51
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Rodriguez LR, Tang SY, Roque Barboza W, Murthy A, Tomer Y, Cai TQ, Iyer S, Chavez K, Das US, Ghosh S, Cooper CH, Dimopoulos TT, Babu A, Connelly C, FitzGerald GA, Beers MF. PGF2α signaling drives fibrotic remodeling and fibroblast population dynamics in mice. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e172977. [PMID: 37934604 PMCID: PMC10807712 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.172977] [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: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic parenchymal lung disease characterized by repetitive alveolar cell injury, myofibroblast proliferation, and excessive extracellular matrix deposition for which unmet need persists for effective therapeutics. The bioactive eicosanoid, prostaglandin F2α, and its cognate receptor FPr (Ptgfr) are implicated as a TGF-β1-independent signaling hub for IPF. To assess this, we leveraged our published murine PF model (IER-SftpcI73T) expressing a disease-associated missense mutation in the surfactant protein C (Sftpc) gene. Tamoxifen-treated IER-SftpcI73T mice developed an early multiphasic alveolitis and transition to spontaneous fibrotic remodeling by 28 days. IER-SftpcI73T mice crossed to a Ptgfr-null (FPr-/-) line showed attenuated weight loss and gene dosage-dependent rescue of mortality compared with FPr+/+ cohorts. IER-SftpcI73T/FPr-/- mice also showed reductions in multiple fibrotic endpoints for which administration of nintedanib was not additive. Single-cell RNA-Seq, pseudotime analysis, and in vitro assays demonstrated Ptgfr expression predominantly within adventitial fibroblasts, which were reprogrammed to an "inflammatory/transitional" cell state in a PGF2α /FPr-dependent manner. Collectively, the findings provide evidence for a role for PGF2α signaling in IPF, mechanistically identify a susceptible fibroblast subpopulation, and establish a benchmark effect size for disruption of this pathway in mitigating fibrotic lung remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis R. Rodriguez
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division, Department of Medicine
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute, and
| | - Soon Yew Tang
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Willy Roque Barboza
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division, Department of Medicine
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute, and
| | - Aditi Murthy
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division, Department of Medicine
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute, and
| | - Yaniv Tomer
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division, Department of Medicine
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute, and
| | - Tian-Quan Cai
- Calico Life Sciences LLC, South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Swati Iyer
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division, Department of Medicine
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute, and
| | - Katrina Chavez
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division, Department of Medicine
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute, and
| | - Ujjalkumar Subhash Das
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Soumita Ghosh
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Charlotte H. Cooper
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division, Department of Medicine
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute, and
| | - Thalia T. Dimopoulos
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division, Department of Medicine
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute, and
| | | | | | - Garret A. FitzGerald
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michael F. Beers
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division, Department of Medicine
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute, and
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Li JZ, Chen N, Ma N, Li MR. Mechanism and Progress of Natural Products in the Treatment of NAFLD-Related Fibrosis. Molecules 2023; 28:7936. [PMID: 38067665 PMCID: PMC10707854 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as the most prevalent chronic liver disorder worldwide, with liver fibrosis (LF) serving as a pivotal juncture in NAFLD progression. Natural products have demonstrated substantial antifibrotic properties, ushering in novel avenues for NAFLD treatment. This study provides a comprehensive review of the potential of natural products as antifibrotic agents, including flavonoids, polyphenol compounds, and terpenoids, with specific emphasis on the role of Baicalin in NAFLD-associated fibrosis. Mechanistically, these natural products have exhibited the capacity to target a multitude of signaling pathways, including Hedgehog, Wnt/β-catenin, TGF-β1, and NF-κB. Moreover, they can augment the activities of antioxidant enzymes, inhibit pro-fibrotic factors, and diminish fibrosis markers. In conclusion, this review underscores the considerable potential of natural products in addressing NAFLD-related liver fibrosis through multifaceted mechanisms. Nonetheless, it underscores the imperative need for further clinical investigation to authenticate their effectiveness, offering invaluable insights for future therapeutic advancements in this domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Zhong Li
- Division of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Ning Chen
- General Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Nan Ma
- Center for Bioactive Natural Molecules and Innovative Drugs Research, College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- JNU-HKUST Joint Laboratory for Neuroscience and Innovative Drug Research, College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Min-Ran Li
- Division of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
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53
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Lyu QR, Fu K. Tissue-specific Cre driver mice to study vascular diseases. Vascul Pharmacol 2023; 153:107241. [PMID: 37923099 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2023.107241] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Vascular diseases, including atherosclerosis and abdominal aneurysms, are the primary cause of mortality and morbidity among the elderly worldwide. The life quality of patients is significantly compromised due to inadequate therapeutic approaches and limited drug targets. To expand our comprehension of vascular diseases, gene knockout (KO) mice, especially conditional knockout (cKO) mice, are widely used for investigating gene function and mechanisms of action. The Cre-loxP system is the most common method for generating cKO mice. Numerous Cre driver mice have been established to study the main cell types that compose blood vessels, including endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and fibroblasts. Here, we first discuss the characteristics of each layer of the arterial wall. Next, we provide an overview of the representative Cre driver mice utilized for each of the major cell types in the vessel wall and their most recent applications in vascular biology. We then go over Cre toxicity and discuss the practical methods for minimizing Cre interference in experimental outcomes. Finally, we look into the future of tissue-specific Cre drivers by introducing the revolutionary single-cell RNA sequencing and dual recombinase system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Rex Lyu
- Medical Research Center, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing 401147, China; Chongqing Academy of Medical Sciences, Chongqing 401147, China.
| | - Kailong Fu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou 350001, China.
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54
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Ulibarri MR, Lin Y, Ramprashad JR, Han G, Hasan MH, Mithila FJ, Ma C, Gopinath S, Zhang N, Milner JJ, Beura LK. Epithelial organoid supports resident memory CD8 T cell differentiation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.01.569395. [PMID: 38076957 PMCID: PMC10705482 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.01.569395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Resident Memory T cells (TRM) play a vital role in regional immune defense in barrier organs. Although laboratory rodents have been extensively used to study fundamental TRM biology, poor isolation efficiency, sampling bias and low cell survival rates have limited our ability to conduct TRM-focused high-throughput assays. Here, we engineered a murine vaginal epithelial organoid (VEO)-CD8 T cell co-culture system that supports CD8 TRM differentiation in vitro. The three-dimensional VEOs established from murine adult stem cells resembled stratified squamous vaginal epithelium and induced gradual differentiation of activated CD8 T cells into epithelial TRM. These in vitro generated TRM were phenotypically and transcriptionally similar to in vivo TRM, and key tissue residency features were reinforced with a second cognate-antigen exposure during co-culture. TRM differentiation was not affected even when VEOs and CD8 T cells were separated by a semipermeable barrier, indicating soluble factors' involvement. Pharmacological and genetic approaches showed that TGF-β signaling played a crucial role in their differentiation. We found that the VEOs in our model remained susceptible to viral infections and the CD8 T cells were amenable to genetic manipulation; both of which will allow detailed interrogation of antiviral CD8 T cell biology in a reductionist setting. In summary, we established a robust model which captures bonafide TRM differentiation that is scalable, open to iterative sampling, and can be subjected to high throughput assays that will rapidly add to our understanding of TRM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max R. Ulibarri
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912
| | - Ying Lin
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912
| | - Julian R. Ramprashad
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912
| | - Geongoo Han
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912
| | - Mohammad H. Hasan
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912
| | - Farha J. Mithila
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912
- Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry Graduate Program, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912
| | - Chaoyu Ma
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, 78229
| | - Smita Gopinath
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Cambridge, MA, 02115
| | - Nu Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, 78229
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, 78229
| | - J. Justin Milner
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599
| | - Lalit K. Beura
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912
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Phillips AT, Boumil EF, Venkatesan A, Tilstra-Smith C, Castro N, Knox BE, Henty-Ridilla JL, Bernstein AM. The formin DAAM1 regulates the deubiquitinase activity of USP10 and integrin homeostasis. Eur J Cell Biol 2023; 102:151347. [PMID: 37562219 PMCID: PMC10839120 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2023.151347] [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: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The differentiation of fibroblasts into pathological myofibroblasts during wound healing is characterized by increased cell surface expression of αv-integrins. Our previous studies found that the deubiquitinase (DUB) USP10 removes ubiquitin from αv-integrins, leading to cell surface integrin accumulation, subsequent TGFβ1 activation, and pathological myofibroblast differentiation. In this study, a yeast two-hybrid screen revealed a novel binding partner for USP10, the formin, DAAM1. We found that DAAM1 binds to and inhibits USP10's DUB activity through the FH2 domain of DAAM1 independent of its actin functions. The USP10/DAAM1 interaction was also supported by proximity ligation assay (PLA) in primary human corneal fibroblasts. Treatment with TGFβ1 significantly increased USP10 and DAAM1 protein expression, PLA signal, and co-localization to actin stress fibers. DAAM1 siRNA knockdown significantly reduced co-precipitation of USP10 and DAAM1 on purified actin stress fibers, and β1- and β5-integrin ubiquitination. This resulted in increased αv-, β1-, and β5-integrin total protein levels, αv-integrin recycling, and extracellular fibronectin (FN) deposition. Together, our data demonstrate that DAAM1 inhibits USP10's DUB activity on integrins subsequently regulating cell surface αv-integrin localization and FN accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew T Phillips
- SUNY Upstate Medical University, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, 750 East Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Edward F Boumil
- SUNY Upstate Medical University, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, 750 East Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Arunkumar Venkatesan
- SUNY Upstate Medical University, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, 750 East Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Christine Tilstra-Smith
- SUNY Upstate Medical University, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, 750 East Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Nileyma Castro
- SUNY Upstate Medical University, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, 750 East Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; New York VA Health Care, Syracuse VA Medical Center, 800 Irving Ave, Syracuse 13210, USA
| | - Barry E Knox
- SUNY Upstate Medical University, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, 750 East Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; SUNY Upstate Medical University, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 750 East Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Jessica L Henty-Ridilla
- SUNY Upstate Medical University, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 750 East Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Audrey M Bernstein
- SUNY Upstate Medical University, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, 750 East Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; SUNY Upstate Medical University, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 750 East Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; New York VA Health Care, Syracuse VA Medical Center, 800 Irving Ave, Syracuse 13210, USA.
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56
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Jokl E, Mullan AF, Simpson K, Birchall L, Pearmain L, Martin K, Pritchett J, Raza S, Shah R, Hodson NW, Williams CJ, Camacho E, Zeef L, Donaldson I, Athwal VS, Hanley NA, Piper Hanley K. PAK1-dependent mechanotransduction enables myofibroblast nuclear adaptation and chromatin organization during fibrosis. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113414. [PMID: 37967011 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113414] [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: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Myofibroblasts are responsible for scarring during fibrosis. The scar propagates mechanical signals inducing a radical transformation in myofibroblast cell state and increasing profibrotic phenotype. Here, we show mechanical stress from progressive scarring induces nuclear softening and de-repression of heterochromatin. The parallel loss of H3K9Me3 enables a permissive state for distinct chromatin accessibility and profibrotic gene regulation. Integrating chromatin accessibility profiles with RNA expression provides insight into the transcription network underlying the switch in profibrotic myofibroblast states, emphasizing mechanoadaptive regulation of PAK1 as key drivers. Through genetic manipulation in liver and lung fibrosis, loss of PAK1-dependent signaling impairs the mechanoadaptive response in vitro and dramatically improves fibrosis in vivo. Moreover, we provide human validation for mechanisms underpinning PAK1-mediated mechanotransduction in liver and lung fibrosis. Collectively, these observations provide insight into the nuclear mechanics driving the profibrotic chromatin landscape in fibrosis, highlighting actomyosin-dependent mechanisms as potential therapeutic targets in fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot Jokl
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Aoibheann F Mullan
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Kara Simpson
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Lindsay Birchall
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Laurence Pearmain
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Katherine Martin
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - James Pritchett
- Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Sayyid Raza
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Rajesh Shah
- Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Nigel W Hodson
- Core Facilities, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Craig J Williams
- Department of Materials, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Elizabeth Camacho
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Leo Zeef
- Core Facilities, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Ian Donaldson
- Core Facilities, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Varinder S Athwal
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Neil A Hanley
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; College of Medical & Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Karen Piper Hanley
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK; Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK.
