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Qi Y, Zhao Y, Xia J, Hu B, Li X, Li Q, Yang Z, Yao W, Hao C. Jun and JunB members of the AP-1 complex are potential therapeutic targets for silicosis. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 277:134024. [PMID: 39032899 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Silicosis is a systemic disease with predominantly diffuse fibrosis of the lungs due to prolonged inhalation of free SiO2 dust during the manufacturing process, for which there is no effective treatment. In this study, we used a combined epigenetic and transcriptomic approach to reveal the chromatin-opening features of silicosis and identify the key transcription factor activator protein 1 (AP-1) that responds to silicosis fibrosis. Therapeutic administration of an AP-1 inhibitor inhibits the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, reduces fibrosis marker proteins, and significantly ameliorates lung fibrosis in a mouse model of silicosis. In addition, it was observed that the expression of Jun and JunB was significantly up-regulated in a TGF-β1-induced in vitro transdifferentiation model of NIH/3T3 cells, and Co-IP confirmed that a protein complex could be formed between Jun and JunB. Mechanistically, silencing of Jun and JunB expression reversed the activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and the upregulation of fibrosis marker proteins in NIH/3 T3 cells after TGF-β1 stimulation. Taken together, Jun/JunB is expected to be a potential therapeutic target for silicosis fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanmeng Qi
- Department of Occupational and Environment Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Henan, China
| | - YouLiang Zhao
- Department of Occupational and Environment Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Henan, China
| | - JiaRui Xia
- Department of Occupational and Environment Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Henan, China
| | - Botao Hu
- Department of Occupational and Environment Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Henan, China
| | - Xiaoying Li
- Department of Occupational and Environment Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Henan, China
| | - Qimeng Li
- Department of Occupational and Environment Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Henan, China
| | - Zhenzhen Yang
- Department of Occupational and Environment Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Henan, China
| | - Wu Yao
- Department of Occupational and Environment Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Henan, China.
| | - Changfu Hao
- Department of Child and Adolescence Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Henan, China.
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2
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Huang L, Zuo Y, Yang H, He X, Zhang L. Identification of key genes as potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets for comorbidity of myasthenia gravis and COVID-19. Front Neurol 2024; 14:1334131. [PMID: 38384322 PMCID: PMC10879883 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1334131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has a significant impact on the health and quality of life of MG patients and may even trigger the onset of MG in some cases. With the worldwide development of the COVID-19 vaccination, several new-onset MG cases and exacerbations following the COVID-19 vaccines have been acknowledged. The potential link between myasthenia gravis (MG) and COVID-19 has prompted the need for further investigation into the underlying molecular mechanism. Methods and results The differential expression analysis identified six differentially expressed genes (DEGs) shared by myasthenia gravis (MG) and COVID-19, namely SAMD9, PLEK, GZMB, JUNB, NR4A1, and NR1D1. The relationship between the six common genes and immune cells was investigated in the COVID-19 dataset. The predictive value of the shared genes was assessed and a nomogram was constructed using machine learning algorithms. The regulatory miRNAs, transcription factors and small molecular drugs were predicted, and the molecular docking was carried out by AutoDock. Discussion We have identified six common DEGs of MG and COVID-19 and explored their immunological effects and regulatory mechanisms. The result may provide new insights for further mechanism research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyan Huang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yao Zuo
- Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing Bo’ai Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Xiaofang He
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
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3
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Pi Z, Qiu X, Liu J, Shi Y, Zeng Z, Xiao R. Activating Protein-1 (AP-1): A Promising Target for the Treatment of Fibrotic Diseases. Curr Med Chem 2023; 31:CMC-EPUB-129375. [PMID: 36757030 DOI: 10.2174/0929867330666230209100059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
The fibrosis of tissues and organs occurs via an aberrant tissue remodeling process characterized by an excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, which can lead to organ dysfunction, organ failure, and death. Because the pathogenesis of fibrosis remains unclear and elusive, there is currently no medication to reverse it; hence, this process deserves further study. Activating protein-1 (AP-1)-comprising Jun (c-Jun, JunB, JunD), Fos (c-fos, FosB, Fra1, and Fra2), and activating transcription factor-is a versatile dimeric transcription factor. Numerous studies have demonstrated that AP-1 plays a crucial role in advancing tissue and organ fibrosis via induction of the expression of fibrotic molecules and activating fibroblasts. This review focuses on the role of AP-1 in a range of fibrotic disorders as well as on the antifibrotic effects of AP-1 inhibitors. It also discusses the potential of AP-1 as a new therapeutic target in conditions involving tissue and organ fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixin Pi
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
- Department of Medical Genetics, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Xiangning Qiu
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Jiani Liu
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Yaqian Shi
- Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University Department of Dermatology Changsha China
| | - Zhuotong Zeng
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Rong Xiao
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
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4
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Ren R, Guo J, Liu G, Kang H, Machens HG, Schilling AF, Slobodianski A, Zhang Z. Nucleic acid direct delivery to fibroblasts: a review of nucleofection and applications. J Biol Eng 2022; 16:30. [PMID: 36329479 PMCID: PMC9635183 DOI: 10.1186/s13036-022-00309-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The fibroblast is one of the ideal target cell candidates for cell-based gene therapy approaches to promote tissue repair. Gene delivery to fibroblasts by viral transfection has been confirmed to have high transfection efficiency. However, in addition to immunogenic effects of viruses, the random integration of viral genes may damage the genome, affect the cell phenotype or even cause cancerous mutations in the transfected cells. Due to these potential biohazards and unknown long-term risks, the clinical use of viral transfection has been very limited. In contrast, initial non-viral transfection methods have been simple and safe to implement, with low immunogenicity, insertional mutagenesis, and risk of carcinogenesis, but their transfection efficiency has been relatively low. Nucleofection, a more recent non-viral transfection method, now combines the advantages of high transfection efficiency and direct nucleic acid delivery to the nucleus with a high safety.Here, we reviewed recent articles on fibroblast nucleofection, summarized different research points, improved methods and application scopes, and opened up ideas for promoting the further improvement and development of fibroblast nucleofection to meet the needs of a variety of disease research and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranyue Ren
- grid.412793.a0000 0004 1799 5032Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei China
| | - Jiachao Guo
- grid.412793.a0000 0004 1799 5032Department of Pediatric Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei China
| | - Guangwu Liu
- grid.412793.a0000 0004 1799 5032Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei China
| | - Hao Kang
- grid.412793.a0000 0004 1799 5032Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei China
| | - Hans-Günther Machens
- grid.15474.330000 0004 0477 2438Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Arndt F. Schilling
- grid.411984.10000 0001 0482 5331Department of Trauma Surgery, Orthopaedics and Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Alex Slobodianski
- grid.15474.330000 0004 0477 2438Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Ziyang Zhang
- grid.412793.a0000 0004 1799 5032Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei China
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5
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Simon M, Lücht C, Hosp I, Zhao H, Wu D, Heidecke H, Witowski J, Budde K, Riemekasten G, Catar R. Autoantibodies from Patients with Scleroderma Renal Crisis Promote PAR-1 Receptor Activation and IL-6 Production in Endothelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11793. [PMID: 34769227 PMCID: PMC8584031 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scleroderma renal crisis (SRC) is a life-threatening complication of systemic sclerosis (SSc). Autoantibodies (Abs) against endothelial cell antigens have been implicated in SSc and SRC. However, their detailed roles remain poorly defined. Pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) has been found to be increased in SSc, but its role in SRC is unclear. Here, we aimed to determine how the autoantibodies from patients with SSc and SRC affect IL-6 secretion by micro-vascular endothelial cells (HMECs). METHODS Serum IgG fractions were isolated from either SSc patients with SRC (n = 4) or healthy individuals (n = 4) and then each experiment with HMECs was performed with SSc-IgG from a separate patient or separate healthy control. IL-6 expression and release by HMECs was assessed by quantitative reverse transcription and quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and immunoassays, respectively. The mechanisms underlying the production of IL-6 were analyzed by transient HMEC transfections with IL-6 promoter constructs, electrophoretic mobility shift assays, Western blots and flow cytometry. RESULTS Exposure of HMECs to IgG from SSc patients, but not from healthy controls, resulted in a time- and dose-dependent increase in IL-6 secretion, which was associated with increased AKT, p70S6K, and ERK1/2 signalling, as well as increased c-FOS/AP-1 transcriptional activity. All these effects could be reduced by the blockade of the endothelial PAR-1 receptor and/or c-FOS/AP-1silencing. CONCLUSIONS Autoantibodies against PAR-1 found in patients with SSc and SRC induce IL-6 production by endothelial cells through signalling pathways controlled by the AP-1 transcription factor. These observations offer a greater understanding of adverse endothelial cell responses to autoantibodies present in patients with SRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michèle Simon
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.S.); (C.L.); (I.H.); (H.Z.); (D.W.); (J.W.); (K.B.)
| | - Christian Lücht
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.S.); (C.L.); (I.H.); (H.Z.); (D.W.); (J.W.); (K.B.)
| | - Isa Hosp
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.S.); (C.L.); (I.H.); (H.Z.); (D.W.); (J.W.); (K.B.)
| | - Hongfan Zhao
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.S.); (C.L.); (I.H.); (H.Z.); (D.W.); (J.W.); (K.B.)
| | - Dashan Wu
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.S.); (C.L.); (I.H.); (H.Z.); (D.W.); (J.W.); (K.B.)
| | | | - Janusz Witowski
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.S.); (C.L.); (I.H.); (H.Z.); (D.W.); (J.W.); (K.B.)
- Department of Pathophysiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Klemens Budde
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.S.); (C.L.); (I.H.); (H.Z.); (D.W.); (J.W.); (K.B.)
| | - Gabriela Riemekasten
- Clinic for Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, 23538 Lübeck, Germany;
| | - Rusan Catar
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (M.S.); (C.L.); (I.H.); (H.Z.); (D.W.); (J.W.); (K.B.)
