Eva1a ameliorates atherosclerosis by promoting re-endothelialization of injured arteries via Rac1/Cdc42/Arpc1b

Eva-1 homologue 1 (Eva1a) is a novel protein involved in the regulation of cardiac remodelling and plaque stability, but little is known about its role in re-endothelialization and the development of atherosclerosis (AS). Thus, in the present study, we aimed to elucidate the function of Eva1a in re-endothelialization and AS.

Wire injuries of carotid and femoral arteries were established in Eva1a^−/− mice. Eva1a-deficient mice were crossed with apolipoprotein E^−/− (ApoE^−/−) mice to evaluate AS development and re-endothelialization of carotid artery injuries. Denudation of the carotid artery at 3, 5, and 7 days was significantly aggravated in Eva1a^−/− mice. The neointima of the femoral artery at 14 and 28 days was consequently exacerbated in Eva1a^−/− mice. The area of atherosclerotic lesions was increased in Eva1a^−/−ApoE^−/− mice. To explore the underlying mechanisms, we performed transwell, scratch migration, cell counting kit-8, and bromodeoxyuridine assays using cultured human aorta endothelial cells (HAECs), which demonstrated that EVA1A promoted HAEC migration and proliferation. Proteomics revealed that the level of actin-related protein 2/3 complex subunit 1B (Arpc1b) was decreased, while Eva1a expression was absent. Arpc1b was found to be a downstream molecule of EVA1A by small interfering RNA transfection assay. Activation of Rac1 and Cdc42 GTPases was also regulated by EVA1A.

This study provides insights into anti-atherogenesis effects of Eva1a by promoting endothelium repair. Thus, Eva1a is a promising therapeutic target for AS.