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57
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Zhang X, Sharma P, Maschmeyer P, Hu Y, Lou M, Kim J, Fujii H, Unutmaz D, Schwabe RF, Winau F. GARP on hepatic stellate cells is essential for the development of liver fibrosis. J Hepatol 2023; 79:1214-1225. [PMID: 37348791 PMCID: PMC10592496 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.05.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Glycoprotein A repetitions predominant (GARP) is a membrane protein that functions as a latent TGF-β docking molecule. While the immune regulatory properties of GARP on blood cells have been studied, the function of GARP on tissue stromal cells remains unclear. Here, we investigate the role of GARP expressed on hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) in the development of liver fibrosis. METHODS The function of GARP on HSCs was explored in toxin-induced and metabolic liver fibrosis models, using conditional GARP-deficient mice or a newly generated inducible system for HSC-specific gene ablation. Primary mouse and human HSCs were isolated to evaluate the contribution of GARP to the activation of latent TGF-β. Moreover, cell contraction of HSCs in the context of TGF-β activation was tested in a GARP-dependent fashion. RESULTS Mice lacking GARP in HSCs were protected from developing liver fibrosis. Therapeutically deleting GARP on HSCs alleviated the fibrotic process in established disease. Furthermore, natural killer T cells exacerbated hepatic fibrosis by inducing GARP expression on HSCs through IL-4 production. Mechanistically, GARP facilitated fibrogenesis by activating TGF-β and enhancing endothelin-1-mediated HSC contraction. Functional GARP was expressed on human HSCs and significantly upregulated in the livers of patients with fibrosis. Lastly, deletion of GARP on HSCs did not augment inflammation or liver damage. CONCLUSIONS GARP expressed on HSCs drives the development of liver fibrosis via cell contraction-mediated activation of latent TGF-β. Considering that systemic blockade of TGF-β has major side effects, we highlight a therapeutic niche provided by GARP and surface-mediated TGF-β activation. Thus, our findings suggest an important role of GARP on HSCs as a promising target for the treatment of liver fibrosis. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Liver fibrosis represents a substantial and increasing public health burden globally, for which specific treatments are not available. Glycoprotein A repetitions predominant (GARP) is a membrane protein that functions as a latent TGF-β docking molecule. Here, we show that GARP expressed on hepatic stellate cells drives the development of liver fibrosis. Our findings suggest GARP as a novel target for the treatment of fibrotic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Zhang
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Pankaj Sharma
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Patrick Maschmeyer
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yu Hu
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mumeng Lou
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jessica Kim
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hodaka Fujii
- Department of Biochemistry and Genome Biology, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Aomori, Japan
| | - Derya Unutmaz
- Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Robert F Schwabe
- Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - Florian Winau
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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58
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Domingues I, Leclercq IA, Beloqui A. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: Current therapies and future perspectives in drug delivery. J Control Release 2023; 363:415-434. [PMID: 37769817 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.09.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects approximately 25% of the adult population worldwide. This pathology can progress into end-stage liver disease with life-threatening complications, and yet no pharmacologic therapy has been approved. NAFLD is commonly characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the liver and is in closely associated with insulin resistance and metabolic disorders, which suggests that NAFLD is the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome. Regarding treatment options, the current validated strategy relies on lifestyle modifications (exercise and diet restrictions). Although there are no approved drug-based treatments, several clinical trials are ongoing. Novel targets are being discovered, and the repurposing of drugs that show promising effects in NAFLD is starting to gain more interest. The field of nanotechnology has been growing at an increasing rate, with new and more efficient drug delivery strategies being developed for NAFLD treatment. Nanocarriers can easily encapsulate drugs that need to be better protected from the organism to exert their effect or that need help at reaching their target, thereby helping achieve a better bioavailability. Drug delivery systems can also be designed to target the site of the disease, in this case, the liver. In this review, we focus on the current knowledge of NAFLD pathology, the targets being considered for clinical trials, and the current guidelines and ongoing clinical trials, with a specific focus on potential oral treatments for NAFLD using promising drug delivery strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Domingues
- UCLouvain, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials Group, Avenue Emmanuel Mounier 73, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Isabelle A Leclercq
- UCLouvain, Université catholique de Louvain, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Laboratory of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Avenue Emmanuel Mounier 53, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Ana Beloqui
- UCLouvain, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials Group, Avenue Emmanuel Mounier 73, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; WEL Research Institute, Avenue Pasteur, 6, 1300 Wavre, Belgium.
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59
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Felli E, Selicean S, Guixé-Muntet S, Wang C, Bosch J, Berzigotti A, Gracia-Sancho J. Mechanobiology of portal hypertension. JHEP Rep 2023; 5:100869. [PMID: 37841641 PMCID: PMC10568428 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The interplay between mechanical stimuli and cellular mechanobiology orchestrates the physiology of tissues and organs in a dynamic balance characterized by constant remodelling and adaptative processes. Environmental mechanical properties can be interpreted as a complex set of information and instructions that cells read continuously, and to which they respond. In cirrhosis, chronic inflammation and injury drive liver cells dysfunction, leading to excessive extracellular matrix deposition, sinusoidal pseudocapillarization, vascular occlusion and parenchymal extinction. These pathological events result in marked remodelling of the liver microarchitecture, which is cause and result of abnormal environmental mechanical forces, triggering and sustaining the long-standing and progressive process of liver fibrosis. Multiple mechanical forces such as strain, shear stress, and hydrostatic pressure can converge at different stages of the disease until reaching a point of no return where the fibrosis is considered non-reversible. Thereafter, reciprocal communication between cells and their niches becomes the driving force for disease progression. Accumulating evidence supports the idea that, rather than being a passive consequence of fibrosis and portal hypertension (PH), mechanical force-mediated pathways could themselves represent strategic targets for novel therapeutic approaches. In this manuscript, we aim to provide a comprehensive review of the mechanobiology of PH, by furnishing an introduction on the most important mechanisms, integrating these concepts into a discussion on the pathogenesis of PH, and exploring potential therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Felli
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sonia Selicean
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sergi Guixé-Muntet
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Spain
| | - Cong Wang
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jaume Bosch
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Spain
| | - Annalisa Berzigotti
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jordi Gracia-Sancho
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Liver Vascular Biology Research Group, IDIBAPS Biomedical Research Institute, CIBEREHD, Spain
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Tilg H, Adolph TE, Tacke F. Therapeutic modulation of the liver immune microenvironment. Hepatology 2023; 78:1581-1601. [PMID: 37057876 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation is a hallmark of progressive liver diseases such as chronic viral or immune-mediated hepatitis, alcohol-associated liver disease, and NAFLD. Preclinical and clinical studies have provided robust evidence that cytokines and related cellular stress sensors in innate and adaptive immunity orchestrate hepatic disease processes. Unresolved inflammation and liver injury result in hepatic scarring, fibrosis, and cirrhosis, which may culminate in HCC. Liver diseases are accompanied by gut dysbiosis and a bloom of pathobionts, fueling hepatic inflammation. Anti-inflammatory strategies are extensively used to treat human immune-mediated conditions beyond the liver, while evidence for immunomodulatory therapies and cell therapy-based strategies in liver diseases is only emerging. The development and establishment of novel immunomodulatory therapies for chronic liver diseases has been dampened by several clinical challenges, such as invasive monitoring of therapeutic efficacy with liver biopsy in clinical trials and risk of DILI in several studies. Such aspects prevented advancements of novel medical therapies for chronic inflammatory liver diseases. New concepts modulating the liver immune environment are studied and eagerly awaited to improve the management of chronic liver diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herbert Tilg
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, & Metabolism, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Timon E Adolph
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, & Metabolism, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany
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61
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Leask A, Naik A, Stratton RJ. Back to the future: targeting the extracellular matrix to treat systemic sclerosis. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2023; 19:713-723. [PMID: 37789119 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-023-01032-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is the excessive deposition of a stable extracellular matrix (ECM); fibrotic tissue is composed principally of highly crosslinked type I collagen and highly contractile myofibroblasts. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem autoimmune connective tissue disease characterized by skin and organ fibrosis. The fibrotic process has been recognized in SSc for >40 years, but drugs with demonstrable efficacy against SSc fibrosis in ameliorating the lung involvement have only recently been identified. Unfortunately, these treatments are ineffective at improving the skin score in patients with SSc. Previous clinical trials in SSc have largely focused on the cross-purposing of anti-inflammatory drugs and the use of immunosuppressive drugs from the transplantation field, which address inflammatory and/or autoimmune processes. Limited examination has taken place of specific anti-fibrotic agents developed through their ability to directly target the ECM in SSc by, for example, alleviating the persistent matrix stiffness and mechanotransduction that might be required for both the initiation and maintenance of fibrosis, including in SSc. However, because of the importance of the ECM in the SSc phenotype, attempts have now been made to identify drugs that specifically target the ECM, including some drugs that are currently under consideration for the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Leask
- College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
| | - Angha Naik
- College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Richard J Stratton
- Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, UCL Division of Medicine, London, UK
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Yan M, Xie Y, Yao J, Li X. The Dual-Mode Transition of Myofibroblasts Derived from Hepatic Stellate Cells in Liver Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15460. [PMID: 37895138 PMCID: PMC10607848 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the key promoters of liver fibrosis. In response to liver-fibrosis-inducing factors, HSCs express alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and obtain myofibroblast phenotype. Collagen secretion and high expression of α-SMA with related high cell tension and migration limitation are the main characteristics of myofibroblasts. How these two characteristics define the role of myofibroblasts in the initiation and progression of liver fibrosis is worth exploring. From this perspective, we explored the correlation between α-SMA expression and collagen secretion in myofibroblasts and the characteristics of collagen deposition in liver fibrosis. Based on a reasonable hypothesis and experimental verification, we believe that the myofibroblast with the α-SMAhighcollagenhigh model do not effectively explain the initial stage and progression characteristics of liver fibrosis. Therefore, we propose a myofibroblast dual-mode transition model in fibrotic liver (DMTM model). In the DMTM model, myofibroblasts have dual modes. Myofibroblasts obtain enhanced α-SMA expression, accompanied by collagen expression inhibition in the high-concentration region of TGF-β. At the edge of the TGF-β positive region, myofibroblasts convert to a high-migration and high-collagen secretion phenotype. This model reasonably explains collagen deposition and expansion in the initial stage of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengchao Yan
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
- The School of Medical, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Ye Xie
- The School of Medical, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine of Gansu Province, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Jia Yao
- The School of Medical, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine of Gansu Province, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xun Li
- Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
- The School of Medical, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine of Gansu Province, Lanzhou 730000, China
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D’Amore V, Donati G, Lenci E, Ludwig BS, Kossatz S, Baiula M, Trabocchi A, Kessler H, Di Leva FS, Marinelli L. Molecular View on the iRGD Peptide Binding Mechanism: Implications for Integrin Activity and Selectivity Profiles. J Chem Inf Model 2023; 63:6302-6315. [PMID: 37788340 PMCID: PMC10598797 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.3c01071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Receptor-selective peptides are widely used as smart carriers for specific tumor-targeted delivery. A remarkable example is the cyclic nonapeptide iRGD (CRGDKPGDC, 1) that couples intrinsic cytotoxic effects with striking tumor-homing properties. These peculiar features are based on a rather complex multistep mechanism of action, where the primary event is the recognition of RGD integrins. Despite the high number of preclinical studies and the recent success of a phase I trial for the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), there is little information available about the iRGD three-dimensional (3D) structure and integrin binding properties. Here, we re-evaluate the peptide's affinity for cancer-related integrins including not only the previously known targets αvβ3 and αvβ5 but also the αvβ6 isoform, which is known to drive cell growth, migration, and invasion in many malignancies including PDAC. Furthermore, we use parallel tempering in the well-tempered ensemble (PT-WTE) metadynamics simulations to characterize the in-solution conformation of iRGD and extensive molecular dynamics calculations to fully investigate its binding mechanism to integrin partners. Finally, we provide clues for fine-tuning the peptide's potency and selectivity profile, which, in turn, may further improve its tumor-homing properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo
Maria D’Amore
- Department
of Pharmacy, Università degli Studi
di Napoli “Federico II”, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Greta Donati
- Department
of Pharmacy, Università degli Studi
di Napoli “Federico II”, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Elena Lenci
- Department
of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff″, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 13, I-50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Beatrice Stefanie Ludwig
- Department
of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Klinikum Rechts der Isar
and Central Institute for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), Technical University Munich, Munich 81675, Germany
| | - Susanne Kossatz
- Department
of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Klinikum Rechts der Isar
and Central Institute for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), Technical University Munich, Munich 81675, Germany
- Department
of Chemistry, Institute for Advanced Study, Technical University Munich, Garching 85748, Germany
| | - Monica Baiula
- Department
of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University
of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Trabocchi
- Department
of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff″, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 13, I-50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Horst Kessler
- Department
of Chemistry, Institute for Advanced Study, Technical University Munich, Garching 85748, Germany
| | - Francesco Saverio Di Leva
- Department
of Pharmacy, Università degli Studi
di Napoli “Federico II”, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Luciana Marinelli
- Department
of Pharmacy, Università degli Studi
di Napoli “Federico II”, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
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Oezel L, Wohltmann M, Gondorf N, Wille J, Güven I, Windolf J, Thelen S, Jaekel C, Grotheer V. Dupuytren's Disease Is Mediated by Insufficient TGF-β1 Release and Degradation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15097. [PMID: 37894778 PMCID: PMC10606262 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Dupuytren's disease (DD) is a fibroproliferative disorder affecting the palmar fascia, causing functional restrictions of the hand and thereby limiting patients' daily lives. The disturbed and excessive myofibroblastogenesis, causing DD, is mainly induced by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1. But, the extent to which impaired TGF-β1 release or TGF-β signal degradation is involved in pathologically altered myofibroblastogenesis in DD has been barely examined. Therefore, the complex in which TGF-β1 is secreted in the extracellular matrix to elicit its biological activity, and proteins such as plasmin, integrins, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which are involved in the TGF-β1 activation, were herein analyzed in DD-fibroblasts (DD-FBs). Additionally, TGF-β signal degradation via caveolin-1 was examined with 5-fluoruracil (5-FU) in detail. Gene expression analysis was performed via Western blot, PCR, and immunofluorescence analyses. As a surrogate parameter for disturbed myofibroblastogenesis, 𝛼-smooth-muscle-actin (𝛼-SMA) expression was evaluated. It was demonstrated that latency-associated peptide (LAP)-TGF-β and latent TGF-β-binding protein (LTBP)-1 involved in TGF-β-complex building were significantly upregulated in DD. Plasmin a serinprotease responsible for the TGF-β release was significantly downregulated. The application of exogenous plasmin was able to inhibit disturbed myofibroblastogenesis, as measured via 𝛼-SMA expression. Furthermore, a reduced TGF-β1 degradation was also involved in the pathological phenotype of DD, because caveolin-1 expression was significantly downregulated, and if rescued, myofibroblastogenesis was also inhibited. Therefore, our study demonstrates that a deficient release and degradation of TGF-β1 are important players in the pathological phenotype of DD and should be addressed in future research studies to improve DD therapy or other related fibrotic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Carina Jaekel
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; (L.O.); (M.W.); (N.G.); (J.W.); (I.G.); (J.W.); (S.T.); (V.G.)
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Kandhi R, Yeganeh M, Yoshimura A, Menendez A, Ramanathan S, Ilangumaran S. Hepatic stellate cell-intrinsic role of SOCS1 in controlling hepatic fibrogenic response and the pro-inflammatory macrophage compartment during liver fibrosis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1259246. [PMID: 37860002 PMCID: PMC10582746 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1259246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) become activated, differentiate to myofibroblasts and produce extracellular fibrillar matrix during liver fibrosis. The hepatic fibrogenic response is orchestrated by reciprocal interactions between HSCs and macrophages and their secreted products. SOCS1 can regulate several cytokines and growth factors implicated in liver fibrosis. Here we investigated the role of SOCS1 in regulating HSC activation. Methods Mice lacking SOCS1 in HSCs (Socs1ΔHSC) were generated by crossing Socs1fl/fl and LratCre mice. Liver fibrosis was induced by carbon tetrachloride and evaluated by Sirius red staining, hydroxyproline content and immunostaining of myofibroblasts. Gene expression of pro-fibrogenic factors, cytokines, growth factors and chemokines were quantified by RT-qPCR. The phenotype and the numbers of intrahepatic leukocyte subsets were studied by flow cytometry. The impact of fibrosis on the development of diethyl nitrosamine-induced hepatocellular carcinoma was evaluated. Results Socs1ΔHSC mice developed more severe liver fibrosis than control Socs1fl/fl mice that was characterized by increased collagen deposition and myofibroblast differentiation. Socs1ΔHSC mice showed a significant increase in the expression of smooth muscle actin, collagens, matrix metalloproteases, cytokines, growth factors and chemokines in the liver following fibrosis induction. The fibrotic livers of Socs1ΔHSC mice displayed heightened inflammatory cell infiltration with increased proportion and numbers of Ly6ChiCCR2+ pro-inflammatory macrophages. This macrophage population contained elevated numbers of CCR2+CX3CR1+ cells, suggesting impaired transition towards restorative macrophages. Fibrosis induction following exposure to diethyl nitrosamine resulted in more numerous and larger liver tumor nodules in Socs1ΔHSC mice than in Socs1fl/fl mice. Discussion Our findings indicate that (i) SOCS1 expression in HSCs is a critical to control liver fibrosis and development of hepatocaellular carcinoma, and (ii) attenuation of HSC activation by SOCS1 regulates pro-inflammatory macrophage recruitment and differentiation during liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajani Kandhi
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Mehdi Yeganeh
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Akihiko Yoshimura
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Alfredo Menendez
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Sheela Ramanathan
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Subburaj Ilangumaran
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
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Klinkhammer BM, Boor P. Kidney fibrosis: Emerging diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Mol Aspects Med 2023; 93:101206. [PMID: 37541106 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
An increasing number of patients worldwide suffers from chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD is accompanied by kidney fibrosis, which affects all compartments of the kidney, i.e., the glomeruli, tubulointerstitium, and vasculature. Fibrosis is the best predictor of progression of kidney diseases. Currently, there is no specific anti-fibrotic therapy for kidney patients and invasive renal biopsy remains the only option for specific detection and quantification of kidney fibrosis. Here we review emerging diagnostic approaches and potential therapeutic options for fibrosis. We discuss how translational research could help to establish fibrosis-specific endpoints for clinical trials, leading to improved patient stratification and potentially companion diagnostics, and facilitating and optimizing development of novel anti-fibrotic therapies for kidney patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Boor
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany; Electron Microscopy Facility, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany; Division of Nephrology and Immunology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.
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Yu Y, Leng Y, Song X, Mu J, Ma L, Yin L, Zheng Y, Lu Y, Li Y, Qiu X, Zhu H, Li J, Wang D. Extracellular Matrix Stiffness Regulates Microvascular Stability by Controlling Endothelial Paracrine Signaling to Determine Pericyte Fate. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2023; 43:1887-1899. [PMID: 37650330 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.123.319119] [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: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The differentiation of pericytes into myofibroblasts causes microvascular degeneration, ECM (extracellular matrix) accumulation, and tissue stiffening, characteristics of fibrotic diseases. It is unclear how pericyte-myofibroblast differentiation is regulated in the microvascular environment. Our previous study established a novel 2-dimensional platform for coculturing microvascular endothelial cells (ECs) and pericytes derived from the same tissue. This study investigated how ECM stiffness regulated microvascular ECs, pericytes, and their interactions. METHODS Primary microvessels were cultured in the TGM2D medium (tubular microvascular growth medium on 2-dimensional substrates). Stiff ECM was prepared by incubating ECM solution in regular culture dishes for 1 hour followed by PBS wash. Soft ECM with Young modulus of ≈6 kPa was used unless otherwise noted. Bone grafts were prepared from the rat skull. Immunostaining, RNA sequencing, RT-qPCR (real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction), Western blotting, and knockdown experiments were performed on the cells. RESULTS Primary microvascular pericytes differentiated into myofibroblasts (NG2+αSMA+) on stiff ECM, even with the TGFβ (transforming growth factor beta) signaling inhibitor A83-01. Soft ECM and A83-01 cooperatively maintained microvascular stability while inhibiting pericyte-myofibroblast differentiation (NG2+αSMA-/low). We thus defined 2 pericyte subpopulations: primary (NG2+αSMA-/low) and activated (NG2+αSMA+) pericytes. Soft ECM promoted microvascular regeneration and inhibited fibrosis in bone graft transplantation in vivo. As integrins are the major mechanosensor, we performed RT-qPCR screening of integrin family members and found Itgb1 (integrin β1) was the major subunit downregulated by soft ECM and A83-01 treatment. Knocking down Itgb1 suppressed myofibroblast differentiation on stiff ECM. Interestingly, ITGB1 phosphorylation (Y783) was mainly located on microvascular ECs on stiff ECM, which promoted EC secretion of paracrine factors, including CTGF (connective tissue growth factor), to induce pericyte-myofibroblast differentiation. CTGF knockdown or monoclonal antibody treatment partially reduced myofibroblast differentiation, implying the participation of multiple pathways in fibrosis formation. CONCLUSIONS ECM stiffness and TGFβ signaling cooperatively regulate microvascular stability and pericyte-myofibroblast differentiation. Stiff ECM promotes EC ITGB1 phosphorylation (Y783) and CTGF secretion, which induces pericyte-myofibroblast differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yali Yu
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, China (Y.Y., Y. Leng, X.S., J.M., L.M., L.Y., Y.Z., J.L., D.W.)
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, China (Y.Y., Y. Leng, X.S., L.M., L.Y., Y.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Shandong Province Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, China (Y.Y., L.M., D.W.)
| | - Yu Leng
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, China (Y.Y., Y. Leng, X.S., J.M., L.M., L.Y., Y.Z., J.L., D.W.)
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, China (Y.Y., Y. Leng, X.S., L.M., L.Y., Y.Z.)
| | - Xiuyue Song
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, China (Y.Y., Y. Leng, X.S., J.M., L.M., L.Y., Y.Z., J.L., D.W.)
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, China (Y.Y., Y. Leng, X.S., L.M., L.Y., Y.Z.)
| | - Jie Mu
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, China (Y.Y., Y. Leng, X.S., J.M., L.M., L.Y., Y.Z., J.L., D.W.)
- College of Life Sciences and School of Pharmacy, Medical College, Qingdao University, China (J.M.)
| | - Lei Ma
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, China (Y.Y., Y. Leng, X.S., J.M., L.M., L.Y., Y.Z., J.L., D.W.)
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, China (Y.Y., Y. Leng, X.S., L.M., L.Y., Y.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Shandong Province Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, China (Y.Y., L.M., D.W.)
| | - Lin Yin
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, China (Y.Y., Y. Leng, X.S., J.M., L.M., L.Y., Y.Z., J.L., D.W.)
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, China (Y.Y., Y. Leng, X.S., L.M., L.Y., Y.Z.)
| | - Yu Zheng
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, China (Y.Y., Y. Leng, X.S., J.M., L.M., L.Y., Y.Z., J.L., D.W.)
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, China (Y.Y., Y. Leng, X.S., L.M., L.Y., Y.Z.)
- Department of Urology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, China (Y.Z., Y. Lu, H.Z.)
| | - Yi Lu
- Department of Urology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, China (Y.Z., Y. Lu, H.Z.)
| | - Yuanming Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China (Y. Li, X.Q.)
| | - Xuefeng Qiu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China (Y. Li, X.Q.)
| | - Hai Zhu
- Department of Urology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, China (Y.Z., Y. Lu, H.Z.)
| | - Jing Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, China (Y.Y., Y. Leng, X.S., J.M., L.M., L.Y., Y.Z., J.L., D.W.)
| | - Dong Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, China (Y.Y., Y. Leng, X.S., J.M., L.M., L.Y., Y.Z., J.L., D.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Shandong Province Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, China (Y.Y., L.M., D.W.)
- Shandong Provincial Institute of Cancer Prevention, Jinan, China (D.W.)
