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Cheng WC, Chen PY, Zhang X, Chang YK, Tan KT, Lin TCC. 5,7,3',4'-Tetramethoxyflavone suppresses TGF-β1-induced activation of murine fibroblasts in vitro and ameliorates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38951964 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2024.2371150] [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: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the use of 5,7,3',4'-tetramethoxyflavone (TMF) to treat pulmonary fibrosis (PF), a chronic and fatal lung disease. In vitro and in vivo models were used to examine the impact of TMF on PF. METHODS NIH-3T3 (Mouse Embryonic Fibroblast) were exposed to transforming growth factor‑β1 (TGF-β1) and treated with or without TMF. Cell growth was assessed using the MTT method, and cell migration was evaluated with the scratch wound assay. Protein and messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) levels of extracellular matrix (ECM) genes were analyzed by western blotting and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), respectively. Downstream molecules affected by TGF-β1 were examined by western blotting. In vivo, mice with bleomycin-induced PF were treated with TMF, and lung tissues were analyzed with staining techniques. RESULTS The in vitro results showed that TMF had no significant impact on cell growth or migration. However, it effectively inhibited myofibroblast activation and ECM production induced by TGF-β1 in NIH-3T3 cells. This inhibition was achieved by suppressing various signaling pathways, including Smad, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT (PI3K/AKT), and WNT/β-catenin. The in vivo experiments demonstrated the therapeutic potential of TMF in reducing PF induced by bleomycin in mice, and there was no significant liver or kidney toxicity observed. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that TMF has the potential to effectively inhibit myofibroblast activation and could be a promising treatment for PF. TMF achieves this inhibitory effect by targeting TGF-β1/Smad and non-Smad pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Chien Cheng
- Doctoral Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Rong Hsing Translational Medicine Research Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Pei Ying Chen
- Doctoral Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Rong Hsing Translational Medicine Research Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Yu-Kang Chang
- Department of Medical Research, Tungs' Taichung MetroHarbor Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Postbaccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Kok-Tong Tan
- Department of Surgery, Tungs' Taichung Metro Harbor Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tim C C Lin
- Doctoral Program in Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
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Rajalekshmi R, Agrawal DK. Understanding Fibrous Tissue in the Effective Healing of Rotator Cuff Injury. JOURNAL OF SURGERY AND RESEARCH 2024; 7:215-228. [PMID: 38872898 PMCID: PMC11174978 DOI: 10.26502/jsr.10020363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
The rotator cuff is a crucial group of muscles and tendons in the shoulder complex that plays a significant role in the stabilization of the glenohumeral joint and enabling a wide range of motion. Rotator cuff tendon tears can occur due to sudden injuries or degenerative processes that develop gradually over time, whether they are partial or full thickness. These injuries are common causes of shoulder pain and functional impairment, and their complex nature highlights the essential role of the rotator cuff in shoulder function. Scar formation is a crucial aspect of the healing process initiated following a rotator cuff tendon tear, but excessive fibrous tissue development can potentially lead to stiffness, discomfort, and movement limitations. Age is a critical risk factor, with the prevalence of these tears increasing among older individuals. This comprehensive review aims to delve deeper into the anatomy and injury mechanisms of the rotator cuff. Furthermore, it will inspect the signaling pathways involved in fibrous tissue development, evaluate the various factors affecting the healing environment, and discuss proactive measures aimed at reducing excessive fibrous tissue formation. Lastly, this review identifed gaps within existing knowledge to advance methods for better management of rotator cuff tendon injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Resmi Rajalekshmi
- Department of Translational Research, College of the Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California USA
| | - Devendra K Agrawal
- Department of Translational Research, College of the Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California USA
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Jimenez SA, Piera-Velazquez S. Cellular Transdifferentiation: A Crucial Mechanism of Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis. Curr Rheumatol Rev 2024; 20:388-404. [PMID: 37921216 DOI: 10.2174/0115733971261932231025045400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is a systemic autoimmune disease of unknown etiology with a highly complex pathogenesis that despite extensive investigation is not completely understood. The clinical and pathologic manifestations of the disease result from three distinct processes: 1) Severe and frequently progressive tissue fibrosis causing exaggerated and deleterious accumulation of interstitial collagens and other extracellular matrix molecules in the skin and various internal organs; 2) extensive fibroproliferative vascular lesions affecting small arteries and arterioles causing tissue ischemic alterations; and 3) cellular and humoral immunity abnormalities with the production of numerous autoantibodies, some with very high specificity for SSc. The fibrotic process in SSc is one of the main causes of disability and high mortality of the disease. Owing to its essentially universal presence and the severity of its clinical effects, the mechanisms involved in the development and progression of tissue fibrosis have been extensively investigated, however, despite intensive investigation, the precise molecular mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Several recent studies have suggested that cellular transdifferentiation resulting in the phenotypic conversion of various cell types into activated myofibroblasts may be one important mechanism. Here, we review the potential role that cellular transdifferentiation may play in the development of severe and often progressive tissue fibrosis in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A Jimenez
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia 19107, USA
| | - Sonsoles Piera-Velazquez
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology, Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia 19107, USA
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4
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Zhang Y, Maskan Bermudez N, Sa B, Maderal AD, Jimenez JJ. Epigenetic mechanisms driving the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis and dermatomyositis. Exp Dermatol 2024; 33:e14986. [PMID: 38059632 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune connective tissue disorders, including systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis (SSc) and dermatomyositis (DM), often manifest with debilitating cutaneous lesions and can result in systemic organ damage that may be life-threatening. Despite recent therapeutic advancements, many patients still experience low rates of sustained remission and significant treatment toxicity. While genetic predisposition plays a role in these connective tissue disorders, the relatively low concordance rates among monozygotic twins (ranging from approximately 4% for SSc to about 11%-50% for SLE) have prompted increased scrutiny of the epigenetic factors contributing to these diseases. In this review, we explore some seminal studies and key findings to provide a comprehensive understanding of how dysregulated epigenetic mechanisms can contribute to the development of SLE, SSc and DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusheng Zhang
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Narges Maskan Bermudez
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Brianna Sa
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Andrea D Maderal
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Joaquin J Jimenez
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
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Goto A, Komura S, Kato K, Maki R, Hirakawa A, Tomita H, Hirata A, Yamada Y, Akiyama H. C-X-C domain ligand 14-mediated stromal cell-macrophage interaction as a therapeutic target for hand dermal fibrosis. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1173. [PMID: 37980373 PMCID: PMC10657354 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05558-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Dupuytren's contracture, a superficial dermal fibrosis, causes flexion contracture of the affected finger, impairing hand function. Specific single-nucleotide polymorphisms within genes in the Wnt signalling pathway are associated with the disease. However, the precise role of Wnt signalling dysregulation in the onset and progression of Dupuytren's contracture remains unclear. Here, using a fibrosis mouse model and clinical samples of human Dupuytren's contractures, we demonstrate that the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signalling in Tppp3-positive cells in the dermis of the paw is associated with the development of fibrosis. Fibrosis development and progression via Wnt/β-catenin signalling are closely related to stromal cell-macrophage interactions, and Wnt/β-catenin signalling activation in Tppp3-positive stromal cells causes M2 macrophage infiltration via chemokine Cxcl14, resulting in the formation of a TGF-β-expressing fibrotic niche. Inhibition of Cxcl14 mitigates fibrosis by decreasing macrophage infiltration. These findings suggest that Cxcl14-mediated stromal cell-macrophage interaction is a promising therapeutic target for Wnt/β-catenin-induced fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Goto
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
| | - Shingo Komura
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan.
