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Johansen AM, Forsythe SD, McGrath CT, Barker G, Jimenez H, Paluri RK, Pasche BC. TGFβ in Pancreas and Colorectal Cancer: Opportunities to Overcome Therapeutic Resistance. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:3676-3687. [PMID: 38916900 PMCID: PMC11371528 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-24-0468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
TGFβ is a pleiotropic signaling pathway that plays a pivotal role in regulating a multitude of cellular functions. TGFβ has a dual role in cell regulation where it induces growth inhibition and cell death; however, it can switch to a growth-promoting state under cancerous conditions. TGFβ is upregulated in colorectal cancer and pancreatic cancer, altering the tumor microenvironment and immune system and promoting a mesenchymal state. The upregulation of TGFβ in certain cancers leads to resistance to immunotherapy, and attempts to inhibit TGFβ expression have led to reduced therapeutic resistance when combined with chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Here, we review the current TGFβ inhibitor drugs in clinical trials for pancreatic and colorectal cancer, with the goal of uncovering advances in improving clinical efficacy for TGFβ combinational treatments in patients. Furthermore, we discuss the relevance of alterations in TGFβ signaling and germline variants in the context of personalizing treatment for patients who show lack of response to current therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan M Johansen
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Steven D Forsythe
- Neuroendocrine Therapy Section, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Callum T McGrath
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Grayson Barker
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Hugo Jimenez
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Ravi K Paluri
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Boris C Pasche
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
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2
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Chen J, Sun Q, Wang Y, Yin W. Revealing the key role of cuproptosis in osteoporosis via the bioinformatic analysis and experimental validation of cuproptosis-related genes. Mamm Genome 2024; 35:414-431. [PMID: 38904833 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-024-10049-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
The incidence of osteoporosis has rapidly increased owing to the ageing population. Cuproptosis, a novel mechanism that regulates cell death, may be a new therapeutic approach. However, the relevance of cuproptosis in the immune microenvironment and osteoporosis immunotherapy is still unknown. We intersected the differentially expressed genes from osteoporotic samples with 75 cuproptosis-related genes to identify 16 significantly expressed cuproptosis genes. We further explored the connection between the cuproptosis pattern, immune microenvironment, and immunotherapy. The weighted gene co-expression network analysis algorithm was used to identify cuproptosis phenotype-associated genes, and we used quantitative real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry in mouse femur tissues to verify hub gene (MAP2K2, FDX1, COX19, VEGFA, CDKN2A, and NFE2L2) expression. Six hub genes and 59 cuproptosis phenotype-associated genes involved in immunisation were identified among the osteoporosis and control groups, and the majority of these 59 genes were enriched in the inflammatory response, as well as in signal transducers, Janus kinase, and transcription pathway activators. In addition, two different clusters of cuproptosis were found, and immune infiltration analysis showed that gene Cluster 1 had a greater immune score and immune infiltration level. Further analysis revealed that three key genes (COX19, MAP2K2, and FDX1) were highly correlated with immune cell infiltration, and external experiments validated the association of these three genes with the prognosis of osteoporosis. We used the three key mRNAs COX19, MAP2K2, and FDX1 as a classification model that may systematically elucidate the complex connection between cuproptosis and the immune microenvironment of osteoporosis. New insights into osteoporosis pathogenesis and immunotherapy prospects may be gained from this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianxing Chen
- Department of Joint Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150000, China
| | - Qifeng Sun
- Department of Joint Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150000, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Joint Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150000, China
| | - Wenzhe Yin
- Department of Joint Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150000, China.
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Kamikawatoko T, Yotsuya M, Owada A, Ishizuka S, Kasahara M, Yamamoto M, Abe S, Sekine H. Early changes in asporin levels in osteoarthritis of the temporomandibular joint. J Oral Biosci 2024; 66:546-553. [PMID: 38936470 DOI: 10.1016/j.job.2024.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The present study aimed to elucidate the pathogenesis of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) osteoarthritis (TMJ-OA) in a mouse model. We investigated morphological and histological changes in the head of mandible cartilage and early immunohistochemical (IHC) changes in transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, phosphorylated Smad-2/3 (p-Smad2/3), a TGF-β signaling molecule, and asporin. METHODS TMJ-OA was induced in a mouse model through unilateral partial discectomy. Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and safranin-O staining were performed to morphologically and histologically evaluate the degeneration of the head of mandible caused by TMJ-OA. IHC staining for TGF-β, p-Smad2/3, and asporin was performed to evaluate the changes in protein expression. RESULTS In the experimental group, three-dimensional (3D) morphometry revealed an enlarged head of mandible and safranin-O staining showed degeneration of cartilage tissue in the early stages of TMJ-OA compared to the control group. IHC staining revealed that TGF-β, p-Smad2/3, and asporin expression increased in the head of mandible cartilage before the degeneration of cartilage tissue, and subsequently decreased for a short period. CONCLUSION The findings suggested a negative feedback relationship between the expression of asporin and the TGF-β/Smad transduction pathway, which may be involved in the degeneration of the head of mandible in the early stages of TMJ-OA. Asporin is a potential biomarker of the early stages of TMJ-OA, which ultimately leads to the irreversible degeneration of TMJ tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshihiko Kamikawatoko
- Department of Fixed Prosthodontics, Tokyo Dental College, 2-9-18 Kanda Misaki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mamoru Yotsuya
- Department of Fixed Prosthodontics, Tokyo Dental College, 2-9-18 Kanda Misaki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Aoi Owada
- Department of Fixed Prosthodontics, Tokyo Dental College, 2-9-18 Kanda Misaki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Ishizuka
- Department of Pharmacology, Tokyo Dental College, 2-9-18 Kanda Misaki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masataka Kasahara
- Department of Pharmacology, Tokyo Dental College, 2-9-18 Kanda Misaki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahito Yamamoto
- Department of Anatomy, Division of Basic Medicine, Tokai University School of Medicine, 143 Shimokasuya, Isehara-shi, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Shinichi Abe
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Dental College, 2-9-18 Kanda Misaki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideshi Sekine
- Department of Fixed Prosthodontics, Tokyo Dental College, 2-9-18 Kanda Misaki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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Yang J, Lewis JS, Zi J, Andl T, Lee E, Andl CD, Liu Q, Beauchamp RD, Means AL. Interaction of the tumor suppressor SMAD4 and WNT signaling in progression to oral squamous cell carcinoma. J Pathol 2024; 264:4-16. [PMID: 38922866 PMCID: PMC11300146 DOI: 10.1002/path.6318] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
SMAD4 is a tumor suppressor mutated or silenced in multiple cancers, including oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Human clinical samples and cell lines, mouse models and organoid culture were used to investigate the role that SMAD4 plays in progression from benign disease to invasive OSCC. Human OSCC lost detectable SMAD4 protein within tumor epithelium in 24% of cases, and this loss correlated with worse progression-free survival independent of other major clinical and pathological features. A mouse model engineered for KrasG12D expression in the adult oral epithelium induced benign papillomas, however the combination of KrasG12D with loss of epithelial Smad4 expression resulted in rapid development of invasive carcinoma with features of human OSCC. Examination of regulatory pathways in 3D organoid cultures of SMAD4+ and SMAD4- mouse tumors with Kras mutation found that either loss of SMAD4 or inhibition of TGFβ signaling upregulated the WNT pathway and altered the extracellular matrix. The gene signature of the mouse tumor organoids lacking SMAD4 was highly similar to the gene signature of human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. In summary, this work has uncovered novel mechanisms by which SMAD4 acts as a tumor suppressor in OSCC. © 2024 The Author(s). The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Dept. of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Center for Quantitative Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - James S. Lewis
- Dept. of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Jinghuan Zi
- Dept. of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Thomas Andl
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL
| | - Ethan Lee
- Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Dept. of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Claudia D. Andl
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL
| | - Qi Liu
- Dept. of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Center for Quantitative Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Robert D. Beauchamp
- Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Dept. of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Dept. of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Digestive Disease Research Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Anna L. Means
- Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Dept. of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Dept. of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Digestive Disease Research Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
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Hapeman JD, Galwa R, Carneiro CS, Nedelcu AM. In vitro evidence for the potential of EGFR inhibitors to decrease the TGF-β1-induced dispersal of circulating tumour cell clusters mediated by EGFR overexpression. Sci Rep 2024; 14:19980. [PMID: 39198539 PMCID: PMC11358385 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-70358-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Most cancer-related deaths are due to the spread of tumour cells throughout the body-a process known as metastasis. While in the vasculature, these cells are referred to as circulating tumour cells (CTCs) and can be found as either single cells or clusters of cells (often including platelets), with the latter having the highest metastatic potential. However, the biology of CTC clusters is poorly understood, and there are no therapies that specifically target them. We previously developed an in vitro model system for CTC clusters and proposed a new extravasation model that involves cluster dissociation, adherence, and single-cell invasion in response to TGF-β1 released by platelets. Here, we investigated TGF-β1-induced gene expression changes in this model, focusing on genes for which targeted drugs are available. In addition to the upregulation of the TGF-β1 signalling pathway, we found that (i) genes in the EGF/EGFR pathway, including those coding for EGFR and several EGFR ligands, were also induced, and (ii) Erlotinib and Osimertinib, two therapeutic EGFR/tyrosine kinase inhibitors, decreased the TGF-β1-induced adherence and invasion of the CTC cluster-like line despite the line expressing wild-type EGFR. Overall, we suggest that EGFR inhibitors have the potential to decrease the dispersal of CTC clusters that respond to TGF-β1 and overexpress EGFR (irrespective of its status) and thus could improve patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorian D Hapeman
- Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, E3B 5A3, Canada
| | - Rakshit Galwa
- Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, E3B 5A3, Canada
| | - Caroline S Carneiro
- Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, E3B 5A3, Canada
| | - Aurora M Nedelcu
- Department of Biology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, E3B 5A3, Canada.
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Tomuleasa C, Tigu AB, Munteanu R, Moldovan CS, Kegyes D, Onaciu A, Gulei D, Ghiaur G, Einsele H, Croce CM. Therapeutic advances of targeting receptor tyrosine kinases in cancer. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:201. [PMID: 39138146 PMCID: PMC11323831 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01899-w] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), a category of transmembrane receptors, have gained significant clinical attention in oncology due to their central role in cancer pathogenesis. Genetic alterations, including mutations, amplifications, and overexpression of certain RTKs, are critical in creating environments conducive to tumor development. Following their discovery, extensive research has revealed how RTK dysregulation contributes to oncogenesis, with many cancer subtypes showing dependency on aberrant RTK signaling for their proliferation, survival and progression. These findings paved the way for targeted therapies that aim to inhibit crucial biological pathways in cancer. As a result, RTKs have emerged as primary targets in anticancer therapeutic development. Over the past two decades, this has led to the synthesis and clinical validation of numerous small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), now effectively utilized in treating various cancer types. In this manuscript we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the RTKs in the context of cancer. We explored the various alterations and overexpression of specific receptors across different malignancies, with special attention dedicated to the examination of current RTK inhibitors, highlighting their role as potential targeted therapies. By integrating the latest research findings and clinical evidence, we seek to elucidate the pivotal role of RTKs in cancer biology and the therapeutic efficacy of RTK inhibition with promising treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciprian Tomuleasa
- Medfuture Research Center for Advanced Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
- Department of Hematology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj Napoca, Romania.
- Department of Hematology, Ion Chiricuta Clinical Cancer Center, Cluj Napoca, Romania.
