Highlights from the International Society of Hypertension's New Investigators Network during 2019
- Kruger, Ruan, Brunström, Mattias, Burger, Dylan, Charchar, Fadi, Climie, Rachel, Mirabito, Colafell, Kempny, Katrina, Korostovtseva, Lyudimila, Marques, Francine, Picone, Dean, Romero, Cesar, Steckelings, Ulrike, Velkoska, Elena, Wainford, Richard, Wynne, Brandi, Zanuzzi, Matias
- Authors: Kruger, Ruan , Brunström, Mattias , Burger, Dylan , Charchar, Fadi , Climie, Rachel , Mirabito, Colafell , Kempny, Katrina , Korostovtseva, Lyudimila , Marques, Francine , Picone, Dean , Romero, Cesar , Steckelings, Ulrike , Velkoska, Elena , Wainford, Richard , Wynne, Brandi , Zanuzzi, Matias
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of hypertension Vol. 38, no. 5 (2020), p. 968-973
- Full Text: false
- Reviewed:
- Description: The New Investigators Committee (NIC) of the International Society of Hypertension (ISH) is a dynamic group of junior doctors and scientists, actively involved in various society activities. This report highlights the events (scientific meetings and summer schools) and activities (social media, mentorship and networking) during 2019 including May Measurement Month and collaborative efforts with the ISH Women in Hypertension Research Committee (WiHRC). The ISH NIC is proud to sponsor awards for outstanding work by junior and emerging researchers at hypertension conferences and also provides opportunities to showcase their work on our social media features such as 'Our Fellows Work' and the New Investigator Spotlight of the month. In 2020, the ISH NIC aims to promote women in leadership roles and to foster strong collaborations with and between society committees and other scientific organizations.
Analysis of the impact of sex and age on the variation in the prevalence of antinuclear autoantibodies in Polish population : a nationwide observational, cross-sectional study
- Krzemie, Kasperczyk, Sławomir, Banach, Maciej, Kasperczyk, Aleksandra, Dobrakowski, Michał, Tomasik, Tomasz, Windak, Adam, Mastej, Mirosław, Catapano, Alberico, Ray, Kausik, Mikhailidis, Dimitri, Toth, Peter, Howard, George, Lip, Gregory, Tomaszewski, Macie, Charchar, Fadi, Sattar, Naveed, Williams, Bryan, MacDonald, Thomas, Penson, Peter, Al-Shaer, B, Andrusewicz, W., Anusz-Gaszewska, E., Balawajder, P., Bańka, G., Barańska-Skubisz E., Przyczyna, B., Bartkowiak S.
- Authors: Krzemie , Kasperczyk, Sławomir , Banach, Maciej , Kasperczyk, Aleksandra , Dobrakowski, Michał , Tomasik, Tomasz , Windak, Adam , Mastej, Mirosław , Catapano, Alberico , Ray, Kausik , Mikhailidis, Dimitri , Toth, Peter , Howard, George , Lip, Gregory , Tomaszewski, Macie , Charchar, Fadi , Sattar, Naveed , Williams, Bryan , MacDonald, Thomas , Penson, Peter , Al-Shaer, B , Andrusewicz, W. , Anusz-Gaszewska, E. , Balawajder, P. , Bańka, G. , Barańska-Skubisz E. , Przyczyna, B. , Bartkowiak S.
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Rheumatology International Vol. 42, no. 2 (2022), p. 261-271
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The detection of antinuclear autoantibody (ANA) is dependent on many factors and varies between the populations. The aim of the study was first to assess the prevalence of ANA in the Polish adult population depending on age, sex and the cutoff threshold used for the results obtained. Second, we estimated the occurrence of individual types of ANA-staining patterns. We tested 1731 patient samples using commercially available IIFA using two cutoff thresholds of 1:100 and 1:160. We found ANA in 260 participants (15.0%), but the percentage of positive results strongly depended on the cutoff level. For a cutoff threshold 1:100, the positive population was 19.5% and for the 1:160 cutoff threshold, it was 11.7%. The most prevalent ANA-staining pattern was AC-2 Dense Fine speckled (50%), followed by AC-21 Reticular/AMA (14.38%) ANA more common in women (72%); 64% of ANA-positive patients were over 50 years of age. ANA prevalence in the Polish population is at a level observed in other highly developed countries and is more prevalent in women and elderly individuals. To reduce the number of positive results released, we suggest that Polish laboratories should set 1:160 as the cutoff threshold. © 2021, The Author(s). **Please note that there are multiple authors for this article therefore only the name of the first 30 including Federation University Australia affiliate “Fadi Charchar" is provided in this record**
- Authors: Krzemie , Kasperczyk, Sławomir , Banach, Maciej , Kasperczyk, Aleksandra , Dobrakowski, Michał , Tomasik, Tomasz , Windak, Adam , Mastej, Mirosław , Catapano, Alberico , Ray, Kausik , Mikhailidis, Dimitri , Toth, Peter , Howard, George , Lip, Gregory , Tomaszewski, Macie , Charchar, Fadi , Sattar, Naveed , Williams, Bryan , MacDonald, Thomas , Penson, Peter , Al-Shaer, B , Andrusewicz, W. , Anusz-Gaszewska, E. , Balawajder, P. , Bańka, G. , Barańska-Skubisz E. , Przyczyna, B. , Bartkowiak S.
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Rheumatology International Vol. 42, no. 2 (2022), p. 261-271
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The detection of antinuclear autoantibody (ANA) is dependent on many factors and varies between the populations. The aim of the study was first to assess the prevalence of ANA in the Polish adult population depending on age, sex and the cutoff threshold used for the results obtained. Second, we estimated the occurrence of individual types of ANA-staining patterns. We tested 1731 patient samples using commercially available IIFA using two cutoff thresholds of 1:100 and 1:160. We found ANA in 260 participants (15.0%), but the percentage of positive results strongly depended on the cutoff level. For a cutoff threshold 1:100, the positive population was 19.5% and for the 1:160 cutoff threshold, it was 11.7%. The most prevalent ANA-staining pattern was AC-2 Dense Fine speckled (50%), followed by AC-21 Reticular/AMA (14.38%) ANA more common in women (72%); 64% of ANA-positive patients were over 50 years of age. ANA prevalence in the Polish population is at a level observed in other highly developed countries and is more prevalent in women and elderly individuals. To reduce the number of positive results released, we suggest that Polish laboratories should set 1:160 as the cutoff threshold. © 2021, The Author(s). **Please note that there are multiple authors for this article therefore only the name of the first 30 including Federation University Australia affiliate “Fadi Charchar" is provided in this record**
Relationship between anti-DFS70 autoantibodies and oxidative stress
- Krzemień, Pawel, Kasperczyk, Slawomir, Banach, Maciej, Kasperczyk, Aleksandra, Dobrakowski, Michal, Tomasik, Tomasz, Windak, Adam, Mastej, Miroslaw, Catapano, Alberico, Ray, Kausik, Mikhailidis, Dimitri, Toth, Peter, Howard, George, Lip, Gregory, Tomaszewski, Maciej, Charchar, Fadi, Sattar, Naveed, Williams, Bryan, MacDonald, Thomas, Penson, Peter, Jóźwiak, J, Al-Shaer, B., Andrusewicz, W., Andrzejczuk-Rosa, M., Anusz-Gaszewska, E., Bagińska, A., Balawajder, P., Bańka, G., Barańska-Skubisz, E., Barbara Przyczyna, B.
