SRPX2 Overexpression Promotes the Proliferation and Migration of Mouse Vascular Endothelial Progenitor Cells

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism of Sushi repeat-containing protein X-linked 2 (SRPX2) overexpression in the growth of mouse vascular endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). Methods: Lentiviral transfection was used to establish SRPX2 overexpression in the mouse EPC lines. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK8) and transwell assays were used to determine the role of SRPX2 overexpression in EPCs. Transcriptome sequencing of the SRPX2 overexpression (SRPX2 OE) and negative control (NC) groups was performed, followed by the screening of differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis was performed to screen potential hub genes. Furthermore, miRNAs and transcription factors (TFs) that regulated genes in the modules were predicted. The expression levels of genes were determined using real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR). Results: SRPX2 overexpression promoted the proliferation and migration of EPCs. A total of 828 DEGs was identified. Five hub genes were screened using PPI analysis: Collagen type I alpha 2 chain (COL1A2), collagen type III alpha 1 chain (COL3A1), CX3-C motif chemokine receptor 1 (CX3CR1), insulin like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP3), and sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 3 (S1PR3). The RT-qPCR assay indicated that the expression levels of these genes were consistent with the results of the bioinformatics analysis. Moreover, miRNAs such as let-7e-5p, miR-29a-3p, and miR-29b-3p might be involved in the EPC proliferation. Conclusions: Our study suggested that SRPX2 overexpression could promote mouse EPC proliferation and migration, and the identified genes were considered as potential biomarkers for endothelial remodeling during angiogenesis.