| | - Koki Kato
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
| | - Rie Maki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
| | - Akihiro Hirakawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Tomita
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
| | - Akihiro Hirata
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Joint Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Yamada
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Akiyama
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
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Odell ID, Agrawal K, Sefik E, Odell AV, Caves E, Kirkiles-Smith NC, Horsley V, Hinchcliff M, Pober JS, Kluger Y, Flavell RA. IL-6 trans-signaling in a humanized mouse model of scleroderma. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2306965120. [PMID: 37669366 PMCID: PMC10500188 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2306965120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is regulated by interactions between immune and mesenchymal cells. However, the capacity of cell types to modulate human fibrosis pathology is poorly understood due to lack of a fully humanized model system. MISTRG6 mice were engineered by homologous mouse/human gene replacement to develop an immune system like humans when engrafted with human hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). We utilized MISTRG6 mice to model scleroderma by transplantation of healthy or scleroderma skin from a patient with pansclerotic morphea to humanized mice engrafted with unmatched allogeneic HSC. We identified that scleroderma skin grafts contained both skin and bone marrow-derived human CD4 and CD8 T cells along with human endothelial cells and pericytes. Unlike healthy skin, fibroblasts in scleroderma skin were depleted and replaced by mouse fibroblasts. Furthermore, HSC engraftment alleviated multiple signatures of fibrosis, including expression of collagen and interferon genes, and proliferation and activation of human T cells. Fibrosis improvement correlated with reduced markers of T cell activation and expression of human IL-6 by mesenchymal cells. Mechanistic studies supported a model whereby IL-6 trans-signaling driven by CD4 T cell-derived soluble IL-6 receptor complexed with fibroblast-derived IL-6 promoted excess extracellular matrix gene expression. Thus, MISTRG6 mice transplanted with scleroderma skin demonstrated multiple fibrotic responses centered around human IL-6 signaling, which was improved by the presence of healthy bone marrow-derived immune cells. Our results highlight the importance of IL-6 trans-signaling in pathogenesis of scleroderma and the ability of healthy bone marrow-derived immune cells to mitigate disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian D. Odell
- Department of Dermatology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Kriti Agrawal
- Program in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Yale University, New Haven, CT06511
- Program in Applied Mathematics, Yale University, New Haven, CT06511
| | - Esen Sefik
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Anahi V. Odell
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Elizabeth Caves
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT06520
| | | | - Valerie Horsley
- Department of Dermatology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Monique Hinchcliff
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
| | - Jordan S. Pober
- Department of Dermatology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- Department of Pathology, Yale University, New Haven, CT06511
| | - Yuval Kluger
- Program in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Yale University, New Haven, CT06511
- Program in Applied Mathematics, Yale University, New Haven, CT06511
- Department of Pathology, Yale University, New Haven, CT06511
| | - Richard A. Flavell
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06520
- HHMI, Chevy Chase, MD20815
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Spasovski V, Andjelkovic M, Parezanovic M, Komazec J, Ugrin M, Klaassen K, Stojiljkovic M. The Role of Autophagy and Apoptosis in Affected Skin and Lungs in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11212. [PMID: 37446389 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex autoimmune inflammatory disorder with multiple organ involvement. Skin changes present the hallmark of SSc and coincide with poor prognosis. Interstitial lung diseases (ILD) are the most widely reported complications in SSc patients and the primary cause of death. It has been proposed that the processes of autophagy and apoptosis could play a significant role in the pathogenesis and clinical course of different autoimmune diseases, and accordingly in SSc. In this manuscript, we review the current knowledge of autophagy and apoptosis processes in the skin and lungs of patients with SSc. Profiling of markers involved in these processes in skin cells can be useful to recognize the stage of fibrosis and can be used in the clinical stratification of patients. Furthermore, the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes enables the repurposing of already known drugs and the development of new biological therapeutics that aim to reverse fibrosis by promoting apoptosis and regulate autophagy in personalized treatment approach. In SSc-ILD patients, the molecular signature of the lung tissues of each patient could be a distinctive criterion in order to establish the correct lung pattern, which directly impacts the course and prognosis of the disease. In this case, resolving the role of tissue-specific markers, which could be detected in the circulation using sensitive molecular methods, would be an important step toward development of non-invasive diagnostic procedures that enable early and precise diagnosis and preventing the high mortality of this rare disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vesna Spasovski
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marina Andjelkovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marina Parezanovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jovana Komazec
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milena Ugrin
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Kristel Klaassen
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Maja Stojiljkovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia
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Xie Y, Zhao H, Luo H, Zuo X, Li Q, Liu S. Genome-wide DNA methylation and transcriptome expression profiles of peripheral blood mononuclear cells in patients with systemic sclerosis with interstitial lung disease. ZHONG NAN DA XUE XUE BAO. YI XUE BAN = JOURNAL OF CENTRAL SOUTH UNIVERSITY. MEDICAL SCIENCES 2023; 48:829-836. [PMID: 37587067 PMCID: PMC10930437 DOI: 10.11817/j.issn.1672-7347.2023.220538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to investigate the genome-wide DNA methylation and transcriptome expression profiles of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) with interstitial lung disease (ILD), and to analyze the effects of DNA methylation on Wnt/β-catenin and chemokine signaling pathways. METHODS PBMCs were collected from 19 patients with SSc (SSc group) and 18 healthy persons (control group). Among SSc patients, there were 10 patients with ILD (SSc with ILD subgroup) and 9 patients without ILD (SSc without ILD subgroup). The genome-wide DNA methylation and gene expression level were analyzed by using Illumina 450K methylation chip and Illumina HT-12 v4.0 gene expression profiling chip. The effect of DNA methylation on Wnt/β-catenin and chemokine signal pathways was investigated. RESULTS Genome-wide DNA methylation analysis identified 71 hypermethylated CpG sites and 98 hypomethylated CpG sites in the SSc with ILD subgroup compared with the SSc without ILD subgroup. Transcriptome analysis distinguished 164 upregulated genes and 191 downregulated genes in the SSc with ILD subgroup as compared with the SSc without ILD subgroup. In PBMCs of the SSc group, 35 genes in Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway were hypomethylated, while frizzled-1 (FZD1), mitogen-activated protein kinase 9 (MAPK9), mothers against DPP homolog 2 (SMAD2), transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2), and wingless-type MMTV integration site family, member 5B (WNT5B) mRNA expressions were upregulated as compared with the control group (all P<0.05). Compared with the SSc without ILD subgroup, the mRNA expressions of dickkopf homolog 2 (DKK2), FZD1, MAPK9 were upregulated in the SSc with ILD subgroup, but the differences were not statistically significant (all P>0.05). In PBMCs of the SSc group, 38 genes in chemokine signaling pathway were hypomethylated, while β-arrestin 1 (ARRB1), C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL10), C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 16 (CXCL16), FGR, and neutrophil cytosolic factor 1C (NCF1C) mRNA expressions were upregulated as compared with the control group (all P<0.05). Compared with the SSc without ILD subgroup, the mRNA expressions of ARRB1, CXCL10, CXCL16 were upregulated in the SSc with ILD subgroup, but the differences were not statistically significant (all P>0.05). CONCLUSIONS There are differences in DNA methylation and transcriptome profiles between SSc with ILD and SSc without ILD. The expression levels of multiple genes in Wnt/β- catenin and chemokine signaling pathways are upregulated, which might be associatea with the pathogenesis of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Xie
- Department of Rheumatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China.
| | - Hongjun Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Hui Luo
- Department of Rheumatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Xiaoxia Zuo
- Department of Rheumatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Quanzhen Li
- Department of Immunology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
| | - Sijia Liu
- Department of Rheumatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China.