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, Ilfov 3, 050044, Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Adrian-Bogdan Tigu
- Medfuture Research Center for Advanced Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, Ilfov 3, 050044, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Raluca Munteanu
- Medfuture Research Center for Advanced Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Hematology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj Napoca, Romania
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, Ilfov 3, 050044, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristian-Silviu Moldovan
- Medfuture Research Center for Advanced Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - David Kegyes
- Medfuture Research Center for Advanced Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Hematology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj Napoca, Romania
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, Ilfov 3, 050044, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Onaciu
- Medfuture Research Center for Advanced Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Diana Gulei
- Medfuture Research Center for Advanced Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Gabriel Ghiaur
- Medfuture Research Center for Advanced Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Hematology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj Napoca, Romania
- Department of Leukemia, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hermann Einsele
- Medfuture Research Center for Advanced Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Hematology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj Napoca, Romania
- Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Medizinische Klinik II, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Carlo M Croce
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics and Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
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7
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Jeong JY, Bafor AE, Freeman BH, Chen PR, Park ES, Kim E. Pathophysiology in Brain Arteriovenous Malformations: Focus on Endothelial Dysfunctions and Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1795. [PMID: 39200259 PMCID: PMC11351371 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12081795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) substantially increase the risk for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), which is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. However, the treatment options for bAVMs are severely limited, primarily relying on invasive methods that carry their own risks for intraoperative hemorrhage or even death. Currently, there are no pharmaceutical agents shown to treat this condition, primarily due to a poor understanding of bAVM pathophysiology. For the last decade, bAVM research has made significant advances, including the identification of novel genetic mutations and relevant signaling in bAVM development. However, bAVM pathophysiology is still largely unclear. Further investigation is required to understand the detailed cellular and molecular mechanisms involved, which will enable the development of safer and more effective treatment options. Endothelial cells (ECs), the cells that line the vascular lumen, are integral to the pathogenesis of bAVMs. Understanding the fundamental role of ECs in pathological conditions is crucial to unraveling bAVM pathophysiology. This review focuses on the current knowledge of bAVM-relevant signaling pathways and dysfunctions in ECs, particularly the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Eunhee Kim
- Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (J.Y.J.); (A.E.B.); (B.H.F.); (P.R.C.); (E.S.P.)
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8
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Yu X, Li L, Ning A, Wang H, Guan C, Ma X, Xia H. Primary cilia abnormalities participate in the occurrence of spontaneous abortion through TGF-β/SMAD2/3 signaling pathway. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31292. [PMID: 38704705 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31292] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Spontaneous abortion is the most common complication in early pregnancy, the exact etiology of most cases cannot be determined. Emerging studies suggest that mutations in ciliary genes may be associated with progression of pregnancy loss. However, the involvement of primary cilia on spontaneous abortion and the underlying molecular mechanisms remains poorly understood. We observed the number and length of primary cilia were significantly decreased in decidua of spontaneous abortion in human and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced abortion mice model, accompanied with increased expression of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. The length of primary cilia in human endometrial stromal cell (hESC) was significantly shortened after TNF-α treatment. Knocking down intraflagellar transport 88 (IFT88), involved in cilia formation and maintenance, promoted the expression of TNF-α. There was a reverse regulatory relationship between cilia shortening and TNF-α expression. Further research found that shortened cilia impair decidualization in hESC through transforming growth factor (TGF)-β/SMAD2/3 signaling. Primary cilia were impaired in decidua tissue of spontaneous abortion, which might be mainly caused by inflammatory injury. Primary cilia abnormalities resulted in dysregulation of TGF-β/SMAD2/3 signaling transduction and decidualization impairment, which led to spontaneous abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqin Yu
- Reproductive and Genetic Center & NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning (NRIFP), Beijing, China
- Graduate Schools, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Linyuan Li
- University of Michigan College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Anfeng Ning
- Reproductive and Genetic Center & NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning (NRIFP), Beijing, China
- Graduate Schools, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hu Wang
- Reproductive and Genetic Center & NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning (NRIFP), Beijing, China
- Graduate Schools, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chunyi Guan
- Reproductive and Genetic Center & NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning (NRIFP), Beijing, China
- Graduate Schools, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Ma
- Reproductive and Genetic Center & NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning (NRIFP), Beijing, China
- Graduate Schools, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hongfei Xia
- Reproductive and Genetic Center & NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, National Research Institute for Family Planning (NRIFP), Beijing, China
- Graduate Schools, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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Wu Z, Li W, Jiang K, Lin Z, Qian C, Wu M, Xia Y, Li N, Zhang H, Xiao H, Bai J, Geng D. Regulation of bone homeostasis: signaling pathways and therapeutic targets. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e657. [PMID: 39049966 PMCID: PMC11266958 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
As a highly dynamic tissue, bone is continuously rebuilt throughout life. Both bone formation by osteoblasts and bone resorption by osteoclasts constitute bone reconstruction homeostasis. The equilibrium of bone homeostasis is governed by many complicated signaling pathways that weave together to form an intricate network. These pathways coordinate the meticulous processes of bone formation and resorption, ensuring the structural integrity and dynamic vitality of the skeletal system. Dysregulation of the bone homeostatic regulatory signaling network contributes to the development and progression of many skeletal diseases. Significantly, imbalanced bone homeostasis further disrupts the signaling network and triggers a cascade reaction that exacerbates disease progression and engenders a deleterious cycle. Here, we summarize the influence of signaling pathways on bone homeostasis, elucidating the interplay and crosstalk among them. Additionally, we review the mechanisms underpinning bone homeostatic imbalances across diverse disease landscapes, highlighting current and prospective therapeutic targets and clinical drugs. We hope that this review will contribute to a holistic understanding of the signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms sustaining bone homeostasis, which are promising to contribute to further research on bone homeostasis and shed light on the development of targeted drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zebin Wu
- Department of OrthopedicsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Wenming Li
- Department of OrthopedicsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Kunlong Jiang
- Department of OrthopedicsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Zhixiang Lin
- Department of OrthopedicsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Chen Qian
- Department of OrthopedicsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Mingzhou Wu
- Department of OrthopedicsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Yu Xia
- Department of OrthopedicsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Ning Li
- Department of OrthopedicsCentre for Leading Medicine and Advanced Technologies of IHMDivision of Life Sciences and MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of USTCUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Hongtao Zhang
- Department of OrthopedicsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Haixiang Xiao
- Department of OrthopedicsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
- Department of OrthopedicsJingjiang People's HospitalSeventh Clinical Medical School of Yangzhou UniversityJingjiangJiangsu ProvinceChina
| | - Jiaxiang Bai
- Department of OrthopedicsCentre for Leading Medicine and Advanced Technologies of IHMDivision of Life Sciences and MedicineThe First Affiliated Hospital of USTCUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Dechun Geng
- Department of OrthopedicsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
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10
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Larionov A, Hammer CM, Fiedler K, Filgueira L. Dynamics of Endothelial Cell Diversity and Plasticity in Health and Disease. Cells 2024; 13:1276. [PMID: 39120307 PMCID: PMC11312403 DOI: 10.3390/cells13151276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) are vital structural units of the cardiovascular system possessing two principal distinctive properties: heterogeneity and plasticity. Endothelial heterogeneity is defined by differences in tissue-specific endothelial phenotypes and their high predisposition to modification along the length of the vascular bed. This aspect of heterogeneity is closely associated with plasticity, the ability of ECs to adapt to environmental cues through the mobilization of genetic, molecular, and structural alterations. The specific endothelial cytoarchitectonics facilitate a quick structural cell reorganization and, furthermore, easy adaptation to the extrinsic and intrinsic environmental stimuli, known as the epigenetic landscape. ECs, as universally distributed and ubiquitous cells of the human body, play a role that extends far beyond their structural function in the cardiovascular system. They play a crucial role in terms of barrier function, cell-to-cell communication, and a myriad of physiological and pathologic processes. These include development, ontogenesis, disease initiation, and progression, as well as growth, regeneration, and repair. Despite substantial progress in the understanding of endothelial cell biology, the role of ECs in healthy conditions and pathologies remains a fascinating area of exploration. This review aims to summarize knowledge and concepts in endothelial biology. It focuses on the development and functional characteristics of endothelial cells in health and pathological conditions, with a particular emphasis on endothelial phenotypic and functional heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey Larionov
- Faculty of Science and Medicine, Anatomy, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland; (C.M.H.); (L.F.)
| | - Christian Manfred Hammer
- Faculty of Science and Medicine, Anatomy, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland; (C.M.H.); (L.F.)
| | - Klaus Fiedler
- Independent Researcher, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland;
| | - Luis Filgueira
- Faculty of Science and Medicine, Anatomy, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland; (C.M.H.); (L.F.)
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11
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Kersey AL, Singh I, Gaharwar AK. Inorganic ions activate lineage-specific gene regulatory networks. Acta Biomater 2024; 183:371-386. [PMID: 38552761 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Inorganic biomaterials have been shown to direct cellular responses, including cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. Notably, ions released from these inorganic biomaterials play a vital role in defining cell identity, and promoting tissue-specific functions. However, the effect of inorganic ions on cellular functions have yet to be investigated at the transcriptomic level, representing a critical knowledge gap in the development of next-generation bioactive materials. To address this gap, we investigated the impact of various inorganic ions including silver, copper, titanium, and platinum on human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). Our finding showed that silver and copper induce osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation respectively, through enrichment of lineage-specific gene expression program. In particular, silver effectively induced Wingless/Integrated (Wnt) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling, which are vital for osteogenesis. On the other hand, copper specifically stimulated Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling, while suppressing Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling, thereby promoting chondrogenesis. In contrast, platinum, and tantalum, ions didn't stimulate regenerative responses. Together, our findings highlight the potential of inorganic biomaterials in tissue regeneration strategies, which currently rely largely on growth factors and small molecule therapeutics. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This research emphasizes the critical role of bioactive inorganic ions in controlling lineage-specific gene expression patterns in mesenchymal stem cells, effectively modulating the transcriptome landscape and directing cell fate. The study lays the foundation for a systematic database of biomaterial candidates and their effects on cellular functions, which will ultimately streamline the translation of new biomaterials into clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna L Kersey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - Irtisha Singh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77807, United States; Interdisciplinary Program in Genetics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States.
| | - Akhilesh K Gaharwar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States; Interdisciplinary Program in Genetics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States; Center for Remote Health Technologies and Systems, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States; Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States.
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12
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Hu L, Chen W, Qian A, Li YP. Wnt/β-catenin signaling components and mechanisms in bone formation, homeostasis, and disease. Bone Res 2024; 12:39. [PMID: 38987555 PMCID: PMC11237130 DOI: 10.1038/s41413-024-00342-8] [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: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Wnts are secreted, lipid-modified proteins that bind to different receptors on the cell surface to activate canonical or non-canonical Wnt signaling pathways, which control various biological processes throughout embryonic development and adult life. Aberrant Wnt signaling pathway underlies a wide range of human disease pathogeneses. In this review, we provide an update of Wnt/β-catenin signaling components and mechanisms in bone formation, homeostasis, and diseases. The Wnt proteins, receptors, activators, inhibitors, and the crosstalk of Wnt signaling pathways with other signaling pathways are summarized and discussed. We mainly review Wnt signaling functions in bone formation, homeostasis, and related diseases, and summarize mouse models carrying genetic modifications of Wnt signaling components. Moreover, the therapeutic strategies for treating bone diseases by targeting Wnt signaling, including the extracellular molecules, cytosol components, and nuclear components of Wnt signaling are reviewed. In summary, this paper reviews our current understanding of the mechanisms by which Wnt signaling regulates bone formation, homeostasis, and the efforts targeting Wnt signaling for treating bone diseases. Finally, the paper evaluates the important questions in Wnt signaling to be further explored based on the progress of new biological analytical technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lifang Hu
- Laboratory for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, Key Laboratory for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Division in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Airong Qian
- Laboratory for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, Key Laboratory for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710072, China.
| | - Yi-Ping Li
- Division in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA.
