s (Hsp70s) are molecular chaperones that protect cells from damage in response to various stress stimuli. However, the functions and mechanisms in endothelial cells (ECs) have not been examined. Herein, we investigate the role of Hsp70s, including heat shock cognate protein 70 (Hsc70), which is constitutively expressed in nonstressed cells (ie, ECs). The Hsp70 inhibitor, KNK437, significantly decreased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced cell migration and tube formation in vitro. KNK437 inhibited the phosphorylation of VEGF-induced Akt and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. In a mouse hind limb model of vascular insufficiency, intramuscular inhibition of Hsp70s attenuated collateral and capillary vessel formation. Silencing the Hsc70 gene by short interfering RNA abolished VEGF-induced Akt phosphorylation and VEGF-stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cell migration and tube formation. As the molecular mechanisms, Hsc70 knockdown reduced the expression of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. Collectively, Hsc70 plays a significant role in ECs via the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt pathway. Hsc70 may provide the basis for the development of new therapeutic strategies for angiogenesis.

Endothelial monocyte activating polypeptide II interferes with VEGF-induced proangiogenic signaling

Endothelial monocyte activating polypeptide II (EMAP II) is a proinflammatory cytokine with antiangiogenic properties. EMAP II functions as a potent inhibitor of primary and metastatic tumor growth, has strong inhibitory effects on endothelial cells (ECs), and can reduce intratumoral expression of the angiogenesis inducer vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF influences EC functions such as proliferation, migration, survival and tube formation. Therapeutic strategies that target VEGF have been demonstrated to reduce the tumor growth. We investigated the effects of EMAP II on VEGF-induced angiogenesis signaling. Primary human fetal lung ECs (HFLECs) and human umbilical vein ECs (HUVECs) were grown in E-Stim medium. Protein binding was analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Protein expression was determined by western blot analysis. EC proliferation and migration was determined using WST-1 reagent and transwell membrane, respectively. EMAP II efficiently and dose dependently binds to VEGF receptor 1 (VEGFR1) and VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) as observed by ELISA. Bmax values for VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 were 0.45 and 0.17, respectively. In addition, EMAP II inhibited binding of VEGF to VEGFR1 and VEGFR2. EMAP II significantly reduced VEGF-induced expression of phosphorylated VEGFR1 (in HFLEC and HUVEC) by >50%, and of phosphorylated VEGFR2 (in HUVEC) by 66%. EMAP II also inhibited downstream VEGF signaling. Although VEGF-induced phosphorylation of Akt, Erk1/2, p38 and Raf 2.8-, 1.5-, 2.2- and 3.6-fold, respectively, EMAP II preincubation blocked this induction in phosphorylation to control levels. VEGF-induced EC proliferation 2.5-fold, and EMAP II pretreatment abrogated this effect. Similarly, VEGF-induced EC migration (2.5-fold) was significantly inhibited by EMAP II. These finding suggest that inhibition of VEGF signaling is one possible antiangiogenic mechanism of EMAP II, which may explain its in vivo antitumor activity and delineate therapeutic strategies to enhance anti-VEGF therapy to inhibit tumor growth.

Age impairs Flk-1 signaling and NO-mediated vasodilation in coronary arterioles

Impairment of flow-induced vasodilation in coronary resistance arterioles may contribute to the decline in coronary vasodilatory reserve that occurs with advancing age. This study investigated the effects of age on flow-induced signaling and activation of nitric oxide (NO)-mediated vasodilation in coronary resistance arterioles. Coronary arterioles were isolated from young (approximately 6 mo) and old (approximately 24 mo) male Fischer-344 rats to assess vasodilation to flow, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and ACh. Flow- and VEGF-induced vasodilation of coronary arterioles was impaired with age (P<or=0.05); however, ACh-induced vasodilation was preserved with age. NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) (1x10(-5) M) eliminated vasodilation to flow, VEGF, and ACh, indicating dependence of these responses on NO. SU-1498, an inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR, also known as Flk-1), abolished age-related differences in flow-induced vasodilation. Flow-stimulated phosphorylation of Flk-1 in coronary arterioles from young but not old rats and Flk-1 protein was reduced in coronary arterioles from old rats compared with those from young rats. Flow stimulated phosphorylation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in coronary arterioles from both young and old rats. VEGF induced phosphorylation of both protein kinase B (Akt) and eNOS in coronary arterioles. VEGF-induced phosphorylation of Akt, but not eNOS, was significantly reduced in arterioles from old rats compared with arterioles from young rats. Wortmannin, an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase, eliminated age-related differences in both flow- and VEGF-induced vasodilation. These results indicate that impairment of Flk-1/PI3-kinase signaling contributes to the reduction of flow-induced vasodilation in coronary arterioles with advancing age.