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Zhao K, Kong C, Shi N, Jiang J, Li P. Potential angiogenic, immunomodulatory, and antifibrotic effects of mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles in systemic sclerosis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1125257. [PMID: 37251412 PMCID: PMC10213547 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1125257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an intricate systemic autoimmune disease with pathological features such as vascular injury, immune dysregulation, and extensive fibrosis of the skin and multiple organs. Treatment options are limited; however, recently, mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) have been acknowledged in preclinical and clinical trials as being useful in treating autoimmune diseases and are likely superior to MSCs alone. Recent research has also shown that MSC-EVs can ameliorate SSc and the pathological changes in vasculopathy, immune dysfunction, and fibrosis. This review summarizes the therapeutic effects of MSC-EVs on SSc and the mechanisms that have been discovered to provide a theoretical basis for future studies on the role of MSC-EVs in treating SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelin Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chenfei Kong
- Scientific Research Center, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Naixu Shi
- Department of Stomatology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jinlan Jiang
- Scientific Research Center, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Mouawad JE, Sharma S, Renaud L, Pilewski JM, Nadig SN, Feghali-Bostwick C. Reduced Cathepsin L expression and secretion into the extracellular milieu contribute to lung fibrosis in systemic sclerosis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2023; 62:1306-1316. [PMID: 35900152 PMCID: PMC10167927 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keac411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Lung fibrosis is the leading cause of death in SSc, with no cure currently available. Antifibrotic Endostatin (ES) production does not reach therapeutic levels in SSc patients, suggesting a deficit in its release from Collagen XVIII by the main cleavage enzyme, Cathepsin L (CTSL). Thus, elucidating a potential deficit in CTSL expression and activity unravels an underlying molecular cause for SSc-driven lung fibrosis. METHODS Fibrosis was induced experimentally using TGF-β in vitro, in primary human lung fibroblasts (pLFs), and ex vivo, in human lung tissues. ES and CTSL expression was quantified using ELISA, RT-qPCR, immunoblotting or immunofluorescence. Recombinant NC1-FLAG peptide was used to assess CTSL cleavage activity. CTSL expression was also compared between SSc vs normal (NL)-derived pLFs and lung tissues. RESULTS ES levels were significantly reduced in media conditioned by TGF-β-induced pLFs. TGF-β-stimulated pLFs significantly reduced expression and secretion of CTSL into the extracellular matrix (ECM). CTSL was also sequestered in its inactive form into extracellular vesicles, further reducing its availability in the ECM. Media conditioned by TGF-β-induced pLFs showed reduced cleavage of NC1-Flag and reduced release of the antifibrotic ES fragment. SSc-derived pLFs and lung tissues expressed significantly lower levels of CTSL compared with NL. CONCLUSIONS Our findings identify CTSL as a protein protective against lung fibrosis via its activation of antifibrotic ES, and whose expression in SSc pLFs and lung tissues is suppressed. Identifying strategies to boost CTSL endogenous levels in SSc patients could serve as a viable therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe E Mouawad
- Division of Rheumatology & Immunology, Department of Medicine
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Shailza Sharma
- Division of Rheumatology & Immunology, Department of Medicine
| | - Ludivine Renaud
- Division of Rheumatology & Immunology, Department of Medicine
| | - Joseph M Pilewski
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy & Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Satish N Nadig
- Division of Organ Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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Distler JHW, Riemekasten G, Denton CP. The Exciting Future for Scleroderma. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2023; 49:445-462. [PMID: 37028846 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2023.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Emerging evidence shows that a complex interplay between cells and mediators and extracellular matrix factors may underlie the development and persistence of fibrosis in systemic sclerosis. Similar processes may determine vasculopathy. This article reviews recent progress in understanding how fibrosis becomes profibrotic and how the immune system, vascular, and mesenchymal compartment affect disease development. Early phase trials are informing about pathogenic mechanisms in vivo and reverse translation for observational and randomized trials is allowing hypotheses to be developed and tested. In addition to repurposing already available drugs, these studies are paving the way for the next generation of targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 - Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Gabriela Riemekasten
- Department of Rheumatology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, Lübeck 23562, Germany
| | - Christopher P Denton
- Division of Medicine, Department of Inflammation, Centre for Rheumatology, University College London, London, UK.
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Renaud L, Waldrep KM, da Silveira WA, Pilewski JM, Feghali-Bostwick CA. First Characterization of the Transcriptome of Lung Fibroblasts of SSc Patients and Healthy Donors of African Ancestry. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:3645. [PMID: 36835058 PMCID: PMC9966000 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disorder that results in fibrosis of the skin and visceral organs. SSc-associated pulmonary fibrosis (SSc-PF) is the leading cause of death amongst SSc patients. Racial disparity is noted in SSc as African Americans (AA) have a higher frequency and severity of disease than European Americans (EA). Using RNAseq, we determined differentially expressed genes (DEGs; q < 0.1, log2FC > |0.6|) in primary pulmonary fibroblasts from SSc lungs (SScL) and normal lungs (NL) of AA and EA patients to characterize the unique transcriptomic signatures of AA-NL and AA-SScL fibroblasts using systems-level analysis. We identified 69 DEGs in "AA-NL vs. EA-NL" and 384 DEGs in "AA-SScL vs. EA-SScL" analyses, and a comparison of disease mechanisms revealed that only 7.5% of DEGs were commonly deregulated in AA and EA patients. Surprisingly, we also identified an SSc-like signature in AA-NL fibroblasts. Our data highlight differences in disease mechanisms between AA and EA SScL fibroblasts and suggest that AA-NL fibroblasts are in a "pre-fibrosis" state, poised to respond to potential fibrotic triggers. The DEGs and pathways identified in our study provide a wealth of novel targets to better understand disease mechanisms leading to racial disparity in SSc-PF and develop more effective and personalized therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludivine Renaud
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Kristy M. Waldrep
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Willian A. da Silveira
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Education, Staffordshire University, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 2DF, UK
| | - Joseph M. Pilewski
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Carol A. Feghali-Bostwick
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
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13
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Chairta PP, Nicolaou P, Christodoulou K. Enrichr in silico analysis of MS-based extracted candidate proteomic biomarkers highlights pathogenic pathways in systemic sclerosis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:1934. [PMID: 36732374 PMCID: PMC9894849 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29054-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rheumatic disease characterised by vasculopathy, inflammation and fibrosis. Its aetiopathogenesis is still unknown, and the pathways/mechanisms of the disease are not clarified. This study aimed to perform in silico analysis of the already Mass Spectrometry (MS)-based discovered biomarkers of SSc to extract possible pathways/mechanisms implicated in the disease. We recorded all published candidate MS-based found biomarkers related to SSc. We then selected a number of the candidate biomarkers using specific criteria and performed pathway and cellular component analyses using Enrichr. We used PANTHER and STRING to assess the biological processes and the interactions of the recorded proteins, respectively. Pathway analysis extracted several pathways that are associated with the three different stages of SSc pathogenesis. Some of these pathways are also related to other diseases, including autoimmune diseases. We observe that these biomarkers are located in several cellular components and implicated in many biological processes. STRING analysis showed that some proteins interact, creating significant clusters, while others do not display any evidence of an interaction. All these data highlight the complexity of SSc, and further investigation of the extracted pathways/biological processes and interactions may help study the disease from a different angle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paraskevi P Chairta
- Neurogenetics Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, 2371, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Paschalis Nicolaou
- Neurogenetics Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, 2371, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Kyproula Christodoulou
- Neurogenetics Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, 2371, Nicosia, Cyprus.
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14
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Feng R, Wan J, He Y, Gong H, Xu Z, Feng J. Angiotensin-receptor blocker losartan alleviates atrial fibrillation in rats by downregulating frizzled 8 and inhibiting the activation of WNT-5A pathway. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2023; 50:19-27. [PMID: 36047789 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13715] [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: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia. Angiotensin-receptor blocker (ARB) is related to AF treatment. This study explored the mechanism of ARB in AF. AF rat models were established by Ach-CaCl2 mixed solution injection. Rats were treated with ARB by gavage and injected with pcDNA3.1-based frizzled homolog 8 (FZD8) overexpression plasmids (oe-FZD8) through the tail vein. The 12-lead electrocardiogram was recorded by biological signal acquisition and processing system and AF duration was recorded, and atrial effective refractory period (AERP) was monitored by electrophysiology. Atrial fibrosis degree, FZD8 messenger RNA and protein levels, collagen I, collagen III, transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), fibronectin, α smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), WBT-5B, and p-JNK1/2 levels, interleukin 1 β (IL-1β) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels were detected by Masson staining, reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blot assay, immunohistochemistry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. ACh-CaCl2-induced AF rats showed a large area of fused necrosis, abnormal collagen fibre proliferation, high atrial fibrosis degree, and increased atrial fibrosis area in atrial interstitium, elevated collagen I, collagen III, TGF-β1, fibronectin, α-SMA, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels, whereas these trends were averted by ARB treatment. FZD8 was highly expressed in AF rat myocardium. ARB repressed FZD8 expression, prolonged AERP and reduced AF incidence. FZD8 overexpression annulled the effects of ARB on improving AF rat myocardial fibrosis. ARB inactivated the WNT-5A pathway by suppressing FZD8. ARB inactivated the WNT-5A pathway by silencing FZD8, therefore, alleviating AF rat atrial fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronghua Feng
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Jinjie Wan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Yongsheng He
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Hui Gong
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Zeqin Xu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Jiugeng Feng
- Department of Postgraduate, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, China
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15
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Kim CW, Yoon Y, Kim MY, Baik SK, Ryu H, Park IH, Eom YW. 12- O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate Reduces Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells by Inhibiting the Hippo Pathway Transcriptional Coactivator YAP. Cells 2022; 12:cells12010091. [PMID: 36611885 PMCID: PMC9818550 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Although protein kinase C (PKC) regulates various biological activities, including cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, tissue remodeling, gene expression, and cell death, the antifibrotic effect of PKC in myofibroblasts is not fully understood. We investigated whether 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), a PKC activator, reduced the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and explored the involvement of the Hippo pathway transcriptional coactivator YAP. We analyzed the effect of TPA on the proliferation and expression of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) in the LX-2 HSC line. We also analyzed the phosphorylation of the Hippo pathway molecules YAP and LATS1 and investigated YAP nuclear translocation. We examined whether Gö 6983, a pan-PKC inhibitor, restored the TPA-inhibited activities of HSCs. Administration of TPA decreased the growth rate of LX-2 cells and inhibited the expression of α-SMA and collagen type I alpha 1 (COL1A1). In addition, TPA induced phosphorylation of PKCδ, LATS1, and YAP and inhibited the nuclear translocation of YAP compared with the control. These TPA-induced phenomena were mostly ameliorated by Gö 6983. Our results indicate that PKCδ exerts an antifibrotic effect by inhibiting the Hippo pathway in HSCs. Therefore, PKCδ and YAP can be used as therapeutic targets for the treatment of fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Wan Kim
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongdae Yoon
- Regeneration Medicine Research Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon Young Kim
- Regeneration Medicine Research Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Soon Koo Baik
- Regeneration Medicine Research Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoon Ryu
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
| | - Il Hwan Park
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (I.H.P.); (Y.W.E.); Tel.: +82-33-741-0260 (Y.W.E.)
