1
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Xiao Y, Vazquez-Padron RI, Martinez L, Singer HA, Woltmann D, Salman LH. Role of platelet factor 4 in arteriovenous fistula maturation failure: What do we know so far? J Vasc Access 2024; 25:390-406. [PMID: 35751379 PMCID: PMC9974241 DOI: 10.1177/11297298221085458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The rate of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) maturation failure remains unacceptably high despite continuous efforts on technique improvement and careful pre-surgery planning. In fact, half of all newly created AVFs are unable to be used for hemodialysis (HD) without a salvage procedure. While vascular stenosis in the venous limb of the access is the culprit, the underlying factors leading to vascular narrowing and AVF maturation failure are yet to be determined. We have recently demonstrated that AVF non-maturation is associated with post-operative medial fibrosis and fibrotic stenosis, and post-operative intimal hyperplasia (IH) exacerbates the situation. Multiple pathological processes and signaling pathways are underlying the stenotic remodeling of the AVF. Our group has recently indicated that a pro-inflammatory cytokine platelet factor 4 (PF4/CXCL4) is upregulated in veins that fail to mature after AVF creation. Platelet factor 4 is a fibrosis marker and can be detected in vascular stenosis tissue, suggesting that it may contribute to AVF maturation failure through stimulation of fibrosis and development of fibrotic stenosis. Here, we present an overview of the how PF4-mediated fibrosis determines AVF maturation failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxuan Xiao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Roberto I Vazquez-Padron
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Laisel Martinez
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Harold A Singer
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Daniel Woltmann
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Loay H Salman
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
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2
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Spasovski V, Andjelkovic M, Parezanovic M, Komazec J, Ugrin M, Klaassen K, Stojiljkovic M. The Role of Autophagy and Apoptosis in Affected Skin and Lungs in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11212. [PMID: 37446389 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311212] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex autoimmune inflammatory disorder with multiple organ involvement. Skin changes present the hallmark of SSc and coincide with poor prognosis. Interstitial lung diseases (ILD) are the most widely reported complications in SSc patients and the primary cause of death. It has been proposed that the processes of autophagy and apoptosis could play a significant role in the pathogenesis and clinical course of different autoimmune diseases, and accordingly in SSc. In this manuscript, we review the current knowledge of autophagy and apoptosis processes in the skin and lungs of patients with SSc. Profiling of markers involved in these processes in skin cells can be useful to recognize the stage of fibrosis and can be used in the clinical stratification of patients. Furthermore, the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes enables the repurposing of already known drugs and the development of new biological therapeutics that aim to reverse fibrosis by promoting apoptosis and regulate autophagy in personalized treatment approach. In SSc-ILD patients, the molecular signature of the lung tissues of each patient could be a distinctive criterion in order to establish the correct lung pattern, which directly impacts the course and prognosis of the disease. In this case, resolving the role of tissue-specific markers, which could be detected in the circulation using sensitive molecular methods, would be an important step toward development of non-invasive diagnostic procedures that enable early and precise diagnosis and preventing the high mortality of this rare disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vesna Spasovski
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marina Andjelkovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marina Parezanovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jovana Komazec
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milena Ugrin
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Kristel Klaassen
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Maja Stojiljkovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
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3
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Chen L, Zhao J, Chao Y, Roy A, Guo W, Qian J, Xu W, Domsic RT, Lafyatis R, Lu B, Deng F, Wang QJ. Loss of Protein Kinase D2 Activity Protects Against Bleomycin-Induced Dermal Fibrosis in Mice. J Transl Med 2023; 103:100018. [PMID: 37039152 PMCID: PMC10507682 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2022.100018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein kinase D (PKD) has been linked to inflammatory responses in various pathologic conditions; however, its role in inflammation-induced dermal fibrosis has not been evaluated. In this study, we aimed to investigate the roles and mechanisms of protein kinase D2 (PKD2) in inflammation-induced dermal fibrosis and evaluate the therapeutic potential of PKD inhibitors in this disease. Using homozygous kinase-dead PKD2 knock-in (KI) mice, we examined whether genetic ablation or pharmacologic inhibition of PKD2 activity affected dermal inflammation and fibrosis in a bleomycin (BLM)-induced skin fibrosis model. Our data showed that dermal thickness and collagen fibers were significantly reduced in BLM-treated PKD2 KI mice compared with that in wild-type mice, and so was the expression of α-smooth muscle actin and collagens and the mRNA levels of transforming growth factor-β1 and interleukin-6 in the KI mice. Corroboratively, pharmacologic inhibition of PKD by CRT0066101 also significantly blocked BLM-induced dermal fibrosis and reduced α-smooth muscle actin, collagen, and interleukin-6 expression. Further analyses indicated that loss of PKD2 activity significantly blocked BLM-induced infiltration of monocytes/macrophages and neutrophils in the dermis. Moreover, using bone marrow-derived macrophages, we demonstrated that PKD activity was required for cytokine production and migration of macrophages. We have further identified Akt as a major downstream target of PKD2 in the early inflammatory phase of the fibrotic process. Taken together, our findings indicate that PKD2 promotes dermal fibrosis via regulating immune cell infiltration, cytokine production, and downstream activation of Akt in lesional skin, and targeted inhibition of PKD2 may benefit the treatment of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Chen
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinjun Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yapeng Chao
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Adhiraj Roy
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Amity University, Noida, India
| | - Wenjing Guo
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiabi Qian
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wanfu Xu
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Robyn T Domsic
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Robert Lafyatis
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Binfeng Lu
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Fan Deng
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Q Jane Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
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4
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Beaven E, Kumar R, Bhatt HN, Esquivel SV, Nurunnabi M. Myofibroblast specific targeting approaches to improve fibrosis treatment. Chem Commun (Camb) 2022; 58:13556-13571. [PMID: 36445310 PMCID: PMC9946855 DOI: 10.1039/d2cc04825f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis has been shown to develop in individuals with underlying health conditions, especially chronic inflammatory diseases. Fibrosis is often diagnosed in various organs, including the liver, lungs, kidneys, heart, and skin, and has been described as excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix that can affect specific organs in the body or systemically throughout the body. Fibrosis as a chronic condition can result in organ failure and result in death of the individual. Understanding and identification of specific biomarkers associated with fibrosis has emerging potential in the development of diagnosis and targeting treatment modalities. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss multiple signaling pathways such as TGF-β, collagen, angiotensin, and cadherin and outline the chemical nature of the different signaling pathways involved in fibrogenesis as well as the mechanisms. Although it has been well established that TGF-β is the main catalyst initiating and driving multiple pathways for fibrosis, targeting TGF-β can be challenging as this molecule regulates essential functions throughout the body that help to keep the body in homeostasis. We also discuss collagen, angiotensin, and cadherins and their role in fibrosis. We comprehensively discuss the various delivery systems used to target collagen, angiotensin, and cadherins to manage fibrosis. Nevertheless, understanding the steps by which this molecule drives fibrosis development can aid in the development of specific targets of its cascading mechanism. Throughout the review, we will demonstrate the mechanism of fibrosis targeting to improve targeting delivery and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elfa Beaven
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Raj Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Himanshu N Bhatt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Stephanie V Esquivel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA.
- Aerospace Center (cSETR), The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Md Nurunnabi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
- Aerospace Center (cSETR), The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
- Border Biomedical Research Center, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
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5
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Rosendahl AH, Schönborn K, Krieg T. Pathophysiology of systemic sclerosis (scleroderma). Kaohsiung J Med Sci 2022; 38:187-195. [PMID: 35234358 DOI: 10.1002/kjm2.12505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) is an autoimmune-triggered chronic fibrosing disease that affects the skin and many other organs. Its pathophysiology is complex and involves an early endothelial damage, an inflammatory infiltrate and a resulting fibrotic reaction. Based on a predisposing genetic background, an altered balance of the acquired and the innate immune system leads to the release of many cytokines and chemokines as well as autoantibodies, which induce the activation of fibroblasts with the formation of myofibroblasts and the deposition of a stiff and rigid connective tissue. A curative treatment is still not available but remarkable progress has been made in the management of organ complications. In addition, several breakthroughs in the pathophysiology have led to new therapeutic concepts. Based on these, many new compounds have been developed during the last years, which target these different pathways and offer specific therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Helen Rosendahl
- Translational Matrix Biology, University of Cologne, Medical Faculty, Cologne, Germany
| | - Katrin Schönborn
- Translational Matrix Biology, University of Cologne, Medical Faculty, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Thomas Krieg
- Translational Matrix Biology, University of Cologne, Medical Faculty, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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6
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Hinchcliff M, Garcia-Milian R, Di Donato S, Dill K, Bundschuh E, Galdo FD. Cellular and Molecular Diversity in Scleroderma. Semin Immunol 2021; 58:101648. [PMID: 35940960 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2022.101648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
With the increasing armamentarium of high-throughput tools available at manageable cost, it is attractive and informative to determine the molecular underpinnings of patient heterogeneity in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Given the highly variable clinical outcomes of patients labelled with the same diagnosis, unravelling the cellular and molecular basis of disease heterogeneity will be crucial to predicting disease risk, stratifying management and ultimately informing a patient-centered precision medicine approach. Herein, we summarise the findings of the past several years in the fields of genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics that contribute to unraveling the cellular and molecular heterogeneity of SSc. Expansion of these findings and their routine integration with quantitative analysis of histopathology and imaging studies into clinical care promise to inform a scientifically driven patient-centred personalized medicine approach to SSc in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique Hinchcliff
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, Allergy & Immunology, USA.
| | | | - Stefano Di Donato
- Raynaud's and Scleroderma Programme, Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Leeds, UK
| | | | - Elizabeth Bundschuh
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, Allergy & Immunology, USA
| | - Francesco Del Galdo
- Raynaud's and Scleroderma Programme, Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Leeds, UK.