Dominant-Negative Hsp90 Reduces VEGF-Stimulated Nitric Oxide Release and Migration in Endothelial Cells

Heat-shock protein 90 (Hsp90) coordinates the regulation of diverse signaling proteins. We try to develop a new tool to explore the regulatory functions of Hsp90 in endothelial cells (ECs) instead of the existing chemical approaches. We designed a dominant-negative Hsp90 construct by site-direct mutagenesis of residue Asp-88 to Asn (D88N-Hsp90) based on the structure of the ATP/ADP-binding site. Recombinant wild-type Hsp90 protein binds ATP-Sepharose beads in manner inhibited by ATP or 17-AAG, a specific inhibitor for Hsp90, however the binding activity of D88N-Hsp90 was markedly reduced and the inhibitory effects of ATP or 17-AAG were negligible. The dimerization between endogenous Hsp90alpha and exogenous HA-Hsp90beta was confirmed by immunoprecipitation, however the association between eNOS and D88N-Hsp90 was less than WT-Hsp90. Furthermore, adenoviral transduction of bovine aortic ECs with D88N-Hsp90 suppressed VEGF-induced phosphorylation of Akt, eNOS, and NO release and the inhibitory effect was blocked by okadaic acid. Moreover, D88N-Hsp90 abolished VEGF-stimulated Rac activation and suppressed VEGF-induced stress fiber formation. Transduction with D88N-Hsp90 decreased growth medium mediated migration of wild-type ECs, but not Akt1(-/-) ECs suggesting that Akt is key target of Hsp90. Our data demonstrate that dominant-negative Hsp90 modulates endothelial cell mobility mainly through PP2A-mediated dephosphorylation of Akt and Rac activation.

Aldosterone Impairs Bone Marrow–Derived Progenitor Cell Formation

Aldosterone has been suggested recently to cause vascular injury by directly acting on the vasculature, in addition to causing injury by raising the blood pressure. Bone marrow-derived endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) have been shown to exert an important role in the repair of the endothelium. In addition, cell-based therapy using EPCs is emerging as a novel therapeutic strategy for myocardial and peripheral vascular diseases. However, impaired formation and function of EPCs has been observed in patients with risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. We evaluated the possible effects of aldosterone on EPCs by examining the progenitor cell formation from bone marrow mononuclear cells ex vivo. Aldosterone (10 to 1000 nmol/L) reduced the formation of progenitor cells in a concentration-dependent manner. This effect of aldosterone was attenuated by cotreatment with spironolactone. Aldosterone reduced the mRNA levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor (VEGFR) 2 without having any effect on the production of VEGF or mRNA levels of VEGF and hepatocyte growth factor in the progenitor cells. However, the expression of stromal-derived growth factor 1 mRNA was paradoxically increased. Consistent with the downregulation of VEGFR-2, VEGF-induced phosphorylation of Akt was abolished in the progenitor cells after aldosterone treatment. N-acetylcysteine, an antioxidant, attenuated the inhibitory effects of aldosterone. These data indicate that aldosterone inhibits the formation of bone marrow-derived progenitor cells, at least partly, by attenuating VEGFR-2 expression and the subsequent Akt signaling. Reduction of aldosterone levels, blockade of mineralocorticoid receptor, and/or cotreatment with antioxidants may, therefore, enhance vascular regeneration by EPCs.