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6
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Li C, Sun J, Liu Q, Dodlapati S, Ming H, Wang L, Li Y, Li R, Jiang Z, Francis J, Fu X. The landscape of accessible chromatin in quiescent cardiac fibroblasts and cardiac fibroblasts activated after myocardial infarction. Epigenetics 2021; 17:1020-1039. [PMID: 34551670 PMCID: PMC9487753 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2021.1982158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
After myocardial infarction, the massive death of cardiomyocytes leads to cardiac fibroblast proliferation and myofibroblast differentiation, which contributes to the extracellular matrix remodelling of the infarcted myocardium. We recently found that myofibroblasts further differentiate into matrifibrocytes, a newly identified cardiac fibroblast differentiation state. Cardiac fibroblasts of different states have distinct gene expression profiles closely related to their functions. However, the mechanism responsible for the gene expression changes during these activation and differentiation events is still not clear. In this study, the gene expression profiling and genome-wide accessible chromatin mapping of mouse cardiac fibroblasts isolated from the uninjured myocardium and the infarct at multiple time points corresponding to different differentiation states were performed by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and the assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with high-throughput sequencing (ATAC-seq), respectively. ATAC-seq peaks were highly enriched in the promoter area and the distal area where the enhancers are located. A positive correlation was identified between the expression and promoter accessibility for many dynamically expressed genes, even though evidence showed that mechanisms independent of chromatin accessibility may also contribute to the gene expression changes in cardiac fibroblasts after MI. Moreover, motif enrichment analysis and gene regulatory network construction identified transcription factors that possibly contributed to the differential gene expression between cardiac fibroblasts of different states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoyang Li
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Jiangwen Sun
- Department of Computer Science, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Qianglin Liu
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Sanjeeva Dodlapati
- Department of Computer Science, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Hao Ming
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Leshan Wang
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Yuxia Li
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Zongliang Jiang
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Joseph Francis
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, La, USA
| | - Xing Fu
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
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7
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Griffin MF, Borrelli MR, Garcia JT, Januszyk M, King M, Lerbs T, Cui L, Moore AL, Shen AH, Mascharak S, Diaz Deleon NM, Adem S, Taylor WL, desJardins-Park HE, Gastou M, Patel RA, Duoto BA, Sokol J, Wei Y, Foster D, Chen K, Wan DC, Gurtner GC, Lorenz HP, Chang HY, Wernig G, Longaker MT. JUN promotes hypertrophic skin scarring via CD36 in preclinical in vitro and in vivo models. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:eabb3312. [PMID: 34516825 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abb3312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
[Figure: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle F Griffin
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Mimi R Borrelli
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Julia T Garcia
- Center for Personal Dynamics Regulomes, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.,Department of Genetics, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michael Januszyk
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Megan King
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.,CIRM Scholars Program, Humboldt State University, Arcata, CA 95521, USA
| | - Tristan Lerbs
- Department of Pathology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Lu Cui
- Department of Pathology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Alessandra L Moore
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Abra H Shen
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Shamik Mascharak
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.,Department of Pathology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Nestor M Diaz Deleon
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Sandeep Adem
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Walter L Taylor
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Heather E desJardins-Park
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.,Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Marc Gastou
- Department of Pathology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Ronak A Patel
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Bryan A Duoto
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jan Sokol
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Yuning Wei
- Center for Personal Dynamics Regulomes, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Deshka Foster
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.,Department of Pathology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Kellen Chen
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Derrick C Wan
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Geoffrey C Gurtner
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Hermann P Lorenz
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Howard Y Chang
- Center for Personal Dynamics Regulomes, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.,Department of Genetics, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Gerlinde Wernig
- Department of Pathology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.,Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michael T Longaker
- Hagey Laboratory of Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.,Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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8
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Koçak A, Köken Avşar A, Harmancı D, Akdoğan G, Birlik AM. A preliminary study of possible fibrotic role of meprin metalloproteases in scleroderma patients. Arch Rheumatol 2021; 36:510-517. [PMID: 35382369 PMCID: PMC8957771 DOI: 10.46497/archrheumatol.2021.8581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives
This study aims to investigate the possible fibrotic role of meprin metalloproteases and possible fibrotic effects of activator protein-1 (AP-1) in scleroderma patients. Patients and methods
Between April 2018 and April 2019, a total of 85 scleroderma patients (9 males, 76 females; mean age: 54.9 years; range, 22 to 80 years) who met the 2013 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism criteria and 80 healthy control individuals (10 males, 70 females; mean age 42.9 years; range, 19 to 65 years) were included. Patients’ data and blood samples were collected. Messenger ribonucleic acid expressions of interleukin (IL)-6, AP-1 subunits, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Serum meprin alpha and beta protein levels were analyzed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results
Meprin alpha and meprin beta protein levels increased in scleroderma patients. The AP-1 subunits (c-Fos, c-Jun), IL-6, and TNF-α increased in scleroderma patients, compared to controls. Conclusion
Our results provide evidence showing that increased meprins levels may be related to AP-1 levels and increased meprins levels may responsible for increased inflammatory TNF-α and IL-6 levels. All these data suggest meprins as promising therapeutic targets to restore the balance between inflammation and extracellular matrix deposition in scleroderma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayşe Koçak
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Dokuz Eylül University Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Aydan Köken Avşar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology & Immunology, Dokuz Eylül University Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Duygu Harmancı
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Dokuz Eylül University Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gül Akdoğan
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Izmir University of Economics, Izmir, Turkey
| | - A. Merih Birlik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology & Immunology, Dokuz Eylül University Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
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9
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Wu Q, Liu Y, Xie Y, Wei S, Liu Y. Identification of Potential ceRNA Network and Patterns of Immune Cell Infiltration in Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:622021. [PMID: 34222222 PMCID: PMC8248550 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.622021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) is one of the most severe complications of systemic sclerosis (SSc) and is the leading cause of SSc-related deaths. However, the precise pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis in SSc-ILD remains unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory network and immune cell infiltration patterns in SSc-ILD. Methods One microRNA (miRNA) and three messenger RNA (mRNA) microarray datasets were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Then, the differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRs) and mRNAs (DEMs) between SSc-ILD patients and normal controls were identified, respectively, followed by the prediction of the target genes and target lncRNAs of DEmiRs. The overlapping genes between DEmiRs target genes and DEMs were identified as core mRNAs to construct the ceRNA network. In addition, the “Cell Type Identification by Estimating Relative Subsets of Known RNA Transcripts (CIBERSORT)” algorithm was used to analyze the composition of infiltrating immune cells in lung tissues of SSc-ILD patients and controls, and differentially expressed immune cells were recognized. The correlation between immune cells and core mRNAs was evaluated by Pearson correlation analysis. Results Totally, 42 SSc-ILD lung tissues and 18 normal lung tissues were included in this study. We identified 35 DEmiRs and 142 DEMs and predicted 1,265 target genes of DEmiRs. Then, 9 core mRNAs related to SSc-ILD were recognized, which were the overlapping genes between DEmiRs target genes and DEMs. Meanwhile, 9 DEmiRs related to core mRNAs were identified reversely, and their target lncRNAs were predicted. In total, 9 DEmiRs, 9 core mRNAs, and 51 predicted lncRNAs were integrated to construct the ceRNA regulatory network of SSc-ILD. In addition, 9 types of immune cells were differentially expressed in lung tissues between SSc-ILD patients and controls. Some core mRNAs, such as COL1A1, FOS, and EDN1, were positively or negatively correlated with the number of infiltrating immune cells. Conclusion This is the first comprehensive study to construct the potential ceRNA regulatory network and analyze the composition of infiltrating immune cells in lung tissues of SSc-ILD patients, which improves our understanding of the pathogenesis of SSc-ILD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuhong Wu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Xie
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shixiong Wei
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Rare Diseases Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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10
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Nguyen XX, Nishimoto T, Takihara T, Mlakar L, Bradshaw AD, Feghali-Bostwick C. Lysyl oxidase directly contributes to extracellular matrix production and fibrosis in systemic sclerosis. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2020; 320:L29-L40. [PMID: 33026236 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00173.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is one of the important causes of morbidity and mortality in fibroproliferative disorders such as systemic sclerosis (SSc) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Lysyl oxidase (LOX) is a copper-dependent amine oxidase whose primary function is the covalent crosslinking of collagens in the extracellular matrix (ECM). We investigated the role of LOX in the pathophysiology of SSc. LOX mRNA and protein levels were increased in lung fibroblasts of SSc patients compared with healthy controls and IPF patients. In vivo, bleomycin induced LOX mRNA expression in lung tissues, and LOX activity increased in the circulation of mice with pulmonary fibrosis, suggesting that circulating LOX parallels levels in lung tissues. Circulating levels of LOX were reduced upon amelioration of fibrosis with an antifibrotic peptide. LOX induced ECM production at the transcriptional level in lung fibroblasts, human lungs, and human skin maintained in organ culture. In vivo, LOX synergistically exacerbated fibrosis in bleomycin-treated mice. Further, LOX increased the production of interleukin (IL)-6, and the increase was mediated by LOX-induced c-Fos expression, the nuclear localization of c-Fos, and its engagement with the IL-6 promoter region. Our findings demonstrate that LOX expression and activity correlate with fibrosis in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo. LOX induced ECM production via upregulation of IL-6 and nuclear localization of c-Fos. Thus, LOX has a direct pathogenic role in SSc-associated fibrosis that is independent of its crosslinking function. Our findings also suggest that measuring circulating LOX levels and activity can be used for monitoring response to antifibrotic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinh-Xinh Nguyen
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Tetsuya Nishimoto
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Takahisa Takihara
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Tokai University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Logan Mlakar
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Amy D Bradshaw
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Carol Feghali-Bostwick
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
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11
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Zhou J, Quah JY, Ng Y, Chooi JY, Toh SHM, Lin B, Tan TZ, Hosoi H, Osato M, Seet Q, Ooi AL, Lindmark B, McHale M, Chng WJ. ASLAN003, a potent dihydroorotate dehydrogenase inhibitor for differentiation of acute myeloid leukemia. Haematologica 2020; 105:2286-2297. [PMID: 33054053 PMCID: PMC7556493 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2019.230482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Differentiation therapies achieve remarkable success in acute promyelocytic leukemia, a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia. However, excluding acute promyelocytic leukemia, clinical benefits of differentiation therapies are negligible in acute myeloid leukemia except for mutant isocitrate dehydrogenase 1/2. Dihydroorotate dehydrogenase catalyses the fourth step of the de novo pyrimidine synthesis pathway. ASLAN003 is a highly potent dihydroorotate dehydrogenase inhibitor that induces differentiation, as well as reduces cell proliferation and viability, of acute myeloid leukemia cell lines and primary acute myeloid leukemia blasts including in chemo-resistant cells. Apoptotic pathways are triggered by ASLAN003, and it also significantly inhibits protein synthesis and activates AP-1 transcription, contributing to its differentiation promoting capacity. Finally, ASLAN003 substantially reduces leukemic burden and prolongs survival in acute myeloid leukemia xenograft mice and acute myeloid leukemia patient-derived xenograft models. Notably, the drug has no evident effect on normal hematopoietic cells and exhibits excellent safety profiles in mice, even after a prolonged period of administration. Our results, therefore, suggest that ASLAN003 is an agent targeting dihydroorotate dehydrogenase with potential in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. ASLAN003 is currently being evaluated in phase 2a clinical trial in acute myeloid leukemia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbiao Zhou
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore
| | | | - Yvonne Ng
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore
| | - Jing-Yuan Chooi
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore
| | | | - Baohong Lin
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, NUHS
| | - Tuan Zea Tan
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore
| | - Hiroki Hosoi
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore
| | - Motomi Osato
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore
- Department of Pediatrics, National University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine
| | | | | | | | | | - Wee-Joo Chng
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, NUHS
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12
