Recent work has shown that arterial levels of shear stress induce components of the miR-17-92 cluster and antagonizing miR-92a enhances arteriogenesis, improves endothelial function and prevents vascular inflammation in vivo. We have shown in exciting preliminary data that the genetic the loss of the miR 17-92 cluster in EC increases arteriogenesis in the hearts and limbs of mice. Remarkably, in aged mice with defective collateralization, neutralization of miR-19a/b improves functional recovery of blood flow after hindlimb ischemia (HLI) and de-represses the expression of genes that promote arteriogenesis. In addition, since both shear and VEGF can activate ERK, data has shown that VEGF-A induces the miR-17-92 cluster via ERK1/2 signaling and components of the cluster physiologically repress gene expression that regulates angiogenesis. Thus, these data imply that hemodynamics and VEGF signaling converge on the miR 17-92 cluster to fine tune arteriogenic and angiogenic gene expression in EC. Thus, we hypothesize that miR-92a and miR-19a work in concert to govern arterial remodeling by repressing the expression of genes that synergize to promote structural and functional arteriogenesis. To test this hypothesis, the following specific aims are proposed: 1: Elucidate the role of miR-92a and miR-19a/b during arteriogenesis using genetic and pharmacological strategies; 2: Examine the importance of ERK crosstalk with the WNT signaling pathway in regulating arteriogenesis and 3: Identify the unique and common targets of miR 92a and miR-19a/b in EC both in vitro and in vivo, using next generation sequencing technology.
This research is relevant to public health since we have discovered a a new pathway that when inhibited increases the density of new arteries in the heart and legs. Understanding these basic mechanisms will help with improving blood flow in patients with heart disease or peripheral vascular disease.
Showing the most recent 10 out of 54 publications