| | - Young Woo Eom
- Regeneration Medicine Research Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju 26426, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (I.H.P.); (Y.W.E.); Tel.: +82-33-741-0260 (Y.W.E.)
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16
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Odell ID, Steach H, Gauld SB, Reinke-Breen L, Karman J, Carr TL, Wetter JB, Phillips L, Hinchcliff M, Flavell RA. Epiregulin is a dendritic cell-derived EGFR ligand that maintains skin and lung fibrosis. Sci Immunol 2022; 7:eabq6691. [PMID: 36490328 PMCID: PMC9840167 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.abq6691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Immune cells are fundamental regulators of extracellular matrix (ECM) production by fibroblasts and have important roles in determining extent of fibrosis in response to inflammation. Although much is known about fibroblast signaling in fibrosis, the molecular signals between immune cells and fibroblasts that drive its persistence are poorly understood. We therefore analyzed skin and lung samples of patients with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis, an autoimmune disease that causes debilitating fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Here, we define a critical role of epiregulin-EGFR signaling between dendritic cells and fibroblasts to maintain elevated ECM production and accumulation in fibrotic tissue. We found that epiregulin expression marks an inducible state of DC3 dendritic cells triggered by type I interferon and that DC3-derived epiregulin activates EGFR on fibroblasts, driving a positive feedback loop through NOTCH signaling. In mouse models of skin and lung fibrosis, epiregulin was essential for persistence of fibrosis in both tissues, which could be abrogated by epiregulin genetic deficiency or a neutralizing antibody. Therapeutic administration of epiregulin antibody reversed fibrosis in patient skin and lung explants, identifying it as a previously unexplored biologic drug target. Our findings reveal epiregulin as a crucial immune signal that maintains skin and lung fibrosis in multiple diseases and represents a promising antifibrotic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian D. Odell
- Department of Dermatology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Holly Steach
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Monique Hinchcliff
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, Allergy & Immunology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Richard A. Flavell
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
- Correspondence to: , Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, 300 Cedar Street, TAC S-569, Post Office Box 208011, New Haven, CT 06520-8011
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17
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Heim X, Bermudez J, Joshkon A, Kaspi E, Bachelier R, Nollet M, Vélier M, Dou L, Brodovitch A, Foucault-Bertaud A, Leroyer AS, Benyamine A, Daumas A, Granel B, Sabatier F, Dignat-George F, Blot-Chabaud M, Bardin N. CD146 at the Interface between Oxidative Stress and the Wnt Signaling Pathway in Systemic Sclerosis. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 142:3200-3210.e5. [PMID: 35690141 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2022.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
CD146 involvement was recently described in skin fibrosis of systemic sclerosis through its regulation of the Wnt pathway. Because the interaction between Wnt and ROS signaling plays a major role in fibrosis, we hypothesized that in systemic sclerosis, CD146 may regulate Wnt/ROS crosstalk. Using a transcriptomic and western blot analysis performed on CD146 wild-type or knockout mouse embryonic fibroblasts, we showed a procanonical Wnt hallmark in the absence of CD146 that is reversed when CD146 expression is restored. We found an elevated ROS content in knockout cells and an increase in DNA oxidative damage in the skin sections of knockout mice compared with those of wild-type mice. We also showed that ROS increased CD146 and its noncanonical Wnt ligand, WNT5A, only in wild-type cells. In humans, fibroblasts from patients with systemic sclerosis presented higher ROS content and expressed CD146, whereas control fibroblasts did not. Moreover, CD146 and its ligand were upregulated by ROS in both human fibroblasts. The increase in bleomycin-induced WNT5A expression was abrogated when CD146 was silenced. We showed an interplay between Wnt and ROS signaling in systemic sclerosis, regulated by CD146, which promotes the noncanonical Wnt pathway and prevents ROS signaling, opening the way for innovative therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Heim
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, INRAE, C2VN, Marseille, France; Service d'immunologie, Biogénopôle, Hôpital de la Timone, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Marseille, France.
| | | | - Ahmad Joshkon
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, INRAE, C2VN, Marseille, France
| | - Elise Kaspi
- Aix Marseille University, APHM, INSERM, MMG, Hôpital la Timone, Service de Biologie Cellulaire, Marseille, France
| | | | - Marie Nollet
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, INRAE, C2VN, Marseille, France
| | - Mélanie Vélier
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, INRAE, C2VN, Marseille, France; Hematology and Vascular Biology Department, Hopital de la Conception, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Marseille, France
| | - Laetitia Dou
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, INRAE, C2VN, Marseille, France
| | - Alexandre Brodovitch
- Service d'immunologie, Biogénopôle, Hôpital de la Timone, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Marseille, France
| | | | | | - Audrey Benyamine
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, INRAE, C2VN, Marseille, France; Internal Medicine Department, Hopital Nord, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Marseille, France
| | - Aurélie Daumas
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, INRAE, C2VN, Marseille, France; Internal Medicine, Geriatric and Therapeutic Department, Hopital de la Timone, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Marseille, France
| | - Brigitte Granel
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, INRAE, C2VN, Marseille, France; Internal Medicine Department, Hopital Nord, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Marseille, France
| | - Florence Sabatier
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, INRAE, C2VN, Marseille, France; Cell Therapy Laboratory, INSERM CIC BT 1409, Hôpital de la Conception, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Marseille, France
| | - Françoise Dignat-George
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, INRAE, C2VN, Marseille, France; Hematology and Vascular Biology Department, Hopital de la Conception, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Marseille, France
| | | | - Nathalie Bardin
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, INRAE, C2VN, Marseille, France; Service d'immunologie, Biogénopôle, Hôpital de la Timone, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Marseille, France
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18
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Tao SS, Cao F, Sam NB, Li HM, Feng YT, Ni J, Wang P, Li XM, Pan HF. Dickkopf-1 as a promising therapeutic target for autoimmune diseases. Clin Immunol 2022; 245:109156. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2022.109156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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19
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Wang W, Bale S, Wei J, Yalavarthi B, Bhattacharyya D, Yan JJ, Abdala-Valencia H, Xu D, Sun H, Marangoni RG, Herzog E, Berdnikovs S, Miller SD, Sawalha AH, Tsou PS, Awaji K, Yamashita T, Sato S, Asano Y, Tiruppathi C, Yeldandi A, Schock BC, Bhattacharyya S, Varga J. Fibroblast A20 governs fibrosis susceptibility and its repression by DREAM promotes fibrosis in multiple organs. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6358. [PMID: 36289219 PMCID: PMC9606375 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-33767-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In addition to autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, variants of the TNFAIP3 gene encoding the ubiquitin-editing enzyme A20 are also associated with fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc). However, it remains unclear how genetic factors contribute to SSc pathogenesis, and which cell types drive the disease due to SSc-specific genetic alterations. We therefore characterize the expression, function, and role of A20, and its negative transcriptional regulator DREAM, in patients with SSc and disease models. Levels of A20 are significantly reduced in SSc skin and lungs, while DREAM is elevated. In isolated fibroblasts, A20 mitigates ex vivo profibrotic responses. Mice haploinsufficient for A20, or harboring fibroblasts-specific A20 deletion, recapitulate major pathological features of SSc, whereas DREAM-null mice with elevated A20 expression are protected. In DREAM-null fibroblasts, TGF-β induces the expression of A20, compared to wild-type fibroblasts. An anti-fibrotic small molecule targeting cellular adiponectin receptors stimulates A20 expression in vitro in wild-type but not A20-deficient fibroblasts and in bleomycin-treated mice. Thus, A20 has a novel cell-intrinsic function in restraining fibroblast activation, and together with DREAM, constitutes a critical regulatory network governing the fibrotic process in SSc. A20 and DREAM represent novel druggable targets for fibrosis therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxia Wang
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Swarna Bale
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Michigan Scleroderma Program, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Jun Wei
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Bharath Yalavarthi
- Michigan Scleroderma Program, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Dibyendu Bhattacharyya
- Michigan Scleroderma Program, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Jing Jing Yan
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Hiam Abdala-Valencia
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Dan Xu
- Department of Microbiology-Immunology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Hanshi Sun
- Michigan Scleroderma Program, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Roberta G Marangoni
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Erica Herzog
- Department of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sergejs Berdnikovs
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Stephen D Miller
- Department of Microbiology-Immunology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Amr H Sawalha
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Pei-Suen Tsou
