Cathepsin D elevates the fibrocalcific activity in human aortic valve cells through the ERK1/2-Sox9 pathway.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Human Aortic valve interstitial cells (AVICs) from calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD)-affected valves exhibit elevated fibrocalcific activity although the underlying mechanism remains incompletely understood. This study aimed to identify endogenous factors that promote aortic valve fibrocalcification.

Methods and results

Proteomic analysis found increased cathepsin D levels in AVICs from CAVD-affected valves compared to AVICs from normal valves, and this finding was validated by immunoblotting. ELISA assay identified exacerbated release of cathepsin D by AVICs of diseased valves. Recombinant human cathepsin D upregulated the expression of runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), collagen I and collagen IV in human AVICs, resulting

SUBMITTER: Yao Q 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11458440 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature