1
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Zelisko N, Lesyk R, Stoika R. Structure, unique biological properties, and mechanisms of action of transforming growth factor β. Bioorg Chem 2024; 150:107611. [PMID: 38964148 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107611] [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: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) is a ubiquitous molecule that is extremely conserved structurally and plays a systemic role in human organism. TGF-β is a homodimeric molecule consisting of two subunits joined through a disulphide bond. In mammals, three genes code for TGF-β1, TGF-β2, and TGF-β3 isoforms of this cytokine with a dominating expression of TGF-β1. Virtually, all normal cells contain TGF-β and its specific receptors. Considering the exceptional role of fine balance played by the TGF-β in anumber of physiological and pathological processes in human body, this cytokine may be proposed for use in medicine as an immunosuppressant in transplantology, wound healing and bone repair. TGFb itself is an important target in oncology. Strategies for blocking members of TGF-β signaling pathway as therapeutic targets have been considered. In this review, signalling mechanisms of TGF-β1 action are addressed, and their role in physiology and pathology with main focus on carcinogenesis are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataliya Zelisko
- Department of Pharmaceutical, Organic and Bioorganic Chemistry, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Pekarska 69, 79010 Lviv, Ukraine
| | - Roman Lesyk
- Department of Pharmaceutical, Organic and Bioorganic Chemistry, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Pekarska 69, 79010 Lviv, Ukraine.
| | - Rostyslav Stoika
- Department of Regulation of Cell Proliferation and Apoptosis, Institute of Cell Biology of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Drahomanov 14/16, 79005 Lviv, Ukraine
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2
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Brewer A, Zhao JF, Fasimoye R, Shpiro N, Macartney TJ, Wood NT, Wightman M, Alessi DR, Sapkota GP. Targeted dephosphorylation of SMAD3 as an approach to impede TGF-β signaling. iScience 2024; 27:110423. [PMID: 39104417 PMCID: PMC11298613 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
TGF-β (transforming growth factor-β) signaling is involved in a myriad of cellular processes and its dysregulation has been implicated in many human diseases, including fibrosis and cancer. TGF-β transcriptional responses are controlled by tail phosphorylation of transcription factors SMAD2 and SMAD3 (mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2/3). Therefore, targeted dephosphorylation of phospho-SMAD3 could provide an innovative mechanism to block some TGF-β-induced transcriptional responses, such as the transcription of SERPINE-1, which encodes plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1). Here, by developing and employing a bifunctional molecule, BDPIC (bromoTAG-dTAG proximity-inducing chimera), we redirected multiple phosphatases, tagged with bromoTAG, to dephosphorylate phospho-SMAD3, tagged with dTAG. Using CRISPR-Cas9 technology, we generated homozygous double knock-in A549 bromoTAG/bromoTAG PPM1H/ dTAG/dTAG SMAD3 cells, in which the BDPIC-induced proximity between bromoTAG-PPM1H and dTAG-SMAD3 led to a robust dephosphorylation of dTAG-SMAD3 and a significant decrease in SERPINE-1 transcription. Our work demonstrates targeted dephosphorylation of phospho-proteins as an exciting modality for rewiring cell signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Brewer
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Jin-Feng Zhao
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Rotimi Fasimoye
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Natalia Shpiro
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Thomas J. Macartney
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Nicola T. Wood
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Melanie Wightman
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Dario R. Alessi
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Gopal P. Sapkota
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
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Dorry S, Perla S, Bennett AM. MAPK Phosphatase-5 is required for TGF-β signaling through a JNK-dependent pathway. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.27.600976. [PMID: 38979264 PMCID: PMC11230413 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.27.600976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphatases (MKPs) constitute members of the dual-specificity family of protein phosphatases that dephosphorylate the MAPKs. MKP-5 dephosphorylates the stress-responsive MAPKs, p38 MAPK and JNK, and has been shown to promote tissue fibrosis. Here, we provide insight into how MKP-5 regulates the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) pathway, a well-established driver of fibrosis. We show that MKP-5-deficient fibroblasts in response to TGF-β are impaired in SMAD2 phosphorylation at canonical and non-canonical sites, nuclear translocation, and transcriptional activation of fibrogenic genes. Consistent with this, pharmacological inhibition of MKP-5 is sufficient to block TGF-β signaling, and that this regulation occurs through a JNK-dependent pathway. By utilizing RNA sequencing and transcriptomic analysis, we identify TGF-β signaling activators regulated by MKP-5 in a JNK-dependent manner, providing mechanistic insight into how MKP-5 promotes TGF-β signaling. This study elucidates a novel mechanism whereby MKP-5-mediated JNK inactivation is required for TGF-β signaling and provides insight into the role of MKP-5 in fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Dorry
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sravan Perla
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Anton M. Bennett
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale Center for Molecular and Systems Metabolism, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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4
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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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Zhang YE, Stuelten CH. Alternative splicing in EMT and TGF-β signaling during cancer progression. Semin Cancer Biol 2024; 101:1-11. [PMID: 38614376 PMCID: PMC11180579 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2024.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a physiological process during development where epithelial cells transform to acquire mesenchymal characteristics, which allows them to migrate and colonize secondary tissues. Many cellular signaling pathways and master transcriptional factors exert a myriad of controls to fine tune this vital process to meet various developmental and physiological needs. Adding to the complexity of this network are post-transcriptional and post-translational regulations. Among them, alternative splicing has been shown to play important roles to drive EMT-associated phenotypic changes, including actin cytoskeleton remodeling, cell-cell junction changes, cell motility and invasiveness. In advanced cancers, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a major inducer of EMT and is associated with tumor cell metastasis, cancer stem cell self-renewal, and drug resistance. This review aims to provide an overview of recent discoveries regarding alternative splicing events and the involvement of splicing factors in the EMT and TGF-β signaling. It will emphasize the importance of various splicing factors involved in EMT and explore their regulatory mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying E Zhang
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Christina H Stuelten
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Melzer M, Niebert S, Heimann M, Ullm F, Pompe T, Scheiner-Bobis G, Burk J. Differential Smad2/3 linker phosphorylation is a crosstalk mechanism of Rho/ROCK and canonical TGF-β3 signaling in tenogenic differentiation. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10393. [PMID: 38710741 PMCID: PMC11074336 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60717-z] [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: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The transforming growth factor (TGF)-β3 is a well-known inducer for tenogenic differentiation, signaling via the Smad2/3 pathway. Furthermore, other factors like extracellular matrix or mechanical force can induce tenogenic differentiation and possibly alter the response to TGF-β3 by signaling via the Rho/ROCK pathway. The aim of this study was to investigate the interplay of Rho/ROCK and TGF-β3/Smad signaling in tenogenic differentiation, with the Smad2/3 molecule hypothesized as a possible interface. Cultured as monolayers or on collagen I matrices, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) were treated with the ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 (10 µM), TGF-β3 (10 ng/ml) or both combined. Control cells were cultured accordingly, without Y-27632 and/or without TGF-β3. At different time points, MSC were analyzed by real-time RT-PCR, immunofluorescence, and Western blot. Cultivation of MSC on collagen matrices and ROCK inhibition supported tenogenic differentiation and fostered the effect of TGF-β3. The phosphorylation of the linker region of Smad2 was reduced by cultivation on collagen matrices, but not by ROCK inhibition. The latter, however, led to increased phosphorylation of the linker region of Smad3. In conclusion, collagen matrices and the Rho/ROCK signaling pathway influence the TGF-β3/Smad2/3 pathway by regulating different phosphorylation sites of the Smad linker region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Melzer
- Equine Clinic (Surgery, Orthopedics), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sabine Niebert
- Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Manuela Heimann
- Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Franziska Ullm
- Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Science, Leipzig University, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
- FILK Freiberg Institute GmbH, 09599, Freiberg, Germany
| | - Tilo Pompe
- Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Science, Leipzig University, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Georgios Scheiner-Bobis
- Institute of Biochemistry and Endocrinology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Janina Burk
- Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Biophysics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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7
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Muñoz Forti K, Weisman GA, Jasmer KJ. Cell type-specific transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling in the regulation of salivary gland fibrosis and regeneration. J Oral Biol Craniofac Res 2024; 14:257-272. [PMID: 38559587 PMCID: PMC10979288 DOI: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2024.03.005] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Salivary gland damage and hypofunction result from various disorders, including autoimmune Sjögren's disease (SjD) and IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD), as well as a side effect of radiotherapy for treating head and neck cancers. There are no therapeutic strategies to prevent the loss of salivary gland function in these disorders nor facilitate functional salivary gland regeneration. However, ongoing aquaporin-1 gene therapy trials to restore saliva flow show promise. To identify and develop novel therapeutic targets, we must better understand the cell-specific signaling processes involved in salivary gland regeneration. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling is essential to tissue fibrosis, a major endpoint in salivary gland degeneration, which develops in the salivary glands of patients with SjD, IgG4-RD, and radiation-induced damage. Though the deposition and remodeling of extracellular matrix proteins are essential to repair salivary gland damage, pathological fibrosis results in tissue hardening and chronic salivary gland dysfunction orchestrated by multiple cell types, including fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, endothelial cells, stromal cells, and lymphocytes, macrophages, and other immune cell populations. This review is focused on the role of TGF-β signaling in the development of salivary gland fibrosis and the potential for targeting TGF-β as a novel therapeutic approach to regenerate functional salivary glands. The studies presented highlight the divergent roles of TGF-β signaling in salivary gland development and dysfunction and illuminate specific cell populations in damaged or diseased salivary glands that mediate the effects of TGF-β. Overall, these studies strongly support the premise that blocking TGF-β signaling holds promise for the regeneration of functional salivary glands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Muñoz Forti
- Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center and Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, United States
| | - Gary A. Weisman
- Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center and Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, United States
| | - Kimberly J. Jasmer
- Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center and Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, United States
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8
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Miyazawa K, Itoh Y, Fu H, Miyazono K. Receptor-activated transcription factors and beyond: multiple modes of Smad2/3-dependent transmission of TGF-β signaling. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107256. [PMID: 38569937 PMCID: PMC11063908 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107256] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) is a pleiotropic cytokine that is widely distributed throughout the body. Its receptor proteins, TGF-β type I and type II receptors, are also ubiquitously expressed. Therefore, the regulation of various signaling outputs in a context-dependent manner is a critical issue in this field. Smad proteins were originally identified as signal-activated transcription factors similar to signal transducer and activator of transcription proteins. Smads are activated by serine phosphorylation mediated by intrinsic receptor dual specificity kinases of the TGF-β family, indicating that Smads are receptor-restricted effector molecules downstream of ligands of the TGF-β family. Smad proteins have other functions in addition to transcriptional regulation, including post-transcriptional regulation of micro-RNA processing, pre-mRNA splicing, and m6A methylation. Recent technical advances have identified a novel landscape of Smad-dependent signal transduction, including regulation of mitochondrial function without involving regulation of gene expression. Therefore, Smad proteins are receptor-activated transcription factors and also act as intracellular signaling modulators with multiple modes of function. In this review, we discuss the role of Smad proteins as receptor-activated transcription factors and beyond. We also describe the functional differences between Smad2 and Smad3, two receptor-activated Smad proteins downstream of TGF-β, activin, myostatin, growth and differentiation factor (GDF) 11, and Nodal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiji Miyazawa
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan.
| | - Yuka Itoh
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Hao Fu
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Kohei Miyazono
- Department of Applied Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan; Laboratory for Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
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Li D, Chen J, Zhou F, Zhang W, Chen H. Aldo-keto reductase-7A2 protects against atorvastatin-induced hepatotoxicity via Nrf2 activation. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 393:110956. [PMID: 38484826 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.110956] [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: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Atorvastatin (ATO), as a cholesterol-lowering drug, was the world's best-selling drug in the early 2000s. However, ATO overdose-induced liver or muscle injury is a threat to many patients, which restricts its application. Previous studies suggest that ATO overdose is accompanied with ROS accumulation and increased lipid peroxidation, which are the leading causes of ATO-induced liver damage. This study is, therefore, carried out to investigate the roles of anti-oxidant pathways and enzymes in protection against ATO-induced hepatotoxicity. Here we show that in ATO-challenged HepG2 cells, the expression levels of transcription factor NFE2L2/Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2) are significantly upregulated. When Nrf2 is pharmacologically inhibited or genetically inactivated, ATO-induced cytotoxicity is significantly aggravated. Aldo-keto reductase-7A (AKR7A) enzymes, transcriptionally regulated by Nrf2, are important for bioactivation and biodetoxification. Here, we reveal that in response to ATO exposure, mRNA levels of human AKR7A2 are significantly upregulated in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, knockdown of AKR7A2 exacerbates ATO-induced hepatotoxicity, suggesting that AKR7A2 is essential for cellular adaptive response to ATO-induced cell damage. In addition, overexpression of AKR7A2 in HepG2 cells can significantly mitigate ATO-induced cytotoxicity and this process is Nrf2-dependent. Taken together, these findings indicate that Nrf2-mediated AKR7A2 is responsive to high concentrations of ATO and contributes to protection against ATO-induced hepatotoxicity, making it a good candidate for mitigating ATO-induced side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Li
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China.
| | - Jiajin Chen
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Fei Zhou
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Wenhe Zhang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Hongyu Chen
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
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Danielpour D. Advances and Challenges in Targeting TGF-β Isoforms for Therapeutic Intervention of Cancer: A Mechanism-Based Perspective. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:533. [PMID: 38675493 PMCID: PMC11054419 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040533] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The TGF-β family is a group of 25 kDa secretory cytokines, in mammals consisting of three dimeric isoforms (TGF-βs 1, 2, and 3), each encoded on a separate gene with unique regulatory elements. Each isoform plays unique, diverse, and pivotal roles in cell growth, survival, immune response, and differentiation. However, many researchers in the TGF-β field often mistakenly assume a uniform functionality among all three isoforms. Although TGF-βs are essential for normal development and many cellular and physiological processes, their dysregulated expression contributes significantly to various diseases. Notably, they drive conditions like fibrosis and tumor metastasis/progression. To counter these pathologies, extensive efforts have been directed towards targeting TGF-βs, resulting in the development of a range of TGF-β inhibitors. Despite some clinical success, these agents have yet to reach their full potential in the treatment of cancers. A significant challenge rests in effectively targeting TGF-βs' pathological functions while preserving their physiological roles. Many existing approaches collectively target all three isoforms, failing to target just the specific deregulated ones. Additionally, most strategies tackle the entire TGF-β signaling pathway instead of focusing on disease-specific components or preferentially targeting tumors. This review gives a unique historical overview of the TGF-β field often missed in other reviews and provides a current landscape of TGF-β research, emphasizing isoform-specific functions and disease implications. The review then delves into ongoing therapeutic strategies in cancer, stressing the need for more tools that target specific isoforms and disease-related pathway components, advocating mechanism-based and refined approaches to enhance the effectiveness of TGF-β-targeted cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Danielpour
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center Research Laboratories, The Division of General Medical Sciences-Oncology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; ; Tel.: +1-216-368-5670; Fax: +1-216-368-8919
- Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Institute of Urology, University Hospitals, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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11
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Deng Z, Fan T, Xiao C, Tian H, Zheng Y, Li C, He J. TGF-β signaling in health, disease, and therapeutics. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:61. [PMID: 38514615 PMCID: PMC10958066 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01764-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: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is a multifunctional cytokine expressed by almost every tissue and cell type. The signal transduction of TGF-β can stimulate diverse cellular responses and is particularly critical to embryonic development, wound healing, tissue homeostasis, and immune homeostasis in health. The dysfunction of TGF-β can play key roles in many diseases, and numerous targeted therapies have been developed to rectify its pathogenic activity. In the past decades, a large number of studies on TGF-β signaling have been carried out, covering a broad spectrum of topics in health, disease, and therapeutics. Thus, a comprehensive overview of TGF-β signaling is required for a general picture of the studies in this field. In this review, we retrace the research history of TGF-β and introduce the molecular mechanisms regarding its biosynthesis, activation, and signal transduction. We also provide deep insights into the functions of TGF-β signaling in physiological conditions as well as in pathological processes. TGF-β-targeting therapies which have brought fresh hope to the treatment of relevant diseases are highlighted. Through the summary of previous knowledge and recent updates, this review aims to provide a systematic understanding of TGF-β signaling and to attract more attention and interest to this research area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqin Deng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Tao Fan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Chu Xiao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - He Tian
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Yujia Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Chunxiang Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Jie He
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
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Zinski J, Chung H, Joshi P, Warrick F, Berg BD, Glova G, McGrail M, Balciunas D, Friedberg I, Mullins M. EpicTope: narrating protein sequence features to identify non-disruptive epitope tagging sites. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.03.583232. [PMID: 38559275 PMCID: PMC10979891 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.03.583232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Epitope tagging is an invaluable technique enabling the identification, tracking, and purification of proteins in vivo. We developed a tool, EpicTope, to facilitate this method by identifying amino acid positions suitable for epitope insertion. Our method uses a scoring function that considers multiple protein sequence and structural features to determine locations least disruptive to the protein's function. We validated our approach on the zebrafish Smad5 protein, showing that multiple predicted internally tagged Smad5 proteins rescue zebrafish smad5 mutant embryos, while the N- and C-terminal tagged variants do not, also as predicted. We further show that the internally tagged Smad5 proteins are accessible to antibodies in wholemount zebrafish embryo immunohistochemistry and by western blot. Our work demonstrates that EpicTope is an accessible and effective tool for designing epitope tag insertion sites. EpicTope is available under a GPL-3 license from: https://github.com/FriedbergLab/Epictope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Zinski
- Department of Cell and Development Biology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
| | - Henri Chung
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, Iowa State University
- Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Iowa State University
| | - Parnal Joshi
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, Iowa State University
- Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Iowa State University
| | - Finn Warrick
- Department of Cell and Development Biology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
| | | | - Greg Glova
- Department of Cell and Development Biology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
| | - Maura McGrail
- Department of Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University
| | - Darius Balciunas
- Department of Biology, Temple University
- Institute of Biotechnology, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University
| | - Iddo Friedberg
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, Iowa State University
| | - Mary Mullins
- Department of Cell and Development Biology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
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Guo W, Liu H, Yan Y, Wu D, Yao H, Lin K, Li X. Targeting the TGF-β signaling pathway: an updated patent review (2021-present). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2024; 34:99-126. [PMID: 38648107 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2024.2346325] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The TGF-β signaling pathway is a complex network that plays a crucial role in regulating essential biological functions and is implicated in the onset and progression of multiple diseases. This review highlights the recent advancements in developing inhibitors targeting the TGF-β signaling pathway and their potential therapeutic applications in various diseases. AREA COVERED The review discusses patents on active molecules related to the TGF-β signaling pathway, focusing on three strategies: TGF-β activity inhibition, blocking TGF-β receptor binding, and disruption of the signaling pathway using small molecule inhibitors. Combination therapies and the development of fusion proteins targeting multiple pathways are also explored. The literature search was conducted using the Cortellis Drug Discovery Intelligence database, covering patents from 2021 onwards. EXPERT OPINION The development of drugs targeting the TGF-β signaling pathway has made significant progress in recent years. However, addressing challenges such as specificity, systemic toxicity, and patient selection is crucial for their successful clinical application. Targeting the TGF-β signaling pathway holds promise as a promising approach for the treatment of various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Guo
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hanwen Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yong Yan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hequan Yao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Kejiang Lin
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuanyi Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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14
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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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15
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Frangogiannis NG. TGF-β as a therapeutic target in the infarcted and failing heart: cellular mechanisms, challenges, and opportunities. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2024; 28:45-56. [PMID: 38329809 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2024.2316735] [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: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Myocardial fibrosis accompanies most cardiac conditions and can be reparative or maladaptive. Transforming Growth Factor (TGF)-β is a potent fibrogenic mediator, involved in repair, remodeling, and fibrosis of the injured heart. AREAS COVERED This review manuscript discusses the role of TGF-β in heart failure focusing on cellular mechanisms and therapeutic implications. TGF-β is activated in infarcted, remodeling and failing hearts. In addition to its fibrogenic actions, TGF-β has a broad range of effects on cardiomyocytes, immune, and vascular cells that may have both protective and detrimental consequences. TGF-β-mediated effects on macrophages promote anti-inflammatory transition, whereas actions on fibroblasts mediate reparative scar formation and effects on pericytes are involved in maturation of infarct neovessels. On the other hand, TGF-β actions on cardiomyocytes promote adverse remodeling, and prolonged activation of TGF-β signaling in fibroblasts stimulates progression of fibrosis and heart failure. EXPERT OPINION Understanding of the cell-specific actions of TGF-β is necessary to design therapeutic strategies in patients with myocardial disease. Moreover, to implement therapeutic interventions in the heterogeneous population of heart failure patients, mechanism-driven classification of both HFrEF and HFpEF patients is needed. Heart failure patients with prolonged or overactive fibrogenic TGF-β responses may benefit from cautious TGF-β inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos G Frangogiannis
- The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
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Azbazdar Y, Pera EM, De Robertis EM. Head organizer: Cerberus and IGF cooperate in brain induction in Xenopus embryos. Cells Dev 2023:203897. [PMID: 38109998 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdev.2023.203897] [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: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Neural induction by cell-cell signaling was discovered a century ago by the organizer transplantations of Spemann and Mangold in amphibians. Spemann later found that early dorsal blastopore lips induced heads and late organizers trunk-tail structures. Identifying region-specific organizer signals has been a driving force in the progress of animal biology. Head induction in the absence of trunk is designated archencephalic differentiation. Two specific head inducers, Cerberus and Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs), that induce archencephalic brain but not trunk-tail structures have been described previously. However, whether these two signals interact with each other had not been studied to date and was the purpose of the present investigation. It was found that Cerberus, a multivalent growth factor antagonist that inhibits Nodal, BMP and Wnt signals, strongly cooperated with IGF2, a growth factor that provides a positive signal through tyrosine kinase IGF receptors that activate MAPK and other pathways. The ectopic archencephalic structures induced by the combination of Cerberus and IGF2 are of higher frequency and larger than either one alone. They contain brain, a cyclopic eye and multiple olfactory placodes, without trace of trunk structures such as notochord or somites. A dominant-negative secreted IGF receptor 1 blocked Cerberus activity, indicating that endogenous IGF signals are required for ectopic brain formation. In a sensitized embryonic system, in which embryos were depleted of β-catenin, IGF2 did not by itself induce neural tissue while in combination with Cerberus it greatly enhanced formation of circular brain structures expressing the anterior markers Otx2 and Rx2a, but not spinal cord or notochord markers. The main conclusion of this work is that IGF provides a positive signal initially uniformly expressed throughout the embryo that potentiates the effect of an organizer-specific negative signal mediated by Cerberus. The results are discussed in the context of the history of neural induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yagmur Azbazdar
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 90095-1662, USA
| | - Edgar M Pera
- Vertebrate Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund Stem Cell Center, University of Lund, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Edward M De Robertis
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 90095-1662, USA.
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Kim JY, Hong N, Park S, Ham SW, Kim EJ, Kim SO, Jang J, Kim Y, Kim JK, Kim SC, Park JW, Kim H. Jagged1 intracellular domain/SMAD3 complex transcriptionally regulates TWIST1 to drive glioma invasion. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:822. [PMID: 38092725 PMCID: PMC10719344 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06356-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Jagged1 (JAG1) is a Notch ligand that correlates with tumor progression. Not limited to its function as a ligand, JAG1 can be cleaved, and its intracellular domain translocates to the nucleus, where it functions as a transcriptional cofactor. Previously, we showed that JAG1 intracellular domain (JICD1) forms a protein complex with DDX17/SMAD3/TGIF2. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying JICD1-mediated tumor aggressiveness remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that JICD1 enhances the invasive phenotypes of glioblastoma cells by transcriptionally activating epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes, especially TWIST1. The inhibition of TWIST1 reduced JICD1-driven tumor aggressiveness. Although SMAD3 is an important component of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling, the JICD1/SMAD3 transcriptional complex was shown to govern brain tumor invasion independent of TGF-β signaling. Moreover, JICD1-TWIST1-MMP2 and MMP9 axes were significantly correlated with clinical outcome of glioblastoma patients. Collectively, we identified the JICD1/SMAD3-TWIST1 axis as a novel inducer of invasive phenotypes in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Yun Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Nayoung Hong
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Sehyeon Park
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok Won Ham
- MEDIFIC Inc., Hwaseong-si, Gyeonggi-do, 18469, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Jung Kim
- MEDIFIC Inc., Hwaseong-si, Gyeonggi-do, 18469, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Ok Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Junseok Jang
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonji Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Kyum Kim
- MEDIFIC Inc., Hwaseong-si, Gyeonggi-do, 18469, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Chan Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Whi Park
- Department of Life Sciences, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyunggee Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
- Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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18
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Kattih B, Boeckling F, Shumliakivska M, Tombor L, Rasper T, Schmitz K, Hoffmann J, Nicin L, Abplanalp WT, Carstens DC, Arsalan M, Emrich F, Holubec T, Walther T, Puntmann VO, Nagel E, John D, Zeiher AM, Dimmeler S. Single-nuclear transcriptome profiling identifies persistent fibroblast activation in hypertrophic and failing human hearts of patients with longstanding disease. Cardiovasc Res 2023; 119:2550-2562. [PMID: 37648651 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvad140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Cardiac fibrosis drives the progression of heart failure in ischaemic and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Therefore, the development of specific anti-fibrotic treatment regimens to counteract cardiac fibrosis is of high clinical relevance. Hence, this study examined the presence of persistent fibroblast activation during longstanding human heart disease at a single-cell resolution to identify putative therapeutic targets to counteract pathological cardiac fibrosis in patients. METHODS AND RESULTS We used single-nuclei RNA sequencing with human tissues from two samples of one healthy donor, and five hypertrophic and two failing hearts. Unsupervised sub-clustering of 7110 nuclei led to the identification of 7 distinct fibroblast clusters. De-convolution of cardiac fibroblast heterogeneity revealed a distinct population of human cardiac fibroblasts with a molecular signature of persistent fibroblast activation and a transcriptional switch towards a pro-fibrotic extra-cellular matrix composition in patients with established cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. This sub-cluster was characterized by high expression of POSTN, RUNX1, CILP, and a target gene adipocyte enhancer-binding protein 1 (AEBP1) (all P < 0.001). Strikingly, elevated circulating AEBP1 blood level were also detected in a validation cohort of patients with confirmed cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (P < 0.01). Since endogenous AEBP1 expression was increased in patients with established cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure, we assessed the functional consequence of siRNA-mediated AEBP1 silencing in human cardiac fibroblasts. Indeed, AEBP1 silencing reduced proliferation, migration, and fibroblast contractile capacity and α-SMA gene expression, which is a hallmark of fibroblast activation (all P < 0.05). Mechanistically, the anti-fibrotic effects of AEBP1 silencing were linked to transforming growth factor-beta pathway modulation. CONCLUSION Together, this study identifies persistent fibroblast activation in patients with longstanding heart disease, which might be detected by circulating AEBP1 and therapeutically modulated by its targeted silencing in human cardiac fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Badder Kattih
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Felicitas Boeckling
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Mariana Shumliakivska
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Lukas Tombor
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Tina Rasper
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Katja Schmitz
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jedrzej Hoffmann
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Centre for Cardiovascular Imaging, Institute of Experimental and Translational Cardiovascular Imaging, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Luka Nicin
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Wesley T Abplanalp
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Daniel C Carstens
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Mani Arsalan
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Frankfurt 60590, Germany
| | - Fabian Emrich
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Frankfurt 60590, Germany
| | - Tomas Holubec
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Frankfurt 60590, Germany
| | - Thomas Walther
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Frankfurt 60590, Germany
| | - Valentina O Puntmann
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Centre for Cardiovascular Imaging, Institute of Experimental and Translational Cardiovascular Imaging, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Eike Nagel
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Centre for Cardiovascular Imaging, Institute of Experimental and Translational Cardiovascular Imaging, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - David John
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Andreas M Zeiher
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Stefanie Dimmeler
- Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Rhine-Main, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Ali W, Xiao W, Jacobs D, Kajdacsy-Balla A. Survival and Enrichment Analysis of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Genes in Bladder Urothelial Carcinoma. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1899. [PMID: 37895248 PMCID: PMC10606556 DOI: 10.3390/genes14101899] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The escalating prevalence of bladder cancer, particularly urothelial carcinoma, necessitates innovative approaches for prognosis and therapy. This study delves into the significance of genes related to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process inherently linked to carcinogenesis and comparatively better studied in other cancers. We examined 1184 EMT-related gene expression levels in bladder urothelial cancer cases through the TCGA dataset. Genes shown to be differentially expressed in relation to survival underwent further network and enrichment analysis to uncover how they might shape disease outcomes. Our in silico analysis revealed a subset of 32 genes, including those significantly represented in biological pathways such as VEGF signaling and bacterium response. In addition, these genes interact with genes involved in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. Additionally, some of those 32 genes have been linked to immunomodulators such as chemokines CCL15 and CCL18, as well as to various immune cell infiltrates. Our findings highlight the prognostic utility of various EMT-related genes and identify possible modulators of their effect on survival, allowing for further targeted wet lab research and possible therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleed Ali
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA; (W.X.); (D.J.)
| | - Weirui Xiao
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA; (W.X.); (D.J.)
| | - Daniel Jacobs
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA; (W.X.); (D.J.)
