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Druso JE, MacPherson MB, Chia SB, Elko E, Aboushousha R, Seward DJ, Abdelhamid H, Erickson C, Corteselli E, Tarte M, Peng Z, Bernier D, Zito E, Shoulders MD, Thannickal VJ, Huang S, van der Vliet A, Anathy V, Janssen-Heininger YMW. ER Oxidative Stress Promotes Glutathione-Dependent Oxidation of Collagen-1A1 and Promotes Lung Fibroblast Activation. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2024. [PMID: 39042020 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2023-0379oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Changes in the oxidative (redox) environment accompany idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). S-glutathionylation of reactive protein cysteines is a post-translational event that transduces oxidant signals into biological responses. We recently demonstrated that increases in S-glutathionylation promote pulmonary fibrosis, which was mitigated by the deglutathionylating enzyme glutaredoxin (GLRX). However, the protein targets of S-glutathionylation that promote fibrogenesis remain unknown. In the present study we addressed whether the extracellular matrix is a target for S-glutathionylation. We discovered increases in collagen 1A1 S-glutathionylation (COL1A1-SSG) in lung tissues from IPF subjects compared to control subjects in association with increases in ER oxidoreductin 1 (ERO1A) and enhanced oxidation of ER-localized peroxiredoxin 4 (PRDX4) reflecting an increased oxidative environment of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Human lung fibroblasts exposed to transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB1) show increased secretion of COL1A1-SSG. Pharmacologic inhibition of ERO1A diminished oxidation of PRDX4, attenuated COL1A1-SSG and total COL1A1 levels and dampened fibroblast activation. Absence of Glrx enhanced COL1A1-SSG and overall COL1A1 secretion and promoted activation of mechanosensing pathways. Remarkably, COL1A1-SSG resulted in marked resistance to collagenase degradation. Compared to COL1, lung fibroblasts plated on COL1-SSG proliferated more rapidly, and increased expression of genes encoding extracellular matrix crosslinking enzymes and genes linked to mechanosensing pathways. Overall, these findings suggest that glutathione-dependent oxidation of COL1A1 occurs in settings of IPF in association with enhanced ER oxidative stress and may promote fibrotic remodeling due to increased resistance to collagenase-mediated degradation and fibroblast activation.
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Gartia MR, Thannickal VJ. Lipids to the Rescue in Pulmonary Fibrosis: Biosynthesis, Bioenergetics or Epigenetics? Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2024. [PMID: 38713058 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2024-0187ed] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
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Hough KP, Trevor JL, Chacko BK, Strenkowski JG, Wang Y, Goliwas KF, Bone NB, Kim YI, Holmes R, Vang S, Pritchard A, Chin J, Bodduluri S, Antony VB, Tousif S, Athar M, Chanda D, Mitra K, Zmijewski J, Zhang J, Duncan SR, Thannickal VJ, Gabrielsson S, Darley-Usmar VM, Deshane JS. Small Extracellular Vesicle Signaling and Mitochondrial Transfer Reprograms T Helper Cell Function in Human Asthma. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.30.589227. [PMID: 38746361 PMCID: PMC11092649 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.30.589227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that involves crosstalk between myeloid-derived regulatory cells (MDRCs) and CD4+ T cells. Although small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are known to mediate cell-cell communication, the role of sEV signaling via mitochondria in perpetuating asthmatic airway inflammation is unknown. OBJECTIVES We investigated the effects of MDRC-derived exosomes on dysregulated T cell responses in asthmatics. METHODS Small extracellular vesicles isolated from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid or airway MDRCs of mild to moderate asthmatics or healthy controls were co-cultured with autologous peripheral and airway CD4+ T lymphocytes. sEV internalization, sEV-mediated transfer of mitochondria targeted GFP to T cells, sEV mitochondrial signaling, and subsequent activation, proliferation and polarization of CD4+ T lymphocytes to Th1, Th2 and Th17 subsets were assessed. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Airway MDRC-derived sEVs from asthmatics mediated T cell receptor engagement and transfer of mitochondria that induced antigen-specific activation and polarization into Th17 and Th2 cells, drivers of chronic airway inflammation in asthma. CD4+ T cells internalized sEVs containing mitochondria predominantly by membrane fusion, and blocking mitochondrial oxidant signaling in MDRC-derived exosomes mitigated T cell activation. Reactive oxygen species-mediated signaling that elicited T cell activation in asthmatics was sEV-dependent. A Drp1-dependent mitochondrial fission in pro-inflammatory MDRCs promoted mitochondrial packaging within sEVs, which then co-localized with the polarized actin cytoskeleton and mitochondrial networks in the organized immune synapse of recipient T cells. CONCLUSIONS Our studies indicate a previously unrecognized role for mitochondrial fission and exosomal mitochondrial transfer in dysregulated T cell activation and Th cell differentiation in asthma which could constitute a novel therapeutic target.