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13
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Chen J, Pan Y, Lu Y, Fang X, Ma T, Chen X, Wang Y, Fang X, Zhang C, Song C. The Function and Mechanism of Long Noncoding RNAs in Adipogenic Differentiation. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:875. [PMID: 39062654 PMCID: PMC11275360 DOI: 10.3390/genes15070875] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Adipocytes are crucial for maintaining energy balance. Adipocyte differentiation involves distinct stages, including the orientation stage, clone amplification stage, clone amplification termination stage, and terminal differentiation stage. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms governing adipogenic differentiation is essential for comprehending the physiological processes and identifying potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for metabolic diseases, ultimately improving glucose and fat metabolism. Adipogenic differentiation is influenced not only by key factors such as hormones, the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) family, and the CCATT enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP) family but also by noncoding RNA, including microRNA (miRNA), long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), and circular RNA (circRNA). Among these, lncRNA has been identified as a significant regulator in adipogenic differentiation. Research has demonstrated various ways in which lncRNAs contribute to the molecular mechanisms of adipogenic differentiation. Throughout the adipogenesis process, lncRNAs modulate adipocyte differentiation and development by influencing relevant signaling pathways and transcription factors. This review provides a brief overview of the function and mechanism of lncRNAs in adipogenic differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Chunlei Zhang
- Institute of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, China; (J.C.); (Y.P.); (Y.L.); (X.F.); (T.M.); (X.C.); (Y.W.); (X.F.)
| | - Chengchuang Song
- Institute of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, China; (J.C.); (Y.P.); (Y.L.); (X.F.); (T.M.); (X.C.); (Y.W.); (X.F.)
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14
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Holzem M, Boutros M, Holstein TW. The origin and evolution of Wnt signalling. Nat Rev Genet 2024; 25:500-512. [PMID: 38374446 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-024-00699-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
The Wnt signal transduction pathway has essential roles in the formation of the primary body axis during development, cellular differentiation and tissue homeostasis. This animal-specific pathway has been studied extensively in contexts ranging from developmental biology to medicine for more than 40 years. Despite its physiological importance, an understanding of the evolutionary origin and primary function of Wnt signalling has begun to emerge only recently. Recent studies on very basal metazoan species have shown high levels of conservation of components of both canonical and non-canonical Wnt signalling pathways. Furthermore, some pathway proteins have been described also in non-animal species, suggesting that recruitment and functional adaptation of these factors has occurred in metazoans. In this Review, we summarize the current state of research regarding the evolutionary origin of Wnt signalling, its ancestral function and the characteristics of the primal Wnt ligand, with emphasis on the importance of genomic studies in various pre-metazoan and basal metazoan species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Holzem
- Division of Signalling and Functional Genomics, German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology & BioQuant, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Institute for Human Genetics, Medical Faculty Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Michael Boutros
- Division of Signalling and Functional Genomics, German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology & BioQuant, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute for Human Genetics, Medical Faculty Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas W Holstein
- Centre for Organismal Studies (COS), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
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15
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Ogata FT, Verma S, Coulson-Thomas VJ, Gesteira TF. TGF-β-Based Therapies for Treating Ocular Surface Disorders. Cells 2024; 13:1105. [PMID: 38994958 PMCID: PMC11240592 DOI: 10.3390/cells13131105] [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: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The cornea is continuously exposed to injuries, ranging from minor scratches to deep traumas. An effective healing mechanism is crucial for the cornea to restore its structure and function following major and minor insults. Transforming Growth Factor-Beta (TGF-β), a versatile signaling molecule that coordinates various cell responses, has a central role in corneal wound healing. Upon corneal injury, TGF-β is rapidly released into the extracellular environment, triggering cell migration and proliferation, the differentiation of keratocytes into myofibroblasts, and the initiation of the repair process. TGF-β-mediated processes are essential for wound closure; however, excessive levels of TGF-β can lead to fibrosis and scarring, causing impaired vision. Three primary isoforms of TGF-β exist-TGF-β1, TGF-β2, and TGF-β3. Although TGF-β isoforms share many structural and functional similarities, they present distinct roles in corneal regeneration, which adds an additional layer of complexity to understand the role of TGF-β in corneal wound healing. Further, aberrant TGF-β activity has been linked to various corneal pathologies, such as scarring and Peter's Anomaly. Thus, understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which TGF-β1-3 regulate corneal wound healing will enable the development of potential therapeutic interventions targeting the key molecule in this process. Herein, we summarize the multifaceted roles of TGF-β in corneal wound healing, dissecting its mechanisms of action and interactions with other molecules, and outline its role in corneal pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando T Ogata
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Sudhir Verma
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA
- Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110078, India
| | | | - Tarsis F Gesteira
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA
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16
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Yan W, Rao D, Fan F, Liang H, Zhang Z, Dong H. Hepatitis B virus X protein and TGF-β: partners in the carcinogenic journey of hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1407434. [PMID: 38962270 PMCID: PMC11220127 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1407434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B infection is substantially associated with the development of liver cancer globally, with the prevalence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cases exceeding 50%. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) encodes the Hepatitis B virus X (HBx) protein, a pleiotropic regulatory protein necessary for the transcription of the HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) microchromosome. In previous studies, HBV-associated HCC was revealed to be affected by HBx in multiple signaling pathways, resulting in genetic mutations and epigenetic modifications in proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. In addition, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) has dichotomous potentials at various phases of malignancy as it is a crucial signaling pathway that regulates multiple cellular and physiological processes. In early HCC, TGF-β has a significant antitumor effect, whereas in advanced HCC, it promotes malignant progression. TGF-β interacts with the HBx protein in HCC, regulating the pathogenesis of HCC. This review summarizes the respective and combined functions of HBx and TGB-β in HCC occurrence and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yan
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Dean Rao
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Feimu Fan
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Huifang Liang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, National Health Commission (NHC), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Zunyi Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Hanhua Dong
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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17
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Giudice G, Chen H, Koutsandreas T, Petsalaki E. phuEGO: A Network-Based Method to Reconstruct Active Signaling Pathways From Phosphoproteomics Datasets. Mol Cell Proteomics 2024; 23:100771. [PMID: 38642805 PMCID: PMC11134849 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcpro.2024.100771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Signaling networks are critical for virtually all cell functions. Our current knowledge of cell signaling has been summarized in signaling pathway databases, which, while useful, are highly biased toward well-studied processes, and do not capture context specific network wiring or pathway cross-talk. Mass spectrometry-based phosphoproteomics data can provide a more unbiased view of active cell signaling processes in a given context, however, it suffers from low signal-to-noise ratio and poor reproducibility across experiments. While progress in methods to extract active signaling signatures from such data has been made, there are still limitations with respect to balancing bias and interpretability. Here we present phuEGO, which combines up-to-three-layer network propagation with ego network decomposition to provide small networks comprising active functional signaling modules. PhuEGO boosts the signal-to-noise ratio from global phosphoproteomics datasets, enriches the resulting networks for functional phosphosites and allows the improved comparison and integration across datasets. We applied phuEGO to five phosphoproteomics data sets from cell lines collected upon infection with SARS CoV2. PhuEGO was better able to identify common active functions across datasets and to point to a subnetwork enriched for known COVID-19 targets. Overall, phuEGO provides a flexible tool to the community for the improved functional interpretation of global phosphoproteomics datasets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girolamo Giudice
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom
| | - Haoqi Chen
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom
| | - Thodoris Koutsandreas
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom
| | - Evangelia Petsalaki
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom.
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18
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Tam LM, Rand MD. Review: myogenic and muscle toxicity targets of environmental methylmercury exposure. Arch Toxicol 2024; 98:1645-1658. [PMID: 38546836 PMCID: PMC11105986 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03724-3] [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: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
A number of environmental toxicants are noted for their activity that leads to declined motor function. However, the role of muscle as a proximal toxicity target organ for environmental agents has received considerably less attention than the toxicity targets in the nervous system. Nonetheless, the effects of conventional neurotoxicants on processes of myogenesis and muscle maintenance are beginning to resolve a concerted role of muscle as a susceptible toxicity target. A large body of evidence from epidemiological, animal, and in vitro studies has established that methylmercury (MeHg) is a potent developmental toxicant, with the nervous system being a preferred target. Despite its well-recognized status as a neurotoxicant, there is accumulating evidence that MeHg also targets muscle and neuromuscular development as well as contributes to the etiology of motor defects with prenatal MeHg exposure. Here, we summarize evidence for targets of MeHg in the morphogenesis and maintenance of skeletal muscle that reveal effects on MeHg distribution, myogenesis, myotube formation, myotendinous junction formation, neuromuscular junction formation, and satellite cell-mediated muscle repair. We briefly recapitulate the molecular and cellular mechanisms of skeletal muscle development and highlight the pragmatic role of alternative model organisms, Drosophila and zebrafish, in delineating the molecular underpinnings of muscle development and MeHg-mediated myotoxicity. Finally, we discuss how toxicity targets in muscle development may inform the developmental origins of health and disease theory to explain the etiology of environmentally induced adult motor deficits and accelerated decline in muscle fitness with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lok Ming Tam
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA.
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA.