- Michigan Scleroderma Program, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Kentaro Awaji
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Takashi Yamashita
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Shinichi Sato
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Yoshihide Asano
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Chinnaswamy Tiruppathi
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Lung and Vascular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Anjana Yeldandi
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Bettina C Schock
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Swati Bhattacharyya
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Michigan Scleroderma Program, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - John Varga
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Michigan Scleroderma Program, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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20
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Kletukhina S, Mutallapova G, Titova A, Gomzikova M. Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Extracellular Vesicles in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911212. [PMID: 36232511 PMCID: PMC9569825 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive interstitial fibrotic disease that leads to disability and death within 5 years of diagnosis. Pulmonary fibrosis is a disease with a multifactorial etiology. The concept of aberrant regeneration of the pulmonary epithelium reveals the pathogenesis of IPF, according to which repeated damage and death of alveolar epithelial cells is the main mechanism leading to the development of progressive IPF. Cell death provokes the migration, proliferation and activation of fibroblasts, which overproduce extracellular matrix, resulting in fibrotic deformity of the lung tissue. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and extracellular vesicles (EVs) are promising therapies for pulmonary fibrosis. MSCs, and EVs derived from MSCs, modulate the activity of immune cells, inhibit the expression of profibrotic genes, reduce collagen deposition and promote the repair of damaged lung tissue. This review considers the molecular mechanisms of the development of IPF and the multifaceted role of MSCs in the therapy of IPF. Currently, EVs-MSCs are regarded as a promising cell-free therapy tool, so in this review we discuss the results available to date of the use of EVs-MSCs for lung tissue repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevindzh Kletukhina
- Laboratory of Intercellular Communication, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
| | - Guzel Mutallapova
- Laboratory of Intercellular Communication, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
| | - Angelina Titova
- Morphology and General Pathology Department, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
| | - Marina Gomzikova
- Laboratory of Intercellular Communication, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-917-8572269
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21
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Jin W, Zheng Y, Zhu P. T cell abnormalities in systemic sclerosis. Autoimmun Rev 2022; 21:103185. [PMID: 36031049 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2022.103185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease with a poor prognosis. To date, the pathogenesis of SSc is still unclear; moreover, its pathological conditions include microvascular damage, inflammation, and immune abnormalities. Different types of T cells may cause vasculitis and fibrosis in SSc by means of up- and down-regulation of cell surface molecules, abnormal release of pro-fibrotic or pro-inflammatory cytokines and direct contact with fibroblasts. These T cells, which are mainly CD4 + T cells, include the subtypes, T follicular helper (Tfh) cells, regulatory T Cells (Treg), interleukin-17 (IL-17)-producing Th17 cells, CD4+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), and angiogenic T (Tang) cells. In addition to the Th1/Th2 imbalance, which has long been established, there is also a Th17/Treg imbalance in SSc. This imbalance may be closely related to the abnormal immune status of SSc. There is mounting evidence that suggest T cell abnormalities may be crucial to the pathogenesis of SSc. In terms of treatment, existing therapies that target T cells, such as immunosuppressive therapy (tacrolimus), Janus kinase(JAK) inhibitors, and biologics(abatacept), have had some success. Other non-drug therapies, including Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), have extensive and complex mechanisms of action actually including T cell regulation. Based on the current evidence, we believe that the study of T cells will further our understanding of the pathogenesis of SSc, and may lead to more targeted treatment optionsfor patients with SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Jin
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Yan Zheng
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China; National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Ping Zhu
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China; National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine, Xi'an, PR China.
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22
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Riemekasten G, Distler JH. A broad look into the future of systemic sclerosis. Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis 2022; 14:1759720X221109404. [PMID: 35966183 PMCID: PMC9373175 DOI: 10.1177/1759720x221109404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a systemic autoimmune disease with the key
features of inflammation, vasculopathy and fibrosis. This article
focussed on emerging fields based on the authors’ current work and
expertise. The authors provide a hierarchical structure into the
studies of the pathogenesis of SSc starting with the contribution of
environmental factors. Regulatory autoantibodies (abs) are discussed,
which are parts of the human physiology and are specifically
dysregulated in SSc. Abs against the angiotensin II receptor subtype 1
(AT1R) and the endothelin receptor type A (ETAR) are discussed in more
detail. Extracellular vesicles are another novel player to possess
disease processes. Fibroblasts are a key effector cell in SSc.
Therefore, the current review will provide an overview about their
plasticity in the phenotype and function. Promising nuclear receptors
as key regulators of transcriptional programmes will be introduced as
well as epigenetic modifications, which are pivotal to maintain the
profibrotic fibroblast phenotype independent of external stimuli.
Fibroblasts from SSc patients exhibit a specific signalling and
reactivate developmental pathways and stem cell maintenance such as by
employing hedgehog and WNT, which promote fibroblast-to-myofibroblast
transition and extracellular matrix generation. Pharmacological
interventions, although for other indications, are already in clinical
use to address pathologic signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jörg H.W. Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3,
Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University
(FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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23
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New Insights into the Functions of MicroRNAs in Cardiac Fibrosis: From Mechanisms to Therapeutic Strategies. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13081390. [PMID: 36011301 PMCID: PMC9407613 DOI: 10.3390/genes13081390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is a significant global health problem associated with almost all types of heart disease. Extensive cardiac fibrosis reduces tissue compliance and contributes to adverse outcomes, such as cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and even heart failure. It is mainly associated with pathological myocardial remodeling, characterized by the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in cardiac parenchymal tissues. In recent years, a growing body of evidence demonstrated that microRNAs (miRNAs) have a crucial role in the pathological development of cardiac fibrosis. More than sixty miRNAs have been associated with the progression of cardiac fibrosis. In this review, we summarized potential miRNAs and miRNAs-related regulatory mechanisms for cardiac fibrosis and discussed the potential clinical application of miRNAs in cardiac fibrosis.
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24
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Takaya K, Sunohara A, Aramaki-Hattori N, Sakai S, Okabe K, Kanazawa H, Asou T, Kishi K. Role of Wnt Signaling in Mouse Fetal Skin Wound Healing. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10071536. [PMID: 35884841 PMCID: PMC9312897 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Wnt proteins secrete glycoproteins that are involved in various cellular processes to maintain homeostasis during development and adulthood. However, the expression and role of Wnt in wound healing have not been fully documented. Our previous studies have shown that, in an early-stage mouse fetus, no scarring occurred after cutaneous wounding, and complete regeneration was achieved. In this study, the expression and localization of Wnt proteins in a mouse fetal-wound-healing model and their associations with scar formation were analyzed. Wnt-related molecules were detected by in-situ hybridization, immunostaining, and real-time polymerase chain reaction. The results showed altered expression of Wnt-related molecules during the wound-healing process. Moreover, scar formation was suppressed by Wnt inhibitors, suggesting that Wnt signaling may be involved in wound healing and scar formation. Thus, regulation of Wnt signaling may be a possible mechanism to control scar formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kento Takaya
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; (A.S.); (N.A.-H.); (S.S.); (K.O.); (T.A.); (K.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-35-363-3814
| | - Ayano Sunohara
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; (A.S.); (N.A.-H.); (S.S.); (K.O.); (T.A.); (K.K.)
| | - Noriko Aramaki-Hattori
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; (A.S.); (N.A.-H.); (S.S.); (K.O.); (T.A.); (K.K.)
| | - Shigeki Sakai
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; (A.S.); (N.A.-H.); (S.S.); (K.O.); (T.A.); (K.K.)
| | - Keisuke Okabe
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; (A.S.); (N.A.-H.); (S.S.); (K.O.); (T.A.); (K.K.)
| | - Hideko Kanazawa
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Keio University, 1-5-30 Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8512, Japan;
| | - Toru Asou
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; (A.S.); (N.A.-H.); (S.S.); (K.O.); (T.A.); (K.K.)
| | - Kazuo Kishi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; (A.S.); (N.A.-H.); (S.S.); (K.O.); (T.A.); (K.K.)