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Rehan M, Deskin B, Kurundkar AR, Yadav S, Matsunaga Y, Manges J, Smith N, Dsouza KG, Burow ME, Thannickal VJ. Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase mediates lipofibroblast-myofibroblast transition and apoptosis resistance. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105027. [PMID: 37423298 PMCID: PMC10413354 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolism controls cellular phenotype and fate. In this report, we demonstrate that nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), a metabolic enzyme that regulates developmental stem cell transitions and tumor progression, is highly expressed in human idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) lungs, and is induced by the pro-fibrotic cytokine, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in lung fibroblasts. NNMT silencing reduces the expression of extracellular matrix proteins, both constitutively and in response to TGF-β1. Furthermore, NNMT controls the phenotypic transition from homeostatic, pro-regenerative lipofibroblasts to pro-fibrotic myofibroblasts. This effect of NNMT is mediated, in part, by the downregulation of lipogenic transcription factors, TCF21 and PPARγ, and the induction of a less proliferative but more differentiated myofibroblast phenotype. NNMT confers an apoptosis-resistant phenotype to myofibroblasts that is associated with the downregulation of pro-apoptotic members of the Bcl-2 family, including Bim and PUMA. Together, these studies indicate a critical role for NNMT in the metabolic reprogramming of fibroblasts to a pro-fibrotic and apoptosis-resistant phenotype and support the concept that targeting this enzyme may promote regenerative responses in chronic fibrotic disorders such as IPF.
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El Agha E, Thannickal VJ. The lung mesenchyme in development, regeneration, and fibrosis. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e170498. [PMID: 37463440 DOI: 10.1172/jci170498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal cells are uniquely located at the interface between the epithelial lining and the stroma, allowing them to act as a signaling hub among diverse cellular compartments of the lung. During embryonic and postnatal lung development, mesenchyme-derived signals instruct epithelial budding, branching morphogenesis, and subsequent structural and functional maturation. Later during adult life, the mesenchyme plays divergent roles wherein its balanced activation promotes epithelial repair after injury while its aberrant activation can lead to pathological remodeling and fibrosis that are associated with multiple chronic pulmonary diseases, including bronchopulmonary dysplasia, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In this Review, we discuss the involvement of the lung mesenchyme in various morphogenic, neomorphogenic, and dysmorphogenic aspects of lung biology and health, with special emphasis on lung fibroblast subsets and smooth muscle cells, intercellular communication, and intrinsic mesenchymal mechanisms that drive such physiological and pathophysiological events throughout development, homeostasis, injury repair, regeneration, and aging.
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Zhou Y, Thannickal VJ. Demystifying the Enigmatic Fibroblast in Pulmonary Fibrosis. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2023; 69:1-2. [PMID: 37040483 PMCID: PMC10324038 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2023-0090ed] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
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Yin Q, Morris GF, Saito S, Zhuang Y, Thannickal VJ, Jazwinski SM, Lasky JA. Enhanced Expression of a Novel Lamin A/C Splice Variant in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Lung. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2023; 68:625-637. [PMID: 36848480 PMCID: PMC10257069 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2022-0222oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), the normal delicate lung architecture is replaced with rigid extracellular matrix (ECM) as a result of the accumulation of activated myofibroblasts and excessive deposition of ECM. Lamins have a role in fostering mechanosignaling from the ECM to the nucleus. Although there is a growing number of studies on lamins and associated diseases, there are no prior reports linking aberrations in lamins with pulmonary fibrosis. Here, we discovered, through analysis of RNA sequencing data, a novel isoform of lamin A/C that is more highly expressed in IPF compared with control lung. This novel LMNA (lamin A/C) splice variant includes retained introns 10 and 11 and exons 11 and 12 as documented by rapid amplification of cDNA ends. We found that this novel isoform is induced by stiff ECM. To better clarify the specific effects of this novel isoform of lamin A/C and how it may contribute to the pathogenesis of IPF, we transduced the lamin transcript into primary lung fibroblasts and alveolar epithelial cells and found that it impacts several biological effects, including cell proliferation, senescence, cell contraction, and the transition of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts. We also observed that type II epithelial cells and myofibroblasts in the IPF lung exhibited wrinkled nuclei, and this is notable because this has not been previously described and is consistent with laminopathy-mediated cellular effects.