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7
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Harada M, Hu B, Lu J, Wang J, Rinke AE, Wu Z, Liu T, Phan SH. The dual distinct role of telomerase in repression of senescence and myofibroblast differentiation. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:16957-16973. [PMID: 34253690 PMCID: PMC8312426 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Many aging related diseases such as cancer implicate the myofibroblast in disease progression. Furthermore genesis of the myofibroblast is associated with manifestation of cellular senescence of unclear significance. In this study we investigated the role of a common regulator, namely telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), in order to evaluate the potential significance of this association between both processes. We analyzed the effects of TERT overexpression or deficiency on expression of CDKN2A and ACTA2 as indicators of senescence and differentiation, respectively. We assess binding of TERT or YB-1, a repressor of both genes, to their promoters. TERT repressed both CDKN2A and ACTA2 expression, and abolished stress-induced expression of both genes. Conversely, TERT deficiency enhanced their expression. Altering CDKN2A expression had no effect on ACTA2 expression. Both TERT and YB-1 were shown to bind the CDKN2A promoter but only YB-1 was shown to bind the ACTA2 promoter. TERT overexpression inhibited CDKN2A promoter activity while stimulating YB-1 expression and activation to repress ACTA2 gene. TERT repressed myofibroblast differentiation and senescence via distinct mechanisms. The latter was associated with TERT binding to the CDKN2A promoter, but not to the ACTA2 promoter, which may require interaction with co-factors such as YB-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masanori Harada
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,Department of Respiratory Medicine, Fujieda Municipal General Hospital, Fujieda, Japan
| | - Biao Hu
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jeffrey Lu
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease Research, Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830000, China
| | - Andrew E Rinke
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Zhe Wu
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Tianju Liu
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Sem H Phan
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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8
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Assar S, Khazaei H, Naseri M, El-Senduny F, Momtaz S, Farzaei MH, Echeverría J. Natural Formulations: Novel Viewpoint for Scleroderma Adjunct Treatment. J Immunol Res 2021; 2021:9920416. [PMID: 34258301 PMCID: PMC8253639 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9920416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scleroderma is a complex disease involving autoimmune, vascular, and connective tissues, with unknown etiology that can progress through any organ systems. OBJECTIVE Yet, no cure is available; the thorough treatment of scleroderma and current treatments are based on controlling inflammation. Nowadays, medicinal plants/natural-based formulations are emerging as important regulators of many diseases, including autoimmune diseases. Here, we provided an overview of scleroderma, also focused on recent studies on medicinal plants/natural-based formulations that are beneficial in scleroderma treatment/prevention. METHODS This study is the result of a search in PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library with "scleroderma", "systemic sclerosis", "plant", "herb", and "phytochemical" keywords. Finally, 22 articles were selected from a total of 1513 results entered in this study. RESULTS Natural products can modulate the inflammatory and/or oxidative mediators, regulate the production or function of the immune cells, and control the collagen synthesis, thereby attenuating the experimental and clinical manifestation of the disease. CONCLUSION Natural compounds can be considered an adjunct treatment for scleroderma to improve the quality of life of patients suffering from this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Assar
- Clinical Research Development Center, Imam Reza Hospital, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Hosna Khazaei
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 6734667149, Iran
| | - Maryam Naseri
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 6734667149, Iran
| | - Fardous El-Senduny
- Biochemistry Division, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Saeideh Momtaz
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR, Karaj, Iran
- Toxicology and Diseases Group (TDG), Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center (PSRC), The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), and Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1417614411, Iran
- Gastrointestinal Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hosein Farzaei
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 6734667149, Iran
| | - Javier Echeverría
- Departamento de Ciencias del Ambiente, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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9
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Merkt W, Zhou Y, Han H, Lagares D. Myofibroblast fate plasticity in tissue repair and fibrosis: Deactivation, apoptosis, senescence and reprogramming. Wound Repair Regen 2021; 29:678-691. [PMID: 34117675 DOI: 10.1111/wrr.12952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In response to tissue injury, fibroblasts differentiate into professional repair cells called myofibroblasts, which orchestrate many aspects of the normal tissue repair programme including synthesis, deposition and contraction of extracellular matrix proteins, leading to wound closure. Successful tissue repair responses involve termination of myofibroblast activities in order to prevent pathologic fibrotic scarring. Here, we discuss the cellular and molecular mechanisms limiting myofibroblast activities during physiological tissue repair, including myofibroblast deactivation, apoptosis, reprogramming and immune clearance of senescent myofibroblasts. In addition, we summarize pathological mechanisms leading to myofibroblast persistence and survival, a hallmark of fibrotic diseases. Finally, we discuss emerging anti-fibrotic therapies aimed at targeting myofibroblast fate such as senolytics, gene therapy, cellular immunotherapy and CAR-T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Merkt
- Fibrosis Research Center, Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, Internal Medicine V, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Yan Zhou
- Fibrosis Research Center, Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Physiology, Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hongwei Han
- Fibrosis Research Center, Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David Lagares
- Fibrosis Research Center, Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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10
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Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling in Fibrotic Diseases and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10121666. [PMID: 33322749 PMCID: PMC7763058 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling is essential in embryo development and maintaining normal homeostasis. Extensive evidence shows that TGF-β activation acts on several cell types, including epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells, to form a pro-fibrotic environment, ultimately leading to fibrotic diseases. TGF-β is stored in the matrix in a latent form; once activated, it promotes a fibroblast to myofibroblast transition and regulates extracellular matrix (ECM) formation and remodeling in fibrosis. TGF-β signaling can also promote cancer progression through its effects on the tumor microenvironment. In cancer, TGF-β contributes to the generation of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) that have different molecular and cellular properties from activated or fibrotic fibroblasts. CAFs promote tumor progression and chronic tumor fibrosis via TGF-β signaling. Fibrosis and CAF-mediated cancer progression share several common traits and are closely related. In this review, we consider how TGF-β promotes fibrosis and CAF-mediated cancer progression. We also discuss recent evidence suggesting TGF-β inhibition as a defense against fibrotic disorders or CAF-mediated cancer progression to highlight the potential implications of TGF-β-targeted therapies for fibrosis and cancer.
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11
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Karsdal MA, Kraus VB, Shevell D, Bay-Jensen AC, Schattenberg J, Rambabu Surabattula R, Schuppan D. Profiling and targeting connective tissue remodeling in autoimmunity - A novel paradigm for diagnosing and treating chronic diseases. Autoimmun Rev 2020; 20:102706. [PMID: 33188918 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2020.102706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Connective tissue (ConT) remodeling is an essential process in tissue regeneration, where a balanced replacement of old tissue by new tissue occurs. This balance is disturbed in chronic diseases, often autoimmune diseases, usually resulting in the buld up of fibrosis and a gradual loss of organ function. During progression of liver, lung, skin, heart, joint, skeletal and kidney diseasesboth ConT formation and degradation are elevated, which is tightly linked to immune cell activation and a loss of specific cell types and extracellular matrix (ECM) structures that are required for normal organ function. Here, we address the balance of key general and organ specific components of the ECM during homeostasis and in disease, with a focus on collagens, which are emerging as both structural and signaling molecules harbouring neoepitopes and autoantigens that are released during ConT remodeling. Specific collagen molecular signatures of ConT remodeling are linked to disease activity and stage, and to prognosis across different organs. These signatures accompany and further drive disease progression, and often become detectable before clinical disease manifestation (illness). Recent advances allow to quantify and define the nature of ConT remodeling via blood-based assays that measure the levels of well-defined collagen fragments, reflecting different facets of ConT formation and degradation, and associated immunological processes. These novel serum assays are becoming important tools of precision medicine, to detect various chronic and autoimmune diseases before their clinical manifestation, and to non-invasively monitor the efficacy of a broad range of pharmacological interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morten Asser Karsdal
- Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Metabolic Liver Research Program, Denmark
| | - Virginia Byers Kraus
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute and Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Diane Shevell
- Clinical Biomarkers and Immunology, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Westfield, NJ, USA
| | | | | | - R Rambabu Surabattula
- Institute of Translational Immunology and Research Center for Immune Therapy, University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Detlef Schuppan
- Institute of Translational Immunology and Research Center for Immune Therapy, University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany; Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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12
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Hinz B, Lagares D. Evasion of apoptosis by myofibroblasts: a hallmark of fibrotic diseases. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2020; 16:11-31. [PMID: 31792399 PMCID: PMC7913072 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-019-0324-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 302] [Impact Index Per Article: 75.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Organ fibrosis is a lethal outcome of autoimmune rheumatic diseases such as systemic sclerosis. Myofibroblasts are scar-forming cells that are ultimately responsible for the excessive synthesis, deposition and remodelling of extracellular matrix proteins in fibrosis. Advances have been made in our understanding of the mechanisms that keep myofibroblasts in an activated state and control myofibroblast functions. However, the mechanisms that help myofibroblasts to persist in fibrotic tissues remain poorly understood. Myofibroblasts evade apoptosis by activating molecular mechanisms in response to pro-survival biomechanical and growth factor signals from the fibrotic microenvironment, which can ultimately lead to the acquisition of a senescent phenotype. Growing evidence suggests that myofibroblasts and senescent myofibroblasts, rather than being resistant to apoptosis, are actually primed for apoptosis owing to concomitant activation of cell death signalling pathways; these cells are poised to apoptose when survival pathways are inhibited. This knowledge of apoptotic priming has paved the way for new therapies that trigger apoptosis in myofibroblasts by blocking pro-survival mechanisms, target senescent myofibroblast for apoptosis or promote the reprogramming of myofibroblasts into scar-resolving cells. These novel strategies are not only poised to prevent progressive tissue scarring, but also have the potential to reverse established fibrosis and to regenerate chronically injured tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boris Hinz
- Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Lagares
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Fibrosis Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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13
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Garrett SM, Hsu E, Thomas JM, Pilewski JM, Feghali-Bostwick C. Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-II- mediated fibrosis in pathogenic lung conditions. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0225422. [PMID: 31765403 PMCID: PMC6876936 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0225422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 2 insulin-like growth factor (IGF-II) levels are increased in fibrosing lung diseases such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and scleroderma/systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary fibrosis (SSc). Our goal was to investigate the contribution of IGF receptors to IGF-II-mediated fibrosis in these diseases and identify other potential mechanisms key to the fibrotic process. Cognate receptor gene and protein expression were analyzed with qRT-PCR and immunoblot in primary fibroblasts derived from lung tissues of normal donors (NL) and patients with IPF or SSc. Compared to NL, steady-state receptor gene expression was decreased in SSc but not in IPF. IGF-II stimulation differentially decreased receptor mRNA and protein levels in NL, IPF, and SSc fibroblasts. Neutralizing antibody, siRNA, and receptor inhibition targeting endogenous IGF-II and its primary receptors, type 1 IGF receptor (IGF1R), IGF2R, and insulin receptor (IR) resulted in loss of the IGF-II response. IGF-II tipped the TIMP:MMP balance, promoting a fibrotic environment both intracellularly and extracellularly. Differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts by IGF-II was blocked with a TGFβ1 receptor inhibitor. IGF-II also increased TGFβ2 and TGFβ3 expression, with subsequent activation of canonical SMAD2/3 signaling. Therefore, IGF-II promoted fibrosis through IGF1R, IR, and IGF1R/IR, differentiated fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, decreased protease production and extracellular matrix degradation, and stimulated expression of two TGFβ isoforms, suggesting that IGF-II exerts pro-fibrotic effects via multiple mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M. Garrett
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Eileen Hsu
- Mid Atlantic Permanente Medical Group, Mclean, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Justin M. Thomas
- Eisenhower Medical Center, Rancho Mirage, California, United States of America
| | - Joseph M. Pilewski
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Carol Feghali-Bostwick
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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14
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Kozlova A, Pachera E, Maurer B, Jüngel A, Distler JHW, Kania G, Distler O. Regulation of Fibroblast Apoptosis and Proliferation by MicroRNA-125b in Systemic Sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2019; 71:2068-2080. [PMID: 31309742 DOI: 10.1002/art.41041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the expression, regulation, and role of microRNA-125b (miR-125b) in systemic sclerosis (SSc). METHODS MiR-125b expression was assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) of RNA from dermal fibroblasts and whole skin biopsy specimens from healthy controls and SSc patients. To identify downstream effectors, RNA from healthy control fibroblasts was sequenced after miR-125b knockdown and further validated using qPCR and Western blotting. Fibrosis, apoptosis, and proliferation were assessed by Caspase-Glo 3/7 assay, Western blotting, immunofluorescence staining for cleaved caspase 3, and annexin V real-time assay in dermal fibroblasts. RESULTS Expression of miR-125b was significantly down-regulated in SSc skin biopsy specimens by 53% (median fold change 0.47 [interquartile range 0.35-0.69]; P < 0.001) and in SSc dermal fibroblasts by 47% (median fold change 0.53 [interquartile range 0.36-0.58]; P < 0.001) compared to healthy control skin biopsy specimens and fibroblasts, respectively (n = 10 samples per group). Treatment with the histone deacetylase inhibitors trichostatin A and tubastatin A significantly decreased the expression of miR-125b in dermal fibroblasts. MiR-125b knockdown significantly reduced cell proliferation and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression at the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels. RNA-Seq identified BAK1, BMF, and BBC3 as potential targets of miR-125b. Quantitative PCR confirmed that knockdown of miR-125b up-regulated these genes (P < 0.01; n = 12). Bcl-2 homologous antagonist killer 1 showed the strongest induction confirmed at the protein level (P < 0.01; n = 10). Consequently, miR-125b knockdown increased apoptosis compared to scrambled control. Accordingly, miR-125b overexpression decreased apoptosis. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that miR-125b is down-regulated in SSc skin and primary dermal fibroblasts. MiR-125b down-regulation increases apoptosis and decreases proliferation and α-SMA expression in dermal fibroblasts, indicating that its compensatory, antifibrotic mechanism may be a potential novel therapeutic option.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jörg H W Distler
- Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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15
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van Caam A, Vonk M, van den Hoogen F, van Lent P, van der Kraan P. Unraveling SSc Pathophysiology; The Myofibroblast. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2452. [PMID: 30483246 PMCID: PMC6242950 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a severe auto-immune disease, characterized by vasculopathy and fibrosis of connective tissues. SSc has a high morbidity and mortality and unfortunately no disease modifying therapy is currently available. A key cell in the pathophysiology of SSc is the myofibroblast. Myofibroblasts are fibroblasts with contractile properties that produce a large amount of pro-fibrotic extracellular matrix molecules such as collagen type I. In this narrative review we will discuss the presence, formation, and role of myofibroblasts in SSc, and how these processes are stimulated and mediated by cells of the (innate) immune system such as mast cells and T helper 2 lymphocytes. Furthermore, current novel therapeutic approaches to target myofibroblasts will be highlighted for future perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjan van Caam
- Experimental Rheumatology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Madelon Vonk
- Department of Rheumatology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | | - Peter van Lent
- Experimental Rheumatology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
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16
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The endocannabinoid system of the skin. A potential approach for the treatment of skin disorders. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 157:122-133. [PMID: 30138623 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The skin is the largest organ of the body and has a complex and very active structure that contributes to homeostasis and provides the first line defense against injury and infection. In the past few years it has become evident that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a relevant role in healthy and diseased skin. Specifically, we review how the dysregulation of ECS has been associated to dermatological disorders such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, scleroderma and skin cancer. Therefore, the druggability of the ECS could open new research avenues for the treatment of the pathologies mentioned. Numerous studies have reported that phytocannabinoids and their biological analogues modulate a complex network pharmacology involved in the modulation of ECS, focusing on classical cannabinoid receptors, transient receptor potential channels (TRPs), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). The combined targeting of several end-points seems critical to provide better chances of therapeutically success, in sharp contrast to the one-disease-one-target dogma that permeates current drug discovery campaigns.