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Wang R, Halimulati M, Huang X, Ma Y, Li L, Zhang Z. Sulforaphane-driven reprogramming of gut microbiome and metabolome ameliorates the progression of hyperuricemia. J Adv Res 2023; 52:19-28. [PMID: 36371056 PMCID: PMC10555773 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2022.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Currently, revealing how to prevent and control hyperuricemia has become an essential public health issue. Sulforaphane hasawiderangeofapplications in the management of hyperuricemia. OBJECTIVE The study objective was to verify the uric acid-lowering effects and the regulation of the gut-kidney axis mediated by sulforaphane and identify host-microbial co-metabolites in hyperuricemia. METHODS A hyperuricemia model was established by administering feedstuffs with 4% potassium oxonate and 20% yeast. Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the normal control, hyperuricemia, allopurinol, and sulforaphane groups. Animals were treated by oral gavage for six consecutive weeks, and then phenotypic parameters, metabolomic profiling, and metagenomicsequencing were performed. RESULTS Sulforaphane could lower uric acid by decreasing urate synthesis and increasing renal urate excretion in hyperuricemic rats (P<0.05). We identified succinic acid and oxoglutaric acid as critical host-gut microbiome co-metabolites. Moreover, sulforaphane improved the diversity of microbial ecosystems and functions, as well as metabolic control of the kidney. Notably, sulforaphane exerted its renoprotective effect through epigenetic modification of Nrf2 and interaction between gut microbiota and epigenetic modification in hyperuricemic rats. CONCLUSION We revealed that sulforaphane could ameliorate the progression of hyperuricemia by reprogramming the gut microbiome and metabolome. Our findings may provide a good means for efficiently preventing and treating hyperuricemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyu Wang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, People's Republic of China
| | - Mairepaiti Halimulati
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaojie Huang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxin Ma
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, People's Republic of China
| | - Lutong Li
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaofeng Zhang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, People's Republic of China; Beijing's Key Laboratory of Food Safety Toxicology Research and Evaluation, Beijing 100191, People's Republic of China.
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Abstract
Chronic liver diseases such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or viral hepatitis are characterized by persistent inflammation and subsequent liver fibrosis. Liver fibrosis critically determines long-term morbidity (for example, cirrhosis or liver cancer) and mortality in NAFLD and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Inflammation represents the concerted response of various hepatic cell types to hepatocellular death and inflammatory signals, which are related to intrahepatic injury pathways or extrahepatic mediators from the gut-liver axis and the circulation. Single-cell technologies have revealed the heterogeneity of immune cell activation concerning disease states and the spatial organization within the liver, including resident and recruited macrophages, neutrophils as mediators of tissue repair, auto-aggressive features of T cells as well as various innate lymphoid cell and unconventional T cell populations. Inflammatory responses drive the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), and HSC subsets, in turn, modulate immune mechanisms via chemokines and cytokines or transdifferentiate into matrix-producing myofibroblasts. Current advances in understanding the pathogenesis of inflammation and fibrosis in the liver, mainly focused on NAFLD or NASH owing to the high unmet medical need, have led to the identification of several therapeutic targets. In this Review, we summarize the inflammatory mediators and cells in the diseased liver, fibrogenic pathways and their therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Hammerich
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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Ezzo M, Hinz B. Novel approaches to target fibroblast mechanotransduction in fibroproliferative diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 250:108528. [PMID: 37708995 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The ability of cells to sense and respond to changes in mechanical environment is vital in conditions of organ injury when the architecture of normal tissues is disturbed or lost. Among the various cellular players that respond to injury, fibroblasts take center stage in re-establishing tissue integrity by secreting and organizing extracellular matrix into stabilizing scar tissue. Activation, activity, survival, and death of scar-forming fibroblasts are tightly controlled by mechanical environment and proper mechanotransduction ensures that fibroblast activities cease after completion of the tissue repair process. Conversely, dysregulated mechanotransduction often results in fibroblast over-activation or persistence beyond the state of normal repair. The resulting pathological accumulation of extracellular matrix is called fibrosis, a condition that has been associated with over 40% of all deaths in the industrialized countries. Consequently, elements in fibroblast mechanotransduction are scrutinized for their suitability as anti-fibrotic therapeutic targets. We review the current knowledge on mechanically relevant factors in the fibroblast extracellular environment, cell-matrix and cell-cell adhesion structures, stretch-activated membrane channels, stress-regulated cytoskeletal structures, and co-transcription factors. We critically discuss the targetability of these elements in therapeutic approaches and their progress in pre-clinical and/or clinical trials to treat organ fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Ezzo
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, and Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, and Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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71
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Cogliati B, Yashaswini CN, Wang S, Sia D, Friedman SL. Friend or foe? The elusive role of hepatic stellate cells in liver cancer. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 20:647-661. [PMID: 37550577 PMCID: PMC10671228 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-023-00821-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a substantial risk factor for the development and progression of liver cancer, which includes hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA). Studies utilizing cell fate mapping and single-cell transcriptomics techniques have identified quiescent perisinusoidal hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) as the primary source of activated collagen-producing HSCs and liver cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in HCC and liver metastasis, complemented in iCCA by contributions from portal fibroblasts. At the same time, integrative computational analysis of single-cell, single-nucleus and spatial RNA sequencing data have revealed marked heterogeneity among HSCs and CAFs, with distinct subpopulations displaying unique gene expression signatures and functions. Some of these subpopulations have divergent roles in promoting or inhibiting liver fibrogenesis and carcinogenesis. In this Review, we discuss the dual roles of HSC subpopulations in liver fibrogenesis and their contribution to liver cancer promotion, progression and metastasis. We review the transcriptomic and functional similarities between HSC and CAF subpopulations, highlighting the pathways that either promote or prevent fibrosis and cancer, and the immunological landscape from which these pathways emerge. Insights from ongoing studies will yield novel strategies for developing biomarkers, assessing prognosis and generating new therapies for both HCC and iCCA prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Cogliati
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Shuang Wang
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Daniela Sia
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Scott L Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
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72
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Shen K, Chen B, Gao W. Integrated single-cell RNA sequencing analysis reveals a mesenchymal stem cell-associated signature for estimating prognosis and drug sensitivity in gastric cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:11829-11847. [PMID: 37410142 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05058-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) play an important role in regulating all stages of the immune response, angiogenesis, and transformation of matrix components in the tumor microenvironment. The aim of this study was to identify the prognostic value of MSC-related signatures in patients with gastric cancer (GC). METHODS MSC marker genes were identified by analyzing single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data for GC from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Using bulk sequencing data from the Cancer Genome Atlas-Stomach adenocarcinoma (TCGA-STAD), as a training cohort, and data from GEO, as a validation cohort, we developed a risk model consisting of MSC prognostic signature genes, and classified GC patients into high- and low-MSC risk subgroups. Multifactorial Cox regression was used to evaluate whether MSC prognostic signature was an independent prognostic factor. An MSC nomogram was constructed combining clinical information and risk grouping. Subsequently, we evaluated the effect of MSC prognostic signature on immune cell infiltration, antitumor drugs and immune checkpoints and verified the expression of MSC prognostic signature by in vitro cellular assays. RESULTS In this study, 174 MSC marker genes were identified by analyzing scRNA-seq data. We identified seven genes (POSTN, PLOD2, ITGAV, MMP11, SDC2, MARCKS, ANXA5) to construct MSC prognostic signature. MSC prognostic signature was an independent risk factor in the TCGA and GEO cohorts. GC patients in the high-MSC risk group had worse prognoses. In addition, the MSC nomogram has a high clinical application value. Notably, the MSC signature can induce the development of a poor immune microenvironment. GC patients in the high MSC-risk group were more sensitive to anticancer drugs and tended to have higher levels of immune checkpoint markers. In qRT-PCR assays, the MSC signature was more highly expressed in GC cell lines. CONCLUSIONS The MSC marker gene-based risk signature developed in this study can not only be used to predict the prognosis of GC patients, but also has the potential to reflect the efficacy of antitumor therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiyu Shen
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Binyu Chen
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Wencang Gao
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310005, China.
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Pohl L, Schiessl IM. Endothelial cell plasticity in kidney fibrosis and disease. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2023; 239:e14038. [PMID: 37661749 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Renal endothelial cells demonstrate an impressive remodeling potential during angiogenic sprouting, vessel repair or while transitioning into mesenchymal cells. These different processes may play important roles in both renal disease progression or regeneration while underlying signaling pathways of different endothelial cell plasticity routes partly overlap. Angiogenesis contributes to wound healing after kidney injury and pharmaceutical modulation of angiogenesis may home a great therapeutic potential. Yet, it is not clear whether any differentiated endothelial cell can proliferate or whether regenerative processes are largely controlled by resident or circulating endothelial progenitor cells. In the glomerular compartment for example, a distinct endothelial progenitor cell population may remodel the glomerular endothelium after injury. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) in the kidney is vastly documented and often associated with endothelial dysfunction, fibrosis, and kidney disease progression. Especially the role of EndoMT in renal fibrosis is controversial. Studies on EndoMT in vivo determined possible conclusions on the pathophysiological role of EndoMT in the kidney, but whether endothelial cells really contribute to kidney fibrosis and if not what other cellular and functional outcomes derive from EndoMT in kidney disease is unclear. Sequencing data, however, suggest no participation of endothelial cells in extracellular matrix deposition. Thus, more in-depth classification of cellular markers and the fate of EndoMT cells in the kidney is needed. In this review, we describe different signaling pathways of endothelial plasticity, outline methodological approaches and evidence for functional and structural implications of angiogenesis and EndoMT in the kidney, and eventually discuss controversial aspects in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Layla Pohl
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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He J, Fang B, Shan S, Li Q. Mechanical stiffness promotes skin fibrosis through Piezo1-mediated arginine and proline metabolism. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:354. [PMID: 37752116 PMCID: PMC10522626 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01656-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The increased mechanics of fibrotic skin tissue continuously regulate fibroblast functions such as survival and differentiation. Although all these processes consume metabolites, it is unclear whether and how cells adapt their metabolic activity to increased matrix stiffness. Here, we show that transferring mouse dermal fibroblasts from soft to stiff substrates causes an up-regulation of arginine and proline metabolism. Increased matrix stiffness stimulates the expression and activity of key metabolic enzymes, leading to the synthesis of L-proline, a major source of collagen. In addition, the novel mechanosensitive channel Piezo1 was identified as a key regulator of arginine and proline metabolism in fibroblasts under increased stiffness. Consistently, targeting Piezo1 to dermal fibroblasts in vivo effectively reduces fibrosis and arginine-proline metabolism in mouse skin. Therefore, mechanical stiffness is a critical environmental cue for fibroblast metabolism and skin fibrosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao He
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200011, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Fang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200011, Shanghai, China.
| | - Shengzhou Shan
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200011, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qingfeng Li
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200011, Shanghai, China.