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Thannickal VJ, Jandeleit‐Dahm K, Szyndralewiez C, Török NJ. Pre-clinical evidence of a dual NADPH oxidase 1/4 inhibitor (setanaxib) in liver, kidney and lung fibrosis. J Cell Mol Med 2023; 27:471-481. [PMID: 36658776 PMCID: PMC9930438 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis describes a dysregulated tissue remodelling response to persistent cellular injury and is the final pathological consequence of many chronic diseases that affect the liver, kidney and lung. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)-oxidase (NOX) enzymes produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) as their primary function. ROS derived from NOX1 and NOX4 are key mediators of liver, kidney and lung fibrosis. Setanaxib (GKT137831) is a first-in-class, dual inhibitor of NOX1/4 and is the first NOX inhibitor to progress to clinical trial investigation. The anti-fibrotic effects of setanaxib in liver, kidney and lung fibrosis are supported by multiple lines of pre-clinical evidence. However, despite advances in our understanding, the precise roles of NOX1/4 in fibrosis require further investigation. Additionally, there is a translational gap between the pre-clinical observations of setanaxib to date and the applicability of these to human patients within a clinical setting. This narrative review critically examines the role of NOX1/4 in liver, kidney and lung fibrosis, alongside the available evidence investigating setanaxib as a therapeutic agent in pre-clinical models of disease. We discuss the potential clinical translatability of this pre-clinical evidence, which provides rationale to explore NOX1/4 inhibition by setanaxib across various fibrotic pathologies in clinical trials involving human patients.
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Lasky JA, Thannickal VJ. NOTCH-ing up Surface Tension in the Fibrotic Lung. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2023; 207:235-236. [PMID: 36351003 PMCID: PMC9896643 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202210-1901ed] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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Zmijewski JW, Thannickal VJ. Autophagy in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Predisposition of the Aging Lung to Fibrosis? Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2023; 68:3-4. [PMID: 36201669 PMCID: PMC9817915 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2022-0379ed] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
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Saito S, Chung CHH, Jacob A, Nuradin N, Meyer AE, Yang H, Kolls JK, Thannickal VJ, Lasky JA, Saito T, Liu YZ. Hematopoietic and Lung Platelet Biogenesis as a Prognostic Indicator in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2022; 206:1174-1177. [PMID: 35853164 PMCID: PMC9704823 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202206-1195le] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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Rangarajan S, Locy ML, Chanda D, Kurundkar A, Kurundkar D, Larson‐Casey JL, Londono P, Bagchi RA, Deskin B, Elajaili H, Nozik ES, Deshane JS, Zmijewski JW, Eickelberg O, Thannickal VJ. Mitochondrial uncoupling protein-2 reprograms metabolism to induce oxidative stress and myofibroblast senescence in age-associated lung fibrosis. Aging Cell 2022; 21:e13674. [PMID: 35934931 PMCID: PMC9470902 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction has been associated with age-related diseases, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). We provide evidence that implicates chronic elevation of the mitochondrial anion carrier protein, uncoupling protein-2 (UCP2), in increased generation of reactive oxygen species, altered redox state and cellular bioenergetics, impaired fatty acid oxidation, and induction of myofibroblast senescence. This pro-oxidant senescence reprogramming occurs in concert with conventional actions of UCP2 as an uncoupler of oxidative phosphorylation with dissipation of the mitochondrial membrane potential. UCP2 is highly expressed in human IPF lung myofibroblasts and in aged fibroblasts. In an aging murine model of lung fibrosis, the in vivo silencing of UCP2 induces fibrosis regression. These studies indicate a pro-fibrotic function of UCP2 in chronic lung disease and support its therapeutic targeting in age-related diseases associated with impaired tissue regeneration and organ fibrosis.