| | - Andre Kajdacsy-Balla
- Professor of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60607, USA;
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20
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Menezes R, Sherman L, Rameshwar P, Arinzeh TL. Scaffolds containing GAG-mimetic cellulose sulfate promote TGF-β interaction and MSC Chondrogenesis over native GAGs. J Biomed Mater Res A 2023; 111:1135-1150. [PMID: 36708060 PMCID: PMC10277227 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37496] [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: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Cartilage tissue engineering strategies seek to repair damaged tissue using approaches that include scaffolds containing components of the native extracellular matrix (ECM). Articular cartilage consists of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) which are known to sequester growth factors. In order to more closely mimic the native ECM, this study evaluated the chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), a promising cell source for cartilage regeneration, on fibrous scaffolds that contained the GAG-mimetic cellulose sulfate. The degree of sulfation was evaluated, examining partially sulfated cellulose (pSC) and fully sulfated cellulose (NaCS). Comparisons were made with scaffolds containing native GAGs (chondroitin sulfate A, chondroitin sulfate C and heparin). Transforming growth factor-beta3 (TGF-β3) sequestration, as measured by rate of association, was higher for sulfated cellulose-containing scaffolds as compared to native GAGs. In addition, TGF-β3 sequestration and retention over time was highest for NaCS-containing scaffolds. Sulfated cellulose-containing scaffolds loaded with TGF-β3 showed enhanced chondrogenesis as indicated by a higher Collagen Type II:I ratio over native GAGs. NaCS-containing scaffolds loaded with TGF-β3 had the highest expression of chondrogenic markers and a reduction of hypertrophic markers in dynamic loading conditions, which more closely mimic in vivo conditions. Studies also demonstrated that TGF-β3 mediated its effect through the Smad2/3 signaling pathway where the specificity of TGF-β receptor (TGF- βRI)-phosphorylated SMAD2/3 was verified with a receptor inhibitor. Therefore, studies demonstrate that scaffolds containing cellulose sulfate enhance TGF-β3-induced MSC chondrogenic differentiation and show promise for promoting cartilage tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roseline Menezes
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Lauren Sherman
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers University School of Medicine, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Pranela Rameshwar
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers University School of Medicine, Newark, New Jersey, USA
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Matsumoto Y, Fukui T, Horitani S, Tanimura Y, Suzuki R, Tomiyama T, Honzawa Y, Tahara T, Okazaki K, Naganuma M. A Short-Term Model of Colitis-Associated Colorectal Cancer That Suggests Initial Tumor Development and the Characteristics of Cancer Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11697. [PMID: 37511456 PMCID: PMC10380789 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411697] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying the transition from colitis-associated inflammation to carcinogenesis and the cell origin of cancer formation are still unclear. The azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) mouse model reproduces human colitis-associated colorectal cancer. To elucidate the mechanisms of cancer development and dynamics of the linker threonine-phosphorylated Smad2/3 (pSmad2/3L-Thr)-positive cells, we explored the early stages of colitis-associated colorectal cancer in AOM/DSS mice. The AOM/DSS mice were sacrificed at 4 to 6 weeks following AOM administration. To analyze the initial lesions, immunofluorescence staining for the following markers was performed: β-catenin, Ki67, CDK4, Sox9, Bmi1, cyclin D1, and pSmad2/3L-Thr. Micro-neoplastic lesions were flat and unrecognizable, and the uni-cryptal ones were either open to the surfaces or hidden within the mucosae. These neoplastic cells overexpressed β-catenin, Sox9, Ki67, and Cyclin D1 and had large basophilic nuclei in the immature atypical cells. In both the lesions, pSmad2/3L-Thr-positive cells were scattered and showed immunohistochemical co-localization with β-catenin, CDK4, and Bmi1 but never with Ki67. More β-catenin-positive neoplastic cells of both lesions were detected at the top compared to the base or center of the mucosae. We confirmed initial lesions in the colitis-associated colorectal cancer model mice and observed results that suggest that pSmad2/3L-Thr is a biomarker for tissue stem cells and cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasushi Matsumoto
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Third Department of Internal Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata 573-1010, Japan
| | - Toshiro Fukui
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Third Department of Internal Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata 573-1010, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Horitani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Third Department of Internal Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata 573-1010, Japan
| | - Yuji Tanimura
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Third Department of Internal Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata 573-1010, Japan
| | - Ryo Suzuki
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Third Department of Internal Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata 573-1010, Japan
| | - Takashi Tomiyama
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Third Department of Internal Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata 573-1010, Japan
| | - Yusuke Honzawa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Third Department of Internal Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata 573-1010, Japan
| | - Tomomitsu Tahara
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Third Department of Internal Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata 573-1010, Japan
| | - Kazuichi Okazaki
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Third Department of Internal Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata 573-1010, Japan
| | - Makoto Naganuma
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Third Department of Internal Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata 573-1010, Japan
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22
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Shim MS, Dixon A, Nettesheim A, Perkumas KM, Stamer WD, Sun Y, Liton PB. Shear stress induces autophagy in Schlemm's canal cells via primary cilia-mediated SMAD2/3 signaling pathway. AUTOPHAGY REPORTS 2023; 2:2236519. [PMID: 37637387 PMCID: PMC10448710 DOI: 10.1080/27694127.2023.2236519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
The Schlemm's canal (SC) is a circular, lymphatic-like vessel located at the limbus of the eye that participates in the regulation of aqueous humor drainage to control intraocular pressure (IOP). Circumferential flow of aqueous humor within the SC lumen generates shear stress, which regulates SC cell behaviour. Using biochemical analysis and real-time live cell imaging techniques, we have investigated the activation of autophagy in SC cells by shear stress. We report, for the first time, the primary cilium (PC)-dependent activation of autophagy in SC cells in response to shear stress. Moreover, we identified PC-dependent shear stress-induced autophagy to be positively regulated by phosphorylation of SMAD2 in its linker and C-terminal regions. Additionally, SMAD2/3 signaling was found to transcriptionally activate LC3B, ATG5 and ATG7 in SC cells. Intriguingly, concomitant to SMAD2-dependent activation of autophagy, we also report here the activation of mTOR pathway, a classical autophagy inhibitor, in SC cells by shear stress. mTOR activation was found to also be dependent on the PC. Moreover, pharmacological inhibition of class I PI3K increased phosphorylation of SMAD2 at the linker and activated autophagy. Together, our data indicates an interplay between PI3K and SMAD2/3 signaling pathways in the regulation of PC-dependent shear stress-induced autophagy in SC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myoung Sup Shim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Angela Dixon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - April Nettesheim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kristin M. Perkumas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - W. Daniel Stamer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Yang Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Paloma B. Liton
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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23
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Barcellos-Hoff MH, Gulley JL. Molecular Pathways and Mechanisms of TGFβ in Cancer Therapy. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:2025-2033. [PMID: 36598437 PMCID: PMC10238558 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-3750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Even though the number of agents that inhibit TGFβ being tested in patients with cancer has grown substantially, clinical benefit from TGFβ inhibition has not yet been achieved. The myriad mechanisms in which TGFβ is protumorigenic may be a key obstacle to its effective deployment; cancer cells frequently employ TGFβ-regulated programs that engender plasticity, enable a permissive tumor microenvironment, and profoundly suppress immune recognition, which is the target of most current early-phase trials of TGFβ inhibitors. Here we discuss the implications of a less well-recognized aspect of TGFβ biology regulating DNA repair that mediates responses to radiation and chemotherapy. In cancers that are TGFβ signaling competent, TGFβ promotes effective DNA repair and suppresses error-prone repair, thus conferring resistance to genotoxic therapies and limiting tumor control. Cancers in which TGFβ signaling is intrinsically compromised are more responsive to standard genotoxic therapy. Recognition that TGFβ is a key moderator of both DNA repair and immunosuppression might be used to synergize combinations of genotoxic therapy and immunotherapy to benefit patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Helen Barcellos-Hoff
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - James L. Gulley
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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24
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Turati M, Mousset A, Issa N, Turtoi A, Ronca R. TGF-β mediated drug resistance in solid cancer. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2023; 71-72:54-65. [PMID: 37100675 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2023.04.001] [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: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) is an important signaling molecule which is expressed in three different isoforms in mammals (i.e. TGF-β1, -β2, and -β3). The interaction between TGF-β and its receptor triggers several pathways, which are classified into SMAD-dependent (canonical) and SMAD-independent (non-canonical) signaling, whose activation/transduction is finely regulated by several mechanisms. TGF-β is involved in many physiological and pathological processes, assuming a dualistic role in cancer progression depending on tumor stage. Indeed, TGF-β inhibits cell proliferation in early-stage tumor cells, while it promotes cancer progression and invasion in advanced tumors, where high levels of TGF-β have been reported in both tumor and stromal cells. In particular, TGF-β signaling has been found to be strongly activated in cancers after treatment with chemotherapeutic agents and radiotherapy, resulting in the onset of drug resistance conditions. In this review we provide an up-to-date description of several mechanisms involved in TGF-β-mediated drug resistance, and we report different strategies that are currently under development in order to target TGF-β pathway and increase tumor sensitivity to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Turati
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alexandra Mousset
- Tumor Microenvironment and Resistance to Treatment Lab, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERMU1194, Institut du Cancer de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, France
| | - Nervana Issa
- Tumor Microenvironment and Resistance to Treatment Lab, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERMU1194, Institut du Cancer de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, France
| | - Andrei Turtoi
- Tumor Microenvironment and Resistance to Treatment Lab, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERMU1194, Institut du Cancer de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, France.
| | - Roberto Ronca
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
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25
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Wong HH, Seet SH, Bascom CC, Isfort RJ, Bard F. Tonic repression of Collagen I by the Bradykinin receptor 2 in skin fibroblasts. Matrix Biol 2023; 118:110-128. [PMID: 36924903 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.03.004] [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: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Imbalance of collagen I expression results in severe pathologies. Apart from activation by the TGFβ-receptor/Smad pathway, control of collagen I expression remains poorly understood. Here, we used human dermal fibroblasts expressing a mCherry fluorescent protein driven by endogenous COL1A1 promoter to functionally screen the kinome and phosphatome. We identify 8 negative regulators, revealing that collagen is under tonic repression. The cell surface receptor BDKRB2 represses collagen I and other pro-fibrotic genes. Interestingly, it also promotes other basal membrane ECM genes. This function is independent of the natural ligand, bradykinin, and of SMAD2/3 factors, instead requiring constant ERK1/2 repression. TGFβ stimulation induces rapid BDKRB2 transcriptional downregulation. Human fibrotic fibroblasts have reduced BDKRB2 levels and enhancing its expression in keloid fibroblasts represses COL1A1. We propose that tonic signalling by BDKRB2 prevents collagen overproduction in skin fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Hui Wong
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore 138673
| | - Sze Hwee Seet
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore 138673
| | - Charles C Bascom
- The Procter & Gamble Company, 8700 Mason-Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45040, USA
| | - Robert J Isfort
- The Procter & Gamble Company, 8700 Mason-Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45040, USA
| | - Frederic Bard
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore 138673; Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, CRCM, Aix Marseille Université, Inserm, CNRS, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Equipe Leader Fondation ARC 2021, 13009, Marseille, France..