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75
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Ganjayi MS, Brown AM, Baumann CW. Longitudinal assessment of strength and body composition in a mouse model of chronic alcohol-related myopathy. ALCOHOL, CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 47:1653-1664. [PMID: 37431705 DOI: 10.1111/acer.15149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Excessive, chronic alcohol consumption can result in muscle atrophy and weakness (i.e., alcoholic myopathy) that impairs the quality of life. However, the precise mechanisms responsible for ethanol's detrimental impact on skeletal muscle have not been fully elucidated, in part due because the time course of disease development and progression are not well established. Therefore, we examined muscle strength and body composition longitudinally using an established preclinical mouse model of chronic alcoholic myopathy. METHODS To establish a time course of chronic alcoholic myopathy, we fed High Drinking in the Dark (HDID) female mice (n = 7) 20% ethanol for ~32 weeks (following a 2-week ethanol ramping period). We assessed in vivo isometric contractility of the left ankle dorsiflexor and lean mass via NMR every 4 weeks. Outcomes were compared with age-matched control HDID mice that did not consume ethanol (n = 8). RESULTS At study completion, mice who consumed ethanol were 12% weaker than control mice (p = 0.015). Compared to baseline, consuming ethanol resulted in an acute transient reduction in dorsiflexion torque at Week 4 (p = 0.032) that was followed by a second, more sustained reduction at Week 20 (p < 0.001). Changes in lean mass paralleled those of dorsiflexor torque, with ~40% of the variance in dorsiflexor torque being explained by the variance in lean mass of the ethanol group (p < 0.001). Dorsiflexor torque normalized to lean mass (mN·m/g lean mass) did not differ between the ethanol and control groups from Weeks 4 to 32 (p ≥ 0.498). CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that reductions in muscle mass and strength due to chronic, excessive ethanol intake are dynamic, not necessarily linear, processes. Moreover, the findings confirm that ethanol-induced weakness is primarily driven by muscle atrophy (i.e., loss of muscle quantity). Future studies should consider how chronic alcoholic myopathy develops and progresses rather than identifying changes after it has been diagnosed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muni Swamy Ganjayi
- Ohio Musculoskeletal and Neurological Institute (OMNI), Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, USA
| | - Austin M Brown
- Ohio Musculoskeletal and Neurological Institute (OMNI), Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, USA
- Honors Tutorial College, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, USA
| | - Cory W Baumann
- Ohio Musculoskeletal and Neurological Institute (OMNI), Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, USA
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李 明, 孙 美, 贾 渊, 任 徽, 刘 含. [Biomechanical properties of epithelial mesenchymal transition in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis]. SHENG WU YI XUE GONG CHENG XUE ZA ZHI = JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING = SHENGWU YIXUE GONGCHENGXUE ZAZHI 2023; 40:632-637. [PMID: 37666752 PMCID: PMC10477379 DOI: 10.7507/1001-5515.202206016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive scar-forming disease with a high mortality rate that has received widespread attention. Epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important part of the pulmonary fibrosis process, and changes in the biomechanical properties of lung tissue have an important impact on it. In this paper, we summarize the changes in the biomechanical microenvironment of lung tissue in IPF-EMT in recent years, and provide a systematic review on the effects of alterations in the mechanical microenvironment in pulmonary fibrosis on the process of EMT, the effects of mechanical factors on the behavior of alveolar epithelial cells in EMT and the biomechanical signaling in EMT, in order to provide new references for the research on the prevention and treatment of IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- 明艳 李
- 河南中医药大学 中医药科学院 呼吸疾病中医药防治省部共建协同创新中心 河南省中医药防治呼吸病重点实验室(郑州 450016)Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases Co-Constructed by Henan & Ministry of Education of PR China, Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Zhengzhou 450016, P.R. China
| | - 美好 孙
- 河南中医药大学 中医药科学院 呼吸疾病中医药防治省部共建协同创新中心 河南省中医药防治呼吸病重点实验室(郑州 450016)Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases Co-Constructed by Henan & Ministry of Education of PR China, Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Zhengzhou 450016, P.R. China
| | - 渊博 贾
- 河南中医药大学 中医药科学院 呼吸疾病中医药防治省部共建协同创新中心 河南省中医药防治呼吸病重点实验室(郑州 450016)Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases Co-Constructed by Henan & Ministry of Education of PR China, Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Zhengzhou 450016, P.R. China
| | - 徽 任
- 河南中医药大学 中医药科学院 呼吸疾病中医药防治省部共建协同创新中心 河南省中医药防治呼吸病重点实验室(郑州 450016)Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases Co-Constructed by Henan & Ministry of Education of PR China, Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Zhengzhou 450016, P.R. China
- 西安交通大学 仿生工程与生物力学中心(西安 710049)Bioinspired Engineering & Biomechanics Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P.R. China
| | - 含 刘
- 河南中医药大学 中医药科学院 呼吸疾病中医药防治省部共建协同创新中心 河南省中医药防治呼吸病重点实验室(郑州 450016)Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases Co-Constructed by Henan & Ministry of Education of PR China, Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Zhengzhou 450016, P.R. China
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Gannoun L, De Schrevel C, Belle M, Dauguet N, Achouri Y, Loriot A, Vanderaa C, Cordi S, Dili A, Heremans Y, Rooman I, Leclercq IA, Jacquemin P, Gatto L, Lemaigre FP. Axon guidance genes control hepatic artery development. Development 2023; 150:dev201642. [PMID: 37497580 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201642] [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: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Earlier data on liver development demonstrated that morphogenesis of the bile duct, portal mesenchyme and hepatic artery is interdependent, yet how this interdependency is orchestrated remains unknown. Here, using 2D and 3D imaging, we first describe how portal mesenchymal cells become organised to form hepatic arteries. Next, we examined intercellular signalling active during portal area development and found that axon guidance genes are dynamically expressed in developing bile ducts and portal mesenchyme. Using tissue-specific gene inactivation in mice, we show that the repulsive guidance molecule BMP co-receptor A (RGMA)/neogenin (NEO1) receptor/ligand pair is dispensable for portal area development, but that deficient roundabout 2 (ROBO2)/SLIT2 signalling in the portal mesenchyme causes reduced maturation of the vascular smooth muscle cells that form the tunica media of the hepatic artery. This arterial anomaly does not impact liver function in homeostatic conditions, but is associated with significant tissular damage following partial hepatectomy. In conclusion, our work identifies new players in development of the liver vasculature in health and liver regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lila Gannoun
- de Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 75, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Catalina De Schrevel
- de Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 75, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Morgane Belle
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, Department of Development, Rue Moreau 17, Paris 75012, France
| | - Nicolas Dauguet
- Flow cytometry CYTF platform, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Younes Achouri
- Transgene Technology Platform TRSG, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Avenue Hippocrate 75, Belgium 1200
| | - Axelle Loriot
- de Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 75, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Christophe Vanderaa
- de Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 75, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Sabine Cordi
- de Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 75, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Alexandra Dili
- HPB Surgery Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire UCL Namur, Site Mont-Godinne, Avenue du Dr. Thérasse 1, Yvoir 5530, Belgium
- Laboratory of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 53, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Yves Heremans
- Visual & Spatial Tissue Analysis (VSTA) core facility, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - Ilse Rooman
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Oncology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - Isabelle A Leclercq
- Laboratory of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 53, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Patrick Jacquemin
- de Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 75, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Laurent Gatto
- de Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 75, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Frédéric P Lemaigre
- de Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 75, Brussels 1200, Belgium
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Affo S, Filliol A, Gores GJ, Schwabe RF. Fibroblasts in liver cancer: functions and therapeutic translation. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 8:748-759. [PMID: 37385282 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(23)00111-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Accumulation of fibroblasts in the premalignant or malignant liver is a characteristic feature of liver cancer, but has not been therapeutically leveraged despite evidence for pathophysiologically relevant roles in tumour growth. Hepatocellular carcinoma is a largely non-desmoplastic tumour, in which fibroblasts accumulate predominantly in the pre-neoplastic fibrotic liver and regulate the risk for hepatocellular carcinoma development through a balance of tumour-suppressive and tumour-promoting mediators. By contrast, cholangiocarcinoma is desmoplastic, with cancer-associated fibroblasts contributing to tumour growth. Accordingly, restoring the balance from tumour-promoting to tumour-suppressive fibroblasts and mediators might represent a strategy for hepatocellular carcinoma prevention, whereas in cholangiocarcinoma, fibroblasts and their mediators could be leveraged for tumour treatment. Importantly, fibroblast mediators regulating hepatocellular carcinoma development might exert opposite effects on cholangiocarcinoma growth. This Review translates the improved understanding of tumour-specific, location-specific, and stage-specific roles of fibroblasts and their mediators in liver cancer into novel and rational therapeutic concepts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Affo
- Department of Liver, Digestive System, and Metabolism, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aveline Filliol
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gregory J Gores
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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79
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Li X, Wang Q, Ai L, Cheng K. Unraveling the activation process and core driver genes of HSCs during cirrhosis by single-cell transcriptome. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2023; 248:1414-1424. [PMID: 37674431 PMCID: PMC10657590 DOI: 10.1177/15353702231191109] [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: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, cirrhosis is a common cause of death, manifesting itself as fibrosis of the liver tissue. When the liver is damaged, the liver produces fibrotic, proliferative myofibroblasts, which are formed by the differentiation of activated hepatic stellate cells. There are no effective antifibrotic treatment options. To deeply explore the activation process of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and to discover better therapeutic target genes, single-cell RNA sequencing data on 13 non-cirrhotic liver tissue samples and 10 cirrhotic liver tissue samples were analyzed. We identified activated HSCs from the mesenchymal cell population with high expression of ACTA2. By pseudo-time analysis, we found that the key genes for the differentiation of HSCs into myofibroblasts were C3, CCDC80, COL1A1, COL3A1, DCN, FBLN1, IGFBP3, MXRA5, SERPINE1, and MYH11. Then, we found that the main regulators of HSCs from inactive to activated state were NTF3, NTRK3, NTRK2, JAG1, NOTCH3, ESAM, and CD46 by cell-cell communication analysis. In addition, we found that the top2 hub genes of activated HSCs were CRIP1 and ACTA2. The experimental results show that the top2 hub genes were significantly overexpressed in cirrhotic samples. Our work dissected key intercellular regulators and core driver genes during hepatic stellate cell activation during cirrhosis through single-cell transcriptome data analysis, providing a research strategy to discover rational therapeutic targets for cirrhosis and some important information for gene targeting therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Li
- Transplantation Center, Engineering & Technology Research Center for Transplantation Medicine of Hunan Province, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Transplantation Center, Engineering & Technology Research Center for Transplantation Medicine of Hunan Province, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China
| | - Liang Ai
- Transplantation Center, Engineering & Technology Research Center for Transplantation Medicine of Hunan Province, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China
| | - Ke Cheng
- Transplantation Center, Engineering & Technology Research Center for Transplantation Medicine of Hunan Province, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China
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Di X, Gao X, Peng L, Ai J, Jin X, Qi S, Li H, Wang K, Luo D. Cellular mechanotransduction in health and diseases: from molecular mechanism to therapeutic targets. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:282. [PMID: 37518181 PMCID: PMC10387486 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01501-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular mechanotransduction, a critical regulator of numerous biological processes, is the conversion from mechanical signals to biochemical signals regarding cell activities and metabolism. Typical mechanical cues in organisms include hydrostatic pressure, fluid shear stress, tensile force, extracellular matrix stiffness or tissue elasticity, and extracellular fluid viscosity. Mechanotransduction has been expected to trigger multiple biological processes, such as embryonic development, tissue repair and regeneration. However, prolonged excessive mechanical stimulation can result in pathological processes, such as multi-organ fibrosis, tumorigenesis, and cancer immunotherapy resistance. Although the associations between mechanical cues and normal tissue homeostasis or diseases have been identified, the regulatory mechanisms among different mechanical cues are not yet comprehensively illustrated, and no effective therapies are currently available targeting mechanical cue-related signaling. This review systematically summarizes the characteristics and regulatory mechanisms of typical mechanical cues in normal conditions and diseases with the updated evidence. The key effectors responding to mechanical stimulations are listed, such as Piezo channels, integrins, Yes-associated protein (YAP) /transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), and transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4). We also reviewed the key signaling pathways, therapeutic targets and cutting-edge clinical applications of diseases related to mechanical cues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingpeng Di
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoshuai Gao
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Liao Peng
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Jianzhong Ai
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Xi Jin
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Shiqian Qi
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Hong Li
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Kunjie Wang
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China.
| | - Deyi Luo
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China.