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17
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Guo SW, Groothuis PG. Is it time for a paradigm shift in drug research and development in endometriosis/adenomyosis? Hum Reprod Update 2018; 24:577-598. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Patrick G Groothuis
- Principal Scientist Pharmacology, Preclinical Department, Synthon Biopharmaceuticals bv, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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18
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Karsdal MA, Nielsen SH, Leeming DJ, Langholm LL, Nielsen MJ, Manon-Jensen T, Siebuhr A, Gudmann NS, Rønnow S, Sand JM, Daniels SJ, Mortensen JH, Schuppan D. The good and the bad collagens of fibrosis - Their role in signaling and organ function. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2017; 121:43-56. [PMID: 28736303 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2017.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 297] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Usually the dense extracellular structure in fibrotic tissues is described as extracellular matrix (ECM) or simply as collagen. However, fibrosis is not just fibrosis, which is already exemplified by the variant morphological characteristics of fibrosis due to viral versus cholestatic, autoimmune or toxic liver injury, with reticular, chicken wire and bridging fibrosis. Importantly, the overall composition of the ECM, especially the relative amounts of the many types of collagens, which represent the most abundant ECM molecules and which centrally modulate cellular functions and physiological processes, changes dramatically during fibrosis progression. We hypothesize that there are good and bad collagens in fibrosis and that a change of location alone may change the function from good to bad. Whereas basement membrane collagen type IV anchors epithelial and other cells in a polarized manner, the interstitial fibroblast collagens type I and III do not provide directional information. In addition, feedback loops from biologically active degradation products of some collagens are examples of the importance of having the right collagen at the right place and at the right time controlling cell function, proliferation, matrix production and fate. Examples are the interstitial collagen type VI and basement membrane collagen type XVIII. Their carboxyterminal propeptides serve as an adipose tissue hormone, endotrophin, and as a regulator of angiogenesis, endostatin, respectively. We provide an overview of the 28 known collagen types and propose that the molecular composition of the ECM in fibrosis needs careful attention to assess its impact on organ function and its potential to progress or reverse. Consequently, to adequately assess fibrosis and to design optimal antifibrotic therapies, we need to dissect the molecular entity of fibrosis for the molecular composition and spatial distribution of collagens and the associated ECM.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Karsdal
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark.
| | - S H Nielsen
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - D J Leeming
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - L L Langholm
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - M J Nielsen
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - T Manon-Jensen
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - A Siebuhr
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - N S Gudmann
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - S Rønnow
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - J M Sand
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - S J Daniels
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - J H Mortensen
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers & Research A/S, Herlev, Denmark
| | - D Schuppan
- Institute of Translational Immunology and Research Center for Immune Therapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany; Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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19
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Jafarinejad-Farsangi S, Farazmand A, Gharibdoost F, Karimizadeh E, Noorbakhsh F, Faridani H, Mahmoudi M, Jamshidi AR. Inhibition of MicroRNA-21 induces apoptosis in dermal fibroblasts of patients with systemic sclerosis. Int J Dermatol 2017; 55:1259-1267. [PMID: 27637490 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.13308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Revised: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prolonged activation of dermal fibroblasts is the main cause of progressive fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc). It seems that inhibition of apoptosis in SSc fibroblasts deregulates fibrosis. MicroRNA-21 (miR-21) is a pro-fibrotic factor with high expression in lesional areas of SSc skin and fibroblasts. METHODS The effects of miR-21 on expression of Bcl-2 and Bax, two apoptotic genes, in dermal fibroblasts of SSc patients were evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. Apoptotic cells were detected using flow cytometry and Hoechst 33258 staining assays. RESULTS Overexpression of miR-21 using synthetic miR-21 RNA increased expression of Bcl-2, an inhibitor of apoptosis, and decreased the Bax : Bcl-2 expression ratio, a cell fate determinant, in SSc fibroblasts. Antisense inhibition of miR-21 induced a high rate of apoptosis in SSc fibroblasts. We propose that this may be associated with a decrease in Bcl-2 expression and a shift in the Bax : Bcl-2 ratio. CONCLUSIONS Although further studies are necessary to determine the underlying apoptotic pathway, we propose that inhibition of miR-21 in dermal fibroblasts from lesional skin may be useful in harnessing progressive fibrosis in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Farazmand
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Farhad Gharibdoost
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Karimizadeh
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farshid Noorbakhsh
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Habibeh Faridani
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Mahmoudi
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Reza Jamshidi
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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20
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Predescu SA, Zhang J, Bardita C, Patel M, Godbole V, Predescu DN. Mouse Lung Fibroblast Resistance to Fas-Mediated Apoptosis Is Dependent on the Baculoviral Inhibitor of Apoptosis Protein 4 and the Cellular FLICE-Inhibitory Protein. Front Physiol 2017; 8:128. [PMID: 28352235 PMCID: PMC5348516 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
A characteristic feature of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is accumulation of apoptotic resistant fibroblasts/myofibroblasts in the fibroblastic foci. As caveolin (Cav)-null mice develop pulmonary fibrosis (PF), we hypothesized that the participating fibroblasts display an apoptosis-resistant phenotype. To test this hypothesis and identify the molecular mechanisms involved we isolated lung fibroblasts from Cav-null mice and examined the expression of several inhibitors of apoptosis (IAPs), of c-FLIP, of Bcl-2 proteins and of the death receptor CD95/Fas. We found significant increase in XIAP and c-FLIP constitutive protein expression with no alteration of Bcl-2 and lower levels of CD95/Fas. The isolated fibroblasts were then treated with the CD95/Fas ligand (FasL) to induce apoptosis. While the morphological and biochemical alterations induced by FasL were similar in wild-type (wt) and Cav-null mouse lung fibroblasts, the time course and the extent of the alterations were greater in the Cav-null fibroblasts. Several salient features of Cav-null fibroblasts response such as loss of membrane potential, fragmentation of the mitochondrial continuum concurrent with caspase-8 activation, and subsequent Bid cleavage, prior to caspase-3 activation were detected. Furthermore, M30 antigen formation, phosphatidylserine expression and DNA fragmentation were caspase-3 dependent. SiRNA-mediated silencing of XIAP and c-FLIP, individually or combined, enhanced the sensitivity of lung fibroblasts to FasL-induced apoptosis. Pharmacological inhibition of Bcl-2 had no effect. Together our findings support a mechanism in which CD95/Fas engagement activates caspase-8, inducing mitochondrial apoptosis through Bid cleavage. XIAP and c-FLIP fine tune this process in a cell-type specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanda A Predescu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Rush University, Medical College Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University New York, NY, USA
| | - Cristina Bardita
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Rush University, Medical College Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Monal Patel
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Varun Godbole
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Rush University, Medical College Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Dan N Predescu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Rush University, Medical College Chicago, IL, USA
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21
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Abstract
Protection of mucosal tissues of the oral cavity, intestines, respiratory tract, and urogenital tract from the constant challenge of pathogens is achieved by the combined barrier function of the lining epithelia and specialized immune cells. Recent studies have indicated that osteopontin (OPN) has a pivotal role in the development of immune responses and in the tissue destruction and the subsequent repair processes associated with inflammatory diseases. While expression of OPN is increased in immune cells—including neutrophils, macrophages, T- and B-lymphocytes—and in epithelial, endothelial, and fibroblastic cells of inflamed tissues, deciphering the specific functions of OPN has been difficult. In part, this is due to the broad range of biological activities of OPN that are mediated by multiple receptors which recognize several signaling motifs whose activities are influenced by post-translational modifications and proteolytic processing of OPN. Understanding the role of OPN in mucosal inflammation is further complicated by its contributions to the barrier function of the lining epithelia and the complexity of the specialized mucosal immune system. In an attempt to provide some insights into the involvement of OPN in mucosal diseases, this review summarizes current knowledge of the biological activities of OPN involved in the development of inflammatory responses and in wound healing, and indicates how these activities may affect the protection of mucosal tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Sodek
- CIHR Group in Matrix Dynamics, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
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22
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Ichimura Y, Asano Y, Akamata K, Noda S, Taniguchi T, Takahashi T, Toyama T, Tada Y, Sugaya M, Sato S, Kadono T. Progranulin Overproduction Due to Fli-1 Deficiency Contributes to the Resistance of Dermal Fibroblasts to Tumor Necrosis Factor in Systemic Sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2016; 67:3245-55. [PMID: 26245842 DOI: 10.1002/art.39312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Progranulin is a growth factor that is active in wound repair and is an antagonist of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptors, regulating fibroblast activation, angiogenesis, and inflammation. Because long-standing activation of gene programs related to wound healing is a hallmark of systemic sclerosis (SSc), we sought to investigate the role of progranulin in SSc. METHODS Progranulin expression levels in human and murine skin samples were determined by immunohistochemical analysis and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The role of progranulin in fibroblast activation was examined using a gene-silencing technique. Progranulin levels in serum obtained from 60 patients with SSc and 16 healthy control subjects were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS Progranulin expression was increased in SSc dermal fibroblasts compared with normal dermal fibroblasts, both in vivo and in vitro. Transcription factor Fli-1, a deficiency of which is involved in the activation of SSc dermal fibroblasts, served as a potent repressor of the progranulin gene, and Fli-1(+/-) mice and bleomycin-treated wild-type mice exhibited up-regulated expression of progranulin in dermal fibroblasts. SSc dermal fibroblasts were resistant to the antifibrotic effect of TNF, but this resistance was reversed by gene silencing of progranulin. Serum progranulin levels were elevated in patients with early diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc), especially in those with inflammatory skin symptoms, and were positively correlated with the C-reactive protein level. CONCLUSION Progranulin overproduction due to Fli-1 deficiency may contribute to the constitutive activation of SSc dermal fibroblasts by antagonizing the antifibrotic effect of TNF. Progranulin may also be involved in the inflammatory process associated with progressive skin sclerosis in early dcSSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yohei Ichimura
- University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihide Asano
- University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kaname Akamata
- University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinji Noda
- University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | - Tetsuo Toyama
- University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yayoi Tada
- University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Makoto Sugaya
- University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Sato
- University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takafumi Kadono
- University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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23
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The cannabinoid quinol VCE-004.8 alleviates bleomycin-induced scleroderma and exerts potent antifibrotic effects through peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ and CB2 pathways. Sci Rep 2016; 6:21703. [PMID: 26887982 PMCID: PMC4757881 DOI: 10.1038/srep21703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Scleroderma is a group of rare diseases associated with early and transient inflammation and vascular injury, followed by fibrosis affecting the skin and multiple internal organs. Fibroblast activation is the hallmark of scleroderma, and disrupting the intracellular TGFβ signaling may provide a novel approach to controlling fibrosis. Because of its potential role in modulating inflammatory and fibrotic responses, both PPARγ and CB2 receptors represent attractive targets for the development of cannabinoid-based therapies. We have developed a non-thiophilic and chemically stable derivative of the CBD quinol (VCE-004.8) that behaves as a dual agonist of PPARγ and CB2 receptors, VCE-004.8 inhibited TGFβ-induced Col1A2 gene transcription and collagen synthesis. Moreover, VCE-004.8 inhibited TGFβ–mediated myofibroblast differentiation and impaired wound-healing activity. The anti-fibrotic efficacy in vivo was investigated in a murine model of dermal fibrosis induced by bleomycin. VCE-004.8 reduced dermal thickness, blood vessels collagen accumulation and prevented mast cell degranulation and macrophage infiltration in the skin. These effects were impaired by the PPARγ antagonist T0070907 and the CB2 antagonist AM630. In addition, VCE-004.8 downregulated the expression of several key genes associated with fibrosis, qualifying this semi-synthetic cannabinoid as a novel compound for the management of scleroderma and, potentially, other fibrotic diseases.