Small Interfering RNA-mediated Down-regulation of Caveolin-1 Differentially Modulates Signaling Pathways in Endothelial Cells

Caveolin-1 is a scaffolding/regulatory protein that interacts with diverse signaling molecules in endothelial cells. To explore the role of this protein in receptor-modulated signaling pathways, we transfected bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAEC) with small interfering RNA (siRNA) duplexes to down-regulate caveolin-1 expression. Transfection of BAEC with duplex siRNA targeted against caveolin-1 mRNA selectively "knocked-down" the expression of caveolin-1 by approximately 90%, as demonstrated by immunoblot analyses of BAEC lysates. We used discontinuous sucrose gradients to purify caveolin-containing lipid rafts from siRNA-treated endothelial cells. Despite the near-total down-regulation of caveolin-1 expression, the lipid raft targeting of diverse signaling proteins (including the endothelial isoform of nitric-oxide synthase, Src-family tyrosine kinases, Galphaq and the insulin receptor) was unchanged. We explored the consequences of caveolin-1 knockdown on kinase pathways modulated by the agonists sphingosine-1 phosphate (S1P) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). siRNA-mediated caveolin-1 knockdown enhanced basal as well as S1P- and VEGF-induced phosphorylation of the protein kinase Akt and did not modify the basal or agonist-induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2. Caveolin-1 knock-down also significantly enhanced the basal and agonist-induced activity of the small GTPase Rac. We used siRNA to down-regulate Rac expression in BAEC, and we observed that Rac knockdown significantly reduced basal, S1P-, and VEGF-induced Akt phosphorylation, suggesting a role for Rac activation in the caveolin siRNA-mediated increase in Akt phosphorylation. By using siRNA to knockdown caveolin-1 and Rac expression in cultured endothelial cells, we have found that caveolin-1 does not seem to be required for the targeting of signaling molecules to caveolae/lipid rafts and that caveolin-1 differentially modulates specific kinase pathways in endothelial cells.

Suppression of angiogenesis by the plant alkaloid, sanguinarine

Sanguinarine is a benzophenanthridine alkaloid derived from the root of Sanguinaria canadensis. Its principal pharmacologic use is in dental products where it has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory activities that reduce gingival inflammation and supragingival plaque formation. Angiogenesis is indispensable for inflammation, and most angiogenesis is dependent on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). However, the effect of sanguinarine on angiogenesis is not known. In the present study, we examined the effect of sanguinarine on VEGF-induced angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, sanguinarine markedly suppressed VEGF-induced endothelial cell migration, sprouting, and survival in vitro in a dose-dependent manner at nanomolar concentrations. Furthermore, sanguinarine potently suppressed blood vessel formation in vivo in mouse Matrigel plugs and the chorioallantoic membrane of chick embryos. Our biochemical assays indicated that sanguinarine strongly suppressed basal and VEGF-induced Akt phosphorylation, while it did not produce any changes in VEGF-induced activation of ERK1/2 and PLCγ1. Therefore, we conclude that sanguinarine is a potent antiangiogenic natural product, and its mode of action could involve the blocking of VEGF-induced Akt activation. Thus, in addition to antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory activities, sanguinarine has a novel antiangiogenic role.

Angiotensin II type 2 receptor inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor-induced migration and in vitro tube formation of human endothelial cells.

Endothelial cell migration and tube formation in response to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) play an important role in the process of angiogenesis. Recent data indicate that angiotensin type 2 (AT2) receptor stimulation is antiangiogenic. Therefore, we studied the effect of angiotensin II (Ang II) on VEGF-induced migration and in vitro tube formation of human endothelial cells. Ang II inhibited VEGF-induced migration of EA.hy926 cells, human coronary artery (HCA) and human dermal microvascular (HDM) endothelial cells (ECs) as well as tube formation by HDMECs. The AT2 receptor antagonist PD123,319 but not the AT1 receptor antagonist losartan blocked the inhibitory effect of Ang II. The inhibitory effect of Ang II on VEGF-induced migration of endothelial cells was mimicked by the specific AT2 receptor agonist CGP-42112A. The phosphorylation of Akt and its downstream effector endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) is pivotal to VEGF-induced angiogenesis. We therefore investigated the effect of Ang II on VEGF-induced Akt and eNOS phosphorylation. Ang II diminished the VEGF-induced phosphorylation of Akt and eNOS in endothelial cells, whereas the autophosphorylation of VEGF receptors was unaffected. CGP-42112A again mimicked and PD123,319 but not losartan blocked the inhibitory effect of Ang II. Treatment of endothelial cells with pertussis toxin (PTX) totally abolished the AT2 receptor-mediated inhibition of VEGF-induced endothelial cell migration and blocked the inhibition of Akt and eNOS phosphorylation. In conclusion, this study indicates that AT2 receptor stimulation inhibits VEGF-induced endothelial cell migration and tube formation via activation of a PTX-sensitive G protein. These findings may explain the reported antiangiogenic properties of the AT2 receptor.

Structural elements of kallistatin required for inhibition of angiogenesis

Kallistatin is a serpin first identified as a specific inhibitor of tissue kallikrein. Our recent studies showed that kallikrein promoted angiogenesis, whereas kallistatin inhibited angiogenesis and tumor growth. This study is aimed to identify the structural elements of kallistatin essential for its antiangiogenic function. Kallistatin mutants at the hinge region (A377T) and a major heparin-binding domain (K312A/K313A) were created by site-directed mutagenesis. Recombinant kallistatin mutant A377T did not bind or inhibit tissue kallikrein activity. Wild-type kallistatin and kallistatin mutant A377T, but not kallistatin mutant K312A/K313A lacking heparin-binding activity, inhibited VEGF-induced proliferation, growth, and migration of human microvascular endothelial cells. Similarly, wild-type kallistatin and kallistatin mutant A337T, but not kallistatin mutant K312A/K313A, significantly inhibited VEGF-induced capillary tube formation of cultured endothelial cells in Matrigel and capillary formation in Matrigel implants in mice. To elucidate the role of the heparin-binding domain in modulating angiogenesis, we showed that wild-type kallistatin interrupted the binding of (125)I-labeled VEGF to endothelial cells, whereas kallistatin mutant K312A/K313A did not interfere with VEGF binding. Consequently, wild-type kallistatin, but not kallistatin mutant K312A/K313A, suppressed VEGF-induced phosphorylation of Akt. Taken together, these results indicate that the heparin-binding domain, but not the reactive site loop of kallistatin, is essential for inhibiting VEGF-induced angiogenesis.

Rapid insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-independent effects of IGF binding protein-3 on endothelial cell survival.

Angiogenic factors, such as vascular endothelial-derived growth factor (VEGF) and IGF-I, play pivotal roles in endothelial proliferation and migration. IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) is emerging as a key regulator of cell growth and apoptosis, both as an IGF antagonist and as an independent molecule. We investigated the role of IGFBP-3 in VEGFmediated survival of human macrovascular umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). Specific commercial ELISAs quantified cell proliferation and apoptosis, and Akt phosphorylation was assessed by immunoblots and confocal microscopy. IGF-I and VEGF significantly stimulated HUVEC proliferation and survival. Addition of IGFBP-3 reversed both IGF- and VEGF-induced proliferation and prevented the survival induced by these factors. The antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects of exogenous IGFBP-3 upon VEGF-induced HUVEC survival were not inhibited by blockade of the type 1 IGF receptor with alpha IR-3 immunoglobulin, which fully prevented IGF actions. An IGFBP-3 mutant, which binds IGFs normally but has a substituted mid-region domain, lost the ability to inhibit VEGF actions. VEGF-induced phosphorylation of Akt, as evident by both specific immunoblots and confocal microscopy, was significantly and rapidly reduced in the presence of IGFBP-3, as well as wortmannin.

PPAR activators inhibit endothelial cell migration by targeting Akt

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) regulate lipid and glucose metabolism and exert several vascular effects that may provide a dual benefit of these receptors on metabolic disorders and atherosclerotic vascular disease. Endothelial cell migration is a key event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. We therefore investigated the effects of lipid-lowering PPARα-activators (fenofibrate, WY14643) and antidiabetic PPARγ-activators (troglitazone, ciglitazone) on this endothelial cell function. Both PPARα- and PPARγ-activators significantly inhibited VEGF-induced migration of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (EC) in a concentration-dependent manner. Chemotactic signaling in EC is known to require activation of two signaling pathways: the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)→Akt- and the ERK1/2 mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK MAPK) pathway. Using the pharmacological PI3K-inhibitor wortmannin and the ERK MAPK-pathway inhibitor PD98059, we observed a complete inhibition of VEGF-induced EC migration. VEGF-induced Akt phosphorylation was significantly inhibited by both PPARα- and γ-activators. In contrast, VEGF-stimulated ERK MAPK-activation was not affected by any of the PPAR-activators, indicating that they inhibit migration either downstream of ERK MAPK or independent from this pathway. These results provide first evidence for the antimigratory effects of PPAR-activators in EC. By inhibiting EC migration PPAR-activators may protect the vasculature from pathological alterations associated with metabolic disorders.