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81
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Wilhelmsen I, Amirola Martinez M, Stokowiec J, Wang C, Aizenshtadt A, Krauss S. Characterization of human stem cell-derived hepatic stellate cells and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells during extended in vitro culture. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1223737. [PMID: 37560536 PMCID: PMC10408301 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1223737] [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: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: There is a significant need for predictive and stable in vitro human liver representations for disease modeling and drug testing. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are important non-parenchymal cell components of the liver and are hence of relevance in a variety of disease models, including hepatic fibrosis. Pluripotent stem cell- (PSC-) derived HSCs (scHSCs) and LSECs (scLSECs) offer an attractive alternative to primary human material; yet, the suitability of scHSCs and scLSECs for extended in vitro modeling has not been characterized. Methods: In this study, we describe the phenotypic and functional development of scHSCs and scLSECs during 14 days of 2D in vitro culture. Cell-specific phenotypes were evaluated by cell morphology, immunofluorescence, and gene- and protein expression. Functionality was assessed in scHSCs by their capacity for intracellular storage of vitamin A and response to pro-fibrotic stimuli induced by TGF-β. scLSECs were evaluated by nitric oxide- and factor VIII secretion as well as endocytic uptake of bioparticles and acetylated low-density lipoprotein. Notch pathway inhibition and co-culturing scHSCs and scLSECs were separately tested as options for enhancing long-term stability and maturation of the cells. Results and Conclusion: Both scHSCs and scLSECs exhibited a post-differentiation cell type-specific phenotype and functionality but deteriorated during extended culture with PSC line-dependent variability. Therefore, the choice of PSC line and experimental timeframe is crucial when designing in vitro platforms involving scHSCs and scLSECs. Notch inhibition modestly improved long-term monoculture in a cell line-dependent manner, while co-culturing scHSCs and scLSECs provides a strategy to enhance phenotypic and functional stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Wilhelmsen
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Mikel Amirola Martinez
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Justyna Stokowiec
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Chencheng Wang
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Aleksandra Aizenshtadt
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Stefan Krauss
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub—Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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82
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Hu Q, Saleem K, Pandey J, Charania AN, Zhou Y, He C. Cell Adhesion Molecules in Fibrotic Diseases. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1995. [PMID: 37509634 PMCID: PMC10377070 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of tissue fibrosis remain incompletely understood. Emerging evidence suggests that cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) are critical in fibrotic progression in many organs, including lung, kidney, skin, and liver. CAMs promote cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions to maintain tissue architecture and normal function in homeostasis. However, dysregulated expression and function of CAMs can lead to chronic inflammation and tissue fibrosis. The major families of CAMs include integrins, cadherins, selectins, and immunoglobulins. Here, we review the role of the CAMs in fibrosis development across various organs with a focus on integrins and cadherins, and discuss their respective roles in the development of pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianjiang Hu
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Komal Saleem
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Jyotsana Pandey
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Arzoo N. Charania
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Yong Zhou
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Chao He
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
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Yamamura Y, Sakai N, Iwata Y, Lagares D, Hara A, Kitajima S, Toyama T, Miyagawa T, Ogura H, Sato K, Oshima M, Nakagawa S, Tamai A, Horikoshi K, Matsuno T, Yamamoto N, Hayashi D, Toyota Y, Kaikoi D, Shimizu M, Tager AM, Wada T. Myocardin-related transcription factor contributes to renal fibrosis through the regulation of extracellular microenvironment surrounding fibroblasts. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23005. [PMID: 37289107 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201870r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Fibroblast accumulation and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition are common critical steps for the progression of organ fibrosis, but the precise molecular mechanisms remain to be fully investigated. We have previously demonstrated that lysophosphatidic acid contributes to organ fibrosis through the production of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) via actin cytoskeleton-dependent signaling, myocardin-related transcription factor family (MRTF) consisting of MRTF-A and MRTF-B-serum response factor (SRF) pathway. In this study, we investigated the role of the MRTF-SRF pathway in the development of renal fibrosis, focusing on the regulation of ECM-focal adhesions (FA) in renal fibroblasts. Here we showed that both MRTF-A and -B were required for the expressions of ECM-related molecules such as lysyl oxidase family members, type I procollagen and fibronectin in response to transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 . TGF-β1 -MRTF-SRF pathway induced the expressions of various components of FA such as integrin α subunits (αv , α2 , α11 ) and β subunits (β1 , β3 , β5 ) as well as integrin-linked kinase (ILK). On the other hand, the blockade of ILK suppressed TGF-β1 -induced MRTF-SRF transcriptional activity, indicating a mutual relationship between MRTF-SRF and FA. Myofibroblast differentiation along with CTGF expression was also dependent on MRTF-SRF and FA components. Finally, global MRTF-A deficient and inducible fibroblast-specific MRTF-B deficient mice (MRTF-AKO BiFBKO mice) are protected from renal fibrosis with adenine administration. Renal expressions of ECM-FA components and CTGF as well as myofibroblast accumulation were suppressed in MRTF-AKO BiFBKO mice. These results suggest that the MRTF-SRF pathway might be a therapeutic target for renal fibrosis through the regulation of components forming ECM-FA in fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuta Yamamura
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Norihiko Sakai
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- Division of Blood Purification, Kanazawa University Hospital, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Yasunori Iwata
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- Division of Infection Control, Kanazawa University Hospital, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - David Lagares
- Fibrosis Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Akinori Hara
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Shinji Kitajima
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- Division of Infection Control, Kanazawa University Hospital, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Tadashi Toyama
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Taro Miyagawa
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Hisayuki Ogura
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Koichi Sato
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Megumi Oshima
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Shiori Nakagawa
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Akira Tamai
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Keisuke Horikoshi
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Takahiro Matsuno
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Naoki Yamamoto
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Daiki Hayashi
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Yoshitada Toyota
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Daichi Kaikoi
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Miho Shimizu
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Andrew M Tager
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Takashi Wada
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
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Park JYC, King A, Björk V, English BW, Fedintsev A, Ewald CY. Strategic outline of interventions targeting extracellular matrix for promoting healthy longevity. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 325:C90-C128. [PMID: 37154490 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00060.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM), composed of interlinked proteins outside of cells, is an important component of the human body that helps maintain tissue architecture and cellular homeostasis. As people age, the ECM undergoes changes that can lead to age-related morbidity and mortality. Despite its importance, ECM aging remains understudied in the field of geroscience. In this review, we discuss the core concepts of ECM integrity, outline the age-related challenges and subsequent pathologies and diseases, summarize diagnostic methods detecting a faulty ECM, and provide strategies targeting ECM homeostasis. To conceptualize this, we built a technology research tree to hierarchically visualize possible research sequences for studying ECM aging. This strategic framework will hopefully facilitate the development of future research on interventions to restore ECM integrity, which could potentially lead to the development of new drugs or therapeutic interventions promoting health during aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Young Cecilia Park
- Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Regeneration, Institute of Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Schwerzenbach, Switzerland
| | - Aaron King
- Foresight Institute, San Francisco, California, United States
| | | | - Bradley W English
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | | | - Collin Y Ewald
- Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Regeneration, Institute of Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Schwerzenbach, Switzerland
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85
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Agborbesong E, Bissler J, Li X. Liquid Biopsy at the Frontier of Kidney Diseases: Application of Exosomes in Diagnostics and Therapeutics. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1367. [PMID: 37510273 PMCID: PMC10379367 DOI: 10.3390/genes14071367] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In the era of precision medicine, liquid biopsy techniques, especially the use of urine analysis, represent a paradigm shift in the identification of biomarkers, with considerable implications for clinical practice in the field of nephrology. In kidney diseases, the use of this non-invasive tool to identify specific and sensitive biomarkers other than plasma creatinine and the glomerular filtration rate is becoming crucial for the diagnosis and assessment of a patient's condition. In recent years, studies have drawn attention to the importance of exosomes for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in kidney diseases. Exosomes are nano-sized extracellular vesicles with a lipid bilayer structure, composed of a variety of biologically active substances. In the context of kidney diseases, studies have demonstrated that exosomes are valuable carriers of information and are delivery vectors, rendering them appealing candidates as biomarkers and drug delivery vehicles with beneficial therapeutic outcomes for kidney diseases. This review summarizes the applications of exosomes in kidney diseases, emphasizing the current biomarkers of renal diseases identified from urinary exosomes and the therapeutic applications of exosomes with reference to drug delivery and immunomodulation. Finally, we discuss the challenges encountered when using exosomes for therapeutic purposes and how these may affect its clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewud Agborbesong
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - John Bissler
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center and Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
- Children's Foundation Research Institute, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
- Pediatric Medicine Department, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Xiaogang Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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86
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Aue A, Englert N, Harrer L, Schwiering F, Gaab A, König P, Adams R, Schmidtko A, Friebe A, Groneberg D. NO-sensitive guanylyl cyclase discriminates pericyte-derived interstitial from intra-alveolar myofibroblasts in murine pulmonary fibrosis. Respir Res 2023; 24:167. [PMID: 37349733 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-023-02479-2] [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: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The origin of αSMA-positive myofibroblasts, key players within organ fibrosis, is still not fully elucidated. Pericytes have been discussed as myofibroblast progenitors in several organs including the lung. METHODS Using tamoxifen-inducible PDGFRβ-tdTomato mice (PDGFRβ-CreERT2; R26tdTomato) lineage of lung pericytes was traced. To induce lung fibrosis, a single orotracheal dose of bleomycin was given. Lung tissue was investigated by immunofluorescence analyses, hydroxyproline collagen assay and RT-qPCR. RESULTS Lineage tracing combined with immunofluorescence for nitric oxide-sensitive guanylyl cyclase (NO-GC) as marker for PDGFRβ-positive pericytes allows differentiating two types of αSMA-expressing myofibroblasts in murine pulmonary fibrosis: (1) interstitial myofibroblasts that localize in the alveolar wall, derive from PDGFRβ+ pericytes, express NO-GC and produce collagen 1. (2) intra-alveolar myofibroblasts which do not derive from pericytes (but express PDGFRβ de novo after injury), are negative for NO-GC, have a large multipolar shape and appear to spread over several alveoli within the injured areas. Moreover, NO-GC expression is reduced during fibrosis, i.e., after pericyte-to-myofibroblast transition. CONCLUSION In summary, αSMA/PDGFRβ-positive myofibroblasts should not be addressed as a homogeneous target cell type within pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemarie Aue
- Physiologisches Institut, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Röntgenring 9, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
- Zentrum für Interdisziplinäre Schmerzmedizin, Klinik für Anästhesiologie Intensivmedizin, Notfallmedizin und Schmerztherapie, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nils Englert
- Physiologisches Institut, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Röntgenring 9, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Leon Harrer
- Physiologisches Institut, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Röntgenring 9, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Fabian Schwiering
- Physiologisches Institut, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Röntgenring 9, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Annika Gaab
- Physiologisches Institut, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Röntgenring 9, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Peter König
- Institut für Anatomie, Zentrum für Medizinische Struktur- und Zellbiologie, Universität zu Lübeck, 23562, Lübeck, Germany
- Airway Research Center North (ARCN), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Giessen, Germany
| | - Ralf Adams
- Max-Planck-Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Tissue Morphogenesis, Faculty of Medicine, University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Achim Schmidtko
- Institut für Pharmakologie und Klinische Pharmazie, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Andreas Friebe
- Physiologisches Institut, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Röntgenring 9, 97070, Würzburg, Germany.