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24
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Cellular and molecular mechanisms in the pathophysiology of systemic sclerosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 63:61-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.patbio.2015.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Monument MJ, Hart DA, Salo PT, Befus AD, Hildebrand KA. Neuroinflammatory Mechanisms of Connective Tissue Fibrosis: Targeting Neurogenic and Mast Cell Contributions. Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle) 2015; 4:137-151. [PMID: 25785237 DOI: 10.1089/wound.2013.0509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2013] [Accepted: 11/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Significance: The pathogenesis of fibrogenic wound and connective tissue healing is complex and incompletely understood. Common observations across a vast array of human and animal models of fibroproliferative conditions suggest neuroinflammatory mechanisms are important upstream fibrogenic events. Recent Advances: As detailed in this review, mast cell hyperplasia is a common observation in fibrotic tissue. Recent investigations in human and preclinical models of hypertrophic wound healing and post-traumatic joint fibrosis provides evidence that fibrogenesis is governed by a maladaptive neuropeptide-mast cell-myofibroblast signaling pathway. Critical Issues: The blockade and manipulation of these factors is providing promising evidence that if timed correctly, the fibrogenic process can be appropriately regulated. Clinically, abnormal fibrogenic healing responses are not ubiquitous to all patients and the identification of those at-risk remains an area of priority. Future Directions: Ultimately, an integrated appreciation of the common pathobiology shared by many fibrogenic connective tissue conditions may provide a scientific framework to facilitate the development of novel antifibrotic prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Monument
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, McCaig Institute for Bone & Joint Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - David A. Hart
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, McCaig Institute for Bone & Joint Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Paul T. Salo
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, McCaig Institute for Bone & Joint Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - A. Dean Befus
- Pulmonary Research Group, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kevin A. Hildebrand
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, McCaig Institute for Bone & Joint Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Wang Y, Lauer ME, Anand S, Mack JA, Maytin EV. Hyaluronan synthase 2 protects skin fibroblasts against apoptosis induced by environmental stress. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:32253-32265. [PMID: 25266724 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.578377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
A balanced turnover of dermal fibroblasts is crucial for structural integrity and normal function of the skin. During recovery from environmental injury (such as UV exposure and physical wounding), apoptosis is an important mechanism regulating fibroblast turnover. We are interested in the role that hyaluronan (HA), an extracellular matrix molecule synthesized by HA synthase enzymes (Has), plays in regulating apoptosis in fibroblasts. We previously reported that Has1 and Has3 double knock-out (Has1/3 null) mice show accelerated wound closure and increased numbers of fibroblasts in the dermis. In the present study, we report that HA levels and Has2 mRNA expression are higher in cultured Has1/3 null primary skin fibroblasts than in wild type (WT) cells. Apoptosis induced by two different environmental stressors, UV exposure and serum starvation (SS), was reduced in the Has1/3 null cells. Hyaluronidase, added to cultures to remove extracellular HA, surprisingly had no effect upon apoptotic susceptibility to UVB or SS. However, cells treated with 4-methylumbelliferone to inhibit HA synthesis were sensitized to apoptosis induced by SS or UVB. When fibroblasts were transfected with Has2-specific siRNA that lowered Has2 mRNA and HA levels by 90%, both Has1/3 null and WT cells became significantly more sensitive to apoptosis. The exogenous addition of high molecular weight HA failed to reverse this effect. We conclude that Has1/3 null skin fibroblasts (which have higher levels of Has2 gene expression) are resistant to stress-induced apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
| | - Mark E Lauer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
| | - Sanjay Anand
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195; Department of Dermatology, Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
| | - Judith A Mack
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195; Department of Dermatology, Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
| | - Edward V Maytin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195; Department of Dermatology, Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195.
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Ortona E, Maselli A, Delunardo F, Colasanti T, Giovannetti A, Pierdominici M. Relationship between redox status and cell fate in immunity and autoimmunity. Antioxid Redox Signal 2014; 21:103-22. [PMID: 24359147 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2013.5752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE The signaling function of redox molecules is essential for an efficient and proper execution of a large number of cellular processes, contributing to the maintenance of cell homeostasis. Excessive oxidative stress is considered as playing an important role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases by enhancing inflammation and breaking down the immunological tolerance through protein structural modifications that induce the appearance of neo/cryptic epitopes. RECENT ADVANCES There is a complex reciprocal relationship between oxidative stress and both apoptosis and autophagy, which is essential to determine cell fate. This is especially relevant in the context of autoimmune disorders in which apoptosis and autophagy play a crucial pathogenic role. CRITICAL ISSUES In this review, we describe the latest developments with regard to the involvement of redox molecules in the initiation and progression of autoimmune disorders, focusing on their role in cell fate regulation. We also discuss new therapeutic approaches that target oxidative stress in the treatment of these disorders. The administration of antioxidants is scarcely studied in autoimmunity, and future analyses are needed to assess its beneficial effects in preventing or ameliorating these diseases. FUTURE DIRECTIONS Deciphering the intricate relationships between oxidative stress and both apoptosis and autophagy in the context of autoimmunity could be critical in elucidating key pathogenic mechanisms and could lead to novel interventions for the clinical management of autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Ortona
- 1 Department of Cell Biology and Neurosciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità , Rome, Italy
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Kendall RT, Feghali-Bostwick CA. Fibroblasts in fibrosis: novel roles and mediators. Front Pharmacol 2014; 5:123. [PMID: 24904424 PMCID: PMC4034148 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2014.00123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 653] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibroblasts are the most common cell type of the connective tissues found throughout the body and the principal source of the extensive extracellular matrix (ECM) characteristic of these tissues. They are also the central mediators of the pathological fibrotic accumulation of ECM and the cellular proliferation and differentiation that occurs in response to prolonged tissue injury and chronic inflammation. The transformation of the fibroblast cell lineage involves classical developmental signaling programs and includes a surprisingly diverse range of precursor cell types—most notably, myofibroblasts that are the apex of the fibrotic phenotype. Myofibroblasts display exaggerated ECM production; constitutively secrete and are hypersensitive to chemical signals such as cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors; and are endowed with a contractile apparatus allowing them to manipulate the ECM fibers physically to close open wounds. In addition to ECM production, fibroblasts have multiple concomitant biological roles, such as in wound healing, inflammation, and angiogenesis, which are each interwoven with the process of fibrosis. We now recognize many common fibroblast-related features across various physiological and pathological protracted processes. Indeed, a new appreciation has emerged for the role of non-cancerous fibroblast interactions with tumors in cancer progression. Although the predominant current clinical treatments of fibrosis involve non-specific immunosuppressive and anti-proliferative drugs, a variety of potential therapies under investigation specifically target fibroblast biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan T Kendall
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Carol A Feghali-Bostwick
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina Charleston, SC, USA
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29
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Myofibroblasts: trust your heart and let fate decide. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2013; 70:9-18. [PMID: 24189039 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2013.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 235] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2013] [Revised: 10/18/2013] [Accepted: 10/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is a substantial problem in managing multiple forms of heart disease. Fibrosis results from an unrestrained tissue repair process orchestrated predominantly by the myofibroblast. These are highly specialized cells characterized by their ability to secrete extracellular matrix (ECM) components and remodel tissue due to their contractile properties. This contractile activity of the myofibroblast is ascribed, in part, to the expression of smooth muscle α-actin (αSMA) and other tension-associated structural genes. Myofibroblasts are a newly generated cell type derived largely from residing mesenchymal cells in response to both mechanical and neurohumoral stimuli. Several cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors are induced in the injured heart, and in conjunction with elevated wall tension, specific signaling pathways and downstream effectors are mobilized to initiate myofibroblast differentiation. Here we will review the cell fates that contribute to the myofibroblast as well as nodal molecular signaling effectors that promote their differentiation and activity. We will discuss canonical versus non-canonical transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ), angiotensin II (AngII), endothelin-1 (ET-1), serum response factor (SRF), transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and mechanical signaling pathways that are required for myofibroblast transformation and fibrotic disease. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Myocyte-Fibroblast Signalling in Myocardium ".