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Ikonomou L, Magnusson M, Dries R, Herzog EL, Hynds RE, Borok Z, Park JA, Skolasinski S, Burgess JK, Turner L, Mojarad SM, Mahoney JE, Lynch T, Lehmann M, Thannickal VJ, Hook JL, Vaughan AE, Hoffman ET, Weiss DJ, Ryan AL. Stem cells, cell therapies, and bioengineering in lung biology and disease 2021. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2022; 323:L341-L354. [PMID: 35762622 PMCID: PMC9484991 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00113.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The 9th biennial conference titled "Stem Cells, Cell Therapies, and Bioengineering in Lung Biology and Diseases" was hosted virtually, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, in collaboration with the University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, the Alpha-1 Foundation, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and the International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy. The event was held from July 12th through 15th, 2021 with a pre-conference workshop held on July 9th. As in previous years, the objectives remained to review and discuss the status of active research areas involving stem cells (SCs), cellular therapeutics, and bioengineering as they relate to the human lung. Topics included 1) technological advancements in the in situ analysis of lung tissues, 2) new insights into stem cell signaling and plasticity in lung remodeling and regeneration, 3) the impact of extracellular matrix in stem cell regulation and airway engineering in lung regeneration, 4) differentiating and delivering stem cell therapeutics to the lung, 5) regeneration in response to viral infection, and 6) ethical development of cell-based treatments for lung diseases. This selection of topics represents some of the most dynamic and current research areas in lung biology. The virtual workshop included active discussion on state-of-the-art methods relating to the core features of the 2021 conference, including in situ proteomics, lung-on-chip, induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-airway differentiation, and light sheet microscopy. The conference concluded with an open discussion to suggest funding priorities and recommendations for future research directions in basic and translational lung biology.
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Saito S, Deskin B, Rehan M, Yadav S, Matsunaga Y, Lasky JA, Thannickal VJ. Novel mediators of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Clin Sci (Lond) 2022; 136:1229-1240. [PMID: 36043396 DOI: 10.1042/cs20210878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis involving the lung may occur in many settings, including in association with known environmental agents, connective tissue diseases, and exposure to drugs or radiation therapy. The most common form is referred to as 'idiopathic' since a causal agent or specific association has not been determined; the strongest risk factor for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is aging. Emerging studies indicate that targeting certain components of aging biology may be effective in mitigating age-associated fibrosis. While transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is a central mediator of fibrosis in almost all contexts, and across multiple organs, it is not feasible to target this canonical pathway at the ligand-receptor level due to the pleiotropic nature of its actions; importantly, its homeostatic roles as a tumor-suppressor and immune-modulator make this an imprudent strategy. However, defining targets downstream of its receptor(s) that mediate fibrogenesis, while relatively dispenable for tumor- and immune-suppressive functions may aid in developing safer and more effective therapies. In this review, we explore molecular targets that, although TGF-β1 induced/activated, may be relatively more selective in mediating tissue fibrosis. Additionally, we explore epigenetic mechanisms with global effects on the fibrogenic process, as well as metabolic pathways that regulate aging and fibrosis.