| | - Dieter Groneberg
- Physiologisches Institut, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Röntgenring 9, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
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87
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Rodriguez LR, Tang SY, Barboza WR, Murthy A, Tomer Y, Cai TQ, Iyer S, Chavez K, Das US, Ghosh S, Dimopoulos T, Babu A, Connelly C, FitzGerald GA, Beers MF. Disruption of Prostaglandin F 2α Receptor Signaling Attenuates Fibrotic Remodeling and Alters Fibroblast Population Dynamics in A Preclinical Murine Model of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.07.543956. [PMID: 37333249 PMCID: PMC10274762 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.07.543956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic parenchymal lung disease characterized by repetitive alveolar cell injury, myofibroblast proliferation, and excessive extracellular matrix deposition for which unmet need persists for effective therapeutics. The bioactive eicosanoid, prostaglandin F2α, and its cognate receptor FPr (Ptfgr) are implicated as a TGFβ1 independent signaling hub for IPF. To assess this, we leveraged our published murine PF model (IER - SftpcI73T) expressing a disease-associated missense mutation in the surfactant protein C (Sftpc) gene. Tamoxifen treated IER-SftpcI73T mice develop an early multiphasic alveolitis and transition to spontaneous fibrotic remodeling by 28 days. IER-SftpcI73T mice crossed to a Ptgfr null (FPr-/-) line showed attenuated weight loss and gene dosage dependent rescue of mortality compared to FPr+/+ cohorts. IER-SftpcI73T/FPr-/- mice also showed reductions in multiple fibrotic endpoints for which administration of nintedanib was not additive. Single cell RNA sequencing, pseudotime analysis, and in vitro assays demonstrated Ptgfr expression predominantly within adventitial fibroblasts which were reprogrammed to an "inflammatory/transitional" cell state in a PGF2α/FPr dependent manner. Collectively, the findings provide evidence for a role for PGF2α signaling in IPF, mechanistically identify a susceptible fibroblast subpopulation, and establish a benchmark effect size for disruption of this pathway in mitigating fibrotic lung remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis R Rodriguez
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division Department of Medicine; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Soon Yew Tang
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics; Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Willy Roque Barboza
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division Department of Medicine; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Aditi Murthy
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division Department of Medicine; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Yaniv Tomer
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division Department of Medicine; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Tian-Quan Cai
- Calico Life Sciences LLC, South San Francisco, CA 94080
| | - Swati Iyer
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division Department of Medicine; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Katrina Chavez
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division Department of Medicine; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Ujjalkumar Subhash Das
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics; Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Soumita Ghosh
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics; Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Thalia Dimopoulos
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division Department of Medicine; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Apoorva Babu
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | | | - Garret A FitzGerald
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics; Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Michael F Beers
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division Department of Medicine; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
- PENN-CHOP Lung Biology Institute; Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA 19104
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88
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Trinh VQH, Lee TF, Lemoinne S, Ray KC, Ybanez MD, Tsuchida T, Carter JK, Agudo J, Brown BD, Akat KM, Friedman SL, Lee YA. Hepatic stellate cells maintain liver homeostasis through paracrine neurotrophin-3 signaling that induces hepatocyte proliferation. Sci Signal 2023; 16:eadf6696. [PMID: 37253090 PMCID: PMC10367116 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.adf6696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Organ size is maintained by the controlled proliferation of distinct cell populations. In the mouse liver, hepatocytes in the midlobular zone that are positive for cyclin D1 (CCND1) repopulate the parenchyma at a constant rate to preserve liver mass. Here, we investigated how hepatocyte proliferation is supported by hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), pericytes that are in close proximity to hepatocytes. We used T cells to ablate nearly all HSCs in the murine liver, enabling the unbiased characterization of HSC functions. In the normal liver, complete loss of HSCs persisted for up to 10 weeks and caused a gradual reduction in liver mass and in the number of CCND1+ hepatocytes. We identified neurotrophin-3 (Ntf-3) as an HSC-produced factor that induced the proliferation of midlobular hepatocytes through the activation of tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB). Treating HSC-depleted mice with Ntf-3 restored CCND1+ hepatocytes in the midlobular region and increased liver mass. These findings establish that HSCs form the mitogenic niche for midlobular hepatocytes and identify Ntf-3 as a hepatocyte growth factor.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ting-Fang Lee
- Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center; Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Sara Lemoinne
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; New York, NY, USA
| | - Kevin C. Ray
- Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center; Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Maria D. Ybanez
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; New York, NY, USA
| | - Takuma Tsuchida
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; New York, NY, USA
| | - James K. Carter
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; New York, NY, USA
| | - Judith Agudo
- Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brian D. Brown
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kemal M. Akat
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center; Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Scott L. Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; New York, NY, USA
| | - Youngmin A. Lee
- Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center; Nashville, TN, USA
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89
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Ryoo H, Underhill GH. Combinatorial Microgels for 3D ECM Screening and Heterogeneous Microenvironmental Culture of Primary Human Hepatic Stellate Cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.05.539608. [PMID: 37214995 PMCID: PMC10197534 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.05.539608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease affects 30% of the United States population and its progression can lead to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can result in cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. NASH is characterized by a highly heterogeneous liver microenvironment created by the fibrotic activity of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). While HSCs have been widely studied in 2D, further advancements in physiologically-relevant 3D culture platforms for the in vitro modeling of these heterogeneous environments are needed. In this study, we have demonstrated the use of stiffness-variable, ECM protein-conjugated polyethylene glycol microgels as 3D cell culture scaffolds to modulate HSC activation. We further employed these microgels as a high throughput ECM screening system to identify HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities in distinct heterogeneous microenvironmental conditions. In particular, 6 kPa fibronectin microgels were shown to significantly increase HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities in single or multiple component microenvironments. Overall, heterogeneous microenvironments consisting of multiple distinct ECM microgels promoted a decrease in HSC matrix remodeling and metabolic activities compared to homogeneous microenvironments. We envision this ECM screening platform being adapted to a broad number of cell types to aid the identification of ECM microenvironments that best recapitulate the desired phenotype, differentiation, or drug efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Ryoo
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Gregory H. Underhill
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
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90
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Hamberger F, Mederacke YS, Mederacke I. An inducible model for genetic manipulation and fate-tracing of PDGFRβ-expressing fibrogenic cells in the liver. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7322. [PMID: 37147343 PMCID: PMC10162963 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34353-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Myofibroblasts are the source of extracellular matrix protein during liver fibrogenesis. Fibroblasts, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and vascular smooth muscle cells are mesenchymal subpopulations in the liver that are characterized by the expression of PDGFRβ and contribute to the pool of these myofibroblasts. Conditional knockout models are important to better understand the function of specific liver cell populations including mesenchymal cells. While there is a limited number of constitutive mouse models for liver mesenchymal cell specific transgene expression, there is no established model for inducible gene targeting in HSCs or PDGFRβ-expressing mesenchymal cell populations in the liver. To address this, we investigated whether the tamoxifen inducible PDGFRβ-P2A-CreERT2 mouse can be used as a reliable tool to specifically express transgens in liver mesenchymal cells. Our data demonstrate, that PDGFRβ-P2A-CreERT2 specifically and efficiently marks over 90% of retinoid positive HSCs in healthy and fibrotic liver in mice upon tamoxifen injection, and that those cells give rise to Col1a1-expressing myofibroblasts in different models of liver fibrosis. Together with a negligible background recombination of only about 0.33%, this confirms that the PDGFRβ-P2A-CreERT2 mouse is nearly as efficient as established constitutive LratCre and PDGFRβ-Cre mouse models for recombination in HSCs, and that it is a powerful model for mesenchymal liver cell studies that require an inducible Cre approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Hamberger
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Young-Seon Mederacke
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ingmar Mederacke
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Infectious Diseases and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany.
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91
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Goodwin AT, John AE, Joseph C, Habgood A, Tatler AL, Susztak K, Palmer M, Offermanns S, Henderson NC, Jenkins RG. Stretch regulates alveologenesis and homeostasis via mesenchymal Gαq/11-mediated TGFβ2 activation. Development 2023; 150:dev201046. [PMID: 37102682 PMCID: PMC10259661 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201046] [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: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Alveolar development and repair require tight spatiotemporal regulation of numerous signalling pathways that are influenced by chemical and mechanical stimuli. Mesenchymal cells play key roles in numerous developmental processes. Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) is essential for alveologenesis and lung repair, and the G protein α subunits Gαq and Gα11 (Gαq/11) transmit mechanical and chemical signals to activate TGFβ in epithelial cells. To understand the role of mesenchymal Gαq/11 in lung development, we generated constitutive (Pdgfrb-Cre+/-;Gnaqfl/fl;Gna11-/-) and inducible (Pdgfrb-Cre/ERT2+/-;Gnaqfl/fl;Gna11-/-) mesenchymal Gαq/11 deleted mice. Mice with constitutive Gαq/11 gene deletion exhibited abnormal alveolar development, with suppressed myofibroblast differentiation, altered mesenchymal cell synthetic function, and reduced lung TGFβ2 deposition, as well as kidney abnormalities. Tamoxifen-induced mesenchymal Gαq/11 gene deletion in adult mice resulted in emphysema associated with reduced TGFβ2 and elastin deposition. Cyclical mechanical stretch-induced TGFβ activation required Gαq/11 signalling and serine protease activity, but was independent of integrins, suggesting an isoform-specific role for TGFβ2 in this model. These data highlight a previously undescribed mechanism of cyclical stretch-induced Gαq/11-dependent TGFβ2 signalling in mesenchymal cells, which is imperative for normal alveologenesis and maintenance of lung homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda T. Goodwin
- Centre for Respiratory Research, Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Respiratory Medicine, Nottingham NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Respiratory Medicine, Biodiscovery Institute, University Park, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Alison E. John
- Margaret Turner Warwick Centre for Fibrosing Lung Disease, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, SW3 6LY, UK
| | - Chitra Joseph
- Centre for Respiratory Research, Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Respiratory Medicine, Nottingham NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Respiratory Medicine, Biodiscovery Institute, University Park, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Anthony Habgood
- Centre for Respiratory Research, Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Respiratory Medicine, Nottingham NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Respiratory Medicine, Biodiscovery Institute, University Park, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Amanda L. Tatler
- Centre for Respiratory Research, Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Respiratory Medicine, Nottingham NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Respiratory Medicine, Biodiscovery Institute, University Park, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Katalin Susztak
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Matthew Palmer
- Department of Pathology, Division of Nephrology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104-4238, USA
| | - Stefan Offermanns
- Department of Pharmacology, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Neil C. Henderson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU, UK
| | - R. Gisli Jenkins
- Margaret Turner Warwick Centre for Fibrosing Lung Disease, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, SW3 6LY, UK
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92
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Yin KL, Li M, Song PP, Duan YX, Ye WT, Tang W, Kokudo N, Gao Q, Liao R. Unraveling the Emerging Niche Role of Hepatic Stellate Cell-derived Exosomes in Liver Diseases. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2023; 11:441-451. [PMID: 36643031 PMCID: PMC9817040 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2022.00326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play an essential role in various liver diseases, and exosomes are critical mediators of intercellular communication in local and distant microenvironments. Cellular crosstalk between HSCs and surrounding multiple tissue-resident cells promotes or inhibits the activation of HSCs. Substantial evidence has revealed that HSC-derived exosomes are involved in the occurrence and development of liver diseases through the regulation of retinoid metabolism, lipid metabolism, glucose metabolism, protein metabolism, and mitochondrial metabolism. HSC-derived exosomes are underpinned by vehicle molecules, such as mRNAs and microRNAs, that function in, and significantly affect, the processes of various liver diseases, such as acute liver injury, alcoholic liver disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, fibrosis, and cancer. As such, numerous exosomes derived from HSCs or HSC-associated exosomes have attracted attention because of their biological roles and translational applications as potential targets for therapeutic targets. Herein, we review the pathophysiological and metabolic processes associated with HSC-derived exosomes, their roles in various liver diseases and their potential clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun-Li Yin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Pei-Pei Song
- National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yu-Xin Duan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wen-Tao Ye
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Tang
- National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norihiro Kokudo
- National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Qiang Gao
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Correspondence to: Qiang Gao, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6695-9906. ; Rui Liao, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0057-2792. E-mail:
| | - Rui Liao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Correspondence to: Qiang Gao, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6695-9906. ; Rui Liao, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0057-2792. E-mail:
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93
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Fertala J, Wang ML, Rivlin M, Beredjiklian PK, Abboud J, Arnold WV, Fertala A. Extracellular Targets to Reduce Excessive Scarring in Response to Tissue Injury. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13050758. [PMID: 37238628 DOI: 10.3390/biom13050758] [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: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive scar formation is a hallmark of localized and systemic fibrotic disorders. Despite extensive studies to define valid anti-fibrotic targets and develop effective therapeutics, progressive fibrosis remains a significant medical problem. Regardless of the injury type or location of wounded tissue, excessive production and accumulation of collagen-rich extracellular matrix is the common denominator of all fibrotic disorders. A long-standing dogma was that anti-fibrotic approaches should focus on overall intracellular processes that drive fibrotic scarring. Because of the poor outcomes of these approaches, scientific efforts now focus on regulating the extracellular components of fibrotic tissues. Crucial extracellular players include cellular receptors of matrix components, macromolecules that form the matrix architecture, auxiliary proteins that facilitate the formation of stiff scar tissue, matricellular proteins, and extracellular vesicles that modulate matrix homeostasis. This review summarizes studies targeting the extracellular aspects of fibrotic tissue synthesis, presents the rationale for these studies, and discusses the progress and limitations of current extracellular approaches to limit fibrotic healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolanta Fertala
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Mark L Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
- Rothman Institute of Orthopaedics, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Michael Rivlin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
- Rothman Institute of Orthopaedics, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Pedro K Beredjiklian
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
- Rothman Institute of Orthopaedics, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Joseph Abboud
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
- Rothman Institute of Orthopaedics, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - William V Arnold
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
- Rothman Institute of Orthopaedics, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Andrzej Fertala
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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94
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Tacke F, Puengel T, Loomba R, Friedman SL. An integrated view of anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic targets for the treatment of NASH. J Hepatol 2023:S0168-8278(23)00218-0. [PMID: 37061196 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 78.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
Successful development of treatments for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its progressive form, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has been challenging. Because NASH and fibrosis lead to NAFLD progression towards cirrhosis and to clinical outcomes, approaches have either sought to attenuate metabolic dysregulation and cell injury, or directly target the inflammation and fibrosis that ensue. Targets for reducing the activation of inflammatory cascades include nuclear receptor agonists (thyroid hormone receptor-beta, e.g. resmetirom, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor [PPAR], e.g. lanifibranor, farnesoid X receptor [FXR], e.g. obeticholic acid), modulators of lipotoxicity (e.g. aramchol, acetyl-CoA carboxylase inhibitors) or modification of genetic variants (e.g. PNPLA3 gene silencing). Extrahepatic inflammatory signals from circulation, adipose tissue or gut are targets of hormonal agonists (e.g. glucagon-like peptide-1 [GLP-1] like semaglutide, fibroblast growth factor [FGF]-19 or FGF21), microbiota or lifestyle (weight loss, diet, exercise) interventions. Stress signals and hepatocyte death activate immune responses engaging innate (macrophages, lymphocytes) and adaptive (auto-aggressive T-cells) mechanisms. Therapies seek to blunt immune cell activation, recruitment (chemokine receptor inhibitors) and responses (e.g. galectin 3 inhibition, anti-platelet drugs). The disease-driving pathways of NASH converge to elicit fibrosis, which is reversible. The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) into matrix-producing myofibroblasts can be inhibited by antagonizing soluble factors (e.g. integrins, cytokines), cellular crosstalk (e.g. with macrophages), and agonizing nuclear receptor signaling (e.g. FXR or PPAR agonists). In advanced fibrosis, cell therapy with restorative macrophages or reprogrammed T-cells (e.g., CAR T) may accelerate repair through HSC deactivation or killing, or by enhancing matrix degradation. Heterogeneity of disease - either due to genetics or divergent disease drivers - is an obstacle to defining effective drugs for all patients with NASH that will be incrementally overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Tacke
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Tobias Puengel
- Department of Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany; Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rohit Loomba
- NAFLD Research Center, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States.
| | - Scott L Friedman
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States.
