Ponatinib reduces viability, migration, and functionality of human endothelial cells

Ayala Gover-Proaktor1, Galit Granot1, Saar Shapira1,2

  • 1a Felsenstein Medical Research Center , Tel Aviv , Israel.

Leukemia & Lymphoma
|October 14, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) can cause vascular adverse events (VAEs). This study found ponatinib, a TKI, impairs endothelial cell function and may cause VAEs by inhibiting VEGFR2, impacting angiogenesis.

Area of Science:

  • Biomedical research
  • Molecular biology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have transformed chronic myeloid leukemia treatment.
  • Managing TKI-associated vascular adverse events (VAEs) is now a clinical focus.
  • Understanding the mechanisms behind TKI-induced VAEs is crucial for patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the in vitro effects of TKIs on endothelial cells.
  • To elucidate the specific mechanisms of ponatinib-associated vascular adverse events.
  • To explore the role of VEGFR2 in ponatinib's effects on angiogenesis.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized an in vitro angiogenesis model with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs).
  • Assessed HUVEC viability, apoptosis, migration, and tube formation.
  • Evaluated the impact of ponatinib on endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) function.
  • Investigated ponatinib's effects in HUVECs with modified VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) expression.

Main Results:

  • Imatinib, nilotinib, and ponatinib reduced HUVEC viability.
  • Ponatinib induced apoptosis, inhibited migration, and impaired tube formation in HUVECs at pharmacological concentrations.
  • Ponatinib negatively affected endothelial progenitor cell function.
  • Ponatinib's detrimental effects on endothelial cell function were less pronounced in VEGFR2-transfected cells.

Conclusions:

  • Ponatinib exhibits antiangiogenic properties, potentially through VEGFR2 inhibition.
  • This study provides novel insights into the pathogenesis of ponatinib-associated vascular adverse events.
  • The findings contribute to understanding the complex mechanisms of TKI-induced VAEs.