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(-)-Epicatechin-induced calcium independent eNOS activation: roles of HSP90 and AKT

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Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading determinant of mortality and morbidity in the world. Epidemiologic studies suggest that flavonoid intake plays a role in the prevention of CVD. Consumption of cocoa products rich in flavonoids lowers blood pressure and improves endothelial function in healthy subjects as well as in subjects with vascular dysfunction such as smokers and diabetics. The vascular actions of cocoa follow the stimulation of nitric oxide (NO). These actions can be reproduced by the administration of the cocoa flavanol (-)-epicatechin (EPI). Previously, using human endothelial cells cultured in calcium-free media, we documented EPI effects on eNOS independently of its translocation from the plasmalemma. To further define the mechanisms behind EPI-eNOS activation in Ca2+ -deprived endothelial cells, we evaluated the effects of EPI on the eNOS/AKT/HSP90 signaling pathway. Results document an EPI-induced phosphorylation/activation of eNOS, AKT, and HSP90. We also demonstrate that EPI induces a partial AKT/HSP90 migration from the cytoplasm to the caveolar membrane fraction. Immunoprecipitation assays of caveolar fractions demonstrate a physical association between HSP90, AKT, and eNOS. Thus, under Ca2+-free conditions, EPI stimulates NO synthesis via the formation of an active complex between eNOS, AKT, and HSP90.

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Acknowledgments

This study was supported by NIH AT4277, HL43617, P60-MD000220 grants to Dr. Villarreal.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA

    Israel Ramirez-Sanchez, Hugo Aguilar, Guillermo Ceballos & Francisco Villarreal

  2. Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Mexico, DF, Mexico

    Israel Ramirez-Sanchez & Guillermo Ceballos

  3. UCSD Cardiology, 9500 Gilman Dr. 0613J, BSB 4028, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA

    Francisco Villarreal

Authors
  1. Israel Ramirez-Sanchez
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  2. Hugo Aguilar
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  3. Guillermo Ceballos
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  4. Francisco Villarreal
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Correspondence to Francisco Villarreal.

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Ramirez-Sanchez, I., Aguilar, H., Ceballos, G. et al. (-)-Epicatechin-induced calcium independent eNOS activation: roles of HSP90 and AKT. Mol Cell Biochem 370, 141–150 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11010-012-1405-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11010-012-1405-9

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