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Zhang Y, Zhu H, Layritz F, Luo H, Wohlfahrt T, Chen CW, Soare A, Bergmann C, Ramming A, Groeber F, Reuter C, Fornasini G, Soukhareva N, Schreiber B, Ramamurthy S, Amann K, Schett G, Distler JHW. Recombinant Adenosine Deaminase Ameliorates Inflammation, Vascular Disease, and Fibrosis in Preclinical Models of Systemic Sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2020; 72:1385-1395. [PMID: 32182396 DOI: 10.1002/art.41259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by fibrosis, vascular disease, and inflammation. Adenosine signaling plays a central role in fibroblast activation. We undertook this study to evaluate the therapeutic effects of adenosine depletion with PEGylated adenosine deaminase (PEG-ADA) in preclinical models of SSc. METHODS The effects of PEG-ADA on inflammation, vascular remodeling, and tissue fibrosis were analyzed in Fra-2 mice and in a B10.D2→BALB/c (H-2d ) model of sclerodermatous chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). The effects of PEG-ADA were confirmed in vitro in a human full-thickness skin model. RESULTS PEG-ADA effectively inhibited myofibroblast differentiation and reduced pulmonary fibrosis by 34.3% (with decreased collagen expression) (P = 0.0079; n = 6), dermal fibrosis by 51.8% (P = 0.0006; n = 6), and intestinal fibrosis by 17.7% (P = 0.0228; n = 6) in Fra-2 mice. Antifibrotic effects of PEG-ADA were also demonstrated in sclerodermatous chronic GVHD (reduced by 38.4%) (P = 0.0063; n = 8), and in a human full-thickness skin model. PEG-ADA treatment decreased inflammation and corrected the M2/Th2/group 2 innate lymphoid cell 2 bias. Moreover, PEG-ADA inhibited proliferation of pulmonary vascular smooth muscle cells (reduced by 40.5%) (P < 0.0001; n = 6), and prevented thickening of the vessel walls (reduced by 39.6%) (P = 0.0028; n = 6) and occlusions of pulmonary arteries (reduced by 63.9%) (P = 0.0147; n = 6). Treatment with PEG-ADA inhibited apoptosis of microvascular endothelial cells (reduced by 65.4%) (P = 0.0001; n = 6) and blunted the capillary rarefication (reduced by 32.5%) (P = 0.0199; n = 6). RNA sequencing demonstrated that treatment with PEG-ADA normalized multiple pathways related to fibrosis, vasculopathy, and inflammation in Fra-2 mice. CONCLUSION Treatment with PEG-ADA ameliorates the 3 cardinal features of SSc in pharmacologically relevant and well-tolerated doses. These findings may have direct translational implications, as PEG-ADA has already been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of patients with ADA-deficient severe combined immunodeficiency disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhang
- University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Honglin Zhu
- University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany, and Xiangya Hospital and Central South University, Changsha, China
| | | | - Hui Luo
- Xiangya Hospital and Central South University, Changsha, China
| | | | | | - Alina Soare
- University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | | - Florian Groeber
- Universitätsklinikum Würzburg and Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Christian Reuter
- Universitätsklinikum Würzburg and Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Georg Schett
- University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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13
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Qu F, Palte IC, Gontarz PM, Zhang B, Guilak F. Transcriptomic analysis of bone and fibrous tissue morphogenesis during digit tip regeneration in the adult mouse. FASEB J 2020; 34:9740-9754. [PMID: 32506623 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202000330r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Humans have limited regenerative potential of musculoskeletal tissues following limb or digit loss. The murine digit has been used to study mammalian regeneration, where stem/progenitor cells (the "blastema") completely regenerate the digit tip after distal, but not proximal, amputation. However, the molecular mechanisms responsible for this response remain to be determined. Here, we evaluated the spatiotemporal formation of bone and fibrous tissues after level-dependent amputation of the murine terminal phalanx and quantified the transcriptome of the repair tissue. Distal (regenerative) and proximal (non-regenerative) amputations showed significant differences in temporal gene expression and tissue regrowth over time. Genes that direct skeletal system development and limb morphogenesis are transiently upregulated during blastema formation and differentiation, including distal Hox genes. Overall, our results suggest that digit tip regeneration is controlled by a gene regulatory network that recapitulates aspects of limb development, and that failure to activate this developmental program results in fibrotic wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feini Qu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Shriners Hospitals for Children-St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ilan C Palte
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Shriners Hospitals for Children-St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Paul M Gontarz
- Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Bo Zhang
- Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Farshid Guilak
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Shriners Hospitals for Children-St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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14
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Stegemann A, Flis D, Ziolkowski W, Distler JHW, Steinbrink K, Böhm M. The α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor: A Promising Target for the Treatment of Fibrotic Skin Disorders. J Invest Dermatol 2020; 140:2371-2379. [PMID: 32335129 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2020.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Targeting neuroendocrine receptors can be considered as another interesting approach to treating fibrotic disorders. Previously, we could demonstrate that tropisetron, a classical serotonin receptor blocker, can modulate collagen synthesis and acts in vitro through the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAchR). Here, we used a pharmacologic approach with specific α7nAchR agonists to validate this hypothesis. PHA-543613, an α7nAchR-specific agonist, not only prevented but also reversed established skin fibrosis of mice injected with bleomycin. Interestingly, agonistic stimulation of α7nAchR also attenuated experimental skin fibrosis in the non-inflammation driven adenovirus coding for TGFβ receptor Iact mouse model, indicating fibroblast-mediated and not only anti-inflammatory effects of such agents. The fibroblast-mediated effects were confirmed in vitro using human dermal fibroblasts, in which the α7nAchR-specific agonists strongly reduced the impact of TGFβ1-mediated expression on collagen and myofibroblast marker expression. These actions were linked to modulation of the redox-sensitive transcription factor JunB and impairment of the mitochondrial respiratory system. Our results indicate that pharmacologic stimulation of the α7nAchR could be a promising target for treatment of patients with skin fibrotic diseases. Moreover, our results suggest a mechanistic axis of collagen synthesis regulation through the mitochondrial respiratory system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agatha Stegemann
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.
| | - Damian Flis
- Department of Bioenergetics and Nutrition, Gdańsk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Wieslaw Ziolkowski
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Institute for Rheumatology and Immunology, University of Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Markus Böhm
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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15
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Hammouda MB, Ford AE, Liu Y, Zhang JY. The JNK Signaling Pathway in Inflammatory Skin Disorders and Cancer. Cells 2020; 9:E857. [PMID: 32252279 PMCID: PMC7226813 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNKs), with its members JNK1, JNK2, and JNK3, is a subfamily of (MAPK) mitogen-activated protein kinases. JNK signaling regulates a wide range of cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, apoptosis, and inflammation. Dysregulation of JNK pathway is associated with a wide range of immune disorders and cancer. Our objective is to provide a review of JNK proteins and their upstream regulators and downstream effector molecules in common skin disorders, including psoriasis, dermal fibrosis, scleroderma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manel B. Hammouda
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (M.B.H.); (A.E.F.); (Y.L.)
| | - Amy E. Ford
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (M.B.H.); (A.E.F.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yuan Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (M.B.H.); (A.E.F.); (Y.L.)
| | - Jennifer Y. Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (M.B.H.); (A.E.F.); (Y.L.)
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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16
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SIRT3-mediated inhibition of FOS through histone H3 deacetylation prevents cardiac fibrosis and inflammation. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:14. [PMID: 32296036 PMCID: PMC7046732 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-0114-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) is a deacetylase that modulates proteins that control metabolism and protects against oxidative stress. Modulation of SIRT3 activity has been proposed as a promising therapeutic target for ameliorating metabolic diseases and associated cardiac disturbances. In this study, we investigated the role of SIRT3 in inflammation and fibrosis in the heart using male mice with constitutive and systemic deletion of SIRT3 and human cardiac AC16 cells. SIRT3 knockout mice showed cardiac fibrosis and inflammation that was characterized by augmented transcriptional activity of AP-1. Consistent with this, SIRT3 overexpression in human and neonatal rat cardiomyocytes partially prevented the inflammatory and profibrotic response induced by TNF-α. Notably, these effects were associated with a decrease in the mRNA and protein levels of FOS and the DNA-binding activity of AP-1. Finally, we demonstrated that SIRT3 inhibits FOS transcription through specific histone H3 lysine K27 deacetylation at its promoter. These findings highlight an important function of SIRT3 in mediating the often intricate profibrotic and proinflammatory responses of cardiac cells through the modulation of the FOS/AP-1 pathway. Since fibrosis and inflammation are crucial in the progression of cardiac hypertrophy, heart failure, and diabetic cardiomyopathy, our results point to SIRT3 as a potential target for treating these diseases.
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17
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Xie Y, Ostriker AC, Jin Y, Hu H, Sizer AJ, Peng G, Morris AH, Ryu C, Herzog EL, Kyriakides T, Zhao H, Dardik A, Yu J, Hwa J, Martin KA. LMO7 Is a Negative Feedback Regulator of Transforming Growth Factor β Signaling and Fibrosis. Circulation 2019; 139:679-693. [PMID: 30586711 PMCID: PMC6371979 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.118.034615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) synthesize extracellular matrix (ECM) that contributes to tissue remodeling after revascularization interventions. The cytokine transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) is induced on tissue injury and regulates tissue remodeling and wound healing, but dysregulated signaling results in excess ECM deposition and fibrosis. The LIM (Lin11, Isl-1 & Mec-3) domain protein LIM domain only 7 (LMO7) is a TGF-β1 target gene in hepatoma cells, but its role in vascular physiology and fibrosis is unknown. METHODS We use carotid ligation and femoral artery denudation models in mice with global or inducible smooth muscle-specific deletion of LMO7, and knockout, knockdown, overexpression, and mutagenesis approaches in mouse and human SMC, and human arteriovenous fistula and cardiac allograft vasculopathy samples to assess the role of LMO7 in neointima and fibrosis. RESULTS We demonstrate that LMO7 is induced postinjury and by TGF-β in SMC in vitro. Global or SMC-specific LMO7 deletion enhanced neointimal formation, TGF-β signaling, ECM deposition, and proliferation in vascular injury models. LMO7 loss of function in human and mouse SMC enhanced ECM protein expression at baseline and after TGF-β treatment. TGF-β neutralization or receptor antagonism prevented the exacerbated neointimal formation and ECM synthesis conferred by loss of LMO7. Notably, loss of LMO7 coordinately amplified TGF-β signaling by inducing expression of Tgfb1 mRNA, TGF-β protein, αv and β3 integrins that promote activation of latent TGF-β, and downstream effectors SMAD3 phosphorylation and connective tissue growth factor. Mechanistically, the LMO7 LIM domain interacts with activator protein 1 transcription factor subunits c-FOS and c-JUN and promotes their ubiquitination and degradation, disrupting activator protein 1-dependent TGF-β autoinduction. Importantly, preliminary studies suggest that LMO7 is upregulated in human intimal hyperplastic arteriovenous fistula and cardiac allograft vasculopathy samples, and inversely correlates with SMAD3 phosphorylation in cardiac allograft vasculopathy. CONCLUSIONS LMO7 is induced by TGF-β and serves to limit vascular fibrotic responses through negative feedback regulation of the TGF-β pathway. This mechanism has important implications for intimal hyperplasia, wound healing, and fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Xie
- Departments of Medicine (Cardiovascular Medicine) (Y.X., A.C.O., Y.J., K.A.M., J.H.), Yale University, New Haven, CT.,Pharmacology (Y.X., A.C.O., Y.J., K.A.M.), Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Allison C Ostriker
- Departments of Medicine (Cardiovascular Medicine) (Y.X., A.C.O., Y.J., K.A.M., J.H.), Yale University, New Haven, CT.,Pharmacology (Y.X., A.C.O., Y.J., K.A.M.), Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Yu Jin
- Departments of Medicine (Cardiovascular Medicine) (Y.X., A.C.O., Y.J., K.A.M., J.H.), Yale University, New Haven, CT.,Pharmacology (Y.X., A.C.O., Y.J., K.A.M.), Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Haidi Hu
- Surgery (Vascular) (H.H., A.D.), Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | | | - Gang Peng
- Biostatistics (G.P., H.Z.), Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Aaron H Morris
- Pathology (A.H.M., T.K.), Yale University, New Haven, CT.,Department of Biomedical Engineering (A.H.M., T.K.), Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Changwan Ryu
- Medicine (Pulmonary) (C.R., E.L.H.), Yale University School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Erica L Herzog
- Medicine (Pulmonary) (C.R., E.L.H.), Yale University School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Themis Kyriakides
- Pathology (A.H.M., T.K.), Yale University, New Haven, CT.,Department of Biomedical Engineering (A.H.M., T.K.), Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Hongyu Zhao
- Biostatistics (G.P., H.Z.), Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Alan Dardik
- Surgery (Vascular) (H.H., A.D.), Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Jun Yu
- Department of Physiology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA (J.Y.)
| | - John Hwa
- Departments of Medicine (Cardiovascular Medicine) (Y.X., A.C.O., Y.J., K.A.M., J.H.), Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Kathleen A Martin
- Departments of Medicine (Cardiovascular Medicine) (Y.X., A.C.O., Y.J., K.A.M., J.H.), Yale University, New Haven, CT.,Pharmacology (Y.X., A.C.O., Y.J., K.A.M.), Yale University, New Haven, CT
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18
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Avouac J, Pezet S, Gonzalez V, Baudoin L, Cauvet A, Ruiz B, Boleto G, Brandely ML, Elmerich M, Allanore Y. Estrogens Counteract the Profibrotic Effects of TGF-β and their Inhibition Exacerbates Experimental Dermal Fibrosis. J Invest Dermatol 2019; 140:593-601.e7. [PMID: 31476316 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2019.07.719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis primarily affects women. This sex bias raises the question on the role female hormones could play in the development of fibrosis, which is largely unknown. Our aim was to evaluate the effects of estrogens in the development of experimental dermal fibrosis, in the mouse models of bleomycin-induced dermal fibrosis and tight skin (Tsk-1) mice, and on the activation of dermal fibroblasts by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Estrogen inhibition, obtained through gene inactivation for the estrogen receptor-αknockout or treatment with tamoxifen, exacerbated skin fibrosis in the bleomycin model and in the Tsk-1 mice. In the dermal fibroblasts, treatment with 17-β-estradiol significantly decreased the stimulatory effects of TGF-β on collagen synthesis and myofibroblast differentiation, decreased the activation of canonical TGF-β signaling, and markedly reduced the expression of the TGF-β target genes. Tamoxifen reversed the inhibitory effects of estrogens by restoring Smad2/3 phosphorylation and TGF-β-induced collagen synthesis. Our results demonstrate a beneficial effect of estrogens in dermal fibrosis. Estrogens reduce the TGF-β-dependent activation of dermal fibroblasts, and estrogen inhibition leads to a more severe experimental dermal fibrosis. These findings are consistent with the prominent development of systemic sclerosis in postmenopausal women and the greater severity of the disease in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Avouac
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Service de Rhumatologie A, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France.
| | - Sonia Pezet
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Virginie Gonzalez
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Léa Baudoin
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Anne Cauvet
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Barbara Ruiz
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Gonçalo Boleto
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Marie Laure Brandely
- GH Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Centre, Service de Pharmacie Clinique, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Manon Elmerich
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Yannick Allanore
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Service de Rhumatologie A, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
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19
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Yasuoka H, Tam YYA, Okazaki Y, Tamura Y, Matsuo K, Feghali-Bostwick C, Takeuchi T, Kuwana M. Fos-related antigen-1 transgenic mouse as a model for systemic sclerosis: A potential role of M2 polarization. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2019; 4:137-148. [DOI: 10.1177/2397198319838140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: To investigate the systemic sclerosis–related phenotype in fos-related antigen-1 transgenic mice and its underlying mechanisms. Methods: Lung and skin sections of constitutive fos-related antigen-1 transgenic mice and wild-type mice were examined by tissue staining and immunohistochemistry. The tricuspid regurgitation pressure gradient was measured by transthoracic echocardiography with a Doppler technique. To assess the impact of fos-related antigen-1 expression on macrophage function, bone marrow–derived mononuclear cells were derived from mice that expressed fos-related antigen-1 under the control of doxycycline and wild-type littermates. These bone marrow–derived mononuclear cells were induced to differentiate into macrophages with or without doxycycline, and analyzed for gene and protein expression. Finally, lung explants obtained from systemic sclerosis patients and control donors were subjected to immunohistochemistry. Results: The lungs of fos-related antigen-1 transgenic mice showed excessive fibrosis of the interstitium and thickening of vessel walls, with narrowing lumen, in an age-dependent manner. The tricuspid regurgitation pressure gradient was significantly elevated in fos-related antigen-1 transgenic versus control mice. Increased dermal thickness and the loss of subdermal adipose tissue were also observed in the fos-related antigen-1 transgenic mice. These changes were preceded by a perivascular infiltration of mononuclear cells, predominantly consisting of alternatively activated or M2 macrophages. Overexpressing fos-related antigen-1 in bone marrow–derived mononuclear cell cultures increased the expression of M2-related genes, such as Il10, Alox15, and Arg1. Finally, fos-related antigen-1-expressing M2 macrophages were increased in the lung tissues of systemic sclerosis patients. Conclusions: The fos-related antigen-1 transgenic mouse serves as a genetic model of systemic sclerosis that recapitulates the major vascular and fibrotic manifestations of the lungs and skin in systemic sclerosis patients. M2 polarization mediated by the up-regulation of fos-related antigen-1 may play a critical role in the development of systemic sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidekata Yasuoka
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuen Yu Angela Tam
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuka Okazaki
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuichi Tamura
- International University of Health and Welfare, Mita Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koichi Matsuo
- Laboratory of Cell and Tissue Biology, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Tsutomu Takeuchi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masataka Kuwana
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
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20
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Arndt S, Karrer S, Hellerbrand C, Bosserhoff AK. Bone Morphogenetic Protein-6 Inhibits Fibrogenesis in Scleroderma Offering Treatment Options for Fibrotic Skin Disease. J Invest Dermatol 2019; 139:1914-1924.e6. [PMID: 30878675 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2019.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2018] [Revised: 02/23/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BMP6 is known to be crucial for regulating embryonic skin development. This study assessed the role of BMP6 in dermal fibrosis. We detected that BMP6 is significantly increased in skin-derived fibroblasts of patients with localized scleroderma. Moreover, it was shown that BMP6 significantly impacts proliferation, migration, cytoskeletal organization, and collagen expression, as well as activity of the major pro-fibrogenic transcription factor AP-1 in dermal fibroblasts. The importance of BMP6 in dermal fibrosis was further confirmed in an in vivo model of dermal fibrosis in which BMP6-deficient mice showed significantly enhanced fibrosis compared with wild-type mice. Conversely, application of recombinant BMP6 significantly ameliorated dermal fibrosis in this preclinical bleomycin-induced sclerosis model, and herewith provided proof of concept for the successful treatment of this fibrotic skin disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Arndt
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sigrid Karrer
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Claus Hellerbrand
- Institute of Biochemistry, Emil-Fischer-Center, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anja Katrin Bosserhoff
- Institute of Biochemistry, Emil-Fischer-Center, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany.
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21
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Wang Q, Shi G, Zhang Y, Lu F, Xie D, Wen C, Huang L. Deciphering the Potential Pharmaceutical Mechanism of GUI-ZHI-FU-LING-WAN on Systemic Sclerosis based on Systems Biology Approaches. Sci Rep 2019; 9:355. [PMID: 30674993 PMCID: PMC6344516 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-36314-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma) is a complicated idiopathic connective tissue disease with seldom effective treatment. GUI-ZHI-FU-LING-WAN (GFW) is a classic Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formula widely used for the treatment of SSc. However, the mechanism of how the GFW affects SSc remains unclear. In this study, the system biology approach was utilized to analyze herb compounds and related targets to get the general information of GFW. The KEGG enrichment analysis of 1645 related targets suggested that the formula is involved in the VEGF signaling pathway, the Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, etc. Quantitative and qualitative analysis of the relationship among the 3 subsets (formula targets, drug targets and disease genes) showed that the formula targets overlapped with 38.0% drug targets and 26.0% proteins encoded by disease genes. Through the analysis of SSc related microarray statistics from the GEO database, we also validated the consistent expression behavior among the 3 subsets before and after treatment. To further reveal the mechanism of prescription, we constructed a network among 3 subsets and decomposed it into 24 modules to decipher how GFW interfere in the progress of SSc. The modules indicated that the intervention may come into effect through following pathogenic processes: vasculopathy, immune dysregulation and tissue fibrosis. Vitro experiments confirmed that GFW could suppress the proliferation of fibroblasts and decrease the Th1 cytokine (TNF-α, MIP-2 and IL-6) expression for lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and bleomycin (BLM) stimulation in macrophages, which is consistent with previous conclusion that GFW is able to relieve SSc. The systems biology approach provides a new insight for deepening understanding about TCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao Wang
- TCM Clinical Basis Institute, Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310000, China
| | - Guoshan Shi
- Department of Integrative Traditional & Western Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225001, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- TCM Clinical Basis Institute, Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310000, China
| | - Feilong Lu
- TCM Clinical Basis Institute, Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310000, China
| | - Duoli Xie
- TCM Clinical Basis Institute, Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310000, China
| | - Chengping Wen
- TCM Clinical Basis Institute, Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310000, China.
| | - Lin Huang
- TCM Clinical Basis Institute, Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310000, China.
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22
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Boleto G, Guignabert C, Pezet S, Cauvet A, Sadoine J, Tu L, Nicco C, Gobeaux C, Batteux F, Allanore Y, Avouac J. T-cell costimulation blockade is effective in experimental digestive and lung tissue fibrosis. Arthritis Res Ther 2018; 20:197. [PMID: 30157927 PMCID: PMC6116494 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-018-1694-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We aimed to investigate the efficacy of abatacept in preclinical mouse models of digestive involvement, pulmonary fibrosis, and related pulmonary hypertension (PH), mimicking internal organ involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Methods Abatacept has been evaluated in the chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGvHD) mouse model (abatacept 1 mg/mL for 6 weeks), characterized by liver and intestinal fibrosis and in the Fra-2 mouse model (1 mg/mL or 10 mg/mL for 4 weeks), characterized by interstitial lung disease (ILD) and pulmonary vascular remodeling leading to PH. Results In the cGvHD model, abatacept significantly decreased liver transaminase levels and markedly improved colon inflammation. In the Fra-2 model, abatacept alleviated ILD, with a significant reduction in lung density on chest microcomputed tomography (CT), fibrosis histological score, and lung biochemical markers. Moreover, abatacept reversed PH in Fra-2 mice by improving vessel remodeling and related cardiac hemodynamic impairment. Abatacept significantly reduced fibrogenic marker levels, T-cell proliferation, and M1/M2 macrophage infiltration in lesional lungs of Fra-2 mice. Conclusion Abatacept improves digestive involvement, prevents lung fibrosis, and attenuates PH. These findings suggest that abatacept might be an appealing therapeutic approach beyond skin fibrosis for organ involvement in SSc. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13075-018-1694-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonçalo Boleto
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016, Institut Cochin, CNRS UMR8104, Paris, France.,Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Service de Rhumatologie A, Hôpital Cochin, 27 rue du Faubourg Saint Jacques, 75014, Paris, France
| | - Christophe Guignabert
- INSERM UMR_S 999, Le Plessis-Robinson, France.,Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Sonia Pezet
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016, Institut Cochin, CNRS UMR8104, Paris, France
| | - Anne Cauvet
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016, Institut Cochin, CNRS UMR8104, Paris, France
| | - Jérémy Sadoine
- EA 2496 Pathologie, Imagerie et Biothérapies Orofaciales, UFR Odontologie, Université Paris Descartes and PIDV, PRES Sorbonne Paris Cité, Montrouge, France
| | - Ly Tu
- INSERM UMR_S 999, Le Plessis-Robinson, France.,Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Carole Nicco
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016, Institut Cochin, CNRS UMR8104, Paris, France
| | - Camille Gobeaux
- Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, Cochin and Hôtel-Dieu Hospitals, Paris, France
| | - Frédéric Batteux
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016, Institut Cochin, CNRS UMR8104, Paris, France
| | - Yannick Allanore
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016, Institut Cochin, CNRS UMR8104, Paris, France.,Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Service de Rhumatologie A, Hôpital Cochin, 27 rue du Faubourg Saint Jacques, 75014, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Avouac
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016, Institut Cochin, CNRS UMR8104, Paris, France. .,Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Service de Rhumatologie A, Hôpital Cochin, 27 rue du Faubourg Saint Jacques, 75014, Paris, France.