- Authors: Krzemień, Pawel , Kasperczyk, Slawomir , Banach, Maciej , Kasperczyk, Aleksandra , Dobrakowski, Michal , Tomasik, Tomasz , Windak, Adam , Mastej, Miroslaw , Catapano, Alberico , Ray, Kausik , Mikhailidis, Dimitri , Toth, Peter , Howard, George , Lip, Gregory , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Charchar, Fadi , Sattar, Naveed , Williams, Bryan , MacDonald, Thomas , Penson, Peter , Jóźwiak, J , Al-Shaer, B. , Andrusewicz, W. , Andrzejczuk-Rosa, M. , Anusz-Gaszewska, E. , Bagińska, A. , Balawajder, P. , Bańka, G. , Barańska-Skubisz, E. , Barbara Przyczyna, B.
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Biomarker Insights Vol. 17, no. (2022), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: The anti-DFS70 autoantibodies are one of the most commonly and widely described agent of unknown clinical significance, frequently detected in healthy individuals. It is not known whether the DFS70 autoantibodies are protective or pathogenic. One of the factors suspected of inducing the formation of anti-DFS70 antibodies is increased oxidative stress. We evaluated the coexistence of anti-DFS70 antibodies with selected markers of oxidative stress and investigated whether these antibodies could be considered as indirect markers of oxidative stress. Methods: The intensity of oxidative stress was measured in all samples via indices of free-radical damage to lipids and proteins such as total oxidant status (TOS), concentrations of lipid hydroperoxides (LPH), lipofuscin (LPS), and malondialdehyde (MDA). The parameters of the non-enzymatic antioxidant system, such as total antioxidant status (TAS) and uric acid concentration (UA), were also measured, as well as the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD). Based on TOS and TAS values, the oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated. All samples were also tested with indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and 357 samples were selected for direct monospecific anti DFS70 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) testing. Results: The anti-DFS70 antibodies were confirmed by ELISA test in 21.29% of samples. Compared with anti-DFS70 negative samples we observed 23% lower concentration of LPH (P =.038) and 11% lower concentration of UA (P =.005). TOS was 20% lower (P =.014). The activity of SOD was up to 5% higher (P =.037). The Pearson correlation showed weak negative correlation for LPH, UA, and TOS and a weak positive correlation for SOD activity. Conclusion: In samples positive for the anti-DFS70 antibody a decreased level of oxidative stress was observed, especially in the case of samples with a high antibody titer. Anti-DFS70 antibodies can be considered as an indirect marker of reduced oxidative stress or a marker indicating the recent intensification of antioxidant processes. © The Author(s) 2022. **Please note that there are multiple authors for this article therefore only the name of the first 30 including Federation University Australia affiliate “Fadi Charchar” is provided in this record**
- Authors: Krzemień, Pawel , Kasperczyk, Slawomir , Banach, Maciej , Kasperczyk, Aleksandra , Dobrakowski, Michal , Tomasik, Tomasz , Windak, Adam , Mastej, Miroslaw , Catapano, Alberico , Ray, Kausik , Mikhailidis, Dimitri , Toth, Peter , Howard, George , Lip, Gregory , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Charchar, Fadi , Sattar, Naveed , Williams, Bryan , MacDonald, Thomas , Penson, Peter , Jóźwiak, J , Al-Shaer, B. , Andrusewicz, W. , Andrzejczuk-Rosa, M. , Anusz-Gaszewska, E. , Bagińska, A. , Balawajder, P. , Bańka, G. , Barańska-Skubisz, E. , Barbara Przyczyna, B.
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Biomarker Insights Vol. 17, no. (2022), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: The anti-DFS70 autoantibodies are one of the most commonly and widely described agent of unknown clinical significance, frequently detected in healthy individuals. It is not known whether the DFS70 autoantibodies are protective or pathogenic. One of the factors suspected of inducing the formation of anti-DFS70 antibodies is increased oxidative stress. We evaluated the coexistence of anti-DFS70 antibodies with selected markers of oxidative stress and investigated whether these antibodies could be considered as indirect markers of oxidative stress. Methods: The intensity of oxidative stress was measured in all samples via indices of free-radical damage to lipids and proteins such as total oxidant status (TOS), concentrations of lipid hydroperoxides (LPH), lipofuscin (LPS), and malondialdehyde (MDA). The parameters of the non-enzymatic antioxidant system, such as total antioxidant status (TAS) and uric acid concentration (UA), were also measured, as well as the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD). Based on TOS and TAS values, the oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated. All samples were also tested with indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and 357 samples were selected for direct monospecific anti DFS70 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) testing. Results: The anti-DFS70 antibodies were confirmed by ELISA test in 21.29% of samples. Compared with anti-DFS70 negative samples we observed 23% lower concentration of LPH (P =.038) and 11% lower concentration of UA (P =.005). TOS was 20% lower (P =.014). The activity of SOD was up to 5% higher (P =.037). The Pearson correlation showed weak negative correlation for LPH, UA, and TOS and a weak positive correlation for SOD activity. Conclusion: In samples positive for the anti-DFS70 antibody a decreased level of oxidative stress was observed, especially in the case of samples with a high antibody titer. Anti-DFS70 antibodies can be considered as an indirect marker of reduced oxidative stress or a marker indicating the recent intensification of antioxidant processes. © The Author(s) 2022. **Please note that there are multiple authors for this article therefore only the name of the first 30 including Federation University Australia affiliate “Fadi Charchar” is provided in this record**
Serum antinuclear autoantibodies are associated with measures of oxidative stress and lifestyle factors : analysis of LIPIDOGRAM2015 and LIPIDOGEN2015 studies
- Krzemień, Pawel, Kasperczyk, S, Banach, Maciej, Kasperczyk, Aleksandra, Dobrakowski, Michal, Tomasik, Tomasz, Windak, Adam, Mastej, Miroslaw, Catapano, Alberico, Ray, Kausik, Mikhailidis, Dimitri, Toth, Peter, Howard, George, Lip, Gregory, Tomaszewski, Maciej, Charchar, Fadi, Sattar, Naveed, Williams, Bryan, MacDonald, Thomas, Penson, Peter, Jóźwiak, Jacek
- Authors: Krzemień, Pawel , Kasperczyk, S , Banach, Maciej , Kasperczyk, Aleksandra , Dobrakowski, Michal , Tomasik, Tomasz , Windak, Adam , Mastej, Miroslaw , Catapano, Alberico , Ray, Kausik , Mikhailidis, Dimitri , Toth, Peter , Howard, George , Lip, Gregory , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Charchar, Fadi , Sattar, Naveed , Williams, Bryan , MacDonald, Thomas , Penson, Peter , Jóźwiak, Jacek
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Archives of Medical Science Vol. 19, no. 5 (2023), p. 1214-1227
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Introduction: Oxidative stress is one of many factors suspected to promote antinuclear autoantibody (ANA) formation. Reactive oxygen species can induce changes in the antigenic structure of macromolecules, causing the immune system to treat them as “neo-antigens” and start production of autoantibodies. This study was designed to evaluate the relationship between oxidative stress markers, lifestyle factors and the detection of ANA. Material and methods: We examined measures of oxidative stress indices of free-radical damage to lipids and proteins, such as total oxidant status (TOS), concentration of protein thiol groups (PSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA), activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in 1731 serum samples. The parameters of the non-enzymatic antioxidant system, such as total antioxidant status (TAS) and uric acid (UA) concentration, were also measured and the oxidative stress index (OSI-index) was calculated. All samples were tested for the presence of ANA using an indirect immunofluorescence assay (IIFA). Results: The presence of ANA in women was associated with lower physical activity (p = 0.036), less frequent smoking (p = 0.007) and drinking of alcohol (p = 0.024) accompanied by significant changes in SOD isoenzymes activity (p < 0.001) and a higher uric acid (UA) concentration (p < 0.001). In ANA positive males we observed lower concentrations of PSH (p = 0.046) and increased concentrations of MDA (p = 0.047). Conclusions: The results indicate that local oxidative stress may be associated with increased probability of ANA formation in a sex-specific manner. © 2021 Termedia & Banach.
- Authors: Krzemień, Pawel , Kasperczyk, S , Banach, Maciej , Kasperczyk, Aleksandra , Dobrakowski, Michal , Tomasik, Tomasz , Windak, Adam , Mastej, Miroslaw , Catapano, Alberico , Ray, Kausik , Mikhailidis, Dimitri , Toth, Peter , Howard, George , Lip, Gregory , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Charchar, Fadi , Sattar, Naveed , Williams, Bryan , MacDonald, Thomas , Penson, Peter , Jóźwiak, Jacek
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Archives of Medical Science Vol. 19, no. 5 (2023), p. 1214-1227
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Introduction: Oxidative stress is one of many factors suspected to promote antinuclear autoantibody (ANA) formation. Reactive oxygen species can induce changes in the antigenic structure of macromolecules, causing the immune system to treat them as “neo-antigens” and start production of autoantibodies. This study was designed to evaluate the relationship between oxidative stress markers, lifestyle factors and the detection of ANA. Material and methods: We examined measures of oxidative stress indices of free-radical damage to lipids and proteins, such as total oxidant status (TOS), concentration of protein thiol groups (PSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA), activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in 1731 serum samples. The parameters of the non-enzymatic antioxidant system, such as total antioxidant status (TAS) and uric acid (UA) concentration, were also measured and the oxidative stress index (OSI-index) was calculated. All samples were tested for the presence of ANA using an indirect immunofluorescence assay (IIFA). Results: The presence of ANA in women was associated with lower physical activity (p = 0.036), less frequent smoking (p = 0.007) and drinking of alcohol (p = 0.024) accompanied by significant changes in SOD isoenzymes activity (p < 0.001) and a higher uric acid (UA) concentration (p < 0.001). In ANA positive males we observed lower concentrations of PSH (p = 0.046) and increased concentrations of MDA (p = 0.047). Conclusions: The results indicate that local oxidative stress may be associated with increased probability of ANA formation in a sex-specific manner. © 2021 Termedia & Banach.
Secondary stroke prevention in polish adults: Results from the lipidogram2015 study
- Labuz-Roszak, Beata, Banach, Maciej, Skrzypek, Michal, Windak, Adam, Charchar, Fadi
- Authors: Labuz-Roszak, Beata , Banach, Maciej , Skrzypek, Michal , Windak, Adam , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Clinical Medicine Vol. 10, no. 19 (2021), p.
- Full Text:
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- Description: Background: The purpose of the study was to evaluate secondary stroke prevention in Poland and its association with sociodemographic factors, place of residence, and concomitant cardiovascular risk factors. Material and methods: From all patients in LIPIDOGRAM2015 Study (n = 13,724), 268 subjects had a history of ischaemic stroke and were included. Results: 165 subjects (61.6%) used at least one preventive medication. Oral antiplatelet and anticoagulation agents were used by 116 (43.3%) and 70 (26.1%) patients, respectively. Only 157 (58.6%) participants used lipid-lowering drugs, and 205 (76.5%) were treated with antihypertensive drugs. Coronary heart disease (CHD) and dyslipidaemia were associated with antiplatelet treatment (p = 0.047 and p = 0.012, respectively). A history of atrial fibrillation, CHD, and previous myocardial infarction correlated with anticoagulant treatment (p = 0.001, p = 0.011, and p < 0.0001, respectively). Age, gender, time from stroke onset, place of residence, and level of education were not associated with antiplatelet or anticoagulant treatment. Only 31.7% of patients were engaged in regular physical activity, 62% used appropriate diet, and 13.6% were current smokers. Conclusions: In Poland drugs and lifestyle modification for secondary stroke prevention are not commonly adhered to. Educational programmes for physicians and patients should be developed to improve application of effective secondary prevention of stroke. © 2021 by the authors. **Please note that there are multiple authors for this article therefore only the name of the first 5 including Federation University Australia affiliate “Fadi Charchar” is provided in this record**
- Authors: Labuz-Roszak, Beata , Banach, Maciej , Skrzypek, Michal , Windak, Adam , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Clinical Medicine Vol. 10, no. 19 (2021), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: The purpose of the study was to evaluate secondary stroke prevention in Poland and its association with sociodemographic factors, place of residence, and concomitant cardiovascular risk factors. Material and methods: From all patients in LIPIDOGRAM2015 Study (n = 13,724), 268 subjects had a history of ischaemic stroke and were included. Results: 165 subjects (61.6%) used at least one preventive medication. Oral antiplatelet and anticoagulation agents were used by 116 (43.3%) and 70 (26.1%) patients, respectively. Only 157 (58.6%) participants used lipid-lowering drugs, and 205 (76.5%) were treated with antihypertensive drugs. Coronary heart disease (CHD) and dyslipidaemia were associated with antiplatelet treatment (p = 0.047 and p = 0.012, respectively). A history of atrial fibrillation, CHD, and previous myocardial infarction correlated with anticoagulant treatment (p = 0.001, p = 0.011, and p < 0.0001, respectively). Age, gender, time from stroke onset, place of residence, and level of education were not associated with antiplatelet or anticoagulant treatment. Only 31.7% of patients were engaged in regular physical activity, 62% used appropriate diet, and 13.6% were current smokers. Conclusions: In Poland drugs and lifestyle modification for secondary stroke prevention are not commonly adhered to. Educational programmes for physicians and patients should be developed to improve application of effective secondary prevention of stroke. © 2021 by the authors. **Please note that there are multiple authors for this article therefore only the name of the first 5 including Federation University Australia affiliate “Fadi Charchar” is provided in this record**
The y chromosome : A blueprint for men's health?