| | - Matthew D Rand
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
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19
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Radak M, Fallahi H. Cell-cell communication in stem cells and cancer: Alone but in touch. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2024; 38:479-488. [PMID: 38228866 DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cellular communication and signaling pathways are fundamental regulators of stem cell and cancer cell behaviors. This review explores the intricate interplay of these pathways in governing cellular behaviors, focusing on their implications for diseases, particularly cancer. OBJECTIVES This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the significance of cellular signaling pathways in regulating the behavior of stem cells and cancer cells. It delves into the alterations in these pathways, their impact on cell fate, and their implications for developing diseases, notably cancer. The objective is to underscore the importance of understanding these signaling pathways for developing targeted therapeutic strategies. METHODS The review critically analyzes existing literature and research findings concerning the roles of signaling pathways in stem cell behavior regulation, emphasizing their parallels and disparities in cancer cells. It synthesizes information on both direct and indirect modes of cell communication to delineate the complexity of signaling networks. RESULTS Direct and indirect modes of cell communication intricately regulate the complex signaling pathways governing stem cell behaviors, influencing differentiation potential and tissue regeneration. Alterations in these pathways significantly impact stem cell fate, contributing to disease pathogenesis, including cancer. Understanding these signaling cascades offers insights into developing targeted therapies, particularly cancer treatment. CONCLUSION Understanding the regulation of signaling pathways in stem cells and the specialized subset of cancer stem cells holds promise for innovative therapeutic approaches. By targeting aberrant signaling pathways, tailored interventions may improve treatment outcomes. This review underscores the critical role of signaling pathways in cellular behaviors, offering a pathway toward developing novel, more effective therapies for diverse diseases and disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehran Radak
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Hossein Fallahi
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
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20
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Liao J, Chen R, Lin B, Deng R, Liang Y, Zeng J, Ma S, Qiu X. Cross-Talk between the TGF-β and Cell Adhesion Signaling Pathways in Cancer. Int J Med Sci 2024; 21:1307-1320. [PMID: 38818471 PMCID: PMC11134594 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.96274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is strongly associated with the cell adhesion signaling pathway in cell differentiation, migration, etc. Mechanistically, TGF-β is secreted in an inactive form and localizes to the extracellular matrix (ECM) via the latent TGF-β binding protein (LTBP). However, it is the release of mature TGF-β that is essential for the activation of the TGF-β signaling pathway. This progress requires specific integrins (one of the main groups of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs)) to recognize and activate the dormant TGF-β. In addition, TGF-β regulates cell adhesion ability through modulating CAMs expression. The aberrant activation of the TGF-β signaling pathway, caused by abnormal expression of key regulatory molecules (such as Smad proteins, certain transcription factors, and non-coding RNAs), promotes tumor invasive and metastasis ability via epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) during the late stages of tumorigenesis. In this paper, we summarize the crosstalk between TGF-β and cell adhesion signaling pathway in cancer and its underlying molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Liao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Medical Bioactive Molecular Developmental and Translational Research, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
| | - Rentang Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Medical Bioactive Molecular Developmental and Translational Research, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
| | - Bihua Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Medical Bioactive Molecular Developmental and Translational Research, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
| | - Runhua Deng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Medical Bioactive Molecular Developmental and Translational Research, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
| | - Yanfang Liang
- Department of Pathology, Binhaiwan Central Hospital of Dongguan, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523905, China
| | - Jincheng Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Medical Bioactive Molecular Developmental and Translational Research, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
| | - Sha Ma
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
| | - Xianxiu Qiu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Medical Bioactive Molecular Developmental and Translational Research, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523808, China
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21
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Yu M, Qin K, Fan J, Zhao G, Zhao P, Zeng W, Chen C, Wang A, Wang Y, Zhong J, Zhu Y, Wagstaff W, Haydon RC, Luu HH, Ho S, Lee MJ, Strelzow J, Reid RR, He TC. The evolving roles of Wnt signaling in stem cell proliferation and differentiation, the development of human diseases, and therapeutic opportunities. Genes Dis 2024; 11:101026. [PMID: 38292186 PMCID: PMC10825312 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.04.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The evolutionarily conserved Wnt signaling pathway plays a central role in development and adult tissue homeostasis across species. Wnt proteins are secreted, lipid-modified signaling molecules that activate the canonical (β-catenin dependent) and non-canonical (β-catenin independent) Wnt signaling pathways. Cellular behaviors such as proliferation, differentiation, maturation, and proper body-axis specification are carried out by the canonical pathway, which is the best characterized of the known Wnt signaling paths. Wnt signaling has emerged as an important factor in stem cell biology and is known to affect the self-renewal of stem cells in various tissues. This includes but is not limited to embryonic, hematopoietic, mesenchymal, gut, neural, and epidermal stem cells. Wnt signaling has also been implicated in tumor cells that exhibit stem cell-like properties. Wnt signaling is crucial for bone formation and presents a potential target for the development of therapeutics for bone disorders. Not surprisingly, aberrant Wnt signaling is also associated with a wide variety of diseases, including cancer. Mutations of Wnt pathway members in cancer can lead to unchecked cell proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and metastasis. Altogether, advances in the understanding of dysregulated Wnt signaling in disease have paved the way for the development of novel therapeutics that target components of the Wnt pathway. Beginning with a brief overview of the mechanisms of canonical and non-canonical Wnt, this review aims to summarize the current knowledge of Wnt signaling in stem cells, aberrations to the Wnt pathway associated with diseases, and novel therapeutics targeting the Wnt pathway in preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Yu
- School of Medicine, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Kevin Qin
- School of Medicine, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Jiaming Fan
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, and Department of Clinical Biochemistry, The School of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Guozhi Zhao
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Piao Zhao
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Wei Zeng
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Neurology, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong 523475, China
| | - Connie Chen
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Annie Wang
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Yonghui Wang
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200000, China
| | - Jiamin Zhong
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, and Department of Clinical Biochemistry, The School of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yi Zhu
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - William Wagstaff
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Rex C. Haydon
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Hue H. Luu
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Sherwin Ho
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Michael J. Lee
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Jason Strelzow
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Russell R. Reid
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Laboratory of Craniofacial Suture Biology and Development, Department of Surgery Section of Plastic Surgery, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Tong-Chuan He
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Laboratory of Craniofacial Suture Biology and Development, Department of Surgery Section of Plastic Surgery, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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22
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Dave B, Patel M, Suresh S, Ginjupalli M, Surya A, Albdour M, Kooner KS. Wound Modulations in Glaucoma Surgery: A Systematic Review. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:446. [PMID: 38790314 PMCID: PMC11117829 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11050446] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Excessive fibrosis and resultant poor control of intraocular pressure (IOP) reduce the efficacy of glaucoma surgeries. Historically, corticosteroids and anti-fibrotic agents, such as mitomycin C (MMC) and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), have been used to mitigate post-surgical fibrosis, but these have unpredictable outcomes. Therefore, there is a need to develop novel treatments which provide increased effectiveness and specificity. This review aims to provide insight into the pathophysiology behind wound healing in glaucoma surgery, as well as the current and promising future wound healing agents that are less toxic and may provide better IOP control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhoomi Dave
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; (B.D.); (M.P.); (S.S.); (M.G.); (A.S.)
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
| | - Monica Patel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; (B.D.); (M.P.); (S.S.); (M.G.); (A.S.)
| | - Sruthi Suresh
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; (B.D.); (M.P.); (S.S.); (M.G.); (A.S.)
| | - Mahija Ginjupalli
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; (B.D.); (M.P.); (S.S.); (M.G.); (A.S.)
| | - Arvind Surya
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; (B.D.); (M.P.); (S.S.); (M.G.); (A.S.)
| | - Mohannad Albdour
- Department of Ophthalmology, King Hussein Medical Center Royal Medical Services, Amman 11180, Jordan;
| | - Karanjit S. Kooner
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; (B.D.); (M.P.); (S.S.); (M.G.); (A.S.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Veteran Affairs North Texas Health Care System Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75216, USA
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23
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Lai B, Jiang H, Gao Y, Zhou X. Skeletal ciliopathy: pathogenesis and related signaling pathways. Mol Cell Biochem 2024; 479:811-823. [PMID: 37188988 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-023-04765-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Cilia are tiny organelles with conserved structures and components in eukaryotic cells. Ciliopathy is a set of diseases resulting from cilium dysfunction classified into first-order and second-order ciliopathy. With the advancement of clinical diagnosis and radiography, numerous skeletal phenotypes, including polydactyly, short limbs, short ribs, scoliosis, a narrow thorax, and numerous anomalies in bone and cartilage, have been discovered in ciliopathies. Mutation in genes encoding cilia core components or other cilia-related molecules have been found in skeletal ciliopathies. Meanwhile, various signaling pathways associated with cilia and skeleton development have been deemed to be significant for the occurrence and progression of diseases. Herein, we review the structure and key components of the cilium and summarize several skeletal ciliopathies with their presumable pathology. We also emphasize the signaling pathways involved in skeletal ciliopathies, which may assist in developing potential therapies for these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Lai
- Department of Orthopedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Fengyang Road 415, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Heng Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Fengyang Road 415, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- Department of Orthopedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Fengyang Road 415, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Xuhui Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Fengyang Road 415, Shanghai, 200003, China.
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24
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Sheppard AJ, Delgado K, Barfield AM, Xu Q, Massey PA, Dong Y, Barton RS. Rapamycin Inhibits Senescence and Improves Immunomodulatory Function of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Through IL-8 and TGF-β Signaling. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:816-826. [PMID: 38340274 PMCID: PMC10984889 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-024-10682-x] [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] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) grown in high-density monolayers (sheets) are promising vehicles for numerous bioengineering applications. When MSC sheets are maintained in prolonged cultures, they undergo rapid senescence, limiting their downstream efficacy. Although rapamycin is a potential agent that can inhibit senescence in cell cultures, no study has investigated rapamycin's effect on MSCs grown in high-density culture and its effect on downstream target gene expression. In this study, placental-derived MSCs (PMSCs) were seeded at high density to generate PMSC sheets in 24 hours and were then treated with rapamycin or vehicle for up to 7 days. Autophagy activity, cell senescence and apoptosis, cell size and granularity, and senescence-associated cytokines (IL-6 and IL-8) were analyzed. Differential response in gene expression were assessed via microarray analysis. Rapamycin significantly increased PMSC sheet autophagy activity, inhibited cellular senescence, decreased cell size and granularity at all timepoints. Rapamycin also significantly decreased the number of cells in late apoptosis at day 7 of sheet culture, as well as caspase 3/7 activity at all timepoints. Notably, while rapamycin decreased IL-6 secretion, increased IL-8 levels were observed at all timepoints. Microarray analysis further confirmed the upregulation of IL-8 transcription, as well as provided a list of 396 genes with 2-fold differential expression, where transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling were identified as important upregulated pathways. Rapamycin both decreased senescence and has an immunomodulatory action of PMSCs grown in sheet culture, which will likely improve the chemotaxis of pro-healing cells to sites of tissue repair in future bioengineering applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron J Sheppard
- School of Medicine, LSU Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, LSU Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Kristin Delgado
- School of Medicine, LSU Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | | | - Qinqin Xu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, LSU Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Patrick A Massey
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, LSU Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Yufeng Dong
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, LSU Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA.