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23
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Wang JP, Leng JY, Zhang RK, Zhang L, Zhang B, Jiang WY, Tong L. Functional analysis of gene expression profiling-based prediction in bladder cancer. Oncol Lett 2018; 15:8417-8423. [PMID: 29805577 PMCID: PMC5950606 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.8370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to analyze the modification of gene expression in bladder cancer (BC) by identifying significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and functionally assess them using bioinformatics analysis. To achieve this, two microarray datasets, GSE24152 (which included 10 fresh tumor tissue samples from urothelial bladder carcinoma patients and 7 benign mucosa samples from the bladder), and GSE42089 (which included 10 tissues samples from urothelial cell carcinoma patients and 8 tissues samples from the normal bladder), were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database for further analysis. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened between benign the mucosa and control groups in GSE24152 and GSE42089 datasets. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analysis were performed on overlapping DEGs identified in GSE24152 and GSE42089. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks and sub-networks were then constructed to identify key genes and main pathways. GO terms analysis was also performed for the selected clusters. In total, 1,325 DEGs in GSE24152 and 647 DEGs in GSE42089 were screened, in which 619 common DEGs were identified. The DEGs were mainly enriched in pathways and GO terms associated with mitotic and chromosome assembly, including nucleosome assembly, spindle checkpoint and DNA replication. In the interaction network, progesterone receptor (PGR), MAF bZIP transcription factor G (MAFG), cell division cycle 6 (CDC6) and members of the minichromosome maintenance family (MCMs) were identified as key genes. Histones were also considered to be significant factors in BC. Nucleosome assembly and sequence-specific DNA binding were the most significant clustered GO terms. In conclusion, the DEGs, including PGR, MAFG, CDC6 and MCMs, and those encoding the core histone family were closely associated with the development of BC via pathways associated with mitotic and chromosome assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Ping Wang
- Department of Radiology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Ji-Yan Leng
- Department of Geratology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Rong-Kui Zhang
- Department of Radiology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Radiology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Bei Zhang
- Department of Radiology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Yan Jiang
- Department of Radiology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Lan Tong
- Department of Radiology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
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24
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Shi J, Zhou LR, Wang XS, Du JF, Jiang MM, Song Z, Han GC, Mai ZT. KLF2 attenuates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis and inflammation with regulation of AP-1. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 495:20-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2017.10.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 10/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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25
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Ide M, Jinnin M, Tomizawa Y, Wang Z, Kajihara I, Fukushima S, Hashizume Y, Asano Y, Ihn H. Transforming growth factor β-inhibitor Repsox downregulates collagen expression of scleroderma dermal fibroblasts and prevents bleomycin-induced mice skin fibrosis. Exp Dermatol 2017; 26:1139-1143. [PMID: 28418584 DOI: 10.1111/exd.13366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 signalling may be one of the most reliable approaches to treat skin fibrosis of scleroderma. Although there have been many basic researches of TGF-β blockade reagents, few of them were proved to have inhibitory effects on fibrosis both in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we randomly chose four commercially available low molecular weight compounds (Repsox, LY2109761, LY364947 and K02288) from TGF-β1 inhibitor library, and compared their antifibrotic effects in vitro and in vivo. We demonstrated that Repsox has the most potent inhibitory effects on TGF-β-induced expression of CTGF and collagen of cultured normal dermal fibroblasts in vitro and their constitutive overexpression of scleroderma fibroblast in vitro. In addition, Repsox could attenuate skin fibrosis by bleomycin in vivo, via the downregulation of CTGF or collagen. Our results may facilitate clinical trial of Repsox against fibrotic diseases in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maho Ide
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Jinnin
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yukiko Tomizawa
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Zhongzhi Wang
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Ikko Kajihara
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Satoshi Fukushima
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yoshinobu Hashizume
- RIKEN Program for Drug Discovery and Medical Technology Platforms, Wako, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yoshihide Asano
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hironobu Ihn
- Department of Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
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26
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Huang J, Maier C, Zhang Y, Soare A, Dees C, Beyer C, Harre U, Chen CW, Distler O, Schett G, Wollin L, Distler JHW. Nintedanib inhibits macrophage activation and ameliorates vascular and fibrotic manifestations in the Fra2 mouse model of systemic sclerosis. Ann Rheum Dis 2017; 76:1941-1948. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2016-210823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Revised: 05/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BackgroundNintedanib is an inhibitor targeting platelet-derived growth factor receptor, fibroblast growth factor receptor and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor tyrosine kinases that has recently been approved for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The aim of this study was to analyse the effects of nintedanib in the fos-related antigen-2 (Fra2) mouse model of systemic sclerosis (SSc).MethodsThe effects of nintedanib on pulmonary arterial hypertension with proliferation of pulmonary vascular smooth muscle cells (PVSMCs) and luminal occlusion, on microvascular disease with apoptosis of microvascular endothelial cells (MVECs) and on fibroblast activation with myofibroblast differentiation and accumulation of extracellular matrix were analysed. We also studied the effects of nintedanib on the levels of key mediators involved in the pathogenesis of SSc and on macrophage polarisation.ResultsNintedanib inhibited proliferation of PVSMCs and prevented thickening of the vessel walls and luminal occlusion of pulmonary arteries. Treatment with nintedanib also inhibited apoptosis of MVECs and blunted the capillary rarefaction in Fra2-transgenic mice. These effects were associated with a normalisation of the serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor in Fra2 mice on treatment with nintedanib. Nintedanib also effectively blocked myofibroblast differentiation and reduced pulmonary, dermal and myocardial fibrosis in Fra2-transgenic mice. The antifibrotic effects of nintedanib were associated with impaired M2 polarisation of monocytes and reduced numbers of M2 macrophages.ConclusionNintedanib targets core features of SSc in Fra2-transgenic mice and ameliorates histological features of pulmonary arterial hypertension, destructive microangiopathy and pulmonary and dermal fibrosis. These data might have direct implications for the ongoing phase III clinical trial with nintedanib in SSc-associated interstitial lung disease.
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27
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Ciechomska M, O'Reilly S, Przyborski S, Oakley F, Bogunia-Kubik K, van Laar JM. Histone Demethylation and Toll-like Receptor 8-Dependent Cross-Talk in Monocytes Promotes Transdifferentiation of Fibroblasts in Systemic Sclerosis Via Fra-2. Arthritis Rheumatol 2017; 68:1493-504. [PMID: 26814616 DOI: 10.1002/art.39602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether epigenetic changes can modulate monocytes to produce tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP-1) via Fra-2 (an activator protein 1 [AP-1] family member), a novel downstream mediator that promotes fibrogenesis. METHODS AP-1 transcription factors and TIMP-1 expression were measured in monocytes from systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients and healthy controls. Involvement of Fra-2 in the regulation of TIMP-1 following treatment with Toll-like receptor 8 (TLR-8) agonist was investigated using a luciferase activity assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) analysis. Expression of TIMP-1 and Fra-2 was determined in response to TLR-8 treatment and to different histone modifications, including 3'-deazaneplanocin (DZNep) and apicidin. Fibroblasts from healthy controls were cocultured with DZNep plus TLR-8-treated healthy control monocytes. RESULTS Up-regulation of Fra-2 was detected in bleomycin-challenged mice and in skin biopsy samples from SSc patients. Enhanced expression of Fra-2 and TIMP-1 was correlated in SSc monocytes (P = 0.021). The expression of Fra-1 was significantly reduced (P = 0.037) in SSc monocytes. Inhibiting AP-1 activity reduced TIMP-1 production in TLR-8-stimulated monocytes from healthy controls and SSc patients. ChIP experiments revealed binding of Fra-2 to the TIMP-1 promoter. Stimulation with DZNep plus TLR-8 enhanced Fra-2 and TIMP-1 expression in healthy control monocytes, whereas TLR-8 plus apicidin repressed Fra-2 and TIMP-1 expression. Finally, healthy control monocytes treated with DZNep plus TLR-8 induced strong production of α-smooth muscle actin in dermal fibroblasts, which was inhibited by TIMP-1-blocking antibody. CONCLUSION These data demonstrate a novel role of histone demethylation induced by DZNep on Fra-2-mediated TIMP-1 production by monocytes in the presence of TLR-8 agonist. This consequently orchestrates the transdifferentiation of fibroblasts, a key event in the pathogenesis of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzena Ciechomska
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, L. Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland, and National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology, and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Steven O'Reilly
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, and Durham University, School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Durham, UK
| | - Stefan Przyborski
- Durham University, School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Durham, UK
| | - Fiona Oakley
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Katarzyna Bogunia-Kubik
- Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, and Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Jacob M van Laar
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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28
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Mózes MM, Szoleczky P, Rosivall L, Kökény G. Sustained hyperosmolarity increses TGF-ß1 and Egr-1 expression in the rat renal medulla. BMC Nephrol 2017; 18:209. [PMID: 28673338 PMCID: PMC5496335 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-017-0626-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although TGF-ß and the transcription factor Egr-1 play an important role in both kidney fibrosis and in response to acute changes of renal medullary osmolarity, their role under sustained hypo- or hyperosmolar conditions has not been elucidated. We investigated the effects of chronic hypertonicity and hypotonicity on the renal medullary TGF-ß and Egr-1 expression. METHODS Male adult Sprague Dawley rats (n = 6/group) were treated with 15 mg/day furosemide, or the rats were water restricted to 15 ml/200 g body weight per day. Control rats had free access to water and rodent chow. Kidneys were harvested after 5 days of treament. In cultured inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) cells, osmolarity was increased from 330 mOsm to 900 mOsm over 6 days. Analyses were performed at 330, 600 and 900 mOsm. RESULTS Urine osmolarity has not changed due to furosemide treatment but increased 2-fold after water restriction (p < 0.05). Gene expression of TGF-ß and Egr-1 increased by 1.9-fold and 7-fold in the hypertonic medulla, respectively (p < 0.05), accompanied by 6-fold and 2-fold increased c-Fos and TIMP-1 expression, respectively (p < 0.05) and positive immunostaining for TGF-ß and Egr-1 (p < 0.05). Similarly, hyperosmolarity led to overexpression of TGF-ß and Egr-1 mRNA in IMCD cells (2.5-fold and 3.5-fold increase from 330 to 900 mOsm, respectively (p < 0.05)) accompanied by significant c-Fos and c-Jun overexpressions (p < 0.01), and increased Col3a1 and Col4a1 mRNA expression. CONCLUSION We conclude that both TGF-ß and Egr-1 are upregulated by sustained hyperosmolarity in the rat renal medulla, and it favors the expression of extracellular matrix components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miklós M Mózes
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Semmelweis University, Nagyvárad tér 4, Budapest, H-1089, Hungary
| | - Petra Szoleczky
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Semmelweis University, Nagyvárad tér 4, Budapest, H-1089, Hungary
| | - László Rosivall
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Semmelweis University, Nagyvárad tér 4, Budapest, H-1089, Hungary.,Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Semmelweis University Research Group for Pediatrics and Nephrology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gábor Kökény
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Semmelweis University, Nagyvárad tér 4, Budapest, H-1089, Hungary.
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29
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Abd Rahman N, Ibrahim F, Yafouz B. Dielectrophoresis for Biomedical Sciences Applications: A Review. SENSORS 2017; 17:s17030449. [PMID: 28245552 PMCID: PMC5375735 DOI: 10.3390/s17030449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Revised: 12/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Dielectrophoresis (DEP) is a label-free, accurate, fast, low-cost diagnostic technique that uses the principles of polarization and the motion of bioparticles in applied electric fields. This technique has been proven to be beneficial in various fields, including environmental research, polymer research, biosensors, microfluidics, medicine and diagnostics. Biomedical science research is one of the major research areas that could potentially benefit from DEP technology for diverse applications. Nevertheless, many medical science research investigations have yet to benefit from the possibilities offered by DEP. This paper critically reviews the fundamentals, recent progress, current challenges, future directions and potential applications of research investigations in the medical sciences utilizing DEP technique. This review will also act as a guide and reference for medical researchers and scientists to explore and utilize the DEP technique in their research fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurhaslina Abd Rahman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- Centre for Innovation in Medical Engineering (CIME), Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Fatimah Ibrahim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- Centre for Innovation in Medical Engineering (CIME), Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Bashar Yafouz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- Centre for Innovation in Medical Engineering (CIME), Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, Taiz University, 6803 Taiz, Yemen.