- Maan, Akhlaq, Eales, James, Akbarov, Artur, Rowland, Joshua, Xu, Xiaoguang, Jobling, Mark, Charchar, Fadi, Tomaszewski, Maciej
- Authors: Maan, Akhlaq , Eales, James , Akbarov, Artur , Rowland, Joshua , Xu, Xiaoguang , Jobling, Mark , Charchar, Fadi , Tomaszewski, Maciej
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Journal article , Review
- Relation: European Journal of Human Genetics Vol. 25, no. 11 (2017), p. 1181-1188
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The Y chromosome has long been considered a genetic wasteland' on a trajectory to completely disappear from the human genome. The perception of its physiological function was restricted to sex determination and spermatogenesis. These views have been challenged in recent times with the identification of multiple ubiquitously expressed Y-chromosome genes and the discovery of several unexpected associations between the Y chromosome, immune system and complex polygenic traits. The collected evidence suggests that the Y chromosome influences immune and inflammatory responses in men, translating into genetically programmed susceptibility to diseases with a strong immune component. Phylogenetic studies reveal that carriers of a common European lineage of the Y chromosome (haplogroup I) possess increased risk of coronary artery disease. This occurs amidst upregulation of inflammation and suppression of adaptive immunity in this Y lineage, as well as inferior outcomes in human immunodeficiency virus infection. From structural analysis and experimental data, the UTY (Ubiquitously Transcribed Tetratricopeptide Repeat Containing, Y-Linked) gene is emerging as a promising candidate underlying the associations between Y-chromosome variants and the immunity-driven susceptibility to complex disease. This review synthesises the recent structural, experimental and clinical insights into the human Y chromosome in the context of men's susceptibility to disease (with a particular emphasis on cardiovascular disease) and provides an overview of the paradigm shift in the perception of the Y chromosome. © 2017 The Author(s).
- Authors: Maan, Akhlaq , Eales, James , Akbarov, Artur , Rowland, Joshua , Xu, Xiaoguang , Jobling, Mark , Charchar, Fadi , Tomaszewski, Maciej
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Journal article , Review
- Relation: European Journal of Human Genetics Vol. 25, no. 11 (2017), p. 1181-1188
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The Y chromosome has long been considered a genetic wasteland' on a trajectory to completely disappear from the human genome. The perception of its physiological function was restricted to sex determination and spermatogenesis. These views have been challenged in recent times with the identification of multiple ubiquitously expressed Y-chromosome genes and the discovery of several unexpected associations between the Y chromosome, immune system and complex polygenic traits. The collected evidence suggests that the Y chromosome influences immune and inflammatory responses in men, translating into genetically programmed susceptibility to diseases with a strong immune component. Phylogenetic studies reveal that carriers of a common European lineage of the Y chromosome (haplogroup I) possess increased risk of coronary artery disease. This occurs amidst upregulation of inflammation and suppression of adaptive immunity in this Y lineage, as well as inferior outcomes in human immunodeficiency virus infection. From structural analysis and experimental data, the UTY (Ubiquitously Transcribed Tetratricopeptide Repeat Containing, Y-Linked) gene is emerging as a promising candidate underlying the associations between Y-chromosome variants and the immunity-driven susceptibility to complex disease. This review synthesises the recent structural, experimental and clinical insights into the human Y chromosome in the context of men's susceptibility to disease (with a particular emphasis on cardiovascular disease) and provides an overview of the paradigm shift in the perception of the Y chromosome. © 2017 The Author(s).
Noncoding genes on sex chromosomes and their function in sex determination, dosage compensation, male traits, and diseases
- Maier, Michelle, McInerney, Molly-Rose, Graves, Jennifer, Charchar, Fadi
- Authors: Maier, Michelle , McInerney, Molly-Rose , Graves, Jennifer , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Journal article , Review
- Relation: Sexual Development Vol. 15, no. 5-6 (2021), p. 432-440
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/1123472
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The mammalian Y chromosome has evolved in many species into a specialized chromosome that contributes to sex development among other male phenotypes. This function is well studied in terms of protein-coding genes. Less is known about the noncoding genome on the Y chromosome and its contribution to both sex development and other traits. Once considered junk genetic material, noncoding RNAs are now known to contribute to the regulation of gene expression and to play an important role in refining cellular functions. The prime examples are noncoding genes on the X chromosome, which mitigate the differential dosage of genes on sex chromosomes. Here, we discuss the evolution of noncoding RNAs on the Y chromosome and the emerging evidence of how micro, long, and circular noncoding RNAs transcribed from the Y chromosome contribute to sex differentiation. We briefly touch on emerging evidence that these noncoding RNAs also contribute to some other important clinical phenotypes in humans. © 2021 S. Karger AG. All rights reserved.
- Authors: Maier, Michelle , McInerney, Molly-Rose , Graves, Jennifer , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Journal article , Review
- Relation: Sexual Development Vol. 15, no. 5-6 (2021), p. 432-440
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/1123472
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The mammalian Y chromosome has evolved in many species into a specialized chromosome that contributes to sex development among other male phenotypes. This function is well studied in terms of protein-coding genes. Less is known about the noncoding genome on the Y chromosome and its contribution to both sex development and other traits. Once considered junk genetic material, noncoding RNAs are now known to contribute to the regulation of gene expression and to play an important role in refining cellular functions. The prime examples are noncoding genes on the X chromosome, which mitigate the differential dosage of genes on sex chromosomes. Here, we discuss the evolution of noncoding RNAs on the Y chromosome and the emerging evidence of how micro, long, and circular noncoding RNAs transcribed from the Y chromosome contribute to sex differentiation. We briefly touch on emerging evidence that these noncoding RNAs also contribute to some other important clinical phenotypes in humans. © 2021 S. Karger AG. All rights reserved.