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95
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Rodriguez L, Tomer Y, Carson P, Dimopoulos T, Zhao M, Chavez K, Iyer S, Huang L, Ebert C, Sereda L, Murthy A, Trujillo G, Beers MF, Katzen J. Chronic Expression of a Clinical SFTPC Mutation Causes Murine Lung Fibrosis with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Features. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2023; 68:358-365. [PMID: 36473455 PMCID: PMC10112421 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2022-0203ma] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic progressive fibrotic interstitial lung disease. A barrier to developing more effective therapies for IPF is the dearth of preclinical models that recapitulate the early pathobiology of this disease. Intratracheal bleomycin, the conventional preclinical murine model of IPF, fails to reproduce the intrinsic dysfunction to the alveolar epithelial type 2 cell (AEC2) that is believed to be a proximal event in the pathogenesis of IPF. Murine fibrosis models based on SFTPC (Surfactant Protein C gene) mutations identified in patients with interstitial lung disease cause activation of the AEC2 unfolded protein response and endoplasmic reticulum stress-an AEC2 dysfunction phenotype observed in IPF. Although these models achieve spontaneous fibrosis, they do so with precedent lung injury and thus are challenged to phenocopy the general clinical course of patients with IPF-gradual progressive fibrosis and loss of lung function. Here, we report a refinement of a murine Sftpc mutation model to recapitulate the clinical course, physiological impairment, parenchymal cellular composition, and biomarkers associated with IPF. This platform provides the field with an innovative model to understand IPF pathogenesis and index preclinical therapeutic candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Rodriguez
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine Division and
| | - Yaniv Tomer
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine Division and
| | - Paige Carson
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine Division and
| | | | - Ming Zhao
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine Division and
| | - Katrina Chavez
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine Division and
| | - Swati Iyer
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine Division and
| | - Li Huang
- Fibrosis Biology Drug Discovery, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Lawrenceville, New Jersey; and
| | - Christina Ebert
- Fibrosis Biology Drug Discovery, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Lawrenceville, New Jersey; and
| | - Larisa Sereda
- Fibrosis Biology Drug Discovery, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Lawrenceville, New Jersey; and
| | - Aditi Murthy
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine Division and
| | - Glenda Trujillo
- Fibrosis Biology Drug Discovery, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Lawrenceville, New Jersey; and
| | - Michael F. Beers
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine Division and
- PENN–CHOP Lung Biology Institute, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- The Michael Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jeremy Katzen
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine Division and
- PENN–CHOP Lung Biology Institute, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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96
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Wei L, Liu Z, Qin L, Xian L, Chen K, Zhou S, Hu L, Xiong Y, Li B, Qin Y. BORIS variant SF2(C2/A4) promotes the malignant development of liver cancer by activating epithelial-mesenchymal transition and hepatic stellate cells. Mol Carcinog 2023; 62:731-742. [PMID: 36929051 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
The underlying mechanisms of metastasis and recurrence of liver cancer remain largely unknown. Here, we found that Brother of the Regulator of Imprinted Sites (BORIS) variant SF2(C2/A4) was highly expressed in high metastatic potential hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells and clinical tumor samples, related to the formation of satellite nodules. Its over expression promoted self-renewal, the expression of tumor stem cell markers, chemoresistance, wound healing rate, invasion and metastasis of HepG2 and Hep3B cells; reinforced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), decreased the expression of E-cadherin and increased N-cadherin and Vimentin. Subcellular localization experiment showed that BORIS SF2(C2/A4) was localized in nucleus and cytoplasm. Further double luciferase reporter gene experiment confirmed that it bound to TWIST1 gene promoter and significantly increased latter expression. BORIS SF2(C2/A4) knock down induced apoptosis of HCCLM3 and PLC/PRF/5 cells, and increased the protein content of cleaved caspase 3. Additionally, BORIS SF2(C2/A4) over expression increased the expression of fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) in HepG2 and Hep3B cells. FGF2 expressed higher in HCC tumor tissues than in paired peri-tumor tissues, and its expression was positively correlated with BORIS SF2(C2/A4). Interestingly, high expression of FGF2 is also associated with the formation of satellite nodules. Moreover, using the medium from BORIS SF2(C2/A4) overexpressed cell lines to coculture hepatic stellate cell (HSCs) line LX-2, the latter could be activated and increased the expression of CD90 and PIGF, which is consistent with the effect of adding bFGF alone. These results indicate that BORIS SF2(C2/A4) plays a role in deterioration of liver cancer by regulating TWIST1 to induce EMT, and by FGF2 to activate HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wei
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Zhongjian Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lu Qin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Longjun Xian
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Kefei Chen
- Department of Surgery Division of Liver Transplantation, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Siqi Zhou
- Department of Surgery Division of Liver Transplantation, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lei Hu
- Department of Surgery Division of Liver Transplantation, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yimei Xiong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Surgery Division of Liver Transplantation, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yang Qin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
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Caligiuri G, Tuveson DA. Activated fibroblasts in cancer: Perspectives and challenges. Cancer Cell 2023; 41:434-449. [PMID: 36917949 PMCID: PMC11022589 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2023.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Activated fibroblasts in tumors, or cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), have become a popular research area over the past decade. As important players in many aspects of tumor biology, with functions ranging from collagen deposition to immunosuppression, CAFs have been the target of clinical and pre-clinical studies that have revealed their potential pro- and anti-tumorigenic dichotomy. In this review, we describe the important role of CAFs in the tumor microenvironment and the technological advances that made these discoveries possible, and we detail the models that are currently available for CAF investigation. Additionally, we present evidence to support the value of encompassing CAF investigation as a future therapeutic avenue alongside immune and cancer cells while highlighting the challenges that must be addressed for successful clinical translation of new findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Caligiuri
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA; Lustgarten Foundation Pancreatic Cancer Research Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
| | - David A Tuveson
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA; Lustgarten Foundation Pancreatic Cancer Research Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA.
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98
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Li Z, Belozertseva E, Parlakian A, Bascetin R, Louis H, Kawamura Y, Blanc J, Gao-Li J, Pinet F, Lacy-Hulbert A, Challande P, Humphrey JD, Regnault V, Lacolley P. Smooth muscle α v integrins regulate vascular fibrosis via CD109 downregulation of TGF-β signalling. EUROPEAN HEART JOURNAL OPEN 2023; 3:oead010. [PMID: 36909248 PMCID: PMC9998030 DOI: 10.1093/ehjopen/oead010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Aims αv integrins are implicated in fibrosis in a number of organs through their ability to activate TGF-β. However their role in vascular fibrosis and collagen accumulation is only partially understood. Here we have used αv conditional knockout mice and cell lines to determine how αv contributes to vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) function in vascular fibrosis and the role of TGF-β in that process. Methods and results Angiotensin II (Ang II) treatment causes upregulation of αv and β3 expression in the vessel wall, associated with increased collagen deposition. We found that deletion of αv integrin subunit from VSMCs (αv SMKO) protected mice against angiotensin II-induced collagen production and assembly. Transcriptomic analysis of the vessel wall in αv SMKO mice and controls identified a significant reduction in expression of fibrosis and related genes in αv SMKO mice. In contrast, αv SMKO mice showed prolonged expression of CD109, which is known to affect TGF-β signalling. Using cultured mouse and human VSMCs, we showed that overexpression of CD109 phenocopied knockdown of αv integrin, attenuating collagen expression, TGF-β activation, and Smad2/3 signalling in response to angiotensin II or TGF-β stimulation. CD109 and TGF-β receptor were internalized in early endosomes. Conclusion We identify a role for VSMC αv integrin in vascular fibrosis and show that αv acts in concert with CD109 to regulate TGF-β signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenlin Li
- Biological Adaptation and Ageing, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, IBPS, 7 quai Saint Bernard, 75005 Paris, France
| | | | - Ara Parlakian
- Biological Adaptation and Ageing, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, IBPS, 7 quai Saint Bernard, 75005 Paris, France
| | | | - Huguette Louis
- Université de Lorraine, INSERM, DCAC, F-54000, Nancy, France
| | - Yuki Kawamura
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Vascular Biology and Therapeutics Program, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jocelyne Blanc
- Biological Adaptation and Ageing, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, IBPS, 7 quai Saint Bernard, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Jacqueline Gao-Li
- Biological Adaptation and Ageing, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, IBPS, 7 quai Saint Bernard, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Florence Pinet
- U1167-RID-AGE-Facteurs de risque et déterminants moléculaires des maladies liées au vieillissement, Univ. Lille, CHU Lille, INSERM, Institut Pasteur de Lille, F-59000, Lille, France
| | - Adam Lacy-Hulbert
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98109
| | - Pascal Challande
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut Jean Le Rond d'Alembert, 4 place Jussieu, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Jay D Humphrey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Vascular Biology and Therapeutics Program, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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99
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Wiering L, Subramanian P, Hammerich L. Hepatic Stellate Cells: Dictating Outcome in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 15:1277-1292. [PMID: 36828280 PMCID: PMC10148161 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2023.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a fast growing, chronic liver disease affecting ∼25% of the global population. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease severity ranges from the less severe simple hepatic steatosis to the more advanced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The presence of NASH predisposes individuals to liver fibrosis, which can further progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. This makes hepatic fibrosis an important indicator of clinical outcomes in patients with NASH. Hepatic stellate cell activation dictates fibrosis development during NASH. Here, we discuss recent advances in the analysis of the profibrogenic pathways and mediators of hepatic stellate cell activation and inactivation, which ultimately determine the course of disease in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease/NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leke Wiering
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany; Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, BIH Biomedical Innovation Academy, BIH Charité Junior Clinician Scientist Program, Berlin, Germany
| | - Pallavi Subramanian
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Linda Hammerich
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany.
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100
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van Son KC, Verschuren L, Hanemaaijer R, Reeves H, Takkenberg RB, Drenth JPH, Tushuizen ME, Holleboom AG. Non-Parenchymal Cells and the Extracellular Matrix in Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:1308. [PMID: 36831649 PMCID: PMC9954729 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15041308] [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: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the setting of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)-related cirrhosis and even in the pre-cirrhotic state is increasing in incidence. NAFLD-related HCC has a poor clinical outcome as it is often advanced at diagnosis due to late diagnosis and systemic treatment response is poor due to reduced immune surveillance. Much of the focus of molecular research has been on the pathological changes in hepatocytes; however, immune cells, hepatic stellate cells, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells and the extracellular matrix may play important roles in the pathogenesis of NAFLD-related HCC as well. Here, we review the role of non-parenchymal cells in the liver in the pathogenesis of HCC in the context of NAFLD-NASH, with a particular focus on the innate and the adaptive immune system, fibrogenesis and angiogenesis. We review the key roles of macrophages, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, NKT cells and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) and the role of the extracellular matrix in hepatocarcinogenesis within the steatotic milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koen C. van Son
- Department of Vascular and Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Lars Verschuren
- Department of Metabolic Health Research, Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research, 2333 BE Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Roeland Hanemaaijer
- Department of Metabolic Health Research, Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research, 2333 BE Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Helen Reeves
- Newcastle University Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK
| | - R. Bart Takkenberg
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joost P. H. Drenth
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten E. Tushuizen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Adriaan G. Holleboom
- Department of Vascular and Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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