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30
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Ota Y, Kawaguchi Y, Takagi K, Ichida H, Gono T, Hanaoka M, Higuchi T, Yamanaka H. Ghrelin attenuates collagen production in lesional fibroblasts from patients with systemic sclerosis. Clin Immunol 2013; 147:71-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2013.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2013] [Revised: 03/04/2013] [Accepted: 03/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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31
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Sakai N, Tager AM. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) signaling through LPA1 in organ fibrosis: A pathway with pleiotropic pro-fibrotic effects. Inflamm Regen 2013. [DOI: 10.2492/inflammregen.33.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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32
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33
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Samuel GH, Lenna S, Bujor AM, Lafyatis R, Trojanowska M. Acid sphingomyelinase deficiency contributes to resistance of scleroderma fibroblasts to Fas-mediated apoptosis. J Dermatol Sci 2012; 67:166-72. [PMID: 22771321 PMCID: PMC3423203 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2012.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2011] [Revised: 05/02/2012] [Accepted: 06/01/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scleroderma (SSc) is characterized by excess production and deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Activated fibroblasts play a key role in fibrosis in SSc and are resistant to Fas-mediated apoptosis. Acid sphingomyelinase (ASMase), a major sphingolipid enzyme, plays an important role in the Fas-mediated apoptosis. OBJECTIVE We investigated whether dysregulation of ASMase contributes to Fas-mediated apoptosis resistance in SSc fibroblasts. METHODS Fibroblasts were isolated from SSc patients and healthy controls. Western blot was performed to analyze protein levels and quantitative real time RT-PCR was used to determine mRNA expression. Cells were transiently transfected with siRNA oligos against ASMase or transduced with adenoviruses overexpressing ASMase. Apoptosis was induced using anti-Fas antibody (1 μg/mL) and analyzed using caspase-3 antibody or Cell Death Detection ELISA. RESULTS SSc fibroblasts showed increased resistance to Fas-mediated apoptosis. ASMase expression was decreased in SSc fibroblasts and Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGFβ), the major fibrogenic cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of SSc, downregulated ASMase in normal fibroblasts. Forced expression of ASMase in SSc fibroblasts restored sensitivity of these cells to Fas-mediated apoptosis while blockade of ASMase was sufficient to induce partial resistance to Fas-induced apoptosis in normal fibroblasts. In addition, ASMase blockade decreased activity of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) through phosphorylation on Tyr(307) and resulted in activation of extracellular regulated kinase 1/2 (Erk1/2) and protein kinase B (Akt/PKB). CONCLUSION In conclusion, this study suggests that ASMase deficiency promotes apoptosis resistance and contributes to activation of profibrotic signaling in SSc fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glady Hazitha Samuel
- Arthritis Center, Division of Rheumatology, Boston University Medical Campus, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stefania Lenna
- Arthritis Center, Division of Rheumatology, Boston University Medical Campus, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andreea M Bujor
- Arthritis Center, Division of Rheumatology, Boston University Medical Campus, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Robert Lafyatis
- Arthritis Center, Division of Rheumatology, Boston University Medical Campus, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Maria Trojanowska
- Arthritis Center, Division of Rheumatology, Boston University Medical Campus, Boston, MA, USA
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34
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Elevated serum TRAIL levels in scleroderma patients and its possible association with pulmonary involvement. Clin Rheumatol 2012; 31:1359-64. [DOI: 10.1007/s10067-012-2023-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2011] [Revised: 05/24/2012] [Accepted: 06/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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35
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Yoo KC, Yoon CH, Kwon D, Hyun KH, Woo SJ, Kim RK, Lim EJ, Suh Y, Kim MJ, Yoon TH, Lee SJ. Titanium dioxide induces apoptotic cell death through reactive oxygen species-mediated Fas upregulation and Bax activation. Int J Nanomedicine 2012; 7:1203-14. [PMID: 22419868 PMCID: PMC3298386 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s28647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Titanium dioxide (TiO(2)) has been widely used in many areas, including biomedicine, cosmetics, and environmental engineering. Recently, it has become evident that some TiO(2) particles have a considerable cytotoxic effect in normal human cells. However, the molecular basis for the cytotoxicity of TiO(2) has yet to be defined. METHODS AND RESULTS In this study, we demonstrated that combined treatment with TiO(2) nanoparticles sized less than 100 nm and ultraviolet A irradiation induces apoptotic cell death through reactive oxygen species-dependent upregulation of Fas and conformational activation of Bax in normal human cells. Treatment with P25 TiO(2) nanoparticles with a hydrodynamic size distribution centered around 70 nm (TiO(2) (P25-70)) together with ultraviolet A irradiation-induced caspase-dependent apoptotic cell death, accompanied by transcriptional upregulation of the death receptor, Fas, and conformational activation of Bax. In line with these results, knockdown of either Fas or Bax with specific siRNA significantly inhibited TiO(2)-induced apoptotic cell death. Moreover, inhibition of reactive oxygen species with an antioxidant, N-acetyl-L-cysteine, clearly suppressed upregulation of Fas, conformational activation of Bax, and subsequent apoptotic cell death in response to combination treatment using TiO(2) (P25-70) and ultraviolet A irradiation. CONCLUSION These results indicate that sub-100 nm sized TiO(2) treatment under ultraviolet A irradiation induces apoptotic cell death through reactive oxygen species-mediated upregulation of the death receptor, Fas, and activation of the preapoptotic protein, Bax. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms by which nanosized particles induce activation of cell death signaling pathways would be critical for the development of prevention strategies to minimize the cytotoxicity of nanomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Chun Yoo
- Laboratory of Molecular Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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36
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Hinz B, Phan SH, Thannickal VJ, Prunotto M, Desmoulière A, Varga J, De Wever O, Mareel M, Gabbiani G. Recent developments in myofibroblast biology: paradigms for connective tissue remodeling. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2012; 180:1340-55. [PMID: 22387320 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2012.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 942] [Impact Index Per Article: 78.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of the myofibroblast has opened new perspectives for the comprehension of the biological mechanisms involved in wound healing and fibrotic diseases. In recent years, many advances have been made in understanding important aspects of myofibroblast basic biological characteristics. This review summarizes such advances in several fields, such as the following: i) force production by the myofibroblast and mechanisms of connective tissue remodeling; ii) factors controlling the expression of α-smooth muscle actin, the most used marker of myofibroblastic phenotype and, more important, involved in force generation by the myofibroblast; and iii) factors affecting genesis of the myofibroblast and its differentiation from precursor cells, in particular epigenetic factors, such as DNA methylation, microRNAs, and histone modification. We also review the origin and the specific features of the myofibroblast in diverse fibrotic lesions, such as systemic sclerosis; kidney, liver, and lung fibrosis; and the stromal reaction to certain epithelial tumors. Finally, we summarize the emerging strategies for influencing myofibroblast behavior in vitro and in vivo, with the ultimate goal of an effective therapeutic approach for myofibroblast-dependent diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boris Hinz
- Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Matrix Dynamics Group, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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37
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Tsou PS, Talia NN, Pinney AJ, Kendzicky A, Piera-Velazquez S, Jimenez SA, Seibold JR, Phillips K, Koch AE. Effect of oxidative stress on protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B in scleroderma dermal fibroblasts. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 64:1978-89. [PMID: 22161819 DOI: 10.1002/art.34336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and its receptor, PDGFR, promote fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma) dermal fibroblasts, and such cells in scleroderma skin lesions produce excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS). PDGFR is phosphorylated upon PDGF stimulation, and is dephosphorylated by protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs), including PTP1B. This study was undertaken to determine whether the thiol-sensitive PTP1B is affected by ROS in SSc dermal fibroblasts, thereby enhancing the phosphorylation of PDGFR and synthesis of type I collagen. This study also sought to investigate the effect of a thiol antioxidant, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), in SSc. METHODS Fibroblasts were isolated from the skin of patients with diffuse SSc and normal healthy donors for cell culture experiments and immunofluorescence analyses. A phosphate release assay was used to determine the activity of PTP1B. RESULTS Levels of ROS and type I collagen were significantly higher and amounts of free thiol were significantly lower in SSc fibroblasts compared to normal fibroblasts. After stimulation with PDGF, not only were PDGFR and ERK-1/2 phosphorylated to a greater extent, but also the ability to produce PTP1B was hampered in SSc fibroblasts. The activity of PTP1B was significantly inactivated in SSc fibroblasts as a result of cysteine oxidation by the raised levels of ROS, which was confirmed by the oxidation of multiple PTPs, including PTP1B, in SSc fibroblasts. Decreased expression of PTP1B in normal fibroblasts led to increased expression of type I collagen. Treatment of the cells with NAC restored the activity of PTP1B, improved the profile of PDGFR phosphorylation, decreased the numbers of tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins and levels of type I collagen, and scavenged ROS in SSc fibroblasts. CONCLUSION This study describes a new mechanism by which ROS may promote a profibrotic phenotype in SSc fibroblasts through the oxidative inactivation of PTP1B, leading to pronounced activation of PDGFR. The study also presents a novel molecular mechanism by which NAC may act on ROS and PTP1B to provide therapeutic benefit in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Suen Tsou
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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38
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Usategui A, del Rey MJ, Pablos JL. Fibroblast abnormalities in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2011; 7:491-8. [PMID: 21790292 DOI: 10.1586/eci.11.39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic systemic disease characterized by autoimmunity, vascular lesions and progressive fibrosis. The fibrotic component is dominant in SSc compared with other vascular or autoimmune diseases and determines its prognosis and therapeutic refractoriness. Fibroblasts are responsible for abnormal extracellular matrix accumulation. Studies in cultured SSc skin fibroblasts have facilitated the identification of potential pathways involved in their profibrotic phenotype. Profibrotic fibroblasts characterized by abnormal growth and extracellular matrix synthesis may differentiate or expand from normal resident fibroblasts. Recruitment of bone marrow-derived progenitors and transdifferentiation of different cell lineages might also be involved. Multiple factors and signaling pathways appear to be involved in the development or persistence of the SSc fibroblast phenotype. Although their relative relevance and interplay are unclear, aberrant TGF-β signaling seems pivotal and constitutes the best characterized therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Usategui
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
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39
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Vascular changes in bleomycin-induced scleroderma. Int J Rheumatol 2011; 2011:270938. [PMID: 22028717 PMCID: PMC3199103 DOI: 10.1155/2011/270938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2011] [Revised: 08/17/2011] [Accepted: 08/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by vascular injury, immunological abnormalities, and fibrosis of the skin as well as various internal organs. Vascular impairment is the early manifestation and plays a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of SSc. Recent studies suggest that complex interactions among the endothelial cells, pericytes, smooth muscle cells, and fibroblasts are involved in the systemic vasculopathy in SSc, and histological feature of proliferation of vascular wall is seen in the lesional scleroderma skin at the late stage of disease. One of the most representative mouse models for scleroderma is the bleomycin-induced scleroderma; however, aspects of vascular alteration have not been described in detail so far. A number of studies have shown that bleomycin stimulates endothelial cells and fibroblasts to induce proinflammatory and fibrogenic cytokines, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species, and so on. This paper makes a focus on the vascular involvement in the bleomycin-induced murine scleroderma.