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25
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Ortiz-Zapater E, Signes-Costa J, Montero P, Roger I. Lung Fibrosis and Fibrosis in the Lungs: Is It All about Myofibroblasts? Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061423. [PMID: 35740444 PMCID: PMC9220162 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In the lungs, fibrosis is a growing clinical problem that results in shortness of breath and can end up in respiratory failure. Even though the main fibrotic disease affecting the lung is idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), which affects the interstitial space, there are many fibrotic events that have high and dangerous consequences for the lungs. Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), excessive allergies, clearance of infection or COVID-19, all are frequent diseases that show lung fibrosis. In this review, we describe the different kinds of fibrosis and analyse the main types of cells involved-myofibroblasts and other cells, like macrophages-and review the main fibrotic mechanisms. Finally, we analyse present treatments for fibrosis in the lungs and highlight potential targets for anti-fibrotic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Ortiz-Zapater
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine-IIS INCLIVA, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Paula Montero
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (P.M.); (I.R.)
| | - Inés Roger
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (P.M.); (I.R.)
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre on Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Health Institute Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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26
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Ocon A, Lokineni S, Korman B. Understanding and Therapeutically Targeting the Scleroderma Myofibroblast. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN RHEUMATOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40674-021-00189-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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27
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Bobeica C, Niculet E, Musat CL, Craescu M, Stefanescu BI, Dinu C, Chiscop I, Chirobocea S, Nechita L, Iancu AV, Stefanescu V, Balan G, Stefanopol IA, Pelin AM, Tatu AL. Paraclinical Aspects in Systemic Sclerosis. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:4391-4398. [PMID: 35502184 PMCID: PMC9056056 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s355662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic inflammatory disease with an autoimmune substrate that affects the skin and a large number of internal organs. The chronic inflammatory process is sustained by a wide range of cytokines and chemokines, which are discharged by inflammatory cells, with fibrosis and nail bed vascular changes (disorganized vasculature architecture with microhemorrhages, megacapillaries and areas without capillaries). Confocal microscopy contributes to the understanding of the molecular mechanism involved in chronic inflammation and mainly targets the field of research. Coherent optical tomography, capillaroscopy, and skin biopsy are useful for the differential diagnosis of SSc with other sclerodermoid syndromes. The immunological profile is a classification criterion for SSc and directs the diagnosis to the two subsets of the disease. Multisystemic damage requires evaluation with the help of a set of investigations specific to each affected organ, such as: diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide, forced vital capacity, 6-minute walk test, high-resolution computed tomography standard and reduced sequential, cardiac ultrasound and right cardiac catheterization. The current possibilities of diagnosis, treatment and monitoring are permanently adapting to new medical discoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Bobeica
- Department of Morphological and Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați, Galati, 800008, Romania
| | - Elena Niculet
- Department of Morphological and Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați, Galati, 800008, Romania
- Multidisciplinary Integrated Center of Dermatological Interface Research MIC-DIR (Centrul Integrat Multidisciplinar de Cercetare de Interfata Dermatologica - CIM-CID), “Dunărea de Jos” University, Galați, 800008, Romania
- Correspondence: Elena Niculet; Carmina Liana Musat, Department of Morphological and Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați, 35 Alexandru Ioan Cuza Street, Galați, 800008, Romania, Tel +40741398895; +40723338438, Email ;
| | - Carmina Liana Musat
- Department of Morphological and Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați, Galati, 800008, Romania
| | - Mihaela Craescu
- Department of Morphological and Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați, Galati, 800008, Romania
| | - Bogdan Ioan Stefanescu
- Clinical Surgical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Dunărea de Jos” University, Galați, Romania
| | - Ciprian Dinu
- Dental Department, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Dunărea de Jos University, Galați, Romania
| | - Iulia Chiscop
- Clinical Surgical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Dunărea de Jos” University, Galați, Romania
| | - Silvia Chirobocea
- Department of Neurology, Municipal Emergency Hospital, Moinești, Romania
| | - Luiza Nechita
- Clinical Medical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Dunărea de Jos University, Galați, Romania
| | - Alina Viorica Iancu
- Department of Morphological and Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați, Galati, 800008, Romania
| | - Victorita Stefanescu
- Medical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Dunărea de Jos University, Galați, Romania
| | - Gabriela Balan
- Clinical Medical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Dunărea de Jos University, Galați, Romania
- Department of Gastroenterology, “Sf. Apostol Andrei” County Emergency Clinical Hospital, Galați, Romania
- Research Center in the Field of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, “Dunărea de Jos” University, Galați, Romania
| | - Ioana Anca Stefanopol
- Department of Morphological and Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați, Galati, 800008, Romania
- Department of Pediatrics, Clinical Emergency Hospital for Children “Sf. Ioan”, Galati, Romania
| | - Ana Maria Pelin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Dunărea de Jos” University, Galați, Romania
| | - Alin Laurentiu Tatu
- Multidisciplinary Integrated Center of Dermatological Interface Research MIC-DIR (Centrul Integrat Multidisciplinar de Cercetare de Interfata Dermatologica - CIM-CID), “Dunărea de Jos” University, Galați, 800008, Romania
- Clinical Medical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Dunărea de Jos University, Galați, Romania
- Dermatology Department, “Sf. Cuvioasa Parascheva” Clinical Hospital of Infectious Diseases, Galați, Romania
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28
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Czepiel M, Diviani D, Jaźwa-Kusior A, Tkacz K, Rolski F, Smolenski RT, Siedlar M, Eriksson U, Kania G, Błyszczuk P. Angiotensin II receptor 1 controls profibrotic Wnt/β-catenin signalling in experimental autoimmune myocarditis. Cardiovasc Res 2022; 118:573-584. [PMID: 33576779 PMCID: PMC8803091 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvab039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Angiotensin (Ang) II signalling has been suggested to promote cardiac fibrosis in inflammatory heart diseases; however, the underlying mechanisms remain obscure. Using Agtr1a-/- mice with genetic deletion of angiotensin receptor type 1 (ATR1) and the experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) model, we aimed to elucidate the role of Ang II-ATR1 pathway in development of heart-specific autoimmunity and post-inflammatory fibrosis. METHODS AND RESULTS EAM was induced in wild-type (WT) and Agtr1a-/- mice by subcutaneous injections with alpha myosin heavy chain peptide emulsified in complete Freund's adjuvant. Agtr1a-/- mice developed myocarditis to a similar extent as WT controls at day 21 but showed reduced fibrosis and better systolic function at day 40. Crisscross bone marrow chimaera experiments proved that ATR1 signalling in the bone marrow compartment was critical for cardiac fibrosis. Heart infiltrating, bone-marrow-derived cells produced Ang II, but lack of ATR1 in these cells reduced transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)-mediated fibrotic responses. At the molecular level, Agtr1a-/- heart-inflammatory cells showed impaired TGF-β-mediated phosphorylation of Smad2 and TAK1. In WT cells, TGF-β induced formation of RhoA-GTP and RhoA-A-kinase anchoring protein-Lbc (AKAP-Lbc) complex. In Agtr1a-/- cells, stabilization of RhoA-GTP and interaction of RhoA with AKAP-Lbc were largely impaired. Furthermore, in contrast to WT cells, Agtr1a-/- cells stimulated with TGF-β failed to activate canonical Wnt pathway indicated by suppressed activity of glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3)β and nuclear β-catenin translocation and showed reduced expression of Wnts. In line with these in vitro findings, β-catenin was detected in inflammatory regions of hearts of WT, but not Agtr1a-/- mice and expression of canonical Wnt1 and Wnt10b were lower in Agtr1a-/- hearts. CONCLUSION Ang II-ATR1 signalling is critical for development of post-inflammatory fibrotic remodelling and dilated cardiomyopathy. Our data underpin the importance of Ang II-ATR1 in effective TGF-β downstream signalling response including activation of profibrotic Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
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MESH Headings
- Angiotensin II/metabolism
- Animals
- Autoimmune Diseases/genetics
- Autoimmune Diseases/immunology
- Autoimmune Diseases/metabolism
- Autoimmune Diseases/pathology
- Autoimmunity
- CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- Cell Proliferation
- Cells, Cultured
- Disease Models, Animal
- Fibrosis
- Inflammation Mediators/metabolism
- Lymphocyte Activation
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice, Knockout
- Myocarditis/genetics
- Myocarditis/immunology
- Myocarditis/metabolism
- Myocarditis/pathology
- Myocytes, Cardiac/immunology
- Myocytes, Cardiac/metabolism
- Myocytes, Cardiac/pathology
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1/genetics
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1/metabolism
- Wnt Proteins/genetics
- Wnt Proteins/metabolism
- Wnt Signaling Pathway
- Wnt1 Protein/genetics
- Wnt1 Protein/metabolism
- beta Catenin/genetics
- beta Catenin/metabolism
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Czepiel