- Marques, Francine, Campain, Anna, Tomaszewski, Maciej, Zukowska-Szczechowska, Ewa, Yang, Yee, Charchar, Fadi, Morris, Brian
- Authors: Marques, Francine , Campain, Anna , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Zukowska-Szczechowska, Ewa , Yang, Yee , Charchar, Fadi , Morris, Brian
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Human Hypertension Vol. 26, no. 10 (October 2012 2012), p. 627-627
- Full Text: false
- Reviewed:
Genetic mechanisms of vascular and renal damage
- Marques, Francine, Tomaszewski, Maciej, Charchar, Fadi
- Authors: Marques, Francine , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2013
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Hypertension Vol. 31, no. 11 (2013), p. 2128-2129
- Full Text: false
- Reviewed:
- Description: Document type (note)
- Description: C4
- Marques, Francine, Quarrell, Sean, Jayaswal, Vivek, Curl, Claire, Nankervis, Scott, Yang, Jean, Delbridge, Lea, Harrap, Stephen, Charchar, Fadi
- Authors: Marques, Francine , Quarrell, Sean , Jayaswal, Vivek , Curl, Claire , Nankervis, Scott , Yang, Jean , Delbridge, Lea , Harrap, Stephen , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Human Hypertension Vol. 26, no. 10 (October 2012 2012), p. 636-637
- Full Text: false
- Reviewed:
- Marques, Francine, Campain, Anna, Tomaszewski, Maciej, Zukowska-Szczechowska, Ewa, Yang, Yee, Charchar, Fadi, Morris, Brian
- Authors: Marques, Francine , Campain, Anna , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Zukowska-Szczechowska, Ewa , Yang, Yee , Charchar, Fadi , Morris, Brian
- Date: 2011
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Hypertension Vol. 58, no. 6 (2011), p. 1093-1098
- Full Text: false
- Reviewed:
- Description: The kidney has long been invoked in the etiology of essential hypertension. This could involve alterations in expression of specific genes and microRNAs (miRNAs). The aim of the present study was to identify, at the transcriptome-wide level, mRNAs and miRNAs that were differentially expressed between kidneys of 15 untreated hypertensive and 7 normotensive white male subjects of white European ancestry. By microarray technology we found 14 genes and 11 miRNAs that were differentially expressed in the medulla. We then selected and confirmed by real-time quantitative PCR expression differences for NR4A1, NR4A2, NR4A3, PER1, and SIK1 mRNAs and for the miRNAs hsa-miR-638 and hsa-let-7c. Luciferase reporter gene experiments in human kidney (HEK293) cells confirmed the predicted binding of hsa-let-7c to the 3' untranslated region of NR4A2 mRNA. In the renal cortex we found differential expression of 46 genes and 13 miRNAs. We then confirmed expression differences for AIFM1, AMBP, APOE, CD36, EFNB1, NDUFAF1, PRDX5, REN, RENBP, SLC13A1, STX4, and TNNT2 mRNAs and for miRNAs hsa-miR-21, hsa-miR-126, hsa-miR-181a, hsa-miR-196a, hsa-miR-451, hsa-miR-638, and hsa-miR-663. Functional experiments in HEK293 cells demonstrated that hsa-miR-663 can bind to the REN and APOE 3' untranslated regions and can regulate REN and APOE mRNA levels, whereas hsa-miR-181a regulated REN and AIFM1 mRNA. Our data demonstrated for the first time that miRNAs can regulate renin expression. The observed downregulation of 2 miRNAs in hypertension could explain the elevation in intrarenal renin mRNA. Renin, CD36, and other mRNAs, as well as miRNAs and associated pathways identified in the present study, provide novel insights into hypertension etiology. © 2011 American Heart Association, Inc.
Signatures of miR-181a on the renal transcriptome and blood pressure
- Marques, Francine, Romaine, Simon, Denniff, Matthew, Eales, James, Dormer, John, Garrelds, Ingrid, Wojnar, Lukasz, Musialik, Katarzyna, Duda-Raszewska, Barbara, Kiszka, Bartlomiej, Duda, Magdalena, Morris, Brian, Samani, Nilesh, Jan Danser, Jan, Bogdanski, Pawel, Zukowska-Szczechowska, Ewa, Charchar, Fadi, Tomaszewski, Maciej
- Authors: Marques, Francine , Romaine, Simon , Denniff, Matthew , Eales, James , Dormer, John , Garrelds, Ingrid , Wojnar, Lukasz , Musialik, Katarzyna , Duda-Raszewska, Barbara , Kiszka, Bartlomiej , Duda, Magdalena , Morris, Brian , Samani, Nilesh , Jan Danser, Jan , Bogdanski, Pawel , Zukowska-Szczechowska, Ewa , Charchar, Fadi , Tomaszewski, Maciej
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Molecular Medicine Vol. 21, no. (2015), p. 739-748
- Full Text: false
- Reviewed:
- Description: MicroRNA-181a binds to the 3’ untranslated region of messenger RNA (mRNA) for renin, a rate-limiting enzyme of the renin-angiotensin system. Our objective was to determine whether this molecular interaction translates into a clinically meaningful effect on blood pressure and whether circulating miR-181a is a measurable proxy of blood pressure. In 200 human kidneys from the TRANScriptome of renaL humAn TissuE (TRANSLATE) study, renal miR-181a was the sole negative predictor of renin mRNA and a strong correlate of circulating miR-181a. Elevated miR-181a levels correlated positively with systolic and diastolic blood pressure in TRANSLATE, and this association was independent of circulating renin. The association between serum miR-181a and systolic blood pressure was replicated in 199 subjects from the Genetic Regulation of Arterial Pressure of Humans In the Community (GRAPHIC) study. Renal immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization showed that colocalization of miR-181a and renin was most prominent in collecting ducts where renin is not released into the systemic circulation. Analysis of 69 human kidneys characterized by RNA sequencing revealed that miR-181a was associated with downregulation of four mitochondrial pathways and upregulation of 41 signaling cascades of adaptive immunity and inflammation. We conclude that renal miR-181a has pleiotropic effects on pathways relevant to blood pressure regulation and that circulating levels of miR-181a are both a measurable proxy of renal miR-181a expression and a novel biochemical correlate of blood pressure.
Measurement of absolute copy number variation reveals association with essential hypertension
- Marques, Francine, Prestes, Priscilla, Pinheiro, Leonardo, Scurrah, Katrina, Emslie, Kerry, Tomaszewski, Maciej, Harrap, Stephen, Charchar, Fadi
- Authors: Marques, Francine , Prestes, Priscilla , Pinheiro, Leonardo , Scurrah, Katrina , Emslie, Kerry , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Harrap, Stephen , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Medical Genomics Vol. 7, no. (2014), p. 1-8
- Full Text:
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- Description: Background: The role of copy number variation (CNV) has been poorly explored in essential hypertension in part due to technical difficulties in accurately assessing absolute numbers of DNA copies. Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) provides a powerful new approach to CNV quantitation. The aim of our study was to investigate whether CNVs located in regions previously associated with blood pressure (BP) variation in genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were associated with essential hypertension by the use of ddPCR. Methods: Using a "power of extreme" approach, we quantified nucleic acids using ddPCR in white subjects from the Victorian Family Heart Study with extremely high (n = 96) and low (n = 92) SBP, providing power equivalent to 1714 subjects selected at random. Results: A deletion of the CNVs esv27061 and esv2757747 on chromosome 1p13.2 was significantly more prevalent in extreme high BP subjects after adjustment for age, body mass index and sex (12.6% vs. 2.2%; P = 0.013). Conclusions: Our data suggests that CNVs within regions identified in previous GWAS may play a role in human essential hypertension.
- Authors: Marques, Francine , Prestes, Priscilla , Pinheiro, Leonardo , Scurrah, Katrina , Emslie, Kerry , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Harrap, Stephen , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Medical Genomics Vol. 7, no. (2014), p. 1-8
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: The role of copy number variation (CNV) has been poorly explored in essential hypertension in part due to technical difficulties in accurately assessing absolute numbers of DNA copies. Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) provides a powerful new approach to CNV quantitation. The aim of our study was to investigate whether CNVs located in regions previously associated with blood pressure (BP) variation in genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were associated with essential hypertension by the use of ddPCR. Methods: Using a "power of extreme" approach, we quantified nucleic acids using ddPCR in white subjects from the Victorian Family Heart Study with extremely high (n = 96) and low (n = 92) SBP, providing power equivalent to 1714 subjects selected at random. Results: A deletion of the CNVs esv27061 and esv2757747 on chromosome 1p13.2 was significantly more prevalent in extreme high BP subjects after adjustment for age, body mass index and sex (12.6% vs. 2.2%; P = 0.013). Conclusions: Our data suggests that CNVs within regions identified in previous GWAS may play a role in human essential hypertension.
