The P300/XBP1s/Herpud1 axis promotes macrophage M2 polarization and the development of choroidal neovascularization

Wendie Li1, Ying Wang2, Linling Zhu3

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Ningbo Eye Hospital, Ningbo, China.

Insights

The p300/XBP1s/Herpud1 pathway drives M2 macrophage polarization, worsening neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Blocking this axis reduces M2 polarization and alleviates CNV development.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Immunology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) involves choroidal neovascularization (CNV), often exacerbated by M2 macrophages producing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).
  • The histone acetyltransferase p300 stabilizes spliced X-box binding protein 1 (XBP1s), enhancing its target gene, Herpud1, which promotes M2 macrophage polarization.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of the p300/XBP1s/Herpud1 axis in macrophage polarization and CNV pathogenesis.
  • To determine if targeting this axis can mitigate CNV development.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized RAW264.7 cells and mouse models of laser-induced CNV.
  • Investigated the interaction between hypoxia-induced p300 and XBP1s, including acetylation and degradation.
  • Assessed the impact of the p300/XBP1s/Herpud1 axis on M2 polarization and choroidal endothelial cell function.
  • Examined the axis expression in CNV lesions and the effect of its blockade.

Main Results:

  • Hypoxia-induced p300 acetylates XBP1s, enhancing the unfolded protein response (UPR) and promoting M2 polarization via Herpud1.
  • Knockdown of the p300/XBP1s/Herpud1 axis inhibited M2 polarization and reduced choroidal endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation.
  • The p300/XBP1s/Herpud1 axis was upregulated in M2 macrophages within CNV lesions.
  • Blocking this axis decreased M2 polarization and alleviated CNV severity.

Conclusions:

  • The p300/XBP1s/Herpud1 axis is a key regulator of M2 macrophage polarization.
  • This axis plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of CNV.
  • Targeting the p300/XBP1s/Herpud1 axis presents a potential therapeutic strategy for AMD.

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