Apelin-APLNR pathway across development, inflammation, and vascular remodeling: an endothelial perspective

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Endothelial Cell Biology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• The apelinergic system, comprising Apelin, Elabela, and their receptor APLNR, plays vital roles in vascular development and endothelial homeostasis.
• APLNR is highly expressed in endothelial cells, integrating various physiological signals.
• This system is critical for maintaining vascular integrity and tissue adaptation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted roles of the Apelin-APLNR axis in endothelial function.
• To highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting the apelinergic system in disease.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on the apelinergic system and its role in health and disease.
• Analysis of experimental models demonstrating the effects of modulating apelinergic signaling.

Main Results:

• Apelinergic signaling guides angiogenic patterning and supports endothelial nitric oxide production and vascular stability.
• Dysregulation of this pathway is implicated in hypertension, cardiac remodeling, pulmonary vascular injury, and inflammation.
• Restoring apelinergic signaling improves endothelial barrier function and mitigates tissue damage in various disease models.

Conclusions:

• The Apelin-APLNR axis is a critical regulator of endothelial function with context-dependent effects.
• Targeting the apelinergic system offers a promising therapeutic strategy for cardiovascular, pulmonary, and inflammatory diseases.