Experimental and human evidence for Lipocalin-2 (Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin NGAL ) in the development of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure
- Marques, Francine, Prestes, Priscilla, Byars, Sean, Ritchie, Scott, Wurtz, Peter, Patel, Sheila, Booth, Scott, Rana, Indrajeetsinh, Minoda, Yosuke, Berzins, Stuart, Curl, Claire, Bell, James, Wai, Bryan, Srivastava, Piyush, Kangas, Antti, Soininen, Pasi, Ruohonen, Saku, Kahonen, Mika, Lehtimaki, Terho, Raitoharju, Emma, Havulinna, Aki, Perola, Markus, Raitakari, Olli, Salomaa, Veikko, Ala-Korpela, Mika, Kettunen, Johannes, McGlynn, Maree, Kelly, Jason, Wlodek, Mary, Lewandowski, Paul, Delbridge, Lea, Burrell, Louise, Inouye, Michael, Harrap, Stephen, Charchar, Fadi
- Authors: Marques, Francine , Prestes, Priscilla , Byars, Sean , Ritchie, Scott , Wurtz, Peter , Patel, Sheila , Booth, Scott , Rana, Indrajeetsinh , Minoda, Yosuke , Berzins, Stuart , Curl, Claire , Bell, James , Wai, Bryan , Srivastava, Piyush , Kangas, Antti , Soininen, Pasi , Ruohonen, Saku , Kahonen, Mika , Lehtimaki, Terho , Raitoharju, Emma , Havulinna, Aki , Perola, Markus , Raitakari, Olli , Salomaa, Veikko , Ala-Korpela, Mika , Kettunen, Johannes , McGlynn, Maree , Kelly, Jason , Wlodek, Mary , Lewandowski, Paul , Delbridge, Lea , Burrell, Louise , Inouye, Michael , Harrap, Stephen , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of the American Heart Association Vol. 6, no. 6 (2017), p. 1-58
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/1034371
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background-Cardiac hypertrophy increases the risk of developing heart failure and cardiovascular death. The neutrophil inflammatory protein, lipocalin-2 (LCN2/NGAL), is elevated in certain forms of cardiac hypertrophy and acute heart failure. However, a specific role for LCN2 in predisposition and etiology of hypertrophy and the relevant genetic determinants are unclear. Here, we defined the role of LCN2 in concentric cardiac hypertrophy in terms of pathophysiology, inflammatory expression networks, and genomic determinants. Methods and Results-We used 3 experimental models: a polygenic model of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure, a model of intrauterine growth restriction and Lcn2-knockout mouse; cultured cardiomyocytes; and 2 human cohorts: 114 type 2 diabetes mellitus patients and 2064 healthy subjects of the YFS (Young Finns Study). In hypertrophic heart rats, cardiac and circulating Lcn2 was significantly overexpressed before, during, and after development of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. Lcn2 expression was increased in hypertrophic hearts in a model of intrauterine growth restriction, whereas Lcn2-knockout mice had smaller hearts. In cultured cardiomyocytes, Lcn2 activated molecular hypertrophic pathways and increased cell size, but reduced proliferation and cell numbers. Increased LCN2 was associated with cardiac hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction in diabetes mellitus. In the YFS, LCN2 expression was associated with body mass index and cardiac mass and with levels of inflammatory markers. The single-nucleotide polymorphism, rs13297295, located near LCN2 defined a significant cis-eQTL for LCN2 expression. Conclusions-Direct effects of LCN2 on cardiomyocyte size and number and the consistent associations in experimental and human analyses reveal a central role for LCN2 in the ontogeny of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure.
- Authors: Marques, Francine , Prestes, Priscilla , Byars, Sean , Ritchie, Scott , Wurtz, Peter , Patel, Sheila , Booth, Scott , Rana, Indrajeetsinh , Minoda, Yosuke , Berzins, Stuart , Curl, Claire , Bell, James , Wai, Bryan , Srivastava, Piyush , Kangas, Antti , Soininen, Pasi , Ruohonen, Saku , Kahonen, Mika , Lehtimaki, Terho , Raitoharju, Emma , Havulinna, Aki , Perola, Markus , Raitakari, Olli , Salomaa, Veikko , Ala-Korpela, Mika , Kettunen, Johannes , McGlynn, Maree , Kelly, Jason , Wlodek, Mary , Lewandowski, Paul , Delbridge, Lea , Burrell, Louise , Inouye, Michael , Harrap, Stephen , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of the American Heart Association Vol. 6, no. 6 (2017), p. 1-58
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/1034371
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background-Cardiac hypertrophy increases the risk of developing heart failure and cardiovascular death. The neutrophil inflammatory protein, lipocalin-2 (LCN2/NGAL), is elevated in certain forms of cardiac hypertrophy and acute heart failure. However, a specific role for LCN2 in predisposition and etiology of hypertrophy and the relevant genetic determinants are unclear. Here, we defined the role of LCN2 in concentric cardiac hypertrophy in terms of pathophysiology, inflammatory expression networks, and genomic determinants. Methods and Results-We used 3 experimental models: a polygenic model of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure, a model of intrauterine growth restriction and Lcn2-knockout mouse; cultured cardiomyocytes; and 2 human cohorts: 114 type 2 diabetes mellitus patients and 2064 healthy subjects of the YFS (Young Finns Study). In hypertrophic heart rats, cardiac and circulating Lcn2 was significantly overexpressed before, during, and after development of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. Lcn2 expression was increased in hypertrophic hearts in a model of intrauterine growth restriction, whereas Lcn2-knockout mice had smaller hearts. In cultured cardiomyocytes, Lcn2 activated molecular hypertrophic pathways and increased cell size, but reduced proliferation and cell numbers. Increased LCN2 was associated with cardiac hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction in diabetes mellitus. In the YFS, LCN2 expression was associated with body mass index and cardiac mass and with levels of inflammatory markers. The single-nucleotide polymorphism, rs13297295, located near LCN2 defined a significant cis-eQTL for LCN2 expression. Conclusions-Direct effects of LCN2 on cardiomyocyte size and number and the consistent associations in experimental and human analyses reveal a central role for LCN2 in the ontogeny of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure.