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26
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Bohn S, Hexemer L, Huang Z, Strohmaier L, Lenhardt S, Legewie S, Loewer A. State- and stimulus-specific dynamics of SMAD signaling determine fate decisions in individual cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2210891120. [PMID: 36857347 PMCID: PMC10013741 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2210891120] [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: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
SMAD-mediated signaling regulates apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition to safeguard tissue homeostasis. However, it remains elusive how the relatively simple pathway can determine such a broad range of cell fate decisions and how it differentiates between varying ligands. Here, we systematically investigate how SMAD-mediated responses are modulated by various ligands of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) family and compare these ligand responses in quiescent and proliferating MCF10A cells. We find that the nature of the phenotypic response is mainly determined by the proliferation status, with migration and cell cycle arrest being dominant in proliferating cells for all tested TGFβ family ligands, whereas cell death is the major outcome in quiescent cells. In both quiescent and proliferating cells, the identity of the ligand modulates the strength of the phenotypic response proportional to the dynamics of induced SMAD nuclear-to-cytoplasmic translocation and, as a consequence, the corresponding gene expression changes. Interestingly, the proliferation state of a cell has little impact on the set of genes induced by SMAD signaling; instead, it modulates the relative cellular sensitivity to TGFβ superfamily members. Taken together, diversity of SMAD-mediated responses is mediated by differing cellular states, which determine ligand sensitivity and phenotypic effects, while the pathway itself merely serves as a quantitative relay from the cell membrane to the nucleus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Bohn
- Department of Biology, Technical University Darmstadt, 64287Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Lorenz Hexemer
- Department of Systems Biology, Institute for Biomedical Genetics, University of Stuttgart, 70569Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Zixin Huang
- Department of Biology, Technical University Darmstadt, 64287Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Laura Strohmaier
- Department of Systems Biology, Institute for Biomedical Genetics, University of Stuttgart, 70569Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Sonja Lenhardt
- Department of Biology, Technical University Darmstadt, 64287Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Stefan Legewie
- Department of Systems Biology, Institute for Biomedical Genetics, University of Stuttgart, 70569Stuttgart, Germany
- Stuttgart Research Center for Systems Biology, University of Stuttgart, 70569Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Alexander Loewer
- Department of Biology, Technical University Darmstadt, 64287Darmstadt, Germany
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27
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Geiger F, Zeitlmayr S, Staab-Weijnitz CA, Rajan S, Breit A, Gudermann T, Dietrich A. An Inhibitory Function of TRPA1 Channels in TGF-β1-driven Fibroblast-to-Myofibroblast Differentiation. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2023; 68:314-325. [PMID: 36378826 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2022-0159oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
TRPA1 (transient receptor potential ankyrin 1) is a nonselective Ca2+-permeable cation channel, which was originally cloned from human lung fibroblasts (HLFs). TRPA1-mediated Ca2+ entry is evoked by exposure to several chemicals, including allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), and a protective effect of TRPA1 activation in the development of cardiac fibrosis has been proposed. Yet the function of TRPA1 in TGF-β1 (transforming growth factor-β1)-driven fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation and the development of pulmonary fibrosis remains elusive. TRPA1 expression and function were analyzed in cultured primary HLFs, and mRNA concentrations were significantly reduced after adding TGF-β1. Expression of genes encoding fibrosis markers (e.g., ACTA2, SERPINE1 [plasminogen activator inhibitor 1], FN1 [fibronectin], COL1A1 [type I collagen]) was increased after siRNA-mediated downregulation of TRPA1 mRNA in HLFs. Moreover, AITC-induced Ca2+ entry in HLFs was decreased after TGF-β1 treatment and by application of TRPA1 siRNAs, while AITC treatment alone did not reduce cell viability or enhance apoptosis. Most interestingly, AITC-induced TRPA1 activation augmented ERK1/2 (extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2) and SMAD2 linker phosphorylation, which might inhibit TGF-β-receptor signaling. Our results suggest an inhibitory function of TRPA1 channels in TGF-β1-driven fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation. Therefore, activation of TRPA1 channels might be protective during the development of pulmonary fibrosis in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne Geiger
- Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany, and
| | - Sarah Zeitlmayr
- Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany, and
| | - Claudia A Staab-Weijnitz
- Comprehensive Pneumology Center with the CPC-M BioArchive and Institute of Lung Health and Immunity, Helmholtz Center Munich, Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Munich, Germany
| | - Suhasini Rajan
- Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany, and
| | - Andreas Breit
- Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany, and
| | - Thomas Gudermann
- Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany, and
| | - Alexander Dietrich
- Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany, and
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28
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Wang K, Wen D, Xu X, Zhao R, Jiang F, Yuan S, Zhang Y, Gao Y, Li Q. Extracellular matrix stiffness-The central cue for skin fibrosis. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1132353. [PMID: 36968277 PMCID: PMC10031116 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1132353] [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: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin fibrosis is a physiopathological process featuring the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM), which is the main architecture that provides structural support and constitutes the microenvironment for various cellular behaviors. Recently, increasing interest has been drawn to the relationship between the mechanical properties of the ECM and the initiation and modulation of skin fibrosis, with the engagement of a complex network of signaling pathways, the activation of mechanosensitive proteins, and changes in immunoregulation and metabolism. Simultaneous with the progression of skin fibrosis, the stiffness of ECM increases, which in turn perturbs mechanical and humoral homeostasis to drive cell fate toward an outcome that maintains and enhances the fibrosis process, thus forming a pro-fibrotic "positive feedback loop". In this review, we highlighted the central role of the ECM and its dynamic changes at both the molecular and cellular levels in skin fibrosis. We paid special attention to signaling pathways regulated by mechanical cues in ECM remodeling. We also systematically summarized antifibrotic interventions targeting the ECM, hopefully enlightening new strategies for fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Dongsheng Wen
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuewen Xu
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Rui Zhao
- West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Feipeng Jiang
- West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shengqin Yuan
- School of Public Administration, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yifan Zhang, ; Ya Gao, ; Qingfeng Li,
| | - Ya Gao
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yifan Zhang, ; Ya Gao, ; Qingfeng Li,
| | - Qingfeng Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yifan Zhang, ; Ya Gao, ; Qingfeng Li,
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29
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El-Gazzar A, Kang H, Fratzl-Zelman N, Webb E, Barnes AM, Jovanovic M, Mehta SG, Datta V, Saraff V, Dale RK, Rauch F, Marini JC, Högler W. SMAD3 mutation in LDS3 causes bone fragility by impairing the TGF-β pathway and enhancing osteoclastogenesis. Bone Rep 2022; 17:101603. [PMID: 35874167 PMCID: PMC9301510 DOI: 10.1016/j.bonr.2022.101603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss-of-function mutations in SMAD3 cause Loeys-Dietz syndrome type 3 (LDS3), a rare autosomal-dominant connective tissue disorder characterized by vascular pathology and skeletal abnormalities. Dysregulation of TGF-β/SMAD signaling is associated with abnormal skeletal features and bone fragility. To date, histomorphometric and ultrastructural characteristics of bone with SMAD3 mutations have not been reported in humans and the exact mechanism by which SMAD3 mutations cause the LDS3 phenotype is poorly understood. Here, we investigated bone histomorphometry and matrix mineralization in human bone with a SMAD3 mutation and explored the associated cellular defect in the TGF-β/SMAD pathway in vitro. The index patient had recurrent fractures, mild facial dysmorphism, arachnodactyly, pectus excavatum, chest asymmetry and kyphoscoliosis. Bone histomorphometry revealed markedly reduced cortical thickness (−68 %), trabecular thickness (−32 %), bone formation rate (−50 %) and delayed mineralization. Quantitative backscattered electron imaging demonstrated undermineralized bone matrix with increased heterogeneity in mineralization. The patient's SMAD3 mutation (c.200 T > G; p.I67S), when expressed from plasmid vectors in HEK293 cells, showed reduced phosphorylation and transcription factor activity compared to normal control and SMAD3 (p.S264Y), a gain-of-function mutation, somatic mosaicism of which causes melorheostosis. Transfection study of the patients' SMAD3 (p.I67S) mutation displayed lower luciferase reporter activity than normal SMAD3 and reduced expression of TGF-β signaling target genes. Patient fibroblasts also demonstrated impaired SMAD3 protein stability. Osteoclastogenic differentiation significantly increased and osteoclast-associated genes, including ACP5 (encoding TRAP), ATP6V0D2, and DCSTAMP, were up-regulated in CD14 (+) peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with the SMAD3 (p.I67S) mutation. Upregulation of osteoclastogenic genes was associated with decreased expression of TGF-β signaling target genes. We conclude that bone with the SMAD3 (p.I67S) mutation features reduced bone formation, and our functional studies revealed decreased SMAD3 activation and protein stability as well as increased osteoclastogenesis. These findings enhance our understanding of the pathophysiology of LDS3 caused by SMAD3 mutations. Emerging therapies targeting in the TGF-β/SMAD pathway also raise hope for treatment of LDS3. Increased bone fragility Low bone matrix mineralization SMAD3 (p.I67S) decreased TGF-b signaling and SMAD3 activity. SMAD3 (p.I67S) reduced SMAD3 protein stability. SMAD3 (p.I67S) mediated osteoclastogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed El-Gazzar
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Linz, Austria
| | - Heeseog Kang
- Section on Heritable Disorders of Bone and Extracellular Matrix, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nadja Fratzl-Zelman
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute of Osteology at Hanusch Hospital of OEGK and AUVA Trauma Centre Meidling, 1 Medical Department Hanusch Hospital, Vienna, Austria.,Vienna Bone and Growth Center, Vienna, Austria
| | - Emma Webb
- Department of Paediatrics, Jenny Lind Children's Hospital, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK.,Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Aileen M Barnes
- Section on Heritable Disorders of Bone and Extracellular Matrix, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Milena Jovanovic
- Section on Heritable Disorders of Bone and Extracellular Matrix, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sarju G Mehta
- East Anglian Regional Medical Genetics Service, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Vipan Datta
- Department of Paediatrics, Jenny Lind Children's Hospital, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK
| | - Vrinda Saraff
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Birmingham Women's and Children's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ryan K Dale
- Bioinformatics and Scientific Programming Core, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Frank Rauch
- Shriners Hospital for Children-Canada, Montreal, QC H4A 0A9, Canada.,Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0C7, Canada
| | - Joan C Marini
- Section on Heritable Disorders of Bone and Extracellular Matrix, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Wolfgang Högler
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Linz, Austria.,Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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30
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TGF-β Inhibitors for Therapeutic Management of Kidney Fibrosis. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15121485. [PMID: 36558936 PMCID: PMC9783223 DOI: 10.3390/ph15121485] [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: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Kidney fibrosis is a common pathophysiological mechanism of chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression caused by several underlying kidney diseases. Among various contributors to kidney fibrosis, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is the major factor driving fibrosis. TGF-β1 exerts its profibrotic attributes via the activation of canonical and non-canonical signaling pathways, which induce proliferation and activation of myofibroblasts and subsequent accumulation of extracellular matrix. Over the past few decades, studies have determined the TGF-β1 signaling pathway inhibitors and evaluated whether they could ameliorate the progression of CKD by hindering kidney fibrosis. However, therapeutic strategies that block TGF-β1 signaling have usually demonstrated unsatisfactory results. Herein, we discuss the therapeutic concepts of the TGF-β1 signaling pathway and its inhibitors and review the current state of the art regarding regarding TGF-β1 inhibitors in CKD management.
