DARC Regulates Angiogenesis by Mediating Vascular Endothelial Cell Migration

Background: DARC (The Duffy antigen receptor for chemokines) is a kind of glycosylated membrane protein that binds to members of the CXC chemokine family associated with angiogenesis and has recently been reported to be implicated in diverse normal physiologic processes. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of DARC in angiogenesis, which is known to generate new capillary blood vessels from preexisting ones. Methods: HDMECs (Human dermal microvascular endothelial cells) were divided into two groups (DARC overexpression group, and control group). We used Brdu staining to detect cell proliferation, and wound healing assay to detect cell migration. Then tube formation assay were observed. Also, western blot and immunofluorescent staining were used to estimate the relationship between DARC and RhoA (Ras homolog gene family, member A). Results: HDMECs proliferation, migration, and tube formation were inhibited significantly when DARC was overexpressed intracellular. DARC impaired microfilament dynamics and intercellular connection in migrating cells, and RhoA activation underlay the effect of DARC on endothelial cell. Furthermore, DARC inhibited the formation of new capillaries in vitro. Conclusion: Our findings revealed the role of DARC in the angiogenic process and provided a novel mechanism for RhoA activation during endothelial cell migration and angiogenesis.