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Cui H, Xie N, Banerjee S, Dey T, Liu RM, Antony VB, Sanders YY, Adams TS, Gomez JL, Thannickal VJ, Kaminski N, Liu G. CD38 Mediates Lung Fibrosis by Promoting Alveolar Epithelial Cell Aging. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2022; 206:459-475. [PMID: 35687485 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202109-2151oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: A prevailing paradigm recognizes idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) originating from various alveolar epithelial cell (AEC) injuries, and there is a growing appreciation of AEC aging as a key driver of the pathogenesis. Despite this progress, it is incompletely understood what main factor(s) contribute to the worsened alveolar epithelial aging in lung fibrosis. It remains a challenge how to dampen AEC aging and thereby mitigate the disease progression. Objectives: To determine the role of AEC CD38 (cluster of differentiation 38) in promoting cellular aging and lung fibrosis. Methods: We used single-cell RNA sequencing, real-time PCR, flow cytometry, and Western blotting. Measurements and Main Results: We discovered a pivotal role of CD38, a cardinal nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) hydrolase, in AEC aging and its promotion of lung fibrosis. We found increased CD38 expression in IPF lungs that inversely correlated with the lung functions of patients. CD38 was primarily located in the AECs of human lung parenchyma and was markedly induced in IPF AECs. Similarly, CD38 expression was elevated in the AECs of fibrotic lungs of young mice and further augmented in those of old mice, which was in accordance with a worsened AEC aging phenotype and an aggravated lung fibrosis in the old animals. Mechanistically, we found that CD38 elevation downregulated intracellular NAD, which likely led to the aging promoting impairment of the NAD-dependent cellular and molecular activities. Furthermore, we demonstrated that genetic and pharmacological inactivation of CD38 improved these NAD dependent events and ameliorated bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. Conclusions: Our study suggests targeting alveolar CD38 as a novel and effective therapeutic strategy to treat this pathology.
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Yadav S, Sampath SS, Deskin BJ, Thannickal VJ. H 2 O 2 Release Assay. Bio Protoc 2022; 12:e4429. [PMID: 35799911 PMCID: PMC9243514 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species are ubiquitous in nature, and function as signalling molecules in biological systems; they may also contribute to oxidative stress in several pathobiological disease states. In this report, we describe a simple, reliable, sensitive, and specific assay for the detection and quantitation of hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) release by living cells, organoids, or tissues. Furthermore, the low cost of reagents required for this assay makes it inexpensive relative to commercial kits. The high sensitivity and specificity are based on the ability of H 2 O 2 to react with heme peroxidases and convert para-substituted phenolic compounds to fluorescent dimers. Graphical abstract.
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Wilson AC, Chiles J, Ashish S, Chanda D, Kumar PL, Mobley JA, Neptune ER, Thannickal VJ, McDonald MLN. Integrated bioinformatics analysis identifies established and novel TGFβ1-regulated genes modulated by anti-fibrotic drugs. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3080. [PMID: 35197532 PMCID: PMC8866468 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07151-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although fibrosis may involve different organ systems, transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) has been established as a master regulator of fibrosis across organs. Pirfenidone and Nintedanib are the only currently-approved drugs to treat fibrosis, specifically idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, but their mechanisms of action remain poorly understood. To identify novel drug targets and uncover potential mechanisms by which these drugs attenuate fibrosis, we performed an integrative 'omics analysis of transcriptomic and proteomic responses to TGFβ1-stimulated lung fibroblasts. Significant findings were annotated as associated with pirfenidone and nintedanib treatment in silico via Coremine. Integrative 'omics identified a co-expressed transcriptomic and proteomic module significantly correlated with TGFβ1 treatment that was enriched (FDR-p = 0.04) with genes associated with pirfenidone and nintedanib treatment. While a subset of genes in this module have been implicated in fibrogenesis, several novel TGFβ1 signaling targets were identified. Specifically, four genes (BASP1, HSD17B6, CDH11, and TNS1) have been associated with pirfenidone, while five genes (CLINT1, CADM1, MTDH, SYDE1, and MCTS1) have been associated with nintedanib, and MYDGF has been implicated with treatment using both drugs. Using the Clue Drug Repurposing Hub, succinic acid was highlighted as a metabolite regulated by the protein encoded by HSD17B6. This study provides new insights into the anti-fibrotic actions of pirfenidone and nintedanib and identifies novel targets for future mechanistic studies.