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31
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Anwar S, Malik JA, Ahmed S, Kameshwar VA, Alanazi J, Alamri A, Ahemad N. Can Natural Products Targeting EMT Serve as the Future Anticancer Therapeutics? MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27227668. [PMID: 36431766 PMCID: PMC9698579 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27227668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is the leading cause of death and has remained a big challenge for the scientific community. Because of the growing concerns, new therapeutic regimens are highly demanded to decrease the global burden. Despite advancements in chemotherapy, drug resistance is still a major hurdle to successful treatment. The primary challenge should be identifying and developing appropriate therapeutics for cancer patients to improve their survival. Multiple pathways are dysregulated in cancers, including disturbance in cellular metabolism, cell cycle, apoptosis, or epigenetic alterations. Over the last two decades, natural products have been a major research interest due to their therapeutic potential in various ailments. Natural compounds seem to be an alternative option for cancer management. Natural substances derived from plants and marine sources have been shown to have anti-cancer activity in preclinical settings. They might be proved as a sword to kill cancerous cells. The present review attempted to consolidate the available information on natural compounds derived from plants and marine sources and their anti-cancer potential underlying EMT mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirajudheen Anwar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail 81422, Saudi Arabia
- Molecular Diagnostics Unit and Personalized Treatment, University of Hail, Hail 81422, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence:
| | - Jonaid Ahmad Malik
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781101, Assam, India
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Ropar, Rupnagar 140001, Punjab, India
| | - Sakeel Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad 382355, Gujarat, India
| | - Verma Abhishek Kameshwar
- Department of Pharmacology, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kochi 641112, Kerala, India
| | - Jowaher Alanazi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail 81422, Saudi Arabia
- Molecular Diagnostics Unit and Personalized Treatment, University of Hail, Hail 81422, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulwahab Alamri
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail 81422, Saudi Arabia
- Molecular Diagnostics Unit and Personalized Treatment, University of Hail, Hail 81422, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nafees Ahemad
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya 47500, Selangor DE, Malaysia
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Tang J, Liu F, Cooper ME, Chai Z. Renal fibrosis as a hallmark of diabetic kidney disease: Potential role of targeting transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and related molecules. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:721-738. [PMID: 36217308 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2133698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the most common cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) worldwide. Currently, there is no effective treatment to completely prevent DKD progression to ESRD. Renal fibrosis and inflammation are the major pathological features of DKD, being pursued as potential therapeutic targets for DKD. AREAS COVERED Inflammation and renal fibrosis are involved in the pathogenesis of DKD. Anti-inflammatory drugs have been developed to combat DKD but without efficacy demonstrated. Thus, we have focused on the mechanisms of TGF-β-induced renal fibrosis in DKD, as well as discussing the important molecules influencing the TGF-β signaling pathway and their potential development into new pharmacotherapies, rather than targeting the ligand TGF-β and/or its receptors, such options include Smads, microRNAs, histone deacetylases, connective tissue growth factor, bone morphogenetic protein 7, hepatocyte growth factor, and cell division autoantigen 1. EXPERT OPINION TGF-β is a critical driver of renal fibrosis in DKD. Molecules that modulate TGF-β signaling rather than TGF-β itself are potentially superior targets to safely combat DKD. A comprehensive elucidation of the pathogenesis of DKD is important, which requires a better model system and access to clinical samples via collaboration between basic and clinical researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Tang
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory of Diabetic Kidney Disease, Centre of Diabetes and Metabolism Research, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mark E Cooper
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Zhonglin Chai
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Wei T, Richter GT, Zhang H, Sun RW, Smith CH, Strub GM. Extracranial arteriovenous malformations demonstrate dysregulated TGF-β/BMP signaling and increased circulating TGF-β1. Sci Rep 2022; 12:16612. [PMID: 36198763 PMCID: PMC9534897 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-21217-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracranial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are characterized by anomalous arterial-to-venous connections, aberrant angiogenesis, local inflammation and hypoxia, and disorganized histological architecture; however, the precise molecular perturbations leading to this phenotype remain elusive. We hypothesized that extracranial AVM tissue would demonstrate deregulation of the TGF-β/BMP signaling pathway, which may serve as a potential target in the development of molecular-based therapies for AVMs. AVM tissue was harvested during resection from 10 patients with AVMs and compared to control tissue. Blood was collected from 14 AVM patients and 10 patients without AVMs as controls. Expression of TGF-β/BMP pathway components was analyzed using RT-PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Circulating levels of TGF-β1 were analyzed by ELISA. Paired t tests were utilized to perform statistical analysis. The mRNA levels of TGF-β1, ALK1, Endoglin (ENG), Smad6, Smad7, and Smad8 were significantly elevated in AVM tissue when compared to controls. Protein levels of TGF-β1 and Smad3 were elevated in AVM tissue while protein levels of BMP-9, ALK1, Smad1, Smad6, and Smad8 were significantly decreased in AVMs. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated increased TGF-β1 in the perivascular cells of AVMs compared to normal controls, and circulating levels of TGF-β1 were significantly higher in AVM patients. Patients with AVMs demonstrate aberrant TGF-β/BMP expression in AVM tissue and blood compared to controls. Targeting aberrantly expressed components of the TGF-β/BMP pathway in extracranial AVMs may be a viable approach in the development of novel molecular therapies, and monitoring circulating TGF-β1 levels may be a useful indicator of treatment success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Wei
- Arkansas Children's Research Institute, 13 Children's Way, Little Rock, AR, 72202, USA
| | - Gresham T Richter
- Arkansas Children's Research Institute, 13 Children's Way, Little Rock, AR, 72202, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Haihong Zhang
- Arkansas Children's Research Institute, 13 Children's Way, Little Rock, AR, 72202, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Ravi W Sun
- Arkansas Children's Research Institute, 13 Children's Way, Little Rock, AR, 72202, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Conor H Smith
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Graham M Strub
- Arkansas Children's Research Institute, 13 Children's Way, Little Rock, AR, 72202, USA. .,Department of Otolaryngology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA.
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Saitoh M. Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition by Synergy between Transforming Growth Factor-β and Growth Factors in Cancer Progression. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12092127. [PMID: 36140527 PMCID: PMC9497767 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12092127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a crucial role in appropriate embryonic development, as well as wound healing, organ fibrosis, and cancer progression. During cancer progression, EMT is associated with the invasion, metastasis, and generation of circulating tumor cells and cancer stem cells, as well as resistance to chemo- and radiation therapy. EMT is induced by several transcription factors, known as EMT transcription factors (EMT-TFs). In nearly all cases, EMT-TFs appear to be regulated by growth factors or cytokines and extracellular matrix components. Among these factors, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β acts as the key mediator for EMT during physiological and pathological processes. TGF-β can initiate and maintain EMT by activating intracellular/intercellular signaling pathways and transcriptional factors. Recent studies have provided new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying sustained EMT in aggressive cancer cells, EMT induced by TGF-β, and crosstalk between TGF-β and growth factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masao Saitoh
- Center for Medical Education and Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo-City, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan
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Sun C, Tian X, Jia Y, Yang M, Li Y, Fernig DG. Functions of exogenous FGF signals in regulation of fibroblast to myofibroblast differentiation and extracellular matrix protein expression. Open Biol 2022; 12:210356. [PMID: 36102060 PMCID: PMC9471990 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.210356] [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] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibroblasts are widely distributed cells found in most tissues and upon tissue injury, they are able to differentiate into myofibroblasts, which express abundant extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Overexpression and unordered organization of ECM proteins cause tissue fibrosis in damaged tissue. Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family proteins are well known to promote angiogenesis and tissue repair, but their activities in fibroblast differentiation and fibrosis have not been systematically reviewed. Here we summarize the effects of FGFs in fibroblast to myofibroblast differentiation and ECM protein expression and discuss the underlying potential regulatory mechanisms, to provide a basis for the clinical application of recombinant FGF protein drugs in treatment of tissue damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changye Sun
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangqin Tian
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yangyang Jia
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingming Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, UK
| | - David G Fernig
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, UK
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Lind T, Melo FR, Gustafson AM, Sundqvist A, Zhao XO, Moustakas A, Melhus H, Pejler G. Mast Cell Chymase Has a Negative Impact on Human Osteoblasts. Matrix Biol 2022; 112:1-19. [PMID: 35908613 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2022.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Mast cells have been linked to osteoporosis and bone fractures, and in a previous study we found that mice lacking a major mast cell protease, chymase, develop increased diaphyseal bone mass. These findings introduce the possibility that mast cell chymase can regulate bone formation, but the underlying mechanism(s) has not previously been investigated. Here we hypothesized that chymase might exert such effects through a direct negative impact on osteoblasts, i.e., the main bone-building cells. Indeed, we show that chymase has a distinct impact on human primary osteoblasts. Firstly, chymase was shown to have pronounced effects on the morphological features of osteoblasts, including extensive cell contraction and actin reorganization. Chymase also caused a profound reduction in the output of collagen from the osteoblasts, and was shown to degrade osteoblast-secreted fibronectin and to activate pro-matrix metallopeptidase-2 released by the osteoblasts. Further, chymase was shown to have a preferential impact on the gene expression, protein output and phosphorylation status of TGFβ-associated signaling molecules. A transcriptomic analysis was conducted and revealed a significant effect of chymase on several genes of importance for bone metabolism, including a reduction in the expression of osteoprotegerin, which was confirmed at the protein level. Finally, we show that chymase interacts with human osteoblasts and is taken up by the cells. Altogether, the present findings provide a functional link between mast cell chymase and osteoblast function, and can form the basis for a further evaluation of chymase as a potential target for intervention in metabolic bone diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Lind
- Uppsala University Hospital, Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Fabio Rabelo Melo
- Uppsala University, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ann-Marie Gustafson
- Uppsala University Hospital, Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology, Uppsala, Sweden; Uppsala University, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anders Sundqvist
- Uppsala University, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Xinran O Zhao
- Uppsala University, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Aristidis Moustakas
- Uppsala University, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Håkan Melhus
- Uppsala University Hospital, Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Pejler
- Uppsala University, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala, Sweden
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Evaluation of CRISPR/Cas9 mediated TGIF gene editing to inhibit corneal fibrosis in vitro. Exp Eye Res 2022; 220:109113. [PMID: 35588782 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109113] [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: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Corneal wound healing is influenced by many factors including transcriptional co-repressors and co-activators. Interactions of co-activators and co-repressors with Smads influence mechanistic loop facilitating transcription of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), a key profibrotic gene, in corneal repair. The role of a transcriptional repressor, 5'TG3'-interacting factor (TGIF), in the regulation of α-SMA and myofibroblast formation in the cornea was shown previously by our group. This study tested a hypothesis if TGIF1 gene editing via CRISPR/Cas9 can ease myofibroblast formation in the cornea using an in vitro model. Primary human corneal stromal fibroblasts (hCSFs) generated from donor corneas received gene-editing plasmid facilitating loss (CRISPR/Cas9 knockout) or gain (CRISPR activation) of TGIF function by UltraCruz transfection reagent. Phase-contrast microscopy, immunoblotting, immunocytochemistry and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were used to measure levels of myofibroblast profibrotic genes (α-SMA, fibronectin, Collagen-I, and Collagen-IV) in hCSFs lacking or overexpressing TGIF1 after growing them in± transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-β1) under serum-free conditions. The CRISPR-assisted TGIF1 activation (gain of function) in hCSFs demonstrated significantly decreased myofibroblast formation and messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and protein levels of profibrotic genes. Conversely, CRISPR/Cas9-assisted TGIF knockdown (loss of function) in hCSFs demonstrated no significant change in the levels of myofibroblast formation or profibrotic genes under similar conditions. These results suggest that TGIF gene-editing approach can be employed to modulate the transcriptional activity of α-SMA in controlling pathological and promoting physiological wound healing in an injured cornea.