Telomere dynamics during aging in polygenic left ventricular hypertrophy
- Marques, Francine, Booth, Scott, Prestes, Priscilla, Curl, Claire, Delbridge, Lea, Lewandowski, Paul, Harrap, Stephen, Charchar, Fadi
- Authors: Marques, Francine , Booth, Scott , Prestes, Priscilla , Curl, Claire , Delbridge, Lea , Lewandowski, Paul , Harrap, Stephen , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Physiological Genomics Vol. 48, no. 1 (2016), p. 42-49
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Short telomeres are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Here we studied cardiomyocyte telomere length at key ages during the ontogeny of cardiac hypertrophy and failure in the hypertrophic heart rat (HHR) and compared these with the normal heart rat (NHR) control strain. Key ages corresponded with the pathophysiological sequence beginning with fewer cardiomyocytes (2 days), leading to left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) (13 wk) and subsequently progression to heart failure (38 wk). We measured telomere length, tissue activity of telomerase, mRNA levels of telomerase reverse transcriptase (Tert) and telomerase RNA component (Terc), and expression of the telomeric regulator microRNA miR-34a. Cardiac telomere length was longer in the HHR compared with the control strain at 2 days and 38 wk, but shorter at 13 wk. Neonatal HHR had higher cardiac telomerase activity and expression of Tert and miR-34a. Telomerase activity was not different at 13 or 38 wk. Tert mRNA and Terc RNA were overexpressed at 38 wk, while miR-34a was overexpressed at 13 wk but downregulated at 38 wk. Circulating leukocytes were strongly correlated with cardiac telomere length in the HHR only. The longer neonatal telomeres in HHR are likely to reflect fewer fetal and early postnatal cardiomyocyte cell divisions and explain the reduced total cardiomyocyte complement that predisposes to later hypertrophy and failure. Although shorter telomeres were a feature of cardiac hypertrophy at 13 wk, they were not present at the progression to heart failure at 38 wk. © 2016 the American Physiological Society.
- Authors: Marques, Francine , Booth, Scott , Prestes, Priscilla , Curl, Claire , Delbridge, Lea , Lewandowski, Paul , Harrap, Stephen , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Physiological Genomics Vol. 48, no. 1 (2016), p. 42-49
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Short telomeres are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Here we studied cardiomyocyte telomere length at key ages during the ontogeny of cardiac hypertrophy and failure in the hypertrophic heart rat (HHR) and compared these with the normal heart rat (NHR) control strain. Key ages corresponded with the pathophysiological sequence beginning with fewer cardiomyocytes (2 days), leading to left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) (13 wk) and subsequently progression to heart failure (38 wk). We measured telomere length, tissue activity of telomerase, mRNA levels of telomerase reverse transcriptase (Tert) and telomerase RNA component (Terc), and expression of the telomeric regulator microRNA miR-34a. Cardiac telomere length was longer in the HHR compared with the control strain at 2 days and 38 wk, but shorter at 13 wk. Neonatal HHR had higher cardiac telomerase activity and expression of Tert and miR-34a. Telomerase activity was not different at 13 or 38 wk. Tert mRNA and Terc RNA were overexpressed at 38 wk, while miR-34a was overexpressed at 13 wk but downregulated at 38 wk. Circulating leukocytes were strongly correlated with cardiac telomere length in the HHR only. The longer neonatal telomeres in HHR are likely to reflect fewer fetal and early postnatal cardiomyocyte cell divisions and explain the reduced total cardiomyocyte complement that predisposes to later hypertrophy and failure. Although shorter telomeres were a feature of cardiac hypertrophy at 13 wk, they were not present at the progression to heart failure at 38 wk. © 2016 the American Physiological Society.
MicroRNAs in essential hypertension and blood pressure regulation
- Marques, Francine, Charchar, Fadi
- Authors: Marques, Francine , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Book chapter
- Relation: Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology p. 215-235
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/1009490
- Full Text: false
- Reviewed:
- Description: Unravelling the complete genetic predisposition to high blood pressure (BP) has proven to be challenging. This puzzle and the fact that coding regions of the genome account for less than 2 % of the entire human DNA support the hypothesis that mechanisms besides coding genes are likely to contribute to BP regulation. Non-coding RNAs, especially microRNAs, are emerging as key players of transcription regulation in both health and disease states. They control basic functions in virtually all cell types relevant to the cardiovascular system and, thus, a direct involvement with BP regulation is highly probable. Here we review the literature about microRNAs associated with regulation of BP and hypertension, highlighting investigations, methodology and difficulties arising in the field. These molecules are being studied for exploitation in diagnostics, prognostics and therapeutics in many diseases. There have been some studies that examined biological fl uid microRNAs as biomarkers for hypertension, but most remain inconclusive due to the small sample sizes and differences in methodological standardisation. Fewer studies have analysed tissue microRNA levels in vascular smooth muscle cells and the kidney. Others focused on the interaction between single nucleotide polymorphisms and microRNA binding sites. Studies in animals have shown that angiotensin II, high- salt diet and exercise change microRNA levels in hypertension. Treatment of spontaneously hypertensive rats with a miR-22 inhibitor and treatment of hypertensive Schlager BPH/2J mice with a miR-181a mimic decreased their BP. This supports the use of microRNAs as therapeutic targets in hypertension, and future studies should test the use of other microRNAs found in human association studies. In conclusion, there is a clear need of increased pace of human, animal and functional studies to help us understand the multifaceted roles of microRNAs as critical regulators of the development and physiology of BP. © Springer International Publishing Switzerland 2015. Funding Details: APP1052659, NHMRC, National Heart Foundation of Australia Funding Details: PF12M6785, National Heart Foundation of Australia
The emerging role of non-coding RNA in essential hypertension and blood pressure regulation
- Marques, Francine, Booth, Scott, Charchar, Fadi
- Authors: Marques, Francine , Booth, Scott , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Human Hypertension Vol. 29, no. 8 (2015), p. 459-467
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/1009490
- Full Text: false
- Reviewed:
- Description: Unravelling the complete genetic predisposition to high blood pressure (BP) has proven to be challenging. This puzzle and the fact that coding regions of the genome account for less than 2% of the entire human DNA support the hypothesis that genetic mechanism besides coding genes are likely to contribute to BP regulation. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are emerging as key players of transcription regulation in both health and disease states. They control basic functions in virtually all cell types relevant to the cardiovascular system and, thus, a direct involvement with BP regulation is highly probable. Here, we review the literature about ncRNAs associated with human BP and essential hypertension, highlighting investigations, methodology and difficulties arising in the field. The most investigated ncRNAs so far are microRNAs (miRNAs), small ncRNAs that modulate gene expression by posttranscriptional mechanisms. We discuss studies that have examined miRNAs associated with BP in biological fluids, such as blood and urine, and tissues, such as vascular smooth muscle cells and the kidney. Furthermore, we review the interaction between miRNA binding sites and single nucleotide polymorphisms in genes associated with BP. In conclusion, there is a clear need for more human and functional studies to help elucidate the multifaceted roles of ncRNAs, in particular mid- and long ncRNAs in BP regulation. © 2015 Macmillan Publishers Limited All rights reserved.