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Zhang X, Liu H, Zhou JQ, Krick S, Barnes JW, Thannickal VJ, Sanders YY. Modulation of H4K16Ac levels reduces pro-fibrotic gene expression and mitigates lung fibrosis in aged mice. Theranostics 2022; 12:530-541. [PMID: 34976199 PMCID: PMC8692895 DOI: 10.7150/thno.62760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone H4 lysine16 acetylation (H4K16Ac) modulates chromatin structure by serving as a switch from a repressive to a transcriptionally active state. This euchromatin mark is associated with active transcription. In this study, we investigated the effects of H4K16Ac on the expression of pro-fibrotic genes in lung fibroblasts from patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and in an aging murine model of lung fibrosis. Methods: The lung tissues and fibroblasts from human IPF/non-IPF donors and from aged mice with/without bleomycin induced lung fibrosis were used in this study. The H4K16Ac levels were examined by immunohistochemistry or western blots. RNA silencing of H4K16Ac acetyltransferase Mof was used to reduce H4K16Ac levels in IPF fibroblasts. The effects of reduced H4K16Ac on pro-fibrotic gene expression were examined by western blots and real-time PCR. The association of H4K16Ac with these genes' promoter region were evaluated by ChIP assays. The gene expression profile in siRNA Mof transfected IPF cells were determined by RNA-Seq. The impact of H4K16Ac levels on lung fibrosis was evaluated in an aging murine model. Results: Aged mice with bleomycin induced lung fibrosis showed increased H4K16Ac levels. Human lung fibroblasts with siRNA Mof silencing demonstrated reduced H4K16Ac, and significantly down-regulated profibrotic genes, such as α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I, Nox4, and survivin. ChIP assays confirmed the associations of these pro-fibrotic genes' promoter region with H4K16Ac, while in siRNA Mof transfected cells the promoter/H4K16Ac associations were depleted. RNA-seq data demonstrated that Mof knockdown altered gene expression and cellular pathways, including cell damage and repair. In the aging mice model of persistent lung fibrosis, 18-month old mice given intra-nasal siRNA Mof from week 3 to 6 following bleomycin injury showed improved lung architecture, decreased total hydroxyproline content and lower levels of H4K16Ac. Conclusions: These results indicate a critical epigenetic regulatory role for histone H4K16Ac in the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis, which will aid in the development of novel therapeutic strategies for age-related diseases such as IPF.
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Tousif S, Wang Y, Jackson J, Hough KP, Strenkowski JG, Athar M, Thannickal VJ, McCusker RH, Ponnazhagan S, Deshane JS. Indoleamine 2, 3-Dioxygenase Promotes Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor-Dependent Differentiation Of Regulatory B Cells in Lung Cancer. Front Immunol 2021; 12:747780. [PMID: 34867973 PMCID: PMC8640488 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.747780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory B cells (Breg) are IL-10 producing subsets of B cells that contribute to immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Breg are elevated in patients with lung cancer; however, the mechanisms underlying Breg development and their function in lung cancer have not been adequately elucidated. Herein, we report a novel role for Indoleamine 2, 3- dioxygenase (IDO), a metabolic enzyme that degrades tryptophan (Trp) and the Trp metabolite L-kynurenine (L-Kyn) in the regulation of Breg differentiation in the lung TME. Using a syngeneic mouse model of lung cancer, we report that Breg frequencies significantly increased during tumor progression in the lung TME and secondary lymphoid organs, while Breg were reduced in tumor-bearing IDO deficient mice (IDO-/-). Trp metabolite L-Kyn promoted Breg differentiation in-vitro in an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), toll-like receptor-4-myeloid differentiation primary response 88, (TLR4-MyD88) dependent manner. Importantly, using mouse models with conditional deletion of IDO in myeloid-lineage cells, we identified a significant role for immunosuppressive myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC)-associated IDO in modulating in-vivo and ex-vivo differentiation of Breg. Our studies thus identify Trp metabolism as a therapeutic target to modulate regulatory B cell function during lung cancer progression.
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Chanda D, Rehan M, Smith SR, Dsouza KG, Wang Y, Bernard K, Kurundkar D, Memula V, Kojima K, Mobley JA, Benavides GA, Darley-Usmar V, Kim YIL, Zmijewski JW, Deshane JS, De Langhe S, Thannickal VJ. Mesenchymal stromal cell aging impairs the self-organizing capacity of lung alveolar epithelial stem cells. eLife 2021; 10:68049. [PMID: 34528872 PMCID: PMC8445616 DOI: 10.7554/elife.68049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Multicellular organisms maintain structure and function of tissues/organs through emergent, self-organizing behavior. In this report, we demonstrate a critical role for lung mesenchymal stromal cell (L-MSC) aging in determining the capacity to form three-dimensional organoids or 'alveolospheres' with type 2 alveolar epithelial cells (AEC2s). In contrast to L-MSCs from aged mice, young L-MSCs support the efficient formation of alveolospheres when co-cultured with young or aged AEC2s. Aged L-MSCs demonstrated features of cellular senescence, altered bioenergetics, and a senescence-associated secretory profile (SASP). The reactive oxygen species generating enzyme, NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4), was highly activated in aged L-MSCs and Nox4 downregulation was sufficient to, at least partially, reverse this age-related energy deficit, while restoring the self-organizing capacity of alveolospheres. Together, these data indicate a critical role for cellular bioenergetics and redox homeostasis in an organoid model of self-organization and support the concept of thermodynamic entropy in aging biology.