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Oncogenic RAS sensitizes cells to drug-induced replication stress via transcriptional silencing of P53. Oncogene 2022; 41:2719-2733. [PMID: 35393546 PMCID: PMC9076537 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02291-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cells often experience high basal levels of DNA replication stress (RS), for example due to hyperactivation of oncoproteins like MYC or RAS. Therefore, cancer cells are considered to be sensitive to drugs that exacerbate the level of RS or block the intra S-phase checkpoint. Consequently, RS-inducing drugs including ATR and CHK1 inhibitors are used or evaluated as anti-cancer therapies. However, drug resistance and lack of biomarkers predicting therapeutic efficacy limit efficient use. This raises the question what determines sensitivity of individual cancer cells to RS. Here, we report that oncogenic RAS does not only enhance the sensitivity to ATR/CHK1 inhibitors by directly causing RS. Instead, we observed that HRASG12V dampens the activation of the P53-dependent transcriptional response to drug-induced RS, which in turn confers sensitivity to RS. We demonstrate that inducible expression of HRASG12V sensitized cells to ATR and CHK1 inhibitors. Using RNA-sequencing of FACS-sorted cells we discovered that P53 signaling is the sole transcriptional response to RS. However, oncogenic RAS attenuates the transcription of P53 and TGF-β pathway components which consequently dampens P53 target gene expression. Accordingly, live cell imaging showed that HRASG12V exacerbates RS in S/G2-phase, which could be rescued by stabilization of P53. Thus, our results demonstrate that transcriptional control of P53 target genes is the prime determinant in the response to ATR/CHK1 inhibitors and show that hyperactivation of the MAPK pathway impedes this response. Our findings suggest that the level of oncogenic MAPK signaling could predict sensitivity to intra-S-phase checkpoint inhibition in cancers with intact P53.
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Yang MH, Jung SH, Um JY, Kumar AP, Sethi G, Ahn KS. Daidzin targets epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition process by attenuating manganese superoxide dismutase expression and PI3K/Akt/mTOR activation in tumor cells. Life Sci 2022; 295:120395. [PMID: 35181309 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a process during which epithelial cells lose their polarity and gain invasive properties to transform into mesenchymal cells. A few recent studies have reported that manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) can effectively modulate EMT phenotype by influencing cellular redox environment via altering the intracellular ratio between O2- and H2O2. Daidzin (DDZ), a naturally occurring isoflavone isolated from Pueraria lobate (Fabaceae), has numerous pharmacologic effects including anti-cholesterol, anti-angiocardiopathy, anti-cancer. However, the potential inhibitory impact of DDZ on cancer metastasis and specifically on the EMT process has not been evaluated. We aimed to evaluate the possible relationship between MnSOD and EMT as well as influence of DDZ on these two processes in colon and prostate carcinoma cells. MAIN METHODS Cell viability was measured by MTT and real time cell analysis (RTCA) assay. Protein expression level of EMT markers and Akt/mTOR/PI3K signaling pathway were evaluated by Western blot analysis. Expression of EMT markers in cells was observed by immunocytochemistry. Cell invasion and migrations were evaluated by wound healing assay and Boyden chamber assay. KEY FINDINGS DDZ can block EMT accompanied with down-regulation of MnSOD, fibronectin, vimentin, MMP-9, MMP-2, N-cadherin, twist, and Snail, and up-regulation of occludin and E-cadherin in both unstimulated and TGFβ-induced cells. In addition, DDZ exposure also attenuated cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis by reversing the EMT process in SNU-C2A, DU145, and PC-3 cells. DDZ treatment also modulated activation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling cascades in DU145 cells. Moreover, an overexpression of MnSOD or silencing of MnSOD expression modulated EMT-related proteins, PI3K/Akt/mTOR activation and invasive activity. SIGNIFICANCE This is first finding on the DDZ in regulating MnSOD and EMT process by targeting PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in both colorectal and prostate cancer cell lines. Our data indicated that DDZ might act as a potent suppressor of EMT by affecting MnSOD expression in tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Hee Yang
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 24 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; KHU-KIST Department of Converging Science and Technology, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Hoon Jung
- KHU-KIST Department of Converging Science and Technology, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Young Um
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 24 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore; Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore.
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 24 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea; KHU-KIST Department of Converging Science and Technology, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea.
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Brown MA, Ried T. Shifting the Focus of Signaling Abnormalities in Colon Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:784. [PMID: 35159051 PMCID: PMC8834070 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Colon cancer tumorigenesis occurs incrementally. The process involves the acquisition of mutations which typically follow an established pattern: activation of WNT signaling, activation of RAS signaling, and inhibition of TGF-β signaling. This arrangement recapitulates, to some degree, the stem cell niche of the intestinal epithelium, which maintains WNT and EGF activity while suppressing TGF-β. The resemblance between the intestinal stem cell environment and colon cancer suggests that the concerted activity of these pathways generates and maintains a potent growth-inducing stimulus. However, each pathway has a myriad of downstream targets, making it difficult to identify which aspects of these pathways are drivers. To address this, we utilize the cell cycle, the ultimate regulator of cell proliferation, as a foundation for cross-pathway integration. We attempt to generate an overview of colon cancer signaling patterns by integrating the major colon cancer signaling pathways in the context of cell replication, specifically, the entrance from G1 into S-phase.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas Ried
- Genetics Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA;
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Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) isoforms are upregulated and activated in myocardial diseases and have an important role in cardiac repair and remodelling, regulating the phenotype and function of cardiomyocytes, fibroblasts, immune cells and vascular cells. Cardiac injury triggers the generation of bioactive TGFβ from latent stores, through mechanisms involving proteases, integrins and specialized extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Activated TGFβ signals through the SMAD intracellular effectors or through non-SMAD cascades. In the infarcted heart, the anti-inflammatory and fibroblast-activating actions of TGFβ have an important role in repair; however, excessive or prolonged TGFβ signalling accentuates adverse remodelling, contributing to cardiac dysfunction. Cardiac pressure overload also activates TGFβ cascades, which initially can have a protective role, promoting an ECM-preserving phenotype in fibroblasts and preventing the generation of injurious, pro-inflammatory ECM fragments. However, prolonged and overactive TGFβ signalling in pressure-overloaded cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts can promote cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction. In the atria, TGFβ-mediated fibrosis can contribute to the pathogenic substrate for atrial fibrillation. Overactive or dysregulated TGFβ responses have also been implicated in cardiac ageing and in the pathogenesis of diabetic, genetic and inflammatory cardiomyopathies. This Review summarizes the current evidence on the role of TGFβ signalling in myocardial diseases, focusing on cellular targets and molecular mechanisms, and discussing challenges and opportunities for therapeutic translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos G Frangogiannis
- The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
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High TGF-β signature predicts immunotherapy resistance in gynecologic cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibition. NPJ Precis Oncol 2021; 5:101. [PMID: 34921236 PMCID: PMC8683510 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-021-00242-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Various immune signatures predictive of resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have been described in multiple solid cancers, but still under-investigated in gynecological (GYN) cancer. For 49 GYN cancer patients included in our study, without transcriptome signature, immune-related toxicity was the only clinical predictor of ICI treatment response (p = 0.008). The objective clinical response was the only predictor of progression-free survival (ICI-PFS, p = 0.0008) and overall survival (ICI-OS, p = 0.01). Commonly used ICI marker PD-L1 expression negatively correlated with progression-free survival (ICI-PFS) (p = 0.0019). We performed transcriptome and signaling pathway enrichment analyses based on ICI treatment responses and the survival outcome, and further estimated immune cell abundance using 547 gene markers. Our data revealed that TGF-β regulated signaling pathway was noted to play an important role in immunotherapy failure. Using our 6-genes TGF-β score, we observed longer ICI-PFS associated with lower TGF-β score (8.1 vs. 2.8 months, p = 0.046), which was especially more prominent in ovarian cancer (ICI-PFS 16.6 vs. 2.65 months, p = 0.0012). Further, abundant immunosuppressive cells like T-regulatory cells, eosinophils, and M2 macrophages were associated with shorter ICI-OS and correlated positively with CD274 and CTLA4 expressions. This study provides insight on the potential role of TGF-β in mediating immunotherapy resistance and cross-talking to immunosuppressive environment in GYN cancer. The TGF-β score, if validated in a larger cohort, can identify patients who likely to fail ICI and benefit from targeting this pathway to enhance the response to ICI.
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Shoucair S, Habib JR, Pu N, Kinny-Köster B, van Ooston AF, Javed AA, Lafaro KJ, He J, Wolfgang CL, Yu J. Comprehensive Analysis of Somatic Mutations in Driver Genes of Resected Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Reveals KRAS G12D and Mutant TP53 Combination as an Independent Predictor of Clinical Outcome. Ann Surg Oncol 2021; 29:2720-2731. [PMID: 34792696 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-021-11081-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prognosis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains poor despite improved systemic therapies and surgical techniques. The identification of biomarkers to advance insight in tumor biology and achieve better individualized prognostication could help improve outcomes. Our aim was to elucidate the prognostic role of the four main driver mutations (KRAS, TP53, SMAD4, CDKN2A) and their combinations in resected PDAC. PATIENTS AND METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted utilizing the cBioPortal database and National Cancer Institute's Cancer Genomic Atlas (TCGA) on patients in whom next-generation sequencing was performed on upfront resected PDAC from 2012 to 2020. Multivariable Cox regression was implemented to elucidate risk-adjusted predictors of overall (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS). Results were validated employing a Johns Hopkins Hospital (JHH) cohort.' RESULTS In the discovery cohort (n = 587), increased number of mutated driver genes was associated with worse OS (p = 0.047). Specifically, patients with mutations in ≥ 2 driver genes had worse OS than ≤ 1 mutated gene (18.2 versus 32.3 months, p = 0.033). Co-occurrence of mutant (mt)KRAS p.G12D with mtTP53 (median OS, 25.9 months) conferred better prognosis than co-occurrence of other mtKRAS variants (p.G12V/R/other) with mtTP53 (median OS, 16.9 months, p = 0.038). The findings were validated using a JHH cohort. Multivariable risk-adjustment found co-occurrence of mtKRAS p.G12D with mtTP53 to be an independent predictor of beneficial OS and RFS [HR (95% CI): 0.18 (0.03-0.81) and 0.31 (0.11-0.89) respectively]. CONCLUSION In chemo-naïve resected PDAC, combinations of mutations in the four driver genes are associated with prognosis. In patients with combined mtKRAS and mtTP53, KRAS p.G12D variant confers a better OS and RFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Shoucair
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joseph R Habib
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ning Pu
- Departments of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Benedict Kinny-Köster
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - A Floortje van Ooston
- Department of Surgery, Regional Academic Cancer Center Utrecht, UMC Utrecht Cancer Center, St. Antonius Hospital Nieuwegein, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ammar A Javed
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kelly J Lafaro
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jin He
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Jun Yu
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Decker JT, Ma JA, Shea LD, Jeruss JS. Implications of TGFβ Signaling and CDK Inhibition for the Treatment of Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5343. [PMID: 34771508 PMCID: PMC8582459 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
TGFβ signaling enacts tumor-suppressive functions in normal cells through promotion of several cell regulatory actions including cell-cycle control and apoptosis. Canonical TGFβ signaling proceeds through phosphorylation of the transcription factor, SMAD3, at the C-terminus of the protein. During oncogenic progression, this tumor suppressant phosphorylation of SMAD3 can be inhibited. Overexpression of cyclins D and E, and subsequent hyperactivation of cyclin-dependent kinases 2/4 (CDKs), are often observed in breast cancer, and have been associated with poor prognosis. The noncanonical phosphorylation of SMAD3 by CDKs 2 and 4 leads to the inhibition of tumor-suppressive function of SMAD3. As a result, CDK overactivation drives oncogenic progression, and can be targeted to improve clinical outcomes. This review focuses on breast cancer, and highlights advances in the understanding of CDK-mediated noncanonical SMAD3 phosphorylation. Specifically, the role of aberrant TGFβ signaling in oncogenic progression and treatment response will be examined to illustrate the potential for therapeutic discovery in the context of cyclins/CDKs and SMAD3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph T. Decker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (J.T.D.); (J.A.M.); (L.D.S.)
| | - Jeffrey A. Ma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (J.T.D.); (J.A.M.); (L.D.S.)
| | - Lonnie D. Shea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (J.T.D.); (J.A.M.); (L.D.S.)