| | - Richard S Barton
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, LSU Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
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25
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Lei R, Qiu X, Han Y, Li F, Dong X, Pei S, Zeng T, Ge M, Hu Z, Tian Q, Peng L, Huang J. Identification and functional study of a novel variant of PAX9 causing tooth agenesis. Oral Dis 2024. [PMID: 38515263 DOI: 10.1111/odi.14937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To search for pathogenic gene of a family with non-syndromic tooth agenesis, and explore the possible pathogenesis. MATERIALS AND METHODS A Chinese family with non-syndromic tooth agenesis was recruited and screened for the pathogenic variants by whole exome sequencing technology and co-segregation analysis. The subcellular localization of wild-type and mutant protein was detected by immunofluorescence assay. Cycloheximide chase assay was performed to examine the difference in degradation rate between mutant protein and wild-type one. Dual-luciferase reporter assays were conducted to explore the alterations of mutant protein in the regulation of downstream target genes. RESULTS A novel missense variant of PAX9 (c.296C>A:p.A99D) was found in this family. Bioinformatics software showed β-return and the random coil were shortened in the p.A99D. The variant did not affect the subcellular localization of PAX9, but the degradation rate of p.A99D was accelerated (p < 0.05). p.A99D inhibited the activation of downstream target gene BMP4 (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS This novel variant expands the pathogenic gene spectrum. The variant impaired the protein structure, accelerated the degradation of protein, and inhibited the activation of the downstream target gene BMP4, an upstream molecule in the TGF-β/BMP pathway, which may contribute to tooth agenesis in this family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Lei
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Oral Health Research & Hunan 3D Printing Engineering Research Center of Oral Care & Hunan Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health & Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- The First People's Hospital of Changde City, Changde, Hunan, China
| | - Xili Qiu
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Oral Health Research & Hunan 3D Printing Engineering Research Center of Oral Care & Hunan Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health & Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Molecular Biology Research Center, Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences; Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Hematology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ying Han
- School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Center for Medical Genetics &Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fenghua Li
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Oral Health Research & Hunan 3D Printing Engineering Research Center of Oral Care & Hunan Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health & Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xin Dong
- School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Center for Medical Genetics &Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Saimin Pei
- The First People's Hospital of Changde City, Changde, Hunan, China
| | - Ting Zeng
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Oral Health Research & Hunan 3D Printing Engineering Research Center of Oral Care & Hunan Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health & Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- The First People's Hospital of Changde City, Changde, Hunan, China
| | - Minmin Ge
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Oral Health Research & Hunan 3D Printing Engineering Research Center of Oral Care & Hunan Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health & Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhengmao Hu
- School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Center for Medical Genetics &Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qi Tian
- School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Center for Medical Genetics &Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ling Peng
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Oral Health Research & Hunan 3D Printing Engineering Research Center of Oral Care & Hunan Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health & Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Junhui Huang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Oral Health Research & Hunan 3D Printing Engineering Research Center of Oral Care & Hunan Clinical Research Center of Oral Major Diseases and Oral Health & Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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26
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Sawada A, Ohira M, Hatanaka KC, Matsui H, Ichikawa N, Yoshida T, Fukai M, Matsuno Y, Homma S, Hatanaka Y, Taketomi A. Expression Analysis of Early Metastatic Seeding of Colorectal Cancer. Ann Surg Oncol 2024; 31:2101-2113. [PMID: 38063988 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-023-14714-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Distant metastasis is the leading cause of death in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). Tumor dissemination for metastasis formation occurs in advanced cancers and also during early stages of tumorigenesis. Here, we investigated the genes involved in early metastatic seeding of CRC using gene expression analysis. PATIENTS AND METHODS We performed a cDNA microarray using specimens resected from stages I-II CRC with and without metachronous metastatic recurrence. For the candidate genes, we immunohistochemically validated protein expression using a tissue microarray of stages I-III CRC. RESULTS The expression of TROP2, VWCE, and BMP7 was upregulated in the recurrence group rather than in the non-recurrence group. Protein expression analysis revealed significant association of these genes with distant metastatic recurrence. The specimens with high expression of BMP7 showed worse recurrence-free survival (RFS; p = 0.02). Those with high expression of TROP2 and VWCE showed worse overall survival (OS) and RFS (TROP2: p = 0.01 and p = 0.03; VWCE: p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively). In the multivariate analysis, high expression of VWCE and BMP7 was an independent predictor of recurrence [VWCE: hazard ratio (HR) 3.41, p < 0.001; BMP7: HR 2.93, p = 0.005]. In contrast, TROP2 was an independent prognostic factor for OS (HR 4.58, p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS Gene expression analysis revealed that TROP2, VWCE, and BMP7 were involved in early metastatic seeding. The high expression of these genes may warrant careful surveillance or adjuvant therapy, even in stages I-II CRC cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akifumi Sawada
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Masafumi Ohira
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kanako C Hatanaka
- Center for Development of Advanced Diagnostics, Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Hiroki Matsui
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Nobuki Ichikawa
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Tadashi Yoshida
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Moto Fukai
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Matsuno
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shigenori Homma
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Hatanaka
- Center for Development of Advanced Diagnostics, Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
- Research Division of Genome Companion Diagnostics, Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Akinobu Taketomi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
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Lee S, Lee KY, Park JH, Kim DW, Oh HK, Oh ST, Jeon J, Lee D, Joe S, Chu HBK, Kang J, Lee JY, Cho S, Shim H, Kim SC, Lee HS, Kim YJ, Yang JO, Lee J, Kang SB. Exploring the DNA methylome of Korean patients with colorectal cancer consolidates the clinical implications of cancer-associated methylation markers. BMB Rep 2024; 57:161-166. [PMID: 37964634 PMCID: PMC10979344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant DNA methylation plays a critical role in the development and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC), which has high incidence and mortality rates in Korea. Various CRC-associated methylation markers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis have been developed; however, they have not been validated for Korean patients owing to the lack of comprehensive clinical and methylome data. Here, we obtained reliable methylation profiles for 228 tumor, 103 adjacent normal, and two unmatched normal colon tissues from Korean patients with CRC using an Illumina Infinium EPIC array; the data were corrected for biological and experiment biases. A comparative methylome analysis confirmed the previous findings that hypermethylated positions in the tumor were highly enriched in CpG island and promoter, 5' untranslated, and first exon regions. However, hypomethylated positions were enriched in the open-sea regions considerably distant from CpG islands. After applying a CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP) to the methylome data of tumor samples to stratify the CRC patients, we consolidated the previously established clinicopathological findings that the tumors with high CIMP signatures were significantly enriched in the right colon. The results showed a higher prevalence of microsatellite instability status and MLH1 methylation in tumors with high CMP signatures than in those with low or non-CIMP signatures. Therefore, our methylome analysis and dataset provide insights into applying CRC-associated methylation markers for Korean patients regarding cancer diagnosis and prognosis. [BMB Reports 2024; 57(3): 161-166].
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Affiliation(s)
- Sejoon Lee
- Precision Medicine Center, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Korea
| | - Kil-yong Lee
- Department of Surgery, Uijeongbu St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Uijeongbu 11765, Korea
| | - Ji-Hwan Park
- Korea Bioinformation Center (KOBIC), Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 34141, Korea
- Department of Bioscience, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34113, Korea
| | - Duck-Woo Kim
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam 13620, Korea
| | - Heung-Kwon Oh
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam 13620, Korea
| | - Seong-Taek Oh
- Department of Surgery, Uijeongbu St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Uijeongbu 11765, Korea
| | - Jongbum Jeon
- Korea Bioinformation Center (KOBIC), Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Dongyoon Lee
- Korea Bioinformation Center (KOBIC), Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Soobok Joe
- Korea Bioinformation Center (KOBIC), Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Hoang Bao Khanh Chu
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Jisun Kang
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Jin-Young Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Sheehyun Cho
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Hyeran Shim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Si-Cho Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Hong Seok Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Young-Joon Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Jin Ok Yang
- Korea Bioinformation Center (KOBIC), Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Jaeim Lee
- Department of Surgery, Uijeongbu St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Uijeongbu 11765, Korea
| | - Sung-Bum Kang
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam 13620, Korea
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28
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Xu M, Wang H, Tian X, Li B, Wang S, Zhao X, He H. Opsin-Free Activation of Bmp Receptors by a Femtosecond Laser. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308072. [PMID: 38239021 PMCID: PMC10933676 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling plays a vital role in differentiation, organogenesis, and various cell processes. As a member of TGF-β superfamily, the BMP initiation usually accompanies crosstalk with other signaling pathways and simultaneously activates some of them. It is quite challenging to solely initiate an individual pathway. In this study, an opsin-free optical method to specifically activate BMP receptors (BMPR) and subsequent pSmad1/5/8 cascades by a single-time scan of a tightly-focused femtosecond laser in the near infrared range is reported. Via transient two-photon excitation to intrinsic local flavins near the cell membrane, the photoactivation drives conformational changes of preformed BMPR complexes to enable their bonding and phosphorylation of the GS domain in BMPR-I by BMPR-II. The pSmad1/5/8 signaling is initiated by this method, while p38 and pSmad2 are rarely perturbed. Based on a microscopic system, primary adipose-derived stem cells in an area of 420 × 420 µm2 are photoactivated by a single-time laser scanning for 1.5 s and exhibit pSmad1/5/8 upregulation and osteoblastic differentiation after 21 days. Hence, an opsin-free, specific, and noninvasive optical method to initiate BMP signaling, easily accomplished by a two-photon microscope system is reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjun Xu
- School of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200031China
| | - Haipeng Wang
- School of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200031China
| | - Xiaoying Tian
- School of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200031China
| | - Bingyi Li
- School of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200031China
| | - Shaoyang Wang
- School of Biomedical EngineeringHainan UniversityHaikou570228China
| | - Xiaohui Zhao
- School of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200031China
| | - Hao He
- School of Biomedical EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200031China
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29
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Xiao Y, Vazquez-Padron RI, Martinez L, Singer HA, Woltmann D, Salman LH. Role of platelet factor 4 in arteriovenous fistula maturation failure: What do we know so far? J Vasc Access 2024; 25:390-406. [PMID: 35751379 PMCID: PMC9974241 DOI: 10.1177/11297298221085458] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The rate of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) maturation failure remains unacceptably high despite continuous efforts on technique improvement and careful pre-surgery planning. In fact, half of all newly created AVFs are unable to be used for hemodialysis (HD) without a salvage procedure. While vascular stenosis in the venous limb of the access is the culprit, the underlying factors leading to vascular narrowing and AVF maturation failure are yet to be determined. We have recently demonstrated that AVF non-maturation is associated with post-operative medial fibrosis and fibrotic stenosis, and post-operative intimal hyperplasia (IH) exacerbates the situation. Multiple pathological processes and signaling pathways are underlying the stenotic remodeling of the AVF. Our group has recently indicated that a pro-inflammatory cytokine platelet factor 4 (PF4/CXCL4) is upregulated in veins that fail to mature after AVF creation. Platelet factor 4 is a fibrosis marker and can be detected in vascular stenosis tissue, suggesting that it may contribute to AVF maturation failure through stimulation of fibrosis and development of fibrotic stenosis. Here, we present an overview of the how PF4-mediated fibrosis determines AVF maturation failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxuan Xiao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Roberto I Vazquez-Padron
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Laisel Martinez
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Harold A Singer
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Daniel Woltmann
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Loay H Salman
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
