The Investigation of the Effect of Salusins on Matrix Metalloproteinases and VEGF-A in human umbilical vein endothelial cells

Abstract

Abstract Background Salusins (α and β) have anti-atherogenic and atherogenic effects. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of salusins on expression level and activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). Also we evaluated the effect of salusins on mRNA expression and protein level of vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Methods Real-time PCR, Western blotting and Zymograpgy techniques were used. Salusin-α suppressed and Salusin-β increased expression of mRNA and enzymatic activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9, respectively. Results The protein level of VCAM-1 was reduced by Salusin-α without any effect on mRNA expression. The expression of mRNA and protein level of VCAM-1 was improved by Salusin-β. Salusins increased protein level of VEGF-A without any effect on mRNA expression. Conclusions Our findings indicated an inhibitory effect of salusin-α on MMP-2 and-9, VCAM-1, and stimulatory effects of salusin-β on these molecules. Salusins have stimulatory effect on VEGF-A. Salusins may be involved in different stages of atherosclerosis. These novel results may help to detect protein-based strategies for atherosclerotic management.