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, 30-663, Cracow, Poland
| | - Dario Diviani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Lausanne, Rue du Bugnon 7, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Agnieszka Jaźwa-Kusior
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387, Cracow, Poland
| | - Karolina Tkacz
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, 30-663, Cracow, Poland
| | - Filip Rolski
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, 30-663, Cracow, Poland
| | - Ryszard T Smolenski
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, M. Skłodowskiej-Curie 3a, 80-210, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Maciej Siedlar
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, 30-663, Cracow, Poland
| | - Urs Eriksson
- Cardioimmunology, Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 12, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland, GZO—Zurich Regional Health Center, Spitalstrasse 66, 8620, Wetzikon, Switzerland
| | - Gabriela Kania
- Department of Rheumatology, Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Przemysław Błyszczuk
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, 30-663, Cracow, Poland
- Department of Rheumatology, Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland
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29
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Distler JHW, O'Reilly S. Epigenetic profiling of twins identify repression of KLF4 as a novel pathomechanism in systemic sclerosis. Ann Rheum Dis 2021; 81:151-152. [PMID: 34844928 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2021-221605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University of Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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30
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Höppner J, Bruni C, Distler O, Robson SC, Burmester GR, Siegert E, Distler JHW. Purinergic signaling in systemic sclerosis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:2770-2782. [PMID: 34849624 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab859] [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: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune rheumatic disease that involves numerous organs and presents major management challenges. The histopathologic hallmarks of SSc include vasculopathy, fibrosis and autoimmune phenomena involving both innate and adaptive immune systems. Purinergic signalling is a pathway that may be implicated in the pathophysiology of several of these disease manifestations. Extracellular purines are potent signalling mediators, which have been shown to be dysregulated in SSc. As examples, purines can exacerbate vasculopathy and provoke platelet dysfunction; as well as contributing to immune dysregulation. Elements of purinergic signalling further promote organ and tissue fibrosis in several disease models. Here, we provide an overview of extracellular purine metabolism in purinergic signalling and link disorders of these to the molecular pathology of SSc. We also discuss targeting the purinergic signalling and explore the translational applications for new therapeutic options in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob Höppner
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cosimo Bruni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Careggi University Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Distler
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Simon C Robson
- Departments of Anesthesia and Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gerd R Burmester
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Elise Siegert
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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31
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Naringenin: A Promising Therapeutic Agent against Organ Fibrosis. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:1210675. [PMID: 34804359 PMCID: PMC8601819 DOI: 10.1155/2021/1210675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is the final common pathology of most chronic diseases as seen in the heart, liver, lung, kidney, and skin and contributes to nearly half of death in the developed countries. Fibrosis, or scarring, is mainly characterized by the transdifferentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts and the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) secreted by myofibroblasts. Despite immense efforts made in the field of organ fibrosis over the past decades and considerable understanding of the occurrence and development of fibrosis gained, there is still lack of an effective treatment for fibrotic diseases. Therefore, identifying a new therapeutic strategy against organ fibrosis is an unmet clinical need. Naringenin, a flavonoid that occurs naturally in citrus fruits, has been found to confer a wide range of pharmacological effects including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer benefits and thus potentially exerting preventive and curative effects on numerous diseases. In addition, emerging evidence has revealed that naringenin can prevent the pathogenesis of fibrosis in vivo and in vitro via the regulation of various pathways that involved signaling molecules such as transforming growth factor-β1/small mother against decapentaplegic protein 3 (TGF-β1/Smad3), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt), sirtuin1 (SIRT1), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), or reactive oxygen species (ROS). Targeting these profibrotic pathways by naringenin could potentially become a novel therapeutic approach for the management of fibrotic disorders. In this review, we present a comprehensive summary of the antifibrotic roles of naringenin in vivo and in vitro and their underlying mechanisms of action. As a food derived compound, naringenin may serve as a promising drug candidate for the treatment of fibrotic disorders.
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32
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Jussila AR, Zhang B, Caves E, Kirti S, Steele M, Hamburg-Shields E, Lydon J, Ying Y, Lafyatis R, Rajagopalan S, Horsley V, Atit RP. Skin Fibrosis and Recovery Is Dependent on Wnt Activation via DPP4. J Invest Dermatol 2021; 142:1597-1606.e9. [PMID: 34808238 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis is the life-threatening, excessive accumulation of the extracellular matrix and is sometimes associated with a loss of lipid-filled cells in the skin and other organs. Understanding the mechanisms of fibrosis and associated lipodystrophy and their reversal may reveal new targets for therapeutic intervention. In vivo genetic models are needed to identify key targets that induce recovery from established fibrosis. Wnt signaling is activated in animal and human fibrotic diseases across organs. Here, we developed a genetically inducible and reversible Wnt activation model and showed that it is sufficient to cause fibrotic dermal remodeling, including extracellular matrix expansion and shrinking of dermal adipocytes. Upon withdrawal from Wnt activation, Wnt-induced fibrotic remodeling was reversed in mouse skin-fully restoring skin architecture. Next, we demonstrated CD26/ DPP4 is a Wnt/β-catenin-responsive gene and a functional mediator of fibrotic transformation. We provide genetic evidence that the Wnt/DPP4 axis is required to drive fibrotic dermal remodeling and is associated with human skin fibrosis severity. Remarkably, DPP4 inhibitors can be repurposed to accelerate recovery from established Wnt-induced fibrosis. Collectively, this study identifies Wnt/DPP4 axis as a key driver of extracellular matrix homeostasis and dermal fat loss, providing therapeutic avenues to manipulate the onset and reversal of tissue fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna R Jussila
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Brian Zhang
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Elizabeth Caves
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sakin Kirti
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Miarasa Steele
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Emily Hamburg-Shields
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - John Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yan Ying
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Robert Lafyatis
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sanjay Rajagopalan
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University Hospitals Harrington Heart and Vascular Institute (HHVI), Case Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Internal Medicine and Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Valerie Horsley
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Radhika P Atit
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
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The dynamic organelle primary cilia: emerging roles in organ fibrosis. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2021; 33:495-504. [PMID: 34494608 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000000841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Primary cilia, the antenna-like organelles on most mammalian cells, host key components of multiple morphogen signal transduction pathways. Mutations in genes responsible for primary cilia assembly and function generally result in pathological conditions known as ciliopathies, which underlie several diseases, including various forms of fibrosis. Primary cilia modulate cellular responses to extracellular cues, including TGF-β and morphogens, such as Hedgehog. Aberrant morphogen signaling is recognized as essential for the transition of mesenchymal progenitor cells to myofibroblasts, the key step in fibrosis. This article aims to provide a critical overview of recent developments and insights in primary cilia biology relevant to fibrosis. RECENT FINDINGS Several studies have highlighted the association of altered primary cilia with various forms of fibrosis. In a rather complex manner, the presence of primary cilia seems to be required for initiation of myofibroblast transition, whereas its loss promotes myofibroblast transition at a later stage. Recent evidence also suggested that noncanonical functions of ciliary transport proteins may influence, such cellular transitions independently of primary cilia. The possibility of opposing signaling regulations being topologically separated between primary cilia and plasma membrane could also be critical for fibrosis. SUMMARY Recent progress in the field suggests that primary cilia are critical mediators of the pathogenesis of fibrosis. Understanding the potential role of primary cilia in fibrosis and the underlying mechanisms may pave the way for entirely new approaches for fibrosis prevention and treatment of SSc.