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Majumder N, Roy C, Doenges L, Martin I, Barbero A, Ghosh S. Covalent Conjugation of Small Molecule Inhibitors and Growth Factors to a Silk Fibroin-Derived Bioink to Develop Phenotypically Stable 3D Bioprinted Cartilage. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:9925-9943. [PMID: 38362893 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c18903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Implantation of a phenotypically stable cartilage graft could represent a viable approach for repairing osteoarthritic (OA) cartilage lesions. In the present study, we investigated the effects of modulating the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ), and interleukin-1 (IL-1) signaling cascades in human bone marrow stromal cell (hBMSC)-encapsulated silk fibroin gelatin (SF-G) bioink. The selected small molecules LDN193189, TGFβ3, and IL1 receptor antagonist (IL1Ra) are covalently conjugated to SF-G biomaterial to ensure sustained release, increased bioavailability, and printability, confirmed by ATR-FTIR, release kinetics, and rheological analyses. The 3D bioprinted constructs with chondrogenically differentiated hBMSCs were incubated in an OA-inducing medium for 14 days and assessed through a detailed qPCR, immunofluorescence, and biochemical analyses. Despite substantial heterogeneity in the observations among the donors, the IL1Ra molecule illustrated the maximum efficiency in enhancing the expression of articular cartilage components, reducing the expression of hypertrophic markers (re-validated by the GeneMANIA tool), as well as reducing the production of inflammatory molecules by the hBMSCs. Therefore, this study demonstrated a novel strategy to develop a chemically decorated, printable and biomimetic SF-G bioink to produce hyaline cartilage grafts resistant to acquiring OA traits that can be used for the treatment of degenerated cartilage lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilotpal Majumder
- Regenerative Engineering Laboratory, Department of Textile and Fibre Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Chandrashish Roy
- Regenerative Engineering Laboratory, Department of Textile and Fibre Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Laura Doenges
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland
| | - Ivan Martin
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Barbero
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland
| | - Sourabh Ghosh
- Regenerative Engineering Laboratory, Department of Textile and Fibre Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India
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Sosa J, Oyelakin A, Sinha S. The Reign of Follistatin in Tumors and Their Microenvironment: Implications for Drug Resistance. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:130. [PMID: 38392348 PMCID: PMC10887188 DOI: 10.3390/biology13020130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Follistatin (FST) is a potent neutralizer of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily and is associated with normal cellular programs and various hallmarks of cancer, such as proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, and immune evasion. The aberrant expression of FST by solid tumors is a well-documented observation, yet how FST influences tumor progression and therapy response remains unclear. The recent surge in omics data has revealed new insights into the molecular foundation underpinning tumor heterogeneity and its microenvironment, offering novel precision medicine-based opportunities to combat cancer. In this review, we discuss these recent FST-centric studies, thereby offering an updated perspective on the protean role of FST isoforms in shaping the complex cellular ecosystem of tumors and in mediating drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Sosa
- Department of Biochemistry, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Akinsola Oyelakin
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Satrajit Sinha
- Department of Biochemistry, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
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Ahuja S, Zaheer S. Multifaceted TGF-β signaling, a master regulator: From bench-to-bedside, intricacies, and complexities. Cell Biol Int 2024; 48:87-127. [PMID: 37859532 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Physiological embryogenesis and adult tissue homeostasis are regulated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), an evolutionarily conserved family of secreted polypeptide factors, acting in an autocrine and paracrine manner. The role of TGF-β in inflammation, fibrosis, and cancer is complex and sometimes even contradictory, exhibiting either inhibitory or promoting effects depending on the stage of the disease. Under pathological conditions, especially fibrosis and cancer, overexpressed TGF-β causes extracellular matrix deposition, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer-associated fibroblast formation, and/or angiogenesis. In this review article, we have tried to dive deep into the mechanism of action of TGF-β in inflammation, fibrosis, and carcinogenesis. As TGF-β and its downstream signaling mechanism are implicated in fibrosis and carcinogenesis blocking this signaling mechanism appears to be a promising avenue. However, targeting TGF-β carries substantial risk as this pathway is implicated in multiple homeostatic processes and is also known to have tumor-suppressor functions. There is a need for careful dosing of TGF-β drugs for therapeutic use and patient selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Ahuja
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Sufian Zaheer
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
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Hosseinzadeh A, Pourhanifeh MH, Amiri S, Sheibani M, Irilouzadian R, Reiter RJ, Mehrzadi S. Therapeutic potential of melatonin in targeting molecular pathways of organ fibrosis. Pharmacol Rep 2024; 76:25-50. [PMID: 37995089 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-023-00554-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis, the excessive deposition of fibrous connective tissue in an organ in response to injury, is a pathological condition affecting many individuals worldwide. Fibrosis causes the failure of tissue function and is largely irreversible as the disease progresses. Pharmacologic treatment options for organ fibrosis are limited, but studies suggest that antioxidants, particularly melatonin, can aid in preventing and controlling fibrotic damage to the organs. Melatonin, an indole nocturnally released from the pineal gland, is commonly used to regulate circadian and seasonal biological rhythms and is indicated for treating sleep disorders. While it is often effective in treating sleep disorders, melatonin's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties also make it a promising molecule for treating other disorders such as organ fibrosis. Melatonin ameliorates the necrotic and apoptotic changes that lead to fibrosis in various organs including the heart, liver, lung, and kidney. Moreover, melatonin reduces the infiltration of inflammatory cells during fibrosis development. This article outlines the protective effects of melatonin against fibrosis, including its safety and potential therapeutic effects. The goal of this article is to provide a summary of data accumulated to date and to encourage further experimentation with melatonin and increase its use as an anti-fibrotic agent in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azam Hosseinzadeh
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Pourhanifeh
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Shiva Amiri
- Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Sheibani
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rana Irilouzadian
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Shohada-e Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Russel J Reiter
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Saeed Mehrzadi
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Hashimshony T, Levin L, Fröbius AC, Dahan N, Chalifa-Caspi V, Hamo R, Gabai-Almog O, Blais I, Assaraf YG, Lubzens E. A transcriptomic examination of encased rotifer embryos reveals the developmental trajectory leading to long-term dormancy; are they "animal seeds"? BMC Genomics 2024; 25:119. [PMID: 38281016 PMCID: PMC10821554 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-09961-1] [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: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Organisms from many distinct evolutionary lineages acquired the capacity to enter a dormant state in response to environmental conditions incompatible with maintaining normal life activities. Most studied organisms exhibit seasonal or annual episodes of dormancy, but numerous less studied organisms enter long-term dormancy, lasting decades or even centuries. Intriguingly, many planktonic animals produce encased embryos known as resting eggs or cysts that, like plant seeds, may remain dormant for decades. Herein, we studied a rotifer Brachionus plicatilis as a model planktonic species that forms encased dormant embryos via sexual reproduction and non-dormant embryos via asexual reproduction and raised the following questions: Which genes are expressed at which time points during embryogenesis? How do temporal transcript abundance profiles differ between the two types of embryos? When does the cell cycle arrest? How do dormant embryos manage energy? RESULTS As the molecular developmental kinetics of encased embryos remain unknown, we employed single embryo RNA sequencing (CEL-seq) of samples collected during dormant and non-dormant embryogenesis. We identified comprehensive and temporal transcript abundance patterns of genes and their associated enriched functional pathways. Striking differences were uncovered between dormant and non-dormant embryos. In early development, the cell cycle-associated pathways were enriched in both embryo types but terminated with fewer nuclei in dormant embryos. As development progressed, the gene transcript abundance profiles became increasingly divergent between dormant and non-dormant embryos. Organogenesis was suspended in dormant embryos, concomitant with low transcript abundance of homeobox genes, and was replaced with an ATP-poor preparatory phase characterized by very high transcript abundance of genes encoding for hallmark dormancy proteins (e.g., LEA proteins, sHSP, and anti-ROS proteins, also found in plant seeds) and proteins involved in dormancy exit. Surprisingly, this period appeared analogous to the late maturation phase of plant seeds. CONCLUSIONS The study highlights novel divergent temporal transcript abundance patterns between dormant and non-dormant embryos. Remarkably, several convergent functional solutions appear during the development of resting eggs and plant seeds, suggesting a similar preparatory phase for long-term dormancy. This study accentuated the broad novel molecular features of long-term dormancy in encased animal embryos that behave like "animal seeds".
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar Hashimshony
- Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Liron Levin
- National Institute of Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Andreas C Fröbius
- Molecular Andrology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Justus Liebig University Gießen, Gießen, Germany.
| | - Nitsan Dahan
- Interdisciplinary Center for Life Sciences and Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Vered Chalifa-Caspi
- National Institute of Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Reini Hamo
- Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Oshri Gabai-Almog
- Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Idit Blais
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and IVF, Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yehuda G Assaraf
- The Fred Wyszkowski Cancer Research Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Esther Lubzens
- Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
- (Retired) Israel Oceanographic and Limnological Research, Haifa, Israel.
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Jiang J, Zhao B, Xiao J, Shi L, Shang W, Shu Y, Zhao Z, Shen J, Xu J, Cai H. Exploring the boost of steaming with wine on Ligustri Lucidi Fructus in treating postmenopausal osteoporosis based on superior "multi-component structure" and iron/bone metabolism coregulation. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 123:155275. [PMID: 38142661 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical studies indicated that postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) often accompanied by iron overload risk factor, which exacerbated bone metabolism disorders and accelerated PMOP. Previous research found that multicomponent in Ligustri Lucidi Fructus (FLL) or wine-steamed FLL (WFLL) acted on the common targets of iron overload and PMOP simultaneously, which indicated that FLL and WFLL probably regulated iron/bone metabolism dually. Additionally, WFLL had more superior effect according to the theory of Chinese medicine for thousands of years. PURPOSE To reveal the "superior multi-component structure (SMCS)" and its molecular mechanisms in parallelly down-regulating iron overload and rescuing bone metabolism by WFLL. DESIGNS AND METHODS HPLC fingerprinting was established to compare the chemical profiles of FLL and WFLL; Then, the chemical compositions and quality markers of FLL and WFLL were analyzed by UPLC-Orbitrap-MS/MS coupled with OPLS-DA; the dynamic contents of quality markers and the multi-component structure at different wine steaming times (WST) were simultaneously determined by HPLC-DAD. Meanwhile, the dynamic efficacy of FLL at different WST were hunt by systematic zebrafish model. Subsequently, potential mechanism of WFLL in treating PMOP accompanied with iron overload was obtained from network pharmacology (NP) and molecular docking (MD). Finally, zebrafish and ovariectomy rat model were carried out to validate this potential mechanism. RESULTS HPLC fingerprints similarity of 15 batches in FLL and WFLL were among 0.9-1.0. 126 compositions were identified, including 58 iridoids, 25 terpenes, 30 phenylethanoids, 7 flavonoids and 6 others. 20 quality markers associated with WFLL was revealed, and the ratio of phenylethanols: Iridoids: Triterpenes (P/I/T) was converted from 1: 15: 4.5 to 1: 0.8: 0.9 during steaming (0 - 24 h) calculated by the quantification of 11 quality markers; the bone mineralization and motor performance of zebrafish larvae indicated that the optimum efficacy of WFLL at 12 h (p < 0.05) in which the SMCS of P/I/T was converted to 1: 4: 1.8. NP discovered that BMP-Smad pathway is one of the potential mechanisms of FLL in anti PMOP and then regulated bone formation and iron overload simultaneously. MD revealed that 17 active ingredients and 10 core targets genes could spontaneously bind with appropriate affinity. Rats model verified that FLL and WFLL significantly reversed PMOP, based on the improvement in bone formation indexes (ALP, OPG, OGN), iron metabolism indicators (hepcidin, ferritin), bone microstructure (BMD, BV/TV, Tb. Th, Tb. N); Moreover, WFLL significant enhanced reversal effect in anti-PMOP compared to FLL (p < 0.05). FLL and WFLL increased genes and proteins expression (Hep, BMP-6, p-Smad1/5, Smad4) related to BMP-Smad pathway compared with model group, and WFLL was more superior than FLL (p< 0.05). CONCLUSION The SMCS of FLL was optimized by wine-steam, WFLL represented a dual effect in downregulating iron overload and promoting bone formation, and the BMP-Smad pathway is one of the potential molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, 301# Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China; Department of TCM, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Baixiu Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, 301# Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Jianpeng Xiao
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, 301# Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Liang Shi
- Nanjing first hospital, No.68 Changle Road, Qinhuai District, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210006, China
| | - Wei Shang
- Department of TCM, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Ye Shu
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu University, 301# Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Zhiming Zhao
- Department of TCM, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Junyi Shen
- Department of TCM, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jingjuan Xu
- Department of TCM, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui Cai
- Department of TCM, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