- Marques, Francine, Prestes, Priscilla, Lewandowski, Paul, Harrap, Stephen, Charchar, Fadi
- Authors: Marques, Francine , Prestes, Priscilla , Lewandowski, Paul , Harrap, Stephen , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Conference paper
- Relation: Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand Annual Scientific Meeting and the International Society for Heart Research Australasian Section Annual Scientific Meeting; Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; 13th-16th August 2016; published in Heart, Lung and Circulation. Vol. 24, p. S401-S401
- Full Text: false
- Reviewed:
- Description: Objective: The molecular processes associated with cardiac hypertrophy independent of blood pressure are still largely unknown. The hypertrophic heart rate (HHR) is normotensive and born with a reduced complement of cardiomyocytes that predisposes to cardiac hypertrophy and failure in later life. We investigated the expression of c-kit gene, a marker of cardiac stem cells and myocardial regeneration that could contribute to hypertrophy. Methods: Left ventricular c-kit mRNA expression was measured by real-time PCR in HHR and control strain in neonatal and 38-week old rats (n=7-12/group). We tested for linkage of c-kit expression with neonatal cardiac size in 197 second generation crosses (F2) of HHR and control strain. Results: c-kit mRNA was slightly up-regulated in neonatal (fold change +1.3, P=0.02) and markedly so in 38-week old HHR (+35.5, P=0.0003). Cardiac weight index was positively correlated with neonatal myocardial c-kit mRNA in the F2 population (r=0.19, P=0.007). Conclusions: In HHR hearts c-kit expression appears increased throughout life, but more so in the adult where cardiac hypertrophy is established and leading to failure. In aged hypertrophic hearts, over-expression of c-kit is likely a compensatory mechanism of the failing heart. Previous studies showed an activation of cardiac stem cells in the hypertrophic myocardium. Our study suggests that c-kit might be involved from an early age in mechanisms that lead to cardiac hypertrophy in adulthood.
Plasma proteomics of renal function: A transethnic meta-analysis and mendelian randomization study
- Matías-García, Pamela, Wilson, Rory, Guo, Qi, Zaghlool, Shaza, Charchar, Fadi
- Authors: Matías-García, Pamela , Wilson, Rory , Guo, Qi , Zaghlool, Shaza , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of the American Society of Nephrology Vol. 32, no. 7 (2021), p. 1747-1763
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background Studies on the relationship between renal function and the human plasma proteome have identified several potential biomarkers. However, investigations have been conducted largely in European populations, and causality of the associations between plasma proteins and kidney function has never been addressed. Methods A cross-sectional study of 993 plasma proteins among 2882 participants in four studies of European and admixed ancestries (KORA, INTERVAL, HUNT, QMDiab) identified transethnic associations between eGFR/CKD and proteomic biomarkers. For the replicated associations, two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) was used to investigate potential causal relationships. Publicly available datasets and transcriptomic data from independent studies were used to examine the association between gene expression in kidney tissue and eGFR. Results In total, 57 plasma proteins were associated with eGFR, including one novel protein. Of these, 23 were additionally associated with CKD. The strongest inferred causal effect was the positive effect of eGFR on testican-2, in line with the known biological role of this protein and the expression of its protein-coding gene (SPOCK2) in renal tissue. We also observed suggestive evidence of an effect of melanoma inhibitory activity (MIA), carbonic anhydrase III, and cystatin-M on eGFR. Conclusions In a discovery-replication setting, we identified 57 proteins transethnically associated with eGFR. The revealed causal relationships are an important stepping stone in establishing testican-2 as a clinically relevant physiological marker of kidney disease progression, and point to additional proteins warranting further investigation. © 2021 by the American Society of Nephrology
- Authors: Matías-García, Pamela , Wilson, Rory , Guo, Qi , Zaghlool, Shaza , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of the American Society of Nephrology Vol. 32, no. 7 (2021), p. 1747-1763
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background Studies on the relationship between renal function and the human plasma proteome have identified several potential biomarkers. However, investigations have been conducted largely in European populations, and causality of the associations between plasma proteins and kidney function has never been addressed. Methods A cross-sectional study of 993 plasma proteins among 2882 participants in four studies of European and admixed ancestries (KORA, INTERVAL, HUNT, QMDiab) identified transethnic associations between eGFR/CKD and proteomic biomarkers. For the replicated associations, two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) was used to investigate potential causal relationships. Publicly available datasets and transcriptomic data from independent studies were used to examine the association between gene expression in kidney tissue and eGFR. Results In total, 57 plasma proteins were associated with eGFR, including one novel protein. Of these, 23 were additionally associated with CKD. The strongest inferred causal effect was the positive effect of eGFR on testican-2, in line with the known biological role of this protein and the expression of its protein-coding gene (SPOCK2) in renal tissue. We also observed suggestive evidence of an effect of melanoma inhibitory activity (MIA), carbonic anhydrase III, and cystatin-M on eGFR. Conclusions In a discovery-replication setting, we identified 57 proteins transethnically associated with eGFR. The revealed causal relationships are an important stepping stone in establishing testican-2 as a clinically relevant physiological marker of kidney disease progression, and point to additional proteins warranting further investigation. © 2021 by the American Society of Nephrology
A novel Y-specific long non-coding RNA associated with cellular lipid accumulation in HepG2 cells and Atherosclerosis-related genes
- Molina, Elsa, Chew, Guat, Myers, Stephen, Clarence, Elyse, Eales, James, Tomaszewski, Maciej, Charchar, Fadi
- Authors: Molina, Elsa , Chew, Guat , Myers, Stephen , Clarence, Elyse , Eales, James , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Scientific Reports Vol. 7, no. 1 (2017), p. 1-12
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/1009490
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: There is an increasing appreciation for the role of the human Y chromosome in phenotypic differences between the sexes in health and disease. Previous studies have shown that genetic variation within the Y chromosome is associated with cholesterol levels, which is an established risk factor for atherosclerosis, the underlying cause of coronary artery disease (CAD), a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. However, the exact mechanism and potential genes implicated are still unidentified. To date, Y chromosome-linked long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are poorly characterized and the potential link between these new regulatory RNA molecules and hepatic function in men has not been investigated. Advanced technologies of lncRNA subcellular localization and silencing were used to identify a novel intergenic Y-linked lncRNA, named lnc-KDM5D-4, and investigate its role in fatty liver-associated atherosclerosis. We found that lnc-KDM5D-4 is retained within the nucleus in hepatocytes. Its knockdown leads to changes in genes leading to increased lipid droplets formation in hepatocytes resulting in a downstream effect contributing to the chronic inflammatory process that underpin CAD. Our findings provide the first evidence for the implication of lnc-KDM5D-4 in key processes related to fatty liver and cellular inflammation associated with atherosclerosis and CAD in men.
- Authors: Molina, Elsa , Chew, Guat , Myers, Stephen , Clarence, Elyse , Eales, James , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Charchar, Fadi
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Scientific Reports Vol. 7, no. 1 (2017), p. 1-12
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/1009490
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: There is an increasing appreciation for the role of the human Y chromosome in phenotypic differences between the sexes in health and disease. Previous studies have shown that genetic variation within the Y chromosome is associated with cholesterol levels, which is an established risk factor for atherosclerosis, the underlying cause of coronary artery disease (CAD), a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. However, the exact mechanism and potential genes implicated are still unidentified. To date, Y chromosome-linked long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are poorly characterized and the potential link between these new regulatory RNA molecules and hepatic function in men has not been investigated. Advanced technologies of lncRNA subcellular localization and silencing were used to identify a novel intergenic Y-linked lncRNA, named lnc-KDM5D-4, and investigate its role in fatty liver-associated atherosclerosis. We found that lnc-KDM5D-4 is retained within the nucleus in hepatocytes. Its knockdown leads to changes in genes leading to increased lipid droplets formation in hepatocytes resulting in a downstream effect contributing to the chronic inflammatory process that underpin CAD. Our findings provide the first evidence for the implication of lnc-KDM5D-4 in key processes related to fatty liver and cellular inflammation associated with atherosclerosis and CAD in men.