Azadeh Yeganeh

Publications (2)6.62 Total impact

• Article: Connexin 43 phosphorylation and degradation are required for adipogenesis.

  Azadeh Yeganeh, Gerald L Stelmack, Robert R Fandrich, Andrew J Halayko, Elissavet Kardami, Peter Zahradka
  [show abstract] [hide abstract]
  ABSTRACT: Connexin-43 (Cx43) is a membrane phosphoprotein that mediates direct inter-cellular communication by forming gap junctions. In this way Cx43 can influence gene expression, differentiation and growth. Its role in adipogenesis, however, is poorly understood. In this study, we established that Cx43 becomes highly phosphorylated in early adipocyte differentiation and translocates to the plasma membrane from the endoplasmic reticulum. As preadipocytes differentiate, Cx43 phosphorylation declines, the protein is displaced from the plasma membrane, and total cellular levels are reduced via proteosomal degradation. Notably, we show that inhibiting Cx43 degradation or constitutively over-expressing Cx43 blocks adipocyte differentiation. These data reveal that transient activation of Cx43 via phosphorylation followed by its degradation is vital for preadipocyte differentiation and maturation of functional adipocytes.
  Biochimica et Biophysica Acta 06/2012; 1823(10):1731-44. · 4.66 Impact Factor
• Article: Adipokines and the cardiovascular system: mechanisms mediating health and disease.

  Josette M Northcott, Azadeh Yeganeh, Carla G Taylor, Peter Zahradka, Jeffrey T Wigle
  [show abstract] [hide abstract]
  ABSTRACT: This review focuses on the role of adipokines in the maintenance of a healthy cardiovascular system, and the mechanisms by which these factors mediate the development of cardiovascular disease in obesity. Adipocytes are the major cell type comprising the adipose tissue. These cells secrete numerous factors, termed adipokines, into the blood, including adiponectin, leptin, resistin, chemerin, omentin, vaspin, and visfatin. Adipose tissue is a highly vascularised endocrine organ, and different adipose depots have distinct adipokine secretion profiles, which are altered with obesity. The ability of many adipokines to stimulate angiogenesis is crucial for adipose tissue expansion; however, excessive blood vessel growth is deleterious. As well, some adipokines induce inflammation, which promotes cardiovascular disease progression. We discuss how these 7 aforementioned adipokines act upon the various cardiovascular cell types (endothelial progenitor cells, endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, pericytes, cardiomyocytes, and cardiac fibroblasts), the direct effects of these actions, and their overall impact on the cardiovascular system. These were chosen, as these adipokines are secreted predominantly from adipocytes and have known effects on cardiovascular cells.
  Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology 05/2012; 90(8):1029-59. · 1.95 Impact Factor