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5932, USA
| | - Jacqueline S. Jeruss
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (J.T.D.); (J.A.M.); (L.D.S.)
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5932, USA
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Buwaneka P, Ralko A, Gorai S, Pham H, Cho W. Phosphoinositide-binding activity of Smad2 is essential for its function in TGF-β signaling. J Biol Chem 2021; 297:101303. [PMID: 34655614 PMCID: PMC8567202 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.101303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
As a central player in the canonical TGF-β signaling pathway, Smad2 transmits the activation of TGF-β receptors at the plasma membrane (PM) to transcriptional regulation in the nucleus. Although it has been well established that binding of TGF-β to its receptors leads to the recruitment and activation of Smad2, the spatiotemporal mechanism by which Smad2 is recruited to the activated TGF-β receptor complex and activated is not fully understood. Here we show that Smad2 selectively and tightly binds phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2) in the PM. The PI(4,5)P2-binding site is located in the MH2 domain that is involved in interaction with the TGF-β receptor I that transduces TGF-β-receptor binding to downstream signaling proteins. Quantitative optical imaging analyses show that PM recruitment of Smad2 is triggered by its interaction with PI(4,5)P2 that is locally enriched near the activated TGF-β receptor complex, leading to its binding to the TGF-β receptor I. The PI(4,5)P2-binding activity of Smad2 is essential for the TGF-β-stimulated phosphorylation, nuclear transport, and transcriptional activity of Smad2. Structural comparison of all Smad MH2 domains suggests that membrane lipids may also interact with other Smad proteins and regulate their function in diverse TGF-β-mediated biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawanthi Buwaneka
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Arthur Ralko
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Sukhamoy Gorai
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ha Pham
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Wonhwa Cho
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
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Tuleta I, Frangogiannis NG. Fibrosis of the diabetic heart: Clinical significance, molecular mechanisms, and therapeutic opportunities. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 176:113904. [PMID: 34331987 PMCID: PMC8444077 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
In patients with diabetes, myocardial fibrosis may contribute to the pathogenesis of heart failure and arrhythmogenesis, increasing ventricular stiffness and delaying conduction. Diabetic myocardial fibrosis involves effects of hyperglycemia, lipotoxicity and insulin resistance on cardiac fibroblasts, directly resulting in increased matrix secretion, and activation of paracrine signaling in cardiomyocytes, immune and vascular cells, that release fibroblast-activating mediators. Neurohumoral pathways, cytokines, growth factors, oxidative stress, advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), and matricellular proteins have been implicated in diabetic fibrosis; however, the molecular links between the metabolic perturbations and activation of a fibrogenic program remain poorly understood. Although existing therapies using glucose- and lipid-lowering agents and neurohumoral inhibition may act in part by attenuating myocardial collagen deposition, specific therapies targeting the fibrotic response are lacking. This review manuscript discusses the clinical significance, molecular mechanisms and cell biology of diabetic cardiac fibrosis and proposes therapeutic targets that may attenuate the fibrotic response, preventing heart failure progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Tuleta
- The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine (Cardiology), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx NY, USA
| | - Nikolaos G Frangogiannis
- The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine (Cardiology), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx NY, USA.
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Zakrzewski PK. Canonical TGFβ Signaling and Its Contribution to Endometrial Cancer Development and Progression-Underestimated Target of Anticancer Strategies. J Clin Med 2021; 10:3900. [PMID: 34501347 PMCID: PMC8432036 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10173900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer is one of the leading gynecological cancers diagnosed among women in their menopausal and postmenopausal age. Despite the progress in molecular biology and medicine, no efficient and powerful diagnostic and prognostic marker is dedicated to endometrial carcinogenesis. The canonical TGFβ pathway is a pleiotropic signaling cascade orchestrating a variety of cellular and molecular processes, whose alterations are responsible for carcinogenesis that originates from different tissue types. This review covers the current knowledge concerning the canonical TGFβ pathway (Smad-dependent) induced by prototypical TGFβ isoforms and the involvement of pathway alterations in the development and progression of endometrial neoplastic lesions. Since Smad-dependent signalization governs opposed cellular processes, such as growth arrest, apoptosis, tumor cells growth and differentiation, as well as angiogenesis and metastasis, TGFβ cascade may act both as a tumor suppressor or tumor promoter. However, the final effect of TGFβ signaling on endometrial cancer cells depends on the cancer disease stage. The multifunctional role of the TGFβ pathway indicates the possible utilization of alterations in the TGFβ cascade as a potential target of novel anticancer strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr K Zakrzewski
- Department of Cytobiochemistry, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland
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Coley AB, Ward A, Keeton AB, Chen X, Maxuitenko Y, Prakash A, Li F, Foote JB, Buchsbaum DJ, Piazza GA. Pan-RAS inhibitors: Hitting multiple RAS isozymes with one stone. Adv Cancer Res 2021; 153:131-168. [PMID: 35101229 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2021.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in the three RAS oncogenes are present in approximately 30% of all human cancers that drive tumor growth and metastasis by aberrant activation of RAS-mediated signaling. Despite the well-established role of RAS in tumorigenesis, past efforts to develop small molecule inhibitors have failed for various reasons leading many to consider RAS as "undruggable." Advances over the past decade with KRAS(G12C) mutation-specific inhibitors have culminated in the first FDA-approved RAS drug, sotorasib. However, the patient population that stands to benefit from KRAS(G12C) inhibitors is inherently limited to those patients harboring KRAS(G12C) mutations. Additionally, both intrinsic and acquired mechanisms of resistance have been reported that indicate allele-specificity may afford disadvantages. For example, the compensatory activation of uninhibited wild-type (WT) NRAS and HRAS isozymes can rescue cancer cells harboring KRAS(G12C) mutations from allele-specific inhibition or the occurrence of other mutations in KRAS. It is therefore prudent to consider alternative drug discovery strategies that may overcome these potential limitations. One such approach is pan-RAS inhibition, whereby all RAS isozymes co-expressed in the tumor cell population are targeted by a single inhibitor to block constitutively activated RAS regardless of the underlying mutation. This chapter provides a review of past and ongoing strategies to develop pan-RAS inhibitors in detail and seeks to outline the trajectory of this promising strategy of RAS inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander B Coley
- Department of Pharmacology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States; Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Antonio Ward
- Department of Pharmacology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States; Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Adam B Keeton
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Yulia Maxuitenko
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Aishwarya Prakash
- Mitchell Cancer Institute, Mobile, AL, United States; Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Jeremy B Foote
- Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Donald J Buchsbaum
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Gary A Piazza
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States.
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Perilipin 5 Ameliorates Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation via SMAD2/3 and SNAIL Signaling Pathways and Suppresses STAT3 Activation. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092184. [PMID: 34571833 PMCID: PMC8467115 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Comprehending the molecular mechanisms underlying hepatic fibrogenesis is essential to the development of treatment. The hallmark of hepatic fibrosis is the development and deposition of excess fibrous connective tissue forcing tissue remodeling. Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) play a major role in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Their activation via the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) as a key mediator is considered the crucial event in the pathophysiology of hepatic fibrogenesis. It has been shown that Perilipin 5 (PLIN5), known as a lipid droplet structural protein that is highly expressed in oxidative tissue, can inhibit such activation through various mechanisms associated with lipid metabolism. This study aimed to investigate the possible influence of PLIN5 on TGF-β1 signaling. Our findings confirm the importance of PLIN5 in maintaining HSC quiescence in vivo and in vitro. PLIN5 overexpression suppresses the TGF-β1-SMAD2/3 and SNAIL signaling pathways as well as the activation of the signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3). These findings derived from experiments in hepatic cell lines LX-2 and Col-GFP, in which overexpression of PLIN5 was able to downregulate the signaling pathways SMAD2/3 and SNAIL activated previously by TGF-β1 treatment. Furthermore, TGF-β1-mediatedinduction of extracellular matrix proteins, such as collagen type I (COL1), Fibronectin, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), was suppressed by PLIN5. Moreover, STAT3, which is interrelated with TGF-β1 was already basally activated in the cell lines and inhibited by PLIN5 overexpression, leading to a further reduction in HSC activity shown by lowered α-SMA expression. This extension of the intervening mechanisms presents PLIN5 as a potent and pleiotropic target in HSC activation.
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Smad2/3 Activation Regulates Smad1/5/8 Signaling via a Negative Feedback Loop to Inhibit 3T3-L1 Adipogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168472. [PMID: 34445177 PMCID: PMC8395197 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Adipose tissues (AT) expand in response to energy surplus through adipocyte hypertrophy and hyperplasia. The latter, also known as adipogenesis, is a process by which multipotent precursors differentiate to form mature adipocytes. This process is directed by developmental cues that include members of the TGF-β family. Our goal here was to elucidate, using the 3T3-L1 adipogenesis model, how TGF-β family growth factors and inhibitors regulate adipocyte development. We show that ligands of the Activin and TGF-β families, several ligand traps, and the SMAD1/5/8 signaling inhibitor LDN-193189 profoundly suppressed 3T3-L1 adipogenesis. Strikingly, anti-adipogenic traps and ligands engaged the same mechanism of action involving the simultaneous activation of SMAD2/3 and inhibition of SMAD1/5/8 signaling. This effect was rescued by the SMAD2/3 signaling inhibitor SB-431542. By contrast, although LDN-193189 also suppressed SMAD1/5/8 signaling and adipogenesis, its effect could not be rescued by SB-431542. Collectively, these findings reveal the fundamental role of SMAD1/5/8 for 3T3-L1 adipogenesis, and potentially identify a negative feedback loop that links SMAD2/3 activation with SMAD1/5/8 inhibition in adipogenic precursors.
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