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miR-17∼92 family clusters control iNKT cell ontogenesis via modulation of TGF-β signaling. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:E8286-E8295. [PMID: 27930306 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1612024114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T cells (iNKT) cells are T lymphocytes displaying innate effector functions, acquired through a distinct thymic developmental program regulated by microRNAs (miRNAs). Deleting miRNAs by Dicer ablation (Dicer KO) in thymocytes selectively impairs iNKT cell survival and functional differentiation. To unravel this miRNA-dependent program, we systemically identified transcripts that were differentially expressed between WT and Dicer KO iNKT cells at different differentiation stages and predicted to be targeted by the iNKT cell-specific miRNAs. TGF-β receptor II (TGF-βRII), critically implicated in iNKT cell differentiation, was found up-regulated in iNKT Dicer KO cells together with enhanced TGF-β signaling. miRNA members of the miR-17∼92 family clusters were predicted to target Tgfbr2 mRNA upon iNKT cell development. iNKT cells lacking all three miR-17∼92 family clusters (miR-17∼92, miR-106a∼363, miR-106b∼25) phenocopied both increased TGF-βRII expression and signaling, and defective effector differentiation, displayed by iNKT Dicer KO cells. Consistently, genetic ablation of TGF-β signaling in the absence of miRNAs rescued iNKT cell differentiation. These results elucidate the global impact of miRNAs on the iNKT cell developmental program and uncover the targeting of a lineage-specific cytokine signaling by miRNAs as a mechanism regulating innate-like T-cell development and effector differentiation.
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Abstract
Treatment for fibrosis represents a critical unmet need, because fibrosis is the leading cause of death in industrialized countries, and there is no effective therapy to counteract the fibrotic process. The development of fibrosis relates to the interplay between vessel injury, immune cell activation, and fibroblast stimulation, which can occur in various tissues. Immunotherapies have provided a breakthrough in the treatment of immune diseases. The glycoprotein OX40-OX40 ligand (OX40L) axis offers the advantage of a targeted approach to costimulatory signals with limited impact on the whole immune response. Using systemic sclerosis (SSc) as a prototypic disease, we report compelling evidence that blockade of OX40L is a promising strategy for the treatment of inflammation-driven fibrosis. OX40L is overexpressed in the fibrotic skin and serum of patients with SSc, particularly in patients with diffuse cutaneous forms. Soluble OX40L was identified as a promising serum biomarker to predict the worsening of lung and skin fibrosis, highlighting the role of this pathway in fibrosis. In vivo, OX40L blockade prevents inflammation-driven skin, lung, and vessel fibrosis and induces the regression of established dermal fibrosis in different complementary mouse models. OX40L exerts potent profibrotic effects by promoting the infiltration of inflammatory cells into lesional tissues and therefore the release of proinflammatory mediators, thereafter leading to fibroblast activation.
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Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease of unknown etiology that is characterized by fibrosis of the skin and several internal organs, vasculopathy, inflammation and autoimmunity. Animal models have improved our understanding of the pathogenesis of SSc. Many inducible and genetic animal models of SSc have been developed and characterized in the last years. All of these models have different strengths and limitations and mimic different aspects of the pathogenesis of SSc. The purpose of this review is to summarize the characteristics of the various animal models of SSc and to provide an outline of how to use these models to study certain aspects in the pathogenesis of SSc and to test the effects of potential therapeutic approaches.
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Kamide D, Yamashita T, Araki K, Tomifuji M, Tanaka Y, Tanaka S, Shiozawa S, Shiotani A. Selective activator protein-1 inhibitor T-5224 prevents lymph node metastasis in an oral cancer model. Cancer Sci 2016; 107:666-73. [PMID: 26918517 PMCID: PMC4970834 DOI: 10.1111/cas.12914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Revised: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Activator protein-1 (AP-1) is a transcriptional factor that regulates the expression of various genes associated with tumor invasion and migration. The purpose of our study was to assess the therapeutic effects of a novel selective AP-1 inhibitor, T-5224, in preventing lymph node metastasis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in an orthotopic mouse model. We assessed the effect of T-5224 on HNSCC cell invasion, migration, proliferation, and MMP activity by carrying out an in vitro study using an invasion assay, scratch assay, WST-8 assay, and gelatin zymography. We also observed morphological changes in HNSCC cells by time-lapse microscopy. Furthermore, cervical lymph node metastasis was assessed using an orthotopic tumor model of human oral squamous cell carcinoma cells (HSC-3-M3) injected in the tongue of a BALB/c nude mouse. T-5224 (150 mg/kg) or vehicle was given orally every day for 4 weeks. Animals were killed and assessed for lymph node metastasis by H&E staining of resected lymph nodes. T-5224 significantly inhibited the invasion, migration, and MMP activity of HNSCC cells in a dose-dependent manner; there was no significant influence on cell proliferation. The antimetastatic effect of T-5224 was also confirmed in our animal study. The rate of cervical lymph node metastasis in the model was 40.0% in the T-5224-treated group (n = 30) versus 74.1% in the vehicle-treated group (n = 27; P < 0.05). In conclusion, T-5224 inhibited the invasion and migration of HNSCC cells in vitro, and prevented lymph node metastasis in head and neck cancer in an animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Kamide
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Japan
| | - Taku Yamashita
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Japan.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Koji Araki
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Japan
| | - Masayuki Tomifuji
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Japan
| | - Yuya Tanaka
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Japan
| | - Shingo Tanaka
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Japan
| | - Shunichi Shiozawa
- Department of Medicine, Kyushu University Beppu Hospital, Beppu, Japan
| | - Akihiro Shiotani
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Japan
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The role and mechanisms of action of SIRT6 in the suppression of postoperative epidural scar formation. Int J Mol Med 2016; 37:1337-44. [PMID: 26987016 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2016.2522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2015] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to investigate the role which sirtuin-6 (SIRT6) plays in lumbar spinal epidural fibrosis (EF) and scar formation in vitro and in vivo, SIRT6 and transforming growth factor β (TGF‑β) protein levels in the lumbar disc of patients were detected using western blotting in patients who had undergone a laminectomy. The results demonstrated that SIRT6 expression was significantly reduced in the lumbar discs of patients in whom an epidural scar had formed, but the expression pattern of TGF-β2 was much higher. Subsequently, a pcDNA‑SIRT6 expression vector was constructed and transfected into the primary fibroblasts isolated from the epidural scars. Flow cytometric and MTT analyses indicated that overexpression of SIRT6 suppressed the proliferation of the fibroblasts, and TGF‑β2 and interleukin-1α expression, as well as collagen type I (Col I) production. The results of bioinformatics and molecular biological analyses demonstarted that TGF‑β2 was a target of microRNA-21 (miR-21) and SIRT6 overexpression suppressed the levels of TGF-β2 through promoting the expression of miR-21. Finally, by injecting the pcDNA-SIRT6 vector, it was possible to observe that SIRT6 suppressed EF and epidural scar formation in vivo. In conclusion, we noted that SIRT6 suppressed EF and epidural scar formation in vitro and in vivo. It was also noted that SIRT6 overexpression suppressed TGF-β2 levels by promoting the expression of miR-21.
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Epigenetic regulation of diacylglycerol kinase alpha promotes radiation-induced fibrosis. Nat Commun 2016; 7:10893. [PMID: 26964756 PMCID: PMC4792958 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms10893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is a fundamental part of cancer treatment but its use is limited by the onset of late adverse effects in the normal tissue, especially radiation-induced fibrosis. Since the molecular causes for fibrosis are largely unknown, we analyse if epigenetic regulation might explain inter-individual differences in fibrosis risk. DNA methylation profiling of dermal fibroblasts obtained from breast cancer patients prior to irradiation identifies differences associated with fibrosis. One region is characterized as a differentially methylated enhancer of diacylglycerol kinase alpha (DGKA). Decreased DNA methylation at this enhancer enables recruitment of the profibrotic transcription factor early growth response 1 (EGR1) and facilitates radiation-induced DGKA transcription in cells from patients later developing fibrosis. Conversely, inhibition of DGKA has pronounced effects on diacylglycerol-mediated lipid homeostasis and reduces profibrotic fibroblast activation. Collectively, DGKA is an epigenetically deregulated kinase involved in radiation response and may serve as a marker and therapeutic target for personalized radiotherapy. Radiotherapy can induce fibrosis in cancer patients, limiting its use in clinical settings. Here, the authors identify a differentially methylated enhancer of the lipid kinase DGKA in fibroblasts from breast cancer patients developing fibrosis after radiotherapy and they show that DGKA inhibition affects lipid homeostasis and reduces pro-fibrotic fibroblast activation.
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36
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Ponsoye M, Frantz C, Ruzehaji N, Nicco C, Elhai M, Ruiz B, Cauvet A, Pezet S, Brandely ML, Batteux F, Allanore Y, Avouac J. Treatment with abatacept prevents experimental dermal fibrosis and induces regression of established inflammation-driven fibrosis. Ann Rheum Dis 2016; 75:2142-2149. [PMID: 26912566 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2015-208213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2015] [Revised: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Activated T cells are the main component of the inflammatory skin infiltrates that characterise systemic sclerosis (SSc). Our aim was to investigate the efficacy of abatacept, which tempers T-cell activation, in reducing skin fibrosis in complementary mouse models of SSc. METHODS The antifibrotic properties of abatacept were evaluated in the mouse models of bleomycin-induced dermal fibrosis and sclerodermatous chronic graft-versus-host disease, reflecting early and inflammatory stages of SSc. Thereafter, we studied the efficacy of abatacept in tight skin (Tsk-1) mice, an inflammation-independent mouse model of skin fibrosis. RESULTS Abatacept efficiently prevented bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis and was also effective in the treatment of established fibrosis. In this model, abatacept decreased total and activated T-cell, B-cell and monocyte infiltration in the lesional skin. Abatacept did not protect CB17-SCID mice from the development of bleomycin-induced dermal fibrosis, which supports that T cells are necessary to drive the antifibrotic effects of abatacept. Upon bleomycin injections, skin interleukin (IL) 6 and IL-10 levels were significantly reduced upon abatacept treatment. Moreover, treatment with abatacept ameliorated fibrosis in the chronic graft-versus-host disease model, but demonstrated no efficacy in Tsk-1 mice. The tolerance of abatacept was excellent in the three mouse models. CONCLUSIONS Using complementary models, we demonstrate that inhibition of T-cell activation by abatacept can prevent and induce the regression of inflammation-driven dermal fibrosis. Translation to human disease is now required, and targeting early and inflammatory stages of SSc sounds the most appropriate for positioning abatacept in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthieu Ponsoye
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Camelia Frantz
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Nadira Ruzehaji
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Carole Nicco
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Muriel Elhai
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Barbara Ruiz
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Anne Cauvet
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Sonia Pezet
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Marie Laure Brandely
- Service de Pharmacie Clinique, GH Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Centre, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Frédéric Batteux
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France.,Laboratoire d'Immunologie biologique, Hôpital Cochin, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Yannick Allanore
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France.,Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Service de Rhumatologie A, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Avouac
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1016 and CNRS UMR8104, Institut Cochin, Paris, France.,Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Service de Rhumatologie A, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
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37
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Yoshida T, Yamashita K, Watanabe M, Koshizuka Y, Kuraya D, Ogura M, Asahi Y, Ono H, Emoto S, Mizukami T, Kobayashi N, Shibasaki S, Tomaru U, Kamachi H, Matsushita M, Shiozawa S, Hirono S, Todo S. The Impact of c-Fos/Activator Protein-1 Inhibition on Allogeneic Pancreatic Islet Transplantation. Am J Transplant 2015; 15:2565-75. [PMID: 26012352 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.13338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Revised: 03/13/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Unpreventable allograft rejection is one of the main problems in pancreatic islet transplantation (PIT). Therefore, it is imperative to develop a more effective immunosuppressive strategy. The blockade of transcription factors has been a central part of T cell-depleting immunosuppressive therapies, as typified by the use of calcineurin inhibitors. The inhibition of activator protein-1 (AP-1) offers a novel strategy for immunosuppression in PIT, although to date, no reports on the effects of AP-1 inhibition are available. In this study, we investigated the immunosuppressive effects of T-5224, a c-Fos/AP-1-selective inhibitor, on murine T cells activated by αCD3+αCD28 mAbs. T-5224 inhibited proliferation, CD25 up-regulation, and the production of IL-2 and interferon-γ. In addition, T-5224 blocked the nuclear translocation of c-Fos/AP-1 in activated murine T cells. In BALB/c (H-2(d) )-to-C57BL/6J (H-2(b) ) mouse PIT, the 2-week administration of T-5224 prolonged survival of 600 islet allografts in a dose-dependent manner. When combined with a 2-week low-dose tacrolimus, the T-5224 treatment markedly prolonged allograft survival to over 300 days, while the efficacy was indeterminate when transplanted islet allograft mass was reduced to 300. We conclude that the c-Fos/AP-1 inhibition by T-5224 is a potentially attractive strategy for allogeneic PIT.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Yoshida
