p53-dependent ICAM-1 overexpression in senescent human cells identified in atherosclerotic lesions

Lab Invest. 2005 Apr;85(4):502-11. doi: 10.1038/labinvest.3700241.

Abstract

Most normal somatic cells enter a state called replicative senescence after a certain number of divisions, characterized by irreversible growth arrest. Moreover, they express a pronounced inflammatory phenotype that could contribute to the aging process and the development of age-related pathologies. Among the molecules involved in the inflammatory response that are overexpressed in senescent cells and aged tissues is intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). Furthermore, ICAM-1 is overexpressed in atherosclerosis, an age-related, chronic inflammatory disease. We have recently reported that the transcriptional activator p53 can trigger ICAM-1 expression in an nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappaB)-independent manner (Gorgoulis et al, EMBO J. 2003; 22: 1567-1578). As p53 exhibits an increased transcriptional activity in senescent cells, we investigated whether p53 activation is responsible for the senescence-associated ICAM-1 overexpression. To this end, we used two model systems of cellular senescence: (a) human fibroblasts and (b) conditionally immortalized human vascular smooth muscle cells. Here, we present evidence from both cell systems to support a p53-mediated ICAM-1 overexpression in senescent cells that is independent of NF-kappaB. We also demonstrate in atherosclerotic lesions the presence of cells coexpressing activated p53, ICAM-1, and stained with the senescence-associated beta-galactosidase, a biomarker of replicative senescence. Collectively, our data suggest a direct functional link between p53 and ICAM-1 in senescence and age-related disorders.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Arteriosclerosis / metabolism*
  • Base Sequence
  • Cellular Senescence
  • DNA Primers
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 / metabolism*
  • NF-kappa B / metabolism
  • RNA, Messenger / genetics
  • Tumor Suppressor Protein p53 / metabolism*

Substances

  • DNA Primers
  • NF-kappa B
  • RNA, Messenger
  • Tumor Suppressor Protein p53
  • Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1