Endothelial TRPV4-eNOS coupling as a vital therapy target for treatment of hypertension

Background and Purpose Reduced NO levels and activity are signs of endothelial dysfunction, which is important in mediating BP changes. Previously, we demonstrated that transient receptor potential channel V4 (TRPV4) could form a functional complex with other proteins to mediate vasodilation in endothelial cells (ECs). But how TRPV4 interacts with the NO pathway in larger arteries requires further exploration. Experimental Approach We used single-cell RNA-sequencing to find the CD106(+) TRPV4(high)NOS3(high) ECs. The TRPV4-eNOS interaction was verified by co-immunoprecipitation and immuno-FRET, and their binding site was found by site-directed mutagenesis. Endothelium-specific TRPV4 knockout (TRPV4(EC)(-/-)) mice were used to study the effect of the TRPV4-eNOS interaction on BP. A small molecule, JNc-463, was designed through molecular docking technology. Key Results We uncovered CD106(+) TRPV4(high)NOS3(high) ECs in the mouse aorta, which could regulate vasodilation via a TRPV4-eNOS interaction, and were essential to regulate BP. The TRPV4-eNOS interaction markedly decreased during the process of hypertension. We further attempted to identify molecules involved in the TRPV4-eNOS interaction and developed a small-molecule drug, JNc-463, which could increase the TRPV4-eNOS interaction to enhance vasodilation and exert antihypertensive effects in mice. Conclusion and Implications This is the first study integrating single-cell RNA-Seq, single-cell functional study and drug screening in aorta. We identified a subpopulation of CD106(+) TRPV4(high)NOS3(high) ECs, in which an impaired TRPV4-eNOS interaction was important in the progress of hypertension, and we designed a small molecule, JNc-463, to improve the impaired TRPV4-eNOS interaction in hypertension.

Automated summary

This study used single-cell RNA-sequencing, single-cell functional study, and drug screening to identify a subpopulation of CD106(+) TRPV4(high)NOS3(high) endothelial cells (ECs) in the aorta. The impaired TRPV4-eNOS interaction was found to be important in the progression of hypertension, and a small molecule drug, JNc-463, was designed to improve this interaction. This research provides valuable insights into endothelial dysfunction and offers potential therapeutic targets for treating hypertension.