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - K Yamashita
- Department of Transplant Surgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - M Watanabe
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Y Koshizuka
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - D Kuraya
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - M Ogura
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Y Asahi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - H Ono
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - S Emoto
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - T Mizukami
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - N Kobayashi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - S Shibasaki
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - U Tomaru
- Department of Pathology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - H Kamachi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - M Matsushita
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - S Shiozawa
- Department of Medicine, Kyushu University Beppu Hospital, Beppu, Japan
| | - S Hirono
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry for Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, Kitasato University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - S Todo
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery I, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
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Palomer X, Capdevila-Busquets E, Botteri G, Davidson MM, Rodríguez C, Martínez-González J, Vidal F, Barroso E, Chan TO, Feldman AM, Vázquez-Carrera M. miR-146a targets Fos expression in human cardiac cells. Dis Model Mech 2015; 8:1081-91. [PMID: 26112171 PMCID: PMC4582106 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.020768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 06/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
miR-146a is a microRNA whose transcript levels are induced in the heart upon activation of NF-κB, a transcription factor induced by pro-inflammatory molecules (such as TNF-α) that is strongly related to the pathogenesis of cardiac disorders. The main goal of this study consisted of studying new roles of miR-146a in cardiac pathological processes caused by the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α. Our results demonstrate that miR-146a transcript levels were sharply increased in cardiac ventricular tissue of transgenic mice with specific overexpression of TNF-α in the heart, and also in a cardiomyocyte cell line of human origin (AC16) exposed to TNF-α. Among all the in silico predicted miR-146a target genes, Fos mRNA and protein levels notably decreased after TNF-α treatment or miR-146a overexpression. These changes correlated with a diminution in the DNA-binding activity of AP-1, the Fos-containing transcription factor complex. Interestingly, AP-1 inhibition was accompanied by a reduction in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 mRNA levels in human cardiac cells. The specific regulation of this MMP by miR-146a was further confirmed at the secretion and enzymatic activity levels, as well as after anti-miR-mediated miR-146a inhibition. The results reported here demonstrate that Fos is a direct target of miR-146a activity and that downregulation of the Fos–AP-1 pathway by miR-146a has the capacity to inhibit MMP-9 activity. Given that MMP-9 is an AP-1 target gene involved in cardiac remodeling, myocardial dysfunction and progression of heart failure, these findings suggest that miR-146a might be a new and promising therapeutic tool for treating cardiac disorders associated with enhanced inflammation in the heart. Summary: These findings demonstrate that Fos is a direct target of miR-146a activity and that downregulation of the Fos–AP-1 pathway by miR-146a can inhibit MMP-9 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Palomer
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutic Chemistry, IBUB (Institut de Biomedicina de la Universitat de Barcelona) and CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Diagonal 643, Barcelona E-08028, Spain
| | - Eva Capdevila-Busquets
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutic Chemistry, IBUB (Institut de Biomedicina de la Universitat de Barcelona) and CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Diagonal 643, Barcelona E-08028, Spain
| | - Gaia Botteri
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutic Chemistry, IBUB (Institut de Biomedicina de la Universitat de Barcelona) and CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Diagonal 643, Barcelona E-08028, Spain
| | - Mercy M Davidson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Columbia University, P&S 11-451, 630 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Cristina Rodríguez
- Centro de Investigación Cardiovascular, CSIC-ICCC, IIB-Sant Pau, Avda. Sant Antoni Maria Claret 167, Barcelona 08025, Spain
| | - José Martínez-González
- Centro de Investigación Cardiovascular, CSIC-ICCC, IIB-Sant Pau, Avda. Sant Antoni Maria Claret 167, Barcelona 08025, Spain
| | - Francisco Vidal
- Unitat de Diagnòstic i Teràpia Molecular, Banc de Sang i Teixits, Passeig Vall d'Hebron 119-129, Barcelona 08035, Spain
| | - Emma Barroso
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutic Chemistry, IBUB (Institut de Biomedicina de la Universitat de Barcelona) and CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Diagonal 643, Barcelona E-08028, Spain
| | - Tung O Chan
- Department of Medicine, The Center for Translational Medicine, Jefferson Medical College, 1025 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Arthur M Feldman
- Departments of Medicine and Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University School of Medicine, 3500 N, Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Manuel Vázquez-Carrera
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutic Chemistry, IBUB (Institut de Biomedicina de la Universitat de Barcelona) and CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Diagonal 643, Barcelona E-08028, Spain
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Ponticos M, Papaioannou I, Xu S, Holmes AM, Khan K, Denton CP, Bou-Gharios G, Abraham DJ. Failed degradation of JunB contributes to overproduction of type I collagen and development of dermal fibrosis in patients with systemic sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2015; 67:243-53. [PMID: 25303440 PMCID: PMC4312903 DOI: 10.1002/art.38897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, including type I collagen, is a key aspect in the pathogenesis of connective tissue diseases such as systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma). To further our understanding of the mechanisms governing the dysregulation of type I collagen production in SSc, we investigated the role of the activator protein 1 (AP-1) family of transcription factors in regulating COL1A2 transcription. METHODS The expression and nuclear localization of AP-1 family members (c-Jun, JunB, JunD, Fra-1, Fra-2, and c-Fos) were examined by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting in dermal biopsy specimens and explanted skin fibroblasts from patients with diffuse cutaneous SSc and healthy controls. Gene activation was determined by assessing the interaction of transcription factors with the COL1A2 enhancer using transient transfection of reporter gene constructs, electrophoretic mobility shift assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis, and RNA interference involving knockdown of individual AP-1 family members. Inhibition of fibroblast mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), Akt, and glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β) signaling pathways was achieved using small-molecule pharmacologic inhibitors. RESULTS Binding of JunB to the COL1A2 enhancer was observed, with its coalescence directed by activation of gene transcription through the proximal promoter. Knockdown of JunB reduced enhancer activation and COL1A2 expression in response to transforming growth factor β. In SSc dermal fibroblasts, increased mTOR/Akt signaling was associated with inactivation of GSK-3β, leading to blockade of JunB degradation and, thus, constitutively high expression of JunB. CONCLUSION In patients with SSc, the accumulation of JunB resulting from altered mTOR/Akt signaling and a failure of proteolytic degradation underpins the aberrant overexpression of type I collagen. These findings identify JunB as a potential target for antifibrotic therapy in SSc.
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40
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Avouac J, Palumbo-Zerr K, Ruzehaji N, Tomcik M, Zerr P, Dees C, Distler A, Beyer C, Schneider H, Distler O, Schett G, Allanore Y, Distler JHW. The nuclear receptor constitutive androstane receptor/NR1I3 enhances the profibrotic effects of transforming growth factor β and contributes to the development of experimental dermal fibrosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2015; 66:3140-50. [PMID: 25155144 DOI: 10.1002/art.38819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Nuclear receptors regulate cell growth, differentiation, and homeostasis. Selective nuclear receptors promote fibroblast activation, which leads to tissue fibrosis, the hallmark of systemic sclerosis (SSc). This study was undertaken to investigate the effects of constitutive androstane receptor (CAR)/NR1I3, an orphan nuclear receptor, on fibroblast activation and experimental dermal fibrosis. METHODS CAR expression was quantified by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. CAR expression was modulated by small molecules, small interfering RNA, forced overexpression, and site-directed mutagenesis. The effects of CAR activation were analyzed in cultured fibroblasts, in bleomycin-induced dermal fibrosis, and in mice overexpressing a constitutively active transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) receptor type I (TβRI-CA). RESULTS Up-regulation of CAR was detected in the skin and in dermal fibroblasts in SSc patients. Stimulation of healthy fibroblasts with TGFβ induced the expression of CAR messenger RNA and protein in a Smad-dependent manner. Pharmacologic activation or overexpression of CAR in healthy fibroblasts significantly increased the stimulatory effects of TGFβ on collagen synthesis and myofibroblast differentiation, and amplified the stimulatory effects of TGFβ on COL1A2 transcription activity. Treatment with CAR agonist increased the activation of canonical TGFβ signaling in murine models of SSc and exacerbated bleomycin-induced and TβRI-CA-induced fibrosis with increased dermal thickening, myofibroblast counts, and collagen accumulation. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that CAR is up-regulated in SSc and regulates TGFβ signaling. Activation of CAR increases the profibrotic effects of TGFβ in cultured fibroblasts and in different preclinical models of SSc. Thus, inactivation of CAR might be a novel approach to target aberrant TGFβ signaling in SSc and in other fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Avouac
- University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany; Paris Descartes University, INSERM U1016, and Cochin Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
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Tomcik M, Palumbo-Zerr K, Zerr P, Sumova B, Avouac J, Dees C, Distler A, Becvar R, Distler O, Schett G, Senolt L, Distler JHW. Tribbles homologue 3 stimulates canonical TGF-β signalling to regulate fibroblast activation and tissue fibrosis. Ann Rheum Dis 2015; 75:609-16. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2014-206234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 01/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
ObjectivesTribbles homologue 3 (TRB3) is a pseudokinase that modifies the activation of various intracellular signalling pathways to control fundamental processes extending from mitosis and cell activation to apoptosis and modulation of gene expression. Here, we aimed to analyse the role of TRB3 in fibroblast activation in systemic sclerosis (SSc).MethodsThe expression of TRB3 was quantified by quantitative PCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry. The role of TRB3 was analysed in cultured fibroblasts and in experimental fibrosis using small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated knockdown and overexpression of TRB3.ResultsTRB3 expression was increased in fibroblasts of patients with SSc and in murine models of SSc in a transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Smad-dependent manner. Overexpression of TRB3 stimulated canonical TGF-β signalling and induced an activated phenotype in resting fibroblasts. In contrast, knockdown of TRB3 reduced the profibrotic effects of TGF-β and decreased the collagen synthesis. Moreover, siRNA-mediated knockdown of TRB3 exerted potent antifibrotic effects and ameliorated bleomycin as well as constitutively active TGF-β receptor I-induced fibrosis with reduced dermal thickening, decreased hydroxyproline content and impaired myofibroblast differentiation.ConclusionsThe present study characterises TRB3 as a novel profibrotic mediator in SSc. TGF-β induces TRB3, which in turn activates canonical TGF-β/Smad signalling and stimulates the release of collagen, thereby inducing a positive feedback loop that may contribute to aberrant TGF-β signalling in SSc.
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Gilbane AJ, Denton CP, Holmes AM. Scleroderma pathogenesis: a pivotal role for fibroblasts as effector cells. Arthritis Res Ther 2014; 15:215. [PMID: 23796020 PMCID: PMC4060542 DOI: 10.1186/ar4230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Scleroderma (systemic sclerosis; SSc) is characterised by fibrosis of the skin and internal organs in the context of autoimmunity and vascular perturbation. Overproduction of extracellular matrix components and loss of specialised epithelial structures are analogous to the process of scar formation after tissue injury. Fibroblasts are the resident cells of connective tissue that become activated at sites of damage and are likely to be important effector cells in SSc. Differentiation into myofibroblasts is a hallmark process, although the mechanisms and cellular origins of this important fibroblastic cell are still unclear. This article reviews fibroblast biology in the context of SSc and highlights the potentially important place of fibroblast effector cells in fibrosis. Moreover, the heterogeneity of fibroblast properties, multiplicity of regulatory pathways and diversity of origin for myofibroblasts may underpin clinical diversity in SSc, and provide novel avenues for targeted therapy.