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40
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Apoptosis modulation as a promising target for treatment of systemic sclerosis. Int J Rheumatol 2011; 2011:495792. [PMID: 21912551 PMCID: PMC3170778 DOI: 10.1155/2011/495792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2011] [Revised: 07/06/2011] [Accepted: 07/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffuse systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a fatal autoimmune disease characterized by an excessive ECM deposition inducing a loss of function of skin and internal organs. Apoptosis is a key mechanism involved in all the stages of the disease: vascular damage, immune dysfunction, and fibrosis. The purpose of this paper is to gather new findings in apoptosis related to SSc, to highlight relations between apoptosis and fibrosis, and to identify new therapeutic targets.
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41
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Borchers AT, Chang C, Keen CL, Gershwin ME. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis-an epidemiological and pathological review. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2011; 40:117-34. [PMID: 20838937 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-010-8211-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is an interstitial lung disease (ILD) affecting the pulmonary interstitium. Other forms of interstitial lung disease exist, and in some cases, an environmental etiology can be delineated. The diagnosis of IPF is typically established by high-resolution CT scan. IPF tends to have a worse prognosis than other forms of ILD. Familial cases of IPF also exist, suggesting a genetic predisposition; telomerase mutations have been observed to occur in familial IPF, which may also explain the increase in IPF with advancing age. Alveolar epithelial cells are believed to be the primary target of environmental agents that have been putatively associated with IPF. These agents may include toxins, viruses, or the autoantibodies found in collagen vascular diseases. The mechanism of disease is still unclear in IPF, but aberrations in fibroblast differentiation, activation, and proliferation may play a role. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition may also be an important factor in the pathogenesis, as it may lead to accumulation of fibroblasts in the lung and a disruption of normal tissue structure. Abnormalities in other components of the immune system, including T cells, B cells, and dendritic cells, as well as the development of ectopic lymphoid tissue, have also been observed to occur in IPF and may play a role in the stimulation of fibrosis that is a hallmark of the disease. It is becoming increasingly clear that the pathogenesis of IPF is indeed a complex and convoluted process that involves numerous cell types and humoral factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea T Borchers
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis School of Medicine, 95616, USA
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42
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Kim HJ, Cho DH, Lee KJ, Cho CS, Bang SI, Cho BK, Park HJ. LL-37 suppresses sodium nitroprusside-induced apoptosis of systemic sclerosis dermal fibroblasts. Exp Dermatol 2011; 20:843-5. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0625.2011.01327.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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43
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Pfau JC, Li S, Holland S, Sentissi JJ. Alteration of fibroblast phenotype by asbestos-induced autoantibodies. J Immunotoxicol 2011; 8:159-69. [PMID: 21457077 PMCID: PMC3201780 DOI: 10.3109/1547691x.2011.562257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is a relentlessly progressive disease for which the etiology can be idiopathic or associated with environmental or occupational exposures. There is not a clear explanation for the chronic and progressive nature of the disease, leaving treatment and prevention options limited. However, there is increasing evidence of an autoimmune component, since fibrotic diseases are often accompanied by production of autoantibodies. Because exposure to silicates such as silica and asbestos can lead to both autoantibodies and pulmonary/pleural fibrosis, these exposures provide an excellent tool for examining the relationship between these outcomes. This study explored the possibility that autoantibodies induced by asbestos exposure in mice would affect fibroblast phenotype. L929 fibroblasts and primary lung fibroblasts were treated with serum IgG from asbestos- or saline-treated mice, and tested for binding using cell-based ELISA, and for phenotypic changes using immunofluorescence, laser scanning cytometry and Sirius Red collagen assay. Autoantibodies in the serum of C57Bl/6 mice exposed to asbestos (but not sera from untreated mice) bound to mouse fibroblasts. The autoantibodies induced differentiation to a myofibroblast phenotype, as demonstrated by increased expression of smooth muscle α-actin (SMA), which was lost when the serum was cleared of IgG. Cells treated with purified IgG of exposed mice produced excess collagen. Using ELISA, we tested serum antibody binding to DNA topoisomerase (Topo) I, vimentin, TGFβ-R, and PDGF-Rα. Antibodies to DNA Topo I and to PDGF-Rα were detected, both of which have been shown by others to be able to affect fibroblast phenotype. The anti-fibroblast antibodies (AFA) also induced STAT-1 activation, implicating the PDGF-R pathway as part of the response to AFA binding. These data support the hypothesis that asbestos induces AFA that modify fibroblast phenotype, and suggest a mechanism whereby autoantibodies may mediate some of the fibrotic manifestations of asbestos exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean C Pfau
- Department of Biological Sciences, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID 83209, USA.