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Selvarajah K, Tan JJ, Shaharuddin B. Corneal Epithelial Development and the Role of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells for Regeneration. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 19:292-306. [PMID: 36915985 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x18666230313094121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Severe corneal disorders due to infective aetiologies, trauma, chemical injuries, and chronic cicatricial inflammations, are among vision-threatening pathologies leading to permanent corneal scarring. The whole cornea or lamellar corneal transplantation is often used as a last resort to restore vision. However, limited autologous tissue sources and potential adverse post-allotransplantation sequalae urge the need for more robust and strategic alternatives. Contemporary management using cultivated corneal epithelial transplantation has paved the way for utilizing stem cells as a regenerative potential. Humaninduced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) can generate ectodermal progenitors and potentially be used for ocular surface regeneration. This review summarizes the process of corneal morphogenesis and the signaling pathways underlying the development of corneal epithelium, which is key to translating the maturation and differentiation process of hiPSCs in vitro. The current state of knowledge and methodology for driving efficient corneal epithelial cell differentiation from pluripotent stem cells are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komathi Selvarajah
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam, 13200, Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Asian Institute of Medical Sciences and Technology (AIMST) University, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Jun Jie Tan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Asian Institute of Medical Sciences and Technology (AIMST) University, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Bakiah Shaharuddin
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Asian Institute of Medical Sciences and Technology (AIMST) University, Kedah, Malaysia
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Wu M, Mi J, Qu GX, Zhang S, Jian Y, Gao C, Cai Q, Liu J, Jiang J, Huang H. Role of Hedgehog Signaling Pathways in Multipotent Mesenchymal Stem Cells Differentiation. Cell Transplant 2024; 33:9636897241244943. [PMID: 38695366 PMCID: PMC11067683 DOI: 10.1177/09636897241244943] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have high self-renewal and multi-lineage differentiation potentials and low immunogenicity, so they have attracted much attention in the field of regenerative medicine and have a promising clinical application. MSCs originate from the mesoderm and can differentiate not only into osteoblasts, cartilage, adipocytes, and muscle cells but also into ectodermal and endodermal cell lineages across embryonic layers. To design cell therapy for replacement of damaged tissues, it is essential to understand the signaling pathways, which have a major impact on MSC differentiation, as this will help to integrate the signaling inputs to initiate a specific lineage. Hedgehog (Hh) signaling plays a vital role in the development of various tissues and organs in the embryo. As a morphogen, Hh not only regulates the survival and proliferation of tissue progenitor and stem populations but also is a critical moderator of MSC differentiation, involving tri-lineage and across embryonic layer differentiation of MSCs. This review summarizes the role of Hh signaling pathway in the differentiation of MSCs to mesodermal, endodermal, and ectodermal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyu Wu
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Junwei Mi
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guo-xin Qu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Jian
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chu Gao
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qingli Cai
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jianxin Jiang
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hong Huang
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Qin K, Yu M, Fan J, Wang H, Zhao P, Zhao G, Zeng W, Chen C, Wang Y, Wang A, Schwartz Z, Hong J, Song L, Wagstaff W, Haydon RC, Luu HH, Ho SH, Strelzow J, Reid RR, He TC, Shi LL. Canonical and noncanonical Wnt signaling: Multilayered mediators, signaling mechanisms and major signaling crosstalk. Genes Dis 2024; 11:103-134. [PMID: 37588235 PMCID: PMC10425814 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Wnt signaling plays a major role in regulating cell proliferation and differentiation. The Wnt ligands are a family of 19 secreted glycoproteins that mediate their signaling effects via binding to Frizzled receptors and LRP5/6 coreceptors and transducing the signal either through β-catenin in the canonical pathway or through a series of other proteins in the noncanonical pathway. Many of the individual components of both canonical and noncanonical Wnt signaling have additional functions throughout the body, establishing the complex interplay between Wnt signaling and other signaling pathways. This crosstalk between Wnt signaling and other pathways gives Wnt signaling a vital role in many cellular and organ processes. Dysregulation of this system has been implicated in many diseases affecting a wide array of organ systems, including cancer and embryological defects, and can even cause embryonic lethality. The complexity of this system and its interacting proteins have made Wnt signaling a target for many therapeutic treatments. However, both stimulatory and inhibitory treatments come with potential risks that need to be addressed. This review synthesized much of the current knowledge on the Wnt signaling pathway, beginning with the history of Wnt signaling. It thoroughly described the different variants of Wnt signaling, including canonical, noncanonical Wnt/PCP, and the noncanonical Wnt/Ca2+ pathway. Further description involved each of its components and their involvement in other cellular processes. Finally, this review explained the various other pathways and processes that crosstalk with Wnt signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Qin
- Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Michael Yu
- Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Jiaming Fan
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, and Department of Clinical Biochemistry, The School of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Hongwei Wang
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Piao Zhao
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery and Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Guozhi Zhao
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery and Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Wei Zeng
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Interventional Neurology, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong 523475, China
| | - Connie Chen
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Yonghui Wang
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200000, China
| | - Annie Wang
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Laboratory of Craniofacial Biology and Development, Department of Surgery Section of Plastic Surgery, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Zander Schwartz
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Jeffrey Hong
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Lily Song
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - William Wagstaff
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Rex C. Haydon
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Hue H. Luu
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Sherwin H. Ho
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Jason Strelzow
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Russell R. Reid
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Laboratory of Craniofacial Biology and Development, Department of Surgery Section of Plastic Surgery, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Tong-Chuan He
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Laboratory of Craniofacial Biology and Development, Department of Surgery Section of Plastic Surgery, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Lewis L. Shi
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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Wu D, Kong X, Zhang W, Di W. Reconstruction of the TGF-β signaling pathway of Fasciola gigantica. Parasitol Res 2023; 123:51. [PMID: 38095703 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-08064-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, we reconstructed the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway for Fasciola gigantica, which is a neglected tropical pathogen. We defined the components involved in the TGF-β signaling pathway and investigated the transcription profiles of these genes for all developmental stages of F. gigantica. In addition, the presence of these components in excretory and secretory products (FgESP) was predicted via signal peptide annotation. The core components of the TGF-β signaling pathway have been detected in F. gigantica; classical and nonclassical single transduction pathways were constructed. Four ligands have been detected, which may mediate the TGF-β signaling pathway and BMP signaling pathway. Two ligand-binding type II receptors were detected, and inhibitory Smad7 was not detected. TLP, BMP-3, BMP-1, and ActRIb showed higher transcription in 42-day juvenile and 70-day juvenile, while ActRIIa, Smad1, ActRIIb, Smad8, KAT2B, and PP2A showed higher transcription in egg. TLM, Ski, Smad6, BMPRI, p70S6K, Smad2, Smad3, TgfβRI, Smad4, and p300 showed higher transcription in metacercariae. Four ligands, 2 receptors and 3 Smads are predicted to be present in the FgESP, suggesting their potential extrinsic function. This study should help to understand signal transduction in the TGF-β signaling pathway in F. gigantica. In addition, this study helps to illustrate the complex mechanisms involved in developmental processes and F. gigantica - host interaction and paves the way for further characterization of the signaling pathway in trematodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongqi Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xinping Kong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Weiyu Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Wenda Di
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.
- Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.
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40
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Zhou W, Yan K, Xi Q. BMP signaling in cancer stemness and differentiation. CELL REGENERATION (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 12:37. [PMID: 38049682 PMCID: PMC10695912 DOI: 10.1186/s13619-023-00181-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
The BMP (Bone morphogenetic protein) signaling pathway plays a central role in metazoan biology, intricately shaping embryonic development, maintaining tissue homeostasis, and influencing disease progression. In the context of cancer, BMP signaling exhibits context-dependent dynamics, spanning from tumor suppression to promotion. Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a modest subset of neoplastic cells with stem-like attributes, exert substantial influence by steering tumor growth, orchestrating therapy resistance, and contributing to relapse. A comprehensive grasp of the intricate interplay between CSCs and their microenvironment is pivotal for effective therapeutic strategies. Among the web of signaling pathways orchestrating cellular dynamics within CSCs, BMP signaling emerges as a vital conductor, overseeing CSC self-renewal, differentiation dynamics, and the intricate symphony within the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, BMP signaling's influence in cancer extends beyond CSCs, intricately regulating cellular migration, invasion, and metastasis. This multifaceted role underscores the imperative of comprehending BMP signaling's contributions to cancer, serving as the foundation for crafting precise therapies to navigate multifaceted challenges posed not only by CSCs but also by various dimensions of cancer progression. This article succinctly encapsulates the diverse roles of the BMP signaling pathway across different cancers, spanning glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), colorectal cancer, acute myeloid leukemia (AML), lung cancer, prostate cancer, and osteosarcoma. It underscores the necessity of unraveling underlying mechanisms and molecular interactions. By delving into the intricate tapestry of BMP signaling's engagement in cancers, researchers pave the way for meticulously tailored therapies, adroitly leveraging its dualistic aspects-whether as a suppressor or promoter-to effectively counter the relentless march of tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Kun Yan
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Qiaoran Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
- Joint Graduate Program of Peking-Tsinghua-NIBS, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
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41
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Sooda K, Allison SJ, Javid FA. Investigation of the cytotoxicity induced by cannabinoids on human ovarian carcinoma cells. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2023; 11:e01152. [PMID: 38100640 PMCID: PMC10723784 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.1152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids have been shown to induce anti-tumor activity in a variety of carcinoma cells such as breast, prostate, and brain. The aim of the present study is to investigate the anti-tumor activity of cannabinoids, CBD (cannbidiol), and CBG (cannabigerol) in ovarian carcinoma cells sensitive and resistant to chemotherapeutic drugs. Sensitive A2780 cells and resistant A2780/CP70 carcinoma cells and non-carcinoma cells were exposed to varying concentrations of CBD, CBG, carboplatin or CB1 and CB2 receptor antagonists, AM251 and AM630, respectively, alone or in combination, at different exposure times and cytotoxicity was measured by MTT assay. The mechanism of action of CBD and CB in inducing cytotoxicity was investigated involving a variety of apoptotic and cell cycle assays. Treatment with CBD and CBG selectively, dose and time dependently reduced cell viability and induced apoptosis. The effect of CBD was stronger than CBG in all cell lines tested. Both CBD and CBG induced stronger cytotoxicity than afforded by carboplatin in resistant cells. The cytotoxicity induced by CBD was not CB1 or CB2 receptor dependent in both carcinoma cells, however, CBG-induced cytotoxicity may involve CB1 receptor activity in cisplatin-resistant carcinoma cells. A synergistic effect was observed when cannabinoids at sublethal doses were combined with carboplatin in both carcinoma cells. The apoptotic event may involve loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, Annexin V, caspase 3/7, ROS activities, and cell cycle arrest. Further studies are required to investigate whether these results are translatable in the clinic. Combination therapies with conventional cancer treatments using cannabinoids are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kartheek Sooda
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied SciencesUniversity of HuddersfieldHuddersfieldUK
| | - Simon J. Allison
- Department of Biological & Geographical Sciences, School of Applied SciencesUniversity of HuddersfieldHuddersfieldUK
| | - Farideh A. Javid
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied SciencesUniversity of HuddersfieldHuddersfieldUK
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Su C, Miao J, Guo J. The relationship between TGF-β1 and cognitive function in the brain. Brain Res Bull 2023; 205:110820. [PMID: 37979810 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.110820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), a multifunctional cytokine, plays a pivotal role in synaptic formation, plasticity, and neurovascular unit regulation. This review highlights TGF-β1's potential impact on cognitive function, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative disorders. However, despite the growing body of evidence, a comprehensive understanding of TGF-β1's precise role remains elusive. Further research is essential to unravel the complex mechanisms through which TGF-β1 influences cognitive function and to explore therapeutic avenues for targeting TGF-β1 in neurodegenerative conditions. This investigation sheds light on TGF-β1's contribution to cognitive function and offers prospects for innovative treatments and interventions. This review delves into the intricate relationship between TGF-β1 and cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Su
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province 030000, China
| | - Jie Miao
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province 030000, China
| | - Junhong Guo
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province 030000, China.
