Associations of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) with adhesion and inflammation molecules in a healthy population

作者：Azimi Nezhad Mohsen; Stathopoulou Maria G; Bonnefond Amelie; Rancier Marc; Saleh Abdelsalam; Lamont John; Fitzgerald Peter; Ndiaye Ndeye Coumba; Visvikis Siest Sophie^*

来源：Cytokine, 2013, 61(2): 602-607.

DOI：10.1016/j.cyto.2012.10.024

• VEGF
• ICAM1
• E-selectin
• TNF-alpha
• IL-6

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is implicated in numerous pathologies through complex relationships with cellular adhesion molecules (CAMs) and inflammation markers. These have not been assessed in non-pathological conditions. Our aim was the evaluation of associations between VEGF and CAM/inflammation molecules in a healthy population, and of possible genomic interplays in order to better apprehend the underlying mechanisms leading to the pathology. We examined the associations between VEGF and ICAM-1, VCAM-1, E-, L-, P-selectins, TNF-alpha, CRP and IL-6 plasma levels in 403 healthy individuals. Gene expression of CAM/inflammation molecules and VEGF isoforms (121, 145, 165, and 189) were quantified in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The effect of four genetic variants (explaining similar to 50% of the heritability of circulating VEGF levels) and of their interactions on plasma and mRNA levels of CAM/inflammation molecules was examined. VEGF was associated with ICAM-1 and E-selectin in plasma. In PBMCs, VEGF(145) mRNA was associated with ICAM-1, L-selectin and TNF-alpha expression. Interactions of the genetic variants were shown to affect ICAM-1, E-selectin, IL-6 and TNF-alpha plasma levels, while rs4416670 was associated with L-selectin expression. These findings propose a biological connection between VEGF and CAM/inflammation markers. Common genetic and transcriptional mechanisms may link these molecules and control their effect in healthy conditions.

• 出版日期2013-2