RESUMO
Modulating the biological status of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), such as function and survival, is essential for therapeutic angiogenesis in ischemic vascular disease environments. This study aimed to explore the role and molecular mechanisms underlying Netrin1 in the viability and angiogenic function of EPCs. EPCs were isolated from the bone barrow of adult C57/BL6 mice. The apoptosis and various functions of EPCs were analyzed in vitro by manipulating the expression of Netrin1. The TUNEL assay was performed to detect apoptotic EPCs. Cell migration and tube formation assays were performed to detect EPC function. Trypan blue staining was performed to detect cell viability. Western blot analysis was performed to detect the protein expression levels of Netrin1, CD146 and apoptotic factors. Quantitative PCR analysis was performed to detect the expression levels of Netrin1 receptors. The results demonstrated that treatment with exogenous Netrin1 promoted EPC migration and tube formation, whereas transfection with small interfering (si)RNA targeting Netrin1 exhibited the opposite effects. Exogenous Netrin1 protected EPCs from hypoxiainduced apoptosis, whereas the interruption of endogenous Netrin1 enhancement under hypoxia by Netrin1siRNA exacerbated the apoptosis of EPCs. Furthermore, CD146, one of the immunoglobulin receptors activated by Netrin1, was screened for in the present study. Results demonstrated that CD146 did not participate in Netrin1promoted EPC function, but mediated the antiapoptotic effects of Netrin1 in EPCs. In conclusion, Netrin1 enhanced the angiogenic function of EPCs and alleviated hypoxiainduced apoptosis, which was mediated by CD146. This biological function of Netrin1 may provide a potential therapeutic option to promote EPCs for the treatment of ischemic vascular diseases.