Fig. 8: The interaction network between CHI3L1 and its target proteins and the roles of CHI3L1 in signaling pathways for the development of cardiovascular diseases.
From: Significance of chitinase-3-like protein 1 in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases and cancer
a Hypertension. Upper panel: The circle sizes are determined based on the score. The values in the circle symbols are the scores determined by STRING analysis. Lower panel: In the development of hypertension, CHI3L1 stimulates pulmonary artery vascular smooth muscle proliferation through interaction with CRTH2, a G protein-coupled receptor. CHI3L1 binds with IL-13Rα2/TMEM219 and mediates anti-apoptotic effects in pulmonary arterial endothelial cell death through synergy with TGF-ß1 and hypoxia, promoting endothelial permeability and endo-MT transition. This causes spontaneous pulmonary vascular remodeling and hypertension. b Atherosclerosis. Upper panel: The circle sizes are determined based on the score. The values in the circle symbols are the scores determined by STRING analysis. Lower panel: In atherogenesis, CHI3L1 induces endothelial activation and inflammation through synergy with IL-6 and increases VEGFA and CCL2 levels. CHI3L1 potentiates PDGF-BB-induced vascular smooth muscle cell migration and proliferation and probably elevates the VEGFA signaling pathway. As a result, endothelial dysfunction and the onset of atherosclerosis are induced.