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21
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Goliwas KF, Simmons CS, Khan SA, Wood AM, Wang Y, Berry JL, Athar M, Mobley JA, Kim YI, Thannickal VJ, Harrod KS, Donahue JM, Deshane JS. Local SARS-CoV-2 peptide-specific Immune Responses in Convalescent and Uninfected Human Lung Tissue Models. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2021. [PMID: 34518842 DOI: 10.1101/2021.09.02.21263042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Multi-specific and long-lasting T cell immunity have been recognized as indicators for long term protection against pathogens including the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of the COVID-19 pandemic. Functional significance of peripheral memory T cell subsets in COVID-19 convalescents (CONV) are beginning to be appreciated; but little is known about lung resident memory T cell (lung TRM) responses and their role in limiting the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Here, we utilize a perfusion three dimensional (3D) human lung tissue model and identify pre-existing local T cell immunity against SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and structural antigens in the lung tissues. We report ex vivo maintenance of functional multi-specific IFN-γ secreting lung TRM in CONV and their induction in lung tissues of vaccinated CONV. Importantly, we identify SARS-CoV-2 spike peptide-responding B cells in lung tissues of CONV in ex vivo 3D-tissue models. Our study highlights a balanced and local anti-viral immune response in the lung and persistent induction of TRM cells as an essential component for future protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Further, our data suggest that inclusion of multiple viral antigens in vaccine approaches may broaden the functional profile of memory T cells to combat the severity of coronavirus infection.
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22
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Li FJ, Surolia R, Li H, Wang Z, Liu G, Kulkarni T, Massicano AVF, Mobley JA, Mondal S, de Andrade JA, Coonrod SA, Thompson PR, Wille K, Lapi SE, Athar M, Thannickal VJ, Carter AB, Antony VB. Citrullinated vimentin mediates development and progression of lung fibrosis. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:13/585/eaba2927. [PMID: 33731433 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aba2927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The mechanisms by which environmental exposures contribute to the pathogenesis of lung fibrosis are unclear. Here, we demonstrate an increase in cadmium (Cd) and carbon black (CB), common components of cigarette smoke (CS) and environmental particulate matter (PM), in lung tissue from subjects with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Cd concentrations were directly proportional to citrullinated vimentin (Cit-Vim) amounts in lung tissue of subjects with IPF. Cit-Vim amounts were higher in subjects with IPF, especially smokers, which correlated with lung function and were associated with disease manifestations. Cd/CB induced the secretion of Cit-Vim in an Akt1- and peptidylarginine deiminase 2 (PAD2)-dependent manner. Cit-Vim mediated fibroblast invasion in a 3D ex vivo model of human pulmospheres that resulted in higher expression of CD26, collagen, and α-SMA. Cit-Vim activated NF-κB in a TLR4-dependent fashion and induced the production of active TGF-β1, CTGF, and IL-8 along with higher surface expression of TLR4 in lung fibroblasts. To corroborate ex vivo findings, mice treated with Cit-Vim, but not Vim, independently developed a similar pattern of fibrotic tissue remodeling, which was TLR4 dependent. Moreover, wild-type mice, but not PAD2-/- and TLR4 mutant (MUT) mice, exposed to Cd/CB generated high amounts of Cit-Vim, in both plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and developed lung fibrosis in a stereotypic manner. Together, these studies support a role for Cit-Vim as a damage-associated molecular pattern molecule (DAMP) that is generated by lung macrophages in response to environmental Cd/CB exposure. Furthermore, PAD2 might represent a promising target to attenuate Cd/CB-induced fibrosis.