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Katkat E, Demirci Y, Heger G, Karagulle D, Papatheodorou I, Brazma A, Ozhan G. Canonical Wnt and TGF-β/BMP signaling enhance melanocyte regeneration but suppress invasiveness, migration, and proliferation of melanoma cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1297910. [PMID: 38020918 PMCID: PMC10679360 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1297910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer and develops from the melanocytes that are responsible for the pigmentation of the skin. The skin is also a highly regenerative organ, harboring a pool of undifferentiated melanocyte stem cells that proliferate and differentiate into mature melanocytes during regenerative processes in the adult. Melanoma and melanocyte regeneration share remarkable cellular features, including activation of cell proliferation and migration. Yet, melanoma considerably differs from the regenerating melanocytes with respect to abnormal proliferation, invasive growth, and metastasis. Thus, it is likely that at the cellular level, melanoma resembles early stages of melanocyte regeneration with increased proliferation but separates from the later melanocyte regeneration stages due to reduced proliferation and enhanced differentiation. Here, by exploiting the zebrafish melanocytes that can efficiently regenerate and be induced to undergo malignant melanoma, we unravel the transcriptome profiles of the regenerating melanocytes during early and late regeneration and the melanocytic nevi and malignant melanoma. Our global comparison of the gene expression profiles of melanocyte regeneration and nevi/melanoma uncovers the opposite regulation of a substantial number of genes related to Wnt signaling and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)/(bone morphogenetic protein) BMP signaling pathways between regeneration and cancer. Functional activation of canonical Wnt or TGF-β/BMP pathways during melanocyte regeneration promoted melanocyte regeneration but potently suppressed the invasiveness, migration, and proliferation of human melanoma cells in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, the opposite regulation of signaling mechanisms between melanocyte regeneration and melanoma can be exploited to stop tumor growth and develop new anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esra Katkat
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG), Dokuz Eylul University Health Campus, Izmir, Türkiye
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute (IBG-Izmir), Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Yeliz Demirci
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG), Dokuz Eylul University Health Campus, Izmir, Türkiye
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute (IBG-Izmir), Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Türkiye
| | | | - Doga Karagulle
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG), Dokuz Eylul University Health Campus, Izmir, Türkiye
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Irene Papatheodorou
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory—European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Alvis Brazma
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory—European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Gunes Ozhan
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG), Dokuz Eylul University Health Campus, Izmir, Türkiye
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Izmir, Türkiye
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Ono S, Yamada A, Tanaka J, Yukimori A, Sasa K, Mishima K, Funatsu T, Kamijo R. BMP-2-mediated signaling suppresses salivary gland development. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 681:1-6. [PMID: 37742472 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.09.040] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Research regarding the process of salivary gland development and elucidation of related mechanisms are considered essential for development of effective treatments for conditions associated with salivary disease. Various reports regarding the effects of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-2 on hard tissue cells have been presented, though few have examined those related to salivary gland formation. Using an organ culture system, the present study was conducted to investigate the function of BMP-2 in salivary gland formation. Salivary glands obtained from embryonic day 13.5 mice and treated with BMP-2 showed suppression of primordial cell differentiation and also gland formation in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, gland formation inhibition was suppressed by concurrent treatment with dorsomorphin, an inhibitor of the Smad pathway. Expression levels of AQP5, a marker gene for acinar cells, and Prol1, an opiorphin expressed in the lacrimal gland, were decreased in salivary glands treated with BMP-2. The present findings indicate that suppression of salivary gland formation, especially acinar differentiation, is induced by BMP-2, a phenomenon considered to be related to the Smad pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinnosuke Ono
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Dentistry, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Perioperative Medicine, Division of Dentistry for Persons with Disabilities, School of Dentistry, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Dentistry, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Yamada
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Dentistry, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Junichi Tanaka
- Division of Pathology, Department of Oral Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akane Yukimori
- Division of Pathology, Department of Oral Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kiyohito Sasa
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Dentistry, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Mishima
- Division of Pathology, Department of Oral Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takahiro Funatsu
- Department of Perioperative Medicine, Division of Dentistry for Persons with Disabilities, School of Dentistry, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryutaro Kamijo
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Dentistry, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
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Wynsberghe JV, Vanakker OM. Significance of Premature Vertebral Mineralization in Zebrafish Models in Mechanistic and Pharmaceutical Research on Hereditary Multisystem Diseases. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1621. [PMID: 38002303 PMCID: PMC10669475 DOI: 10.3390/biom13111621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish are increasingly becoming an important model organism for studying the pathophysiological mechanisms of human diseases and investigating how these mechanisms can be effectively targeted using compounds that may open avenues to novel treatments for patients. The zebrafish skeleton has been particularly instrumental in modeling bone diseases as-contrary to other model organisms-the lower load on the skeleton of an aquatic animal enables mutants to survive to early adulthood. In this respect, the axial skeletons of zebrafish have been a good read-out for congenital spinal deformities such as scoliosis and degenerative disorders such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, in which aberrant mineralization in humans is reflected in the respective zebrafish models. Interestingly, there have been several reports of hereditary multisystemic diseases that do not affect the vertebral column in human patients, while the corresponding zebrafish models systematically show anomalies in mineralization and morphology of the spine as their leading or, in some cases, only phenotype. In this review, we describe such examples, highlighting the underlying mechanisms, the already-used or potential power of these models to help us understand and amend the mineralization process, and the outstanding questions on how and why this specific axial type of aberrant mineralization occurs in these disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Van Wynsberghe
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Ectopic Mineralization Research Group, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Olivier M Vanakker
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Ectopic Mineralization Research Group, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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46
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Wu X, Du YZ. Nanodrug Delivery Strategies to Signaling Pathways in Alopecia. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:5396-5415. [PMID: 37817669 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
Over 50% of the global population suffers from hair loss. The mixed results in the treatment of hair loss reveal the limitations of conventional commercial topical drugs. One the one hand, the definite pathogenesis of hair loss is still an enigma. On the other hand, targeted drug carriers ensure the drug therapeutic effect and low side effects. This review highlights the organization and overview of nine crucial signaling pathways associated with hair loss, as well as the development of nanobased topical delivery systems loading the clinical drugs, which will fuel emerging hair loss treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochuan Wu
- Jinhua Institute of Zhejiang University, Jinhua, Zhejiang 321299, China
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Yong-Zhong Du
- Jinhua Institute of Zhejiang University, Jinhua, Zhejiang 321299, China
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
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47
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Xue Y, Pei X, Xia Y, Chen H, Yu H, Wang W, Mao D. RGMb expression in goat uterine tissues: possible role of RGMb in the proliferation and apoptosis of endometrial epithelial cells. Reprod Fertil Dev 2023; 35:723-732. [PMID: 37967584 DOI: 10.1071/rd23121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Context Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) play an important role in the uteri. Repulsive guidance molecule b (RGMb; a.k.a. Dragon) has been confirmed as the coreceptor of BMPs to function through drosophila mothers against decapentaplegic protein (Smads) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathways. We hypothesise that RGMb regulates the uterine function through the Smads and MAPK pathways. Aims This study aimed to investigate the expression of RGMb in goat uteri and the potential role of RGMb in the endometrial epithelial cells (EECs). Methods The localisation of RGMb in goat uterine tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC), EECs were isolated and transfected with siRNA to investigate the role of RGMb in proliferation, and apoptosis. The expression levels of Smads and MAPK members was measured by western blot (WB) and real-time PCR (RT-PCR). Key results IHC showed that RGMb was localised in goat endometrial luminal cells, glandular epithelial cells, and circular muscle fibres, but not in stromal cells. RT-PCR results showed that treatment with RGMb siRNA suppressed the expressions of proliferation-related genes cyclin D1 (CCND1 , P =0.0291), cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2 P =0.0107), and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA, P =0.0508), leading to the reduced viability of EECs (P =0.0010). WB results showed that the expression ratio of cleaved-caspase 3/caspase 3 (P =0.0013) was markedly increased after RGMb siRNA transfection. Likewise, the level of phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (p-ERK1/2, P =0.0068) and p-Smad1/5/8 (P =0.0011) decreased significantly, while there were no appreciable differences in the level of p-P38 MAPK expression (P >0.05). Conclusions RGMb might participate in the regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis through Smads and ERK signalling pathways in goat EECs. Implications RGMb is involved in regulating the proliferation and apoptosis in goat endometrial epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Xue
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Xiaomeng Pei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Yuting Xia
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Hengguang Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Hao Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Wei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Dagan Mao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
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Sharma A, Krishnan M, Ganganahalli G, Saraswathy S, Johnson R, Iyer SR. Microarray illustrates enhanced mechanistic action towards osteogenesis for magnesium aluminate spinel ceramic-based polyphasic composite scaffold with mesenchymal stem cells and bone morphogenetic protein 2. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater 2023; 111:1858-1868. [PMID: 35289496 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.b.35051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Spinel (magnesium aluminate MgAl2 O4 ) ceramic-based polyphasic composite scaffold has been recently reported for craniofacial bone tissue engineering. Improving the osteogenic effects of such composite scaffolds with bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP2) is an intensely researched area. This study investigated the gene interactions of this scaffold with BMP2 and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Human bone marrow MSCs were cultured in 3 groups: Group 1-Control (BMSCs), Group 2-BMSC with BMP2, and Group 3-BMSC with scaffold and BMP2. After RNA isolation, gene expression analysis was done by microarray. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (-1.0 > fold changes>1 and p value <.05) were studied for their function and gene ontologies using Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID). They were further studied by protein-protein interaction network analysis using STRING and MCODE Cytoscape plugin database. Group 3 showed up regulation of 3222 genes against 2158 of Group 2. Group 3 had five annotation clusters with enrichment scores from 2.08 to 3.93. Group 2 had only one cluster. Group 3 showed activation of all major osteogenic pathways: TGF, BMP2, WNT, SMAD, and Notch gene signaling with effects of calcium and magnesium released from the scaffold. Downstream effect of all these caused significant activation of RUNX2, the key transcriptional regulator of osteogenesis in Group 3. STRING and MCODE Cytoscape plugin demonstrated the interactions. The enhanced MSC differentiation for osteogenesis with the addition of BMP2 to the polyphasic composite scaffold proposed promising clinical applications for bone tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anu Sharma
- Department of Dental Research and Implantology, Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Delhi, India
| | - Manu Krishnan
- Department of Dental Research and Implantology, Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Delhi, India
| | - Gurudatta Ganganahalli
- Division of Stem Cell and Gene Therapy Research, Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Delhi, India
| | - Seema Saraswathy
- Department of Biochemistry, Army College of Medical Sciences (ACMS), Delhi, India
| | - Roy Johnson
- Centre for Ceramic Processing, International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI), Hyderabad, India
| | - Satish R Iyer
- Directorate General of Dental Services (DGDS), Delhi, India
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Yull S, Shafiei S, Park CB, Kazemi P, Tiemann EB, Pagé MHG, Dufort D. Uterine Nodal expression supports maternal immunotolerance and establishment of the FOXP3 + regulatory T cell population during the preimplantation period. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1276979. [PMID: 38022561 PMCID: PMC10646213 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1276979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy success is dependent on the establishment of maternal tolerance during the preimplantation period. The immunosuppressive function of regulatory T cells is critical to limit inflammation arising from implantation of the semi-allogeneic blastocyst. Insufficient maternal immune adaptations to pregnancy have been frequently associated with cases of female infertility and recurrent implantation failure. The role of Nodal, a secreted morphogen of the TGFβ superfamily, was recently implicated during murine pregnancy as its conditional deletion (NodalΔ/Δ) in the female reproductive tract resulted in severe subfertility. Here, it was determined that despite normal preimplantation processes and healthy, viable embryos, NodalΔ/Δ females had a 50% implantation failure rate compared to NodalloxP/loxP controls. Prior to implantation, the expression of inflammatory cytokines MCP-1, G-CSF, IFN-γ and IL-10 was dysregulated in the NodalΔ/Δ uterus. Further analysis of the preimplantation leukocyte populations in NodalΔ/Δ uteri showed an overabundance of infiltrating, pro-inflammatory CD11bhigh Ly6C+ macrophages coupled with the absence of CD4+ FOXP3+ regulatory T cells. Therefore, it is proposed that uterine Nodal expression during the preimplantation period has a novel role in the establishment of maternal immunotolerance, and its dysregulation should be considered as a potential contributor to cases of female infertility and recurrent implantation failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Yull
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Shiva Shafiei
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Craig B. Park
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Parinaz Kazemi
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Marie-Hélène Godin Pagé
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Daniel Dufort
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Datta S, Cao W, Skillman M, Wu M. Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome: Signaling & Molecular Perspectives, and the Road Ahead. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15249. [PMID: 37894928 PMCID: PMC10607600 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015249] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is a lethal congenital heart disease (CHD) affecting 8-25 per 100,000 neonates globally. Clinical interventions, primarily surgical, have improved the life expectancy of the affected subjects substantially over the years. However, the etiological basis of HLHS remains fundamentally unclear to this day. Based upon the existing paradigm of studies, HLHS exhibits a multifactorial mode of etiology mediated by a complicated course of genetic and signaling cascade. This review presents a detailed outline of the HLHS phenotype, the prenatal and postnatal risks, and the signaling and molecular mechanisms driving HLHS pathogenesis. The review discusses the potential limitations and future perspectives of studies that can be undertaken to address the existing scientific gap. Mechanistic studies to explain HLHS etiology will potentially elucidate novel druggable targets and empower the development of therapeutic regimens against HLHS in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mingfu Wu
- Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (S.D.); (W.C.); (M.S.)
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