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Zerr P, Palumbo-Zerr K, Huang J, Tomcik M, Sumova B, Distler O, Schett G, Distler JHW. Sirt1 regulates canonical TGF-β signalling to control fibroblast activation and tissue fibrosis. Ann Rheum Dis 2014; 75:226-33. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2014-205740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2014] [Accepted: 08/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Desallais L, Avouac J, Fréchet M, Elhai M, Ratsimandresy R, Montes M, Mouhsine H, Do H, Zagury JF, Allanore Y. Targeting IL-6 by both passive or active immunization strategies prevents bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis. Arthritis Res Ther 2014; 16:R157. [PMID: 25059342 PMCID: PMC4220089 DOI: 10.1186/ar4672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2013] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic cytokine for which preliminary data have suggested that it might contribute to systemic sclerosis (SSc). Our aims were to investigate, firstly, IL-6 expression in patients with SSc and, secondly, the efficacy of both passive and active immunization against IL-6 to reduce skin fibrosis in complementary mouse models of SSc. Methods Human serum levels and skin expression of IL-6 were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunohistochemistry, respectively. We first evaluated the antifibrotic properties of the monoclonal anti-IL-6R antibody, MR16-1, in the bleomycin-induced dermal fibrosis mouse model, reflecting early and inflammatory stages of SSc. Then, we assessed the efficacy of MR16-1 in tight skin-1 (Tsk-1) mice, an inflammation-independent model of skin fibrosis. Additionally, we have developed an innovative strategy using an anti-IL-6 peptide-based active immunization. Infiltrating leukocytes, T cells, and B cells were quantified, and IL-6 levels were measured in the serum and lesional skin of mice after passive or active immunization. Results Serum and skin levels of IL-6 were significantly increased in patients with early SSc. Treatment with MR16-1 led in the bleomycin mouse model to a 25% (P = 0.02) and 30% (P = 0.007) reduction of dermal thickness and hydroxyproline content, respectively. MR16-1 demonstrated no efficacy in Tsk-1 mice. Thereafter, mice were immunized against a small peptide derived from murine IL-6 and this strategy led in the bleomycin model to a 20% (P = 0.02) and 25% (P = 0.005) decrease of dermal thickness and hydroxyproline content, respectively. Passive and active immunization led to decreased T-cell infiltration in the lesional skin of mice challenged with bleomycin. Upon bleomycin injections, serum and skin IL-6 levels were increased after treatment with MR16-1 and were significantly reduced after anti-IL-6 active immunization. Conclusions Our results support the relevance of targeting IL-6 in patients with early SSc since IL-6 is overexpressed in early stages of the disease. Targeting IL-6 by both passive and active immunization strategies prevented the development of bleomycin-induced dermal fibrosis in mice. Our results highlight the therapeutic potential of active immunization against IL-6, which is a seductive alternative to passive immunization.
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Bertolo A, Baur M, Aebli N, Ferguson SJ, Stoyanov J. Physiological testosterone levels enhance chondrogenic extracellular matrix synthesis by male intervertebral disc cells in vitro, but not by mesenchymal stem cells. Spine J 2014; 14:455-68. [PMID: 24184643 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2013.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2013] [Revised: 09/11/2013] [Accepted: 10/17/2013] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT Testosterone (T) is a hormone and regulator involved in the processes of development of the organism (ie, promoting development of bone and muscle mass). Although T effects on the mesenchyme-derived muscle, bone, and adipose tissues are well studied, T effects on intervertebral disc (IVD) have not been reported. PURPOSE The aim was to test the following hypothesis: if a physiological concentration of T (∼30 nM) can improve in vitro chondrogenesis of human IVD cells and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Human IVD cells and MSCs were differentiated to chondrogenic lineage on gelatin scaffolds for 4 weeks, in the presence or absence of T. METHODS Chondrogenesis was assessed by cell viability, by measuring gene expression with quantitative polymerase chain reaction and extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation with immunoblotting, immunohistochemical, and biochemical methods. RESULTS Supplementation of T to chondrogenic culture did not affect viability. In male IVD cells, T had a beneficial impact on chondrogenesis, particularly in nucleus pulposus cells, demonstrated by an increased expression of aggrecan, collagen type I, and especially collagen type II. Conversely, T had no effects on chondrogenesis of female IVD cells or MSCs from both genders. A gene expression array of transforming growth factor β/bone morphogenetic protein signaling cascade showed that in male IVD cells, T promoted a stable general but nonsignificant increase in gene expression. Furthermore, aromatase inhibitor anastrazole repressed the effect of T on ECM expression by IVD cells. The results suggest that T increased ECM accumulation in male IVD cells in combination with its conversion to estradiol by the enzyme aromatase. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated that T effectively enhances in vitro chondrogenesis in male IVD cells, rising the interest in the possible role of sex hormones in IVD degeneration. Nevertheless, T does not affect chondrogenic differentiation of female IVD cells and MSCs from both genders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Bertolo
- Biomedical Laboratories, Swiss Paraplegic Research, G.A. Zaech Strasse 4, 6207 Nottwil, Switzerland
| | - Martin Baur
- Cantonal Hospital of Lucerne, Spitalstrasse 16, 6000 Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Niklaus Aebli
- Swiss Paraplegic Centre, Zaechstrasse 1, 6207 Nottwil, Switzerland; School of Medicine, Griffith University, University Drive, 4131 Meadowbrook Qld, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Stephen J Ferguson
- Institute for Biomechanics, Schafmattstrasse 30, 8093 ETH Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jivko Stoyanov
- Biomedical Laboratories, Swiss Paraplegic Research, G.A. Zaech Strasse 4, 6207 Nottwil, Switzerland; Institute for Surgical Technology and Biomechanics, University of Bern, Stauffacherstrasse 78, 3014 Bern, Switzerland.
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Beyer C, Zenzmaier C, Palumbo-Zerr K, Mancuso R, Distler A, Dees C, Zerr P, Huang J, Maier C, Pachowsky ML, Friebe A, Sandner P, Distler O, Schett G, Berger P, Distler JHW. Stimulation of the soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) inhibits fibrosis by blocking non-canonical TGFβ signalling. Ann Rheum Dis 2014; 74:1408-16. [PMID: 24567525 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2013-204508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2013] [Accepted: 02/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We have previously described the antifibrotic role of the soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC). The mode of action, however, remained elusive. In the present study, we describe a novel link between sGC signalling and transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) signalling that mediates the antifibrotic effects of the sGC. METHODS Human fibroblasts and murine sGC knockout fibroblasts were treated with the sGC stimulator BAY 41-2272 or the stable cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) analogue 8-Bromo-cGMP and stimulated with TGFβ. sGC knockout fibroblasts were isolated from sGCI(fl/fl) mice, and recombination was induced by Cre-adenovirus. In vivo, we studied the antifibrotic effects of BAY 41-2272 in mice overexpressing a constitutively active TGF-β1 receptor. RESULTS sGC stimulation inhibited TGFβ-dependent fibroblast activation and collagen release. sGC knockout fibroblasts confirmed that the sGC is essential for the antifibrotic effects of BAY 41-2272. Furthermore, 8-Bromo-cGMP reduced TGFβ-dependent collagen release. While nuclear p-SMAD2 and 3 levels, SMAD reporter activity and transcription of classical TGFβ target genes remained unchanged, sGC stimulation blocked the phosphorylation of ERK. In vivo, sGC stimulation inhibited TGFβ-driven dermal fibrosis but did not change p-SMAD2 and 3 levels and TGFβ target gene expression, confirming that non-canonical TGFβ pathways mediate the antifibrotic sGC activity. CONCLUSIONS We elucidated the antifibrotic mode of action of the sGC that increases cGMP levels, blocks non-canonical TGFβ signalling and inhibits experimental fibrosis. Since sGC stimulators have shown excellent efficacy and tolerability in phase 3 clinical trials for pulmonary arterial hypertension, they may be further developed for the simultaneous treatment of fibrosis and vascular disease in systemic sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Beyer
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 and Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christoph Zenzmaier
- Institute for Biomedical Aging Research, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria Department of Internal Medicine, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Katrin Palumbo-Zerr
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 and Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rossella Mancuso
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 and Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Alfiya Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 and Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Clara Dees
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 and Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Pawel Zerr
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 and Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jingang Huang
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 and Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christiane Maier
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 and Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Milena L Pachowsky
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andreas Friebe
- Institute for Physiology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Peter Sandner
- Bayer Health Care, Global Drug Discovery-Common Mechanism Research, Wuppertal, Germany Hannover Medical School, Institute of Pharmacology, Hannover, Germany
| | - Oliver Distler
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 and Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Peter Berger
- Institute for Biomedical Aging Research, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 and Institute for Clinical Immunology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Weng CM, Yu CC, Kuo ML, Chen BC, Lin CH. Endothelin-1 induces connective tissue growth factor expression in human lung fibroblasts by ETAR-dependent JNK/AP-1 pathway. Biochem Pharmacol 2014; 88:402-11. [PMID: 24486572 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2014.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Revised: 01/18/2014] [Accepted: 01/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Endothelin-1 (ET-1) acts as a key mediator of vasoconstriction and tissue repair. Overproduction of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) underlies the development of lung fibrosis. ET-1 induces expression of matrix-associated genes in lung fibroblasts, however, little is known about the signaling pathway of CTGF expression caused by ET-1. In this study, we found that ET-1 caused concentration- and time-dependently increases in CTGF expression in human embryonic lung fibroblast cell line (WI-38). ET-1-induced CTGF expression was inhibited by BQ123 (ETAR antagonist), but not BQ788 (ETBR antagonist). Moreover, ET-1-induced CTGF expression was significantly reduced by JNK inhibitor (SP600125), the dominant-negative mutants of JNK1/2 (JNK1/2 DN), and AP-1 inhibitor (curcumin). ET-1 induced phosphorylations of JNK and c-Jun in time-dependent manners. AP-1 luciferase activity was concentration-dependently increased by ET-1, and this effect was attenuated by SP600125. We also found that ET-1-induced CTGF expression was most controlled by the AP-1 binding region of CTGF promoter. ET-1-indiced CTGF luciferase activity was predominately controlled by the sequence -747 to -408 bp upstream of the transcription start site on the human CTGF promoter. Furthermore, ET-1 caused the formation of AP-1-specific DNA-protein complex and the recruitment of c-Jun to the CTGF promoter. Moreover, we found that ET-1 induced α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression, which was inhibited by BQ123, SP600125, curcumin, and anti-CTGF antibody. These results suggest that ET-1 stimulates expressions of CTGF and α-SMA through ETAR/JNK/AP-1 signaling pathway, and CTGF is required for ET-1-induced α-SMA expression in human lung fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Ming Weng
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Chi Yu
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Min-Liang Kuo
- Graduate Institute of Toxicology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Bing-Chang Chen
- School of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wu-Hsing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.
| | - Chien-Huang Lin
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.
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Zhang Y, Dees C, Beyer C, Lin NY, Distler A, Zerr P, Palumbo K, Susok L, Kreuter A, Distler O, Schett G, Distler JHW. Inhibition of casein kinase II reduces TGFβ induced fibroblast activation and ameliorates experimental fibrosis. Ann Rheum Dis 2014; 74:936-43. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2013-204256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Accepted: 12/21/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Matsushita T, Fujimoto M. Scleroderma: recent lessons from murine models and implications for future therapeutics. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/17469872.2013.835924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Abstract
Relevant animal models are essential tools to investigate in depth the pathogenesis of autoimmune disease. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune connective tissue disorder that affects particularly the skin. SSc is characterized by vasculopathy, immune disturbances, and fibrosis. Expression of each of the three pathologic features varies among SSc patients leading to disease heterogeneity and variable organ manifestations. Several animal models of SSc are available; however, some models display inflammation followed by fibrosis, whether some others primarily mimic autonomous fibroblast activation. Here, we describe the mouse model of bleomycin-induced dermal fibrosis, which mimics early and inflammatory stages of SSc, and is widely used in SSc research.
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