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23
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Jiang C, Liu G, Cai L, Deshane J, Antony V, Thannickal VJ, Liu RM. Divergent Regulation of Alveolar Type 2 Cell and Fibroblast Apoptosis by Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1 in Lung Fibrosis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2021; 191:1227-1239. [PMID: 33887217 PMCID: PMC8351125 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Increased apoptosis sensitivity of alveolar type 2 (ATII) cells and increased apoptosis resistance of (myo)fibroblasts, the apoptosis paradox, contributes to the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The mechanism underlying the apoptosis paradox in IPF lungs, however, is unclear. Aging is the greatest risk factor for IPF. In this study, we show, for the first time, that ATII cells from old mice are more sensitive, whereas fibroblasts from old mice are more resistant, to apoptotic challenges, compared with the corresponding cells from young mice. The expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1), an important profibrogenic mediator, was significantly increased in both ATII cells and lung fibroblasts from aged mice. In vitro studies using PAI-1 siRNA and active PAI-1 protein indicated that PAI-1 promoted ATII cell apoptosis but protected fibroblasts from apoptosis, likely through dichotomous regulation of p53 expression. Deletion of PAI-1 in adult mice led to a reduction in p53, p21, and Bax protein expression, as well as apoptosis sensitivity in ATII cells, and their increase in the lung fibroblasts, as indicated by in vivo studies. This increase was associated with an attenuation of lung fibrosis after bleomycin challenge. Since PAI-1 is up-regulated in both ATII cells and fibroblasts in IPF, the results suggest that increased PAI-1 may underlie the apoptosis paradox of ATII cells and fibroblasts in IPF lungs.
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Qu J, Yang SZ, Zhu Y, Guo T, Thannickal VJ, Zhou Y. Targeting mechanosensitive MDM4 promotes lung fibrosis resolution in aged mice. J Exp Med 2021; 218:e20202033. [PMID: 33688918 PMCID: PMC7953267 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20202033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is a strong risk factor and an independent prognostic factor for progressive human idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Aged mice develop nonresolving pulmonary fibrosis following lung injury. In this study, we found that mouse double minute 4 homolog (MDM4) is highly expressed in the fibrotic lesions of human IPF and experimental pulmonary fibrosis in aged mice. We identified MDM4 as a matrix stiffness-regulated endogenous inhibitor of p53. Reducing matrix stiffness down-regulates MDM4 expression, resulting in p53 activation in primary lung myofibroblasts isolated from IPF patients. Gain of p53 function activates a gene program that sensitizes lung myofibroblasts to apoptosis and promotes the clearance of apoptotic myofibroblasts by macrophages. Destiffening of the fibrotic lung matrix by targeting nonenzymatic cross-linking or genetic ablation of Mdm4 in lung (myo)fibroblasts activates the Mdm4-p53 pathway and promotes lung fibrosis resolution in aged mice. These findings suggest that mechanosensitive MDM4 is a molecular target with promising therapeutic potential against persistent lung fibrosis associated with aging.
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Goliwas KF, Ashraf HM, Wood AM, Wang Y, Hough KP, Bodduluri S, Athar M, Berry JL, Ponnazhagan S, Thannickal VJ, Deshane JS. Extracellular Vesicle Mediated Tumor-Stromal Crosstalk Within an Engineered Lung Cancer Model. Front Oncol 2021; 11:654922. [PMID: 33968758 PMCID: PMC8103208 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.654922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor-stromal interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME) influence lung cancer progression and response to therapeutic interventions, yet traditional in vitro studies fail to replicate the complexity of these interactions. Herein, we developed three-dimensional (3D) lung tumor models that mimic the human TME and demonstrate tumor-stromal crosstalk mediated by extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs released by tumor cells, independent of p53 status, and fibroblasts within the TME mediate immunomodulatory effects; specifically, monocyte/macrophage polarization to a tumor-promoting M2 phenotype within this 3D-TME. Additionally, immune checkpoint inhibition in a 3D model that included T cells showed an inhibition of tumor growth and reduced hypoxia within the TME. Thus, perfused 3D tumor models incorporating diverse cell types provide novel insights into EV-mediated tumor-immune interactions and immune-modulation for existing and emerging cancer therapies.
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