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Zulato E, Favaretto F, Veronese C, Campanaro S, Marshall JD, Romano S, Cabrelle A, Collin GB, Zavan B, Belloni AS, Rampazzo E, Naggert JK, Abatangelo G, Sicolo N, Maffei P, Milan G, Vettor R. ALMS1-deficient fibroblasts over-express extra-cellular matrix components, display cell cycle delay and are resistant to apoptosis. PLoS One 2011; 6:e19081. [PMID: 21541333 PMCID: PMC3082548 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0019081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2010] [Accepted: 03/28/2011] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Alström Syndrome (ALMS) is a rare genetic disorder (483 living cases), characterized by many clinical manifestations, including blindness, obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiomyopathy. ALMS is caused by mutations in the ALMS1 gene, encoding for a large protein with implicated roles in ciliary function, cellular quiescence and intracellular transport. Patients with ALMS have extensive fibrosis in nearly all tissues resulting in a progressive organ failure which is often the ultimate cause of death. To focus on the role of ALMS1 mutations in the generation and maintenance of this pathological fibrosis, we performed gene expression analysis, ultrastructural characterization and functional assays in 4 dermal fibroblast cultures from ALMS patients. Using a genome-wide gene expression analysis we found alterations in genes belonging to specific categories (cell cycle, extracellular matrix (ECM) and fibrosis, cellular architecture/motility and apoptosis). ALMS fibroblasts display cytoskeleton abnormalities and migration impairment, up-regulate the expression and production of collagens and despite the increase in the cell cycle length are more resistant to apoptosis. Therefore ALMS1-deficient fibroblasts showed a constitutively activated myofibroblast phenotype even if they do not derive from a fibrotic lesion. Our results support a genetic basis for the fibrosis observed in ALMS and show that both an excessive ECM production and a failure to eliminate myofibroblasts are key mechanisms. Furthermore, our findings suggest new roles for ALMS1 in both intra- and extra-cellular events which are essential not only for the normal cellular function but also for cell-cell and ECM-cell interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Zulato
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Francesca Favaretto
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Caterina Veronese
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Stefano Campanaro
- Department of Biology, CRIBI (Centro Ricerca Interdipartimentale Biotecnologie Innovative), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Jan D. Marshall
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United State of America
| | - Sara Romano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Anna Cabrelle
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Gayle B. Collin
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United State of America
| | - Barbara Zavan
- Department of Histology, Microbiology and Biomedical Technologies, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Anna S. Belloni
- Department of Human Anatomy and Physiology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Enrica Rampazzo
- Department of Oncology and Surgical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Abatangelo
- Department of Histology, Microbiology and Biomedical Technologies, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Nicola Sicolo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Pietro Maffei
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Gabriella Milan
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Roberto Vettor
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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Chabaud S, Corriveau MP, Grodzicky T, Senécal JL, Chartier S, Raymond Y, Moulin VJ. Decreased secretion of MMP by non-lesional late-stage scleroderma fibroblasts after selection via activation of the apoptotic fas-pathway. J Cell Physiol 2011; 226:1907-14. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.22520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Yamamoto T. Autoimmune mechanisms of scleroderma and a role of oxidative stress. SELF NONSELF 2011; 2:4-10. [PMID: 21776329 DOI: 10.4161/self.2.1.14058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2010] [Accepted: 10/31/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Scleroderma is a fibrotic condition characterized by immunological abnormalities, vascular injury and increased accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins in the skin. Although the etiology of scleroderma has not yet been fully elucidated, a growing body of evidence suggests that extracellular matrix overproduction by activated fibroblasts results from complex interactions among endothelial cells, lymphocytes, macrophages and fibroblasts via a number of mediators, such as cytokines, chemokines and growth factors. Recent investigations have further suggested that reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved and play a role of autoimmunology in scleroderma. In this review, current findings on the autoimmune mechanisms in the pathophysiology of scleroderma are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiyuki Yamamoto
- Department of Dermatology; Fukushima Medical University; Fukushima, Japan
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Angadi PV, Kale AD, Hallikerimath S. Evaluation of myofibroblasts in oral submucous fibrosis: correlation with disease severity. J Oral Pathol Med 2010; 40:208-13. [PMID: 21198872 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0714.2010.00995.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic debilitating disease and a premalignant condition of the oral cavity characterized by generalized submucosal fibrosis. Myofibroblasts are contractile cells expressing α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and are considered primary producers of extracellular matrix after injury. Their accumulation has been established as a marker of progressive fibrosis in organs like lungs, liver, kidney and skin. This study aims to evaluate the presence of myofibroblasts in various histological stages of OSMF. MATERIALS AND METHOD Seventy cases of OSMF, which were further categorized histologically into early (35 cases) and advanced (35 cases), were subjected to immunohistochemistry using α-SMA antibody for detection of myofibroblasts. Fifteen normal oral mucosa specimens were also stained as controls. RESULTS The number of α-SMA-stained myofibroblasts in OSMF was significantly increased when compared to that of the normal controls (P<0.001). Additionally, a statistically significant increase in the myofibroblasts population between early and advanced stages was observed (P=0.000). CONCLUSIONS Our results corroborate the possibility that OSMF actually represents an abnormal healing process in response to chronic mechanical and chemical irritation because of areca nut chewing as demonstrated by the increased incidence of myofibroblasts in this disease. Furthermore, the progressive increase in myofibroblasts from early to advanced stages suggests their potential use as markers for evaluating the severity of OSMF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Punnya V Angadi
- Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, KLEVK Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Belgaum, Karnataka, India.
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Samuel GH, Bujor AM, Nakerakanti SS, Hant FN, Trojanowska M. Autocrine transforming growth factor β signaling regulates extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 phosphorylation via modulation of protein phosphatase 2A expression in scleroderma fibroblasts. FIBROGENESIS & TISSUE REPAIR 2010; 3:25. [PMID: 21134273 PMCID: PMC3008687 DOI: 10.1186/1755-1536-3-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2010] [Accepted: 12/06/2010] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During scleroderma (SSc) pathogenesis, fibroblasts acquire an activated phenotype characterized by enhanced production of extracellular matrix (ECM) and constitutive activation of several major signaling pathways including extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK1/2). Several studies have addressed the role of ERK1/2 in SSc fibrosis however the mechanism of its prolonged activation in SSc fibroblasts is still unknown. Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is a key serine threonine phosphatase responsible for dephosphorylation of a wide array of signaling molecules. Recently published microarray data from cultured SSc fibroblasts suggests that the catalytic subunit (C-subunit) of PP2A is downregulated in SSc. In this study we examined the role and regulation of PP2A in SSc fibroblasts in the context of ERK1/2 phosphorylation and matrix production. RESULTS We show for the first time that PP2A mRNA and protein expression are significantly reduced in SSc fibroblasts and correlate with an increase in ERK1/2 phosphorylation and collagen expression. Furthermore, transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), a major profibrotic cytokine implicated in SSc fibrosis, downregulates PP2A expression in healthy fibroblasts. PP2A-specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) was utilized to confirm the role of PP2A in ERK1/2 dephosphorylation in dermal fibroblasts. Accordingly, blockade of autocrine TGFβ signaling in SSc fibroblasts using soluble recombinant TGFβ receptor II (SRII) restored PP2A levels and decreased ERK1/2 phosphorylation and collagen expression. In addition, we observed that inhibition of ERK1/2 in SSc fibroblasts increased PP2A expression suggesting that ERK1/2 phosphorylation also contributes to maintaining low levels of PP2A, leading to an even further amplification of ERK1/2 phosphorylation. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these studies suggest that decreased PP2A levels in SSc is a result of constitutively activated autocrine TGFβ signaling and could contribute to enhanced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and matrix production in SSc fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glady H Samuel
- Arthritis Center, Division of Rheumatology, Boston University Medical Campus, Boston, MA, USA.
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[Cytokines and T cell differentiation in systemic sclerosis]. Rev Med Interne 2010; 32:472-85. [PMID: 20850209 DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2010.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2010] [Revised: 07/12/2010] [Accepted: 07/19/2010] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The physiopathology of systemic sclerosis remains unclear within a complex interaction between vasculopathy, perivascular inflammatory infiltrate, extensive tissue fibrosis and auto-immune manifestations. Chronology between vascular disease and adjacent inflammatory cell infiltration is still not yet clarified. There is growing evidence that T cell activation and its cytokine expression play a key role in vascular impairment occurrence and collagen dysregulation. Nevertheless, cytokine descriptions are mainly limited to blood and tissue measurement and the T cells differentiation analysis restricted to the Th1/Th2 balance. The purpose of this review is to establish an exhaustive cartography of cytokines involved in T cell differentiation, regarding the recent advance in T lymphocyte differentiation, including Th9, Th17, Th22 and regulatory T cells (Treg) pathways. This review will focus on Th17, Th22 and Treg differentiation, corresponding to the equilibrium between inflammation and tolerance. Finally, regarding published results in systemic sclerosis, T cells participation appears to be more a Th1/Th2 co-expression than an exclusive Th1 or Th2 polarization. Also, a possible Th22/Treg imbalance is suggested, leading to a Th22 overexpression and likely to tissue inflammation genesis.
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Farina GA, York MR, Di Marzio M, Collins CA, Meller S, Homey B, Rifkin IR, Marshak-Rothstein A, Radstake TRDJ, Lafyatis R. Poly(I:C) drives type I IFN- and TGFβ-mediated inflammation and dermal fibrosis simulating altered gene expression in systemic sclerosis. J Invest Dermatol 2010; 130:2583-93. [PMID: 20613770 DOI: 10.1038/jid.2010.200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Immune activation of fibrosis likely has a crucial role in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc). The aim of this study was to better understand the innate immune regulation and associated IFN- and transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ)-responsive gene expression in SSc skin and dermal fibroblasts, in particular the effect of different Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands. To better understand the relationship between inflammation and fibrosis in vivo, we developed a murine model for chronic innate immune stimulation. We found that expression of both IFN- and TGFβ-responsive genes is increased in SSc skin and SSc fibroblasts when stimulated by TLR ligands. In contrast, cutaneous lupus skin showed much more highly upregulated IFN-responsive and much less highly upregulated TGFβ-responsive gene expression. Of the TLRs ligands tested, the TLR3 ligand, polyinosinic/polycytidylic acid (Poly(I:C)), most highly increased fibroblast expression of both IFN- and TGFβ-responsive genes as well as TLR3. Chronic subcutaneous immune stimulation by Poly(I:C) stimulated inflammation, and IFN- and TGFβ-responsive gene expression. However, in this model, type I IFNs had no apparent role in regulating TGFβ activity in the skin. These results suggest that TLR agonists may be important stimuli of dermal fibrosis, which is potentially mediated by TLR3 or other innate immune receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina A Farina
- Rheumatology Section, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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