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Thoreau B, Chaigne B, Renaud A, Mouthon L. Pathophysiology of systemic sclerosis. Presse Med 2021; 50:104087. [PMID: 34718115 DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2021.104087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare connective tissue disease characterized by vascular remodeling, fibroblast activation and extra-cellular matrix production in excess and autoimmunity. Environmental factors including mainly silica and solvents have been assumed to contribute to the development of SSc, together with genetic factors including gene variants implicated in innate immunity such as IRF5 and STAT4, and epigenetic factors including histone post-translational modifications, DNA hypomethylation, and microRNAs or long- non coding RNAs system were reported to participate in immune activation and fibrosis processes in patients with SSc. A number of animal models of SSc have been set up over the years, including genetic and induced SSc models. These models, together with data obtained from human SSc patients, contributed to better understand the mechanisms contributing to vasculopathy and fibrosis. Alongside the pathophysiological process of SSc, several cellular and molecular actors are involved, such as dysregulations in the innate and adaptive immune cells, of the fibroblast, the implication of pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrosing signaling pathways such as the Wnt, TGF-β pathways or other cytokines, with a strong imprint of oxidative stress. The whole lead to the overactivity of the fibroblast with genetic dysregulation, apoptosis defect, hyperproduction of elements of extracellular matrix, and finally the phenomena of vasculopathy and fibrosis. These advances contribute to open new therapeutic areas through the design of biologics and small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Thoreau
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR 8104,Université de Paris, Paris, France; Service de Médecine Interne, Centre de Référence Maladies Systémiques Autoimmunes Rares d'Ile de France, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
| | - Benjamin Chaigne
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR 8104,Université de Paris, Paris, France; Service de Médecine Interne, Centre de Référence Maladies Systémiques Autoimmunes Rares d'Ile de France, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
| | - Arthur Renaud
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR 8104,Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Luc Mouthon
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR 8104,Université de Paris, Paris, France; Service de Médecine Interne, Centre de Référence Maladies Systémiques Autoimmunes Rares d'Ile de France, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France.
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Advances in epigenetics in systemic sclerosis: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2021; 17:596-607. [PMID: 34480165 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-021-00683-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a prototypical inflammatory fibrotic disease involving inflammation, vascular abnormalities and fibrosis that primarily affect the skin and lungs. The aetiology of SSc is unknown and its pathogenesis is only partially understood. Of all the rheumatic diseases, SSc carries the highest all-cause mortality rate and represents an unmet medical need. A growing body of evidence implicates epigenetic aberrations in this intractable disease, including specific modifications affecting the three main cell types involved in SSc pathogenesis: immune cells, endothelial cells and fibroblasts. In this Review, we discuss the latest insights into the role of DNA methylation, histone modifications and non-coding RNAs in SSc and how these epigenetic alterations affect disease features. In particular, histone modifications have a role in the regulation of gene expression pertinent to activation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts, governing their fate. DNA methyltransferases are crucial in disease pathogenesis by mediating methylation of DNA in specific promoters, regulating expression of specific pathways. We discuss targeting of these enzymes for therapeutic gain. Innovative epigenetic therapy could be targeted to treat the disease in a precision epigenetics approach.
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Griffin MF, Huber J, Evan FJ, Quarto N, Longaker MT. The role of Wnt signaling in skin fibrosis. Med Res Rev 2021; 42:615-628. [PMID: 34431110 DOI: 10.1002/med.21853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Skin fibrosis is the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix in the dermis. Cutaneous fibrosis can occur following tissue injury, including burns, trauma, and surgery, resulting in scars that are disfiguring, limit movement and cause significant psychological distress for patients. Many molecular pathways have been implicated in the development of skin fibrosis, yet effective treatments to prevent or reverse scarring are unknown. The Wnt signaling pathways are known to play an important role in skin homeostasis, skin injury, and in the development of fibrotic skin diseases. This review provides a detailed overview of the role of the canonical Wnt signaling pathways in regulating skin scarring. We also discuss how Wnt signaling interacts with other known fibrotic molecular pathways to cause skin fibrosis. We further provide a summary of the different Wnt inhibitor types available for treating skin scarring. Understanding the role of the Wnt pathway in cutaneous fibrosis will accelerate the development of effective Wnt modulators for the treatment of skin fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle F Griffin
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Julika Huber
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Fahy J Evan
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Natalina Quarto
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford, California, USA.,Stanford Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Michael T Longaker
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford, California, USA.,Stanford Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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New mechanism-based approaches to treating and evaluating the vasculopathy of scleroderma. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2021; 33:471-479. [PMID: 34402454 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000000830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Utilizing recent insight into the vasculopathy of scleroderma (SSc), the review will highlight new opportunities for evaluating and treating the disease by promoting stabilization and protection of the microvasculature. RECENT FINDINGS Endothelial junctional signaling initiated by vascular endothelial-cadherin (VE-cadherin) and Tie2 receptors, which are fundamental to promoting vascular health and stability, are disrupted in SSc. This would be expected to not only diminish their protective activity, but also increase pathological processes that are normally restrained by these signaling mediators, resulting in pathological changes in vascular function and structure. Indeed, key features of SSc vasculopathy, from the earliest signs of edema and puffy fingers to pathological disruption of hemodynamics, nutritional blood flow, capillary structure and angiogenesis are all consistent with this altered endothelial signaling. It also likely contributes to further progression of the disease including tissue fibrosis, and organ and tissue injury. SUMMARY Restoring protective endothelial junctional signaling should combat the vasculopathy of SSc and prevent further deterioration in vascular and organ function. Indeed, this type of targeted approach has achieved remarkable results in preclinical models for other diseases. Furthermore, tracking this endothelial junctional signaling, for example by assessing vascular permeability, should facilitate insight into disease progression and its response to therapy.
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Guo F, Seldin M, Péterfy M, Charugundla S, Zhou Z, Lee SD, Mouton A, Rajbhandari P, Zhang W, Pellegrini M, Tontonoz P, Lusis AJ, Shih DM. NOTUM promotes thermogenic capacity and protects against diet-induced obesity in male mice. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16409. [PMID: 34385484 PMCID: PMC8361163 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95720-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
We recently showed that NOTUM, a liver-secreted Wnt inhibitor, can acutely promote browning of white adipose. We now report studies of chronic overexpression of NOTUM in liver indicating that it protects against diet-induced obesity and improves glucose homeostasis in mice. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors were used to overexpress GFP or mouse Notum in the livers of male C57BL/6J mice and the mice were fed an obesifying diet. After 14 weeks of high fat, high sucrose diet feeding, the AAV-Notum mice exhibited decreased obesity and improved glucose tolerance compared to the AAV-GFP mice. Gene expression and immunoblotting analysis of the inguinal fat and brown fat revealed increased expression of beige/brown adipocyte markers in the AAV-Notum group, suggesting enhanced thermogenic capacity by NOTUM. A β3 adrenergic receptor agonist-stimulated lipolysis test suggested increased lipolysis capacity by NOTUM. The levels of collagen and C–C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) in the epididymal white adipose tissue of the AAV-Notum mice were significantly reduced, suggesting decreased fibrosis and inflammation, respectively. RNA sequencing analysis of inguinal white adipose of 4-week chow diet-fed mice revealed a highly significant enrichment of extracellular matrix (ECM) functional cluster among the down-regulated genes in the AAV-Notum group, suggesting a potential mechanism contributing to improved glucose homeostasis. Our in vitro studies demonstrated that recombinant human NOTUM protein blocked the inhibitory effects of WNT3A on brown adipocyte differentiation. Furthermore, NOTUM attenuated WNT3A’s effects on upregulation of TGF-β signaling and its downstream targets. Overall, our data suggest that NOTUM modulates adipose tissue function by promoting thermogenic capacity and inhibiting fibrosis through inhibition of Wnt signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfei Guo
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Department of Human Genetics, University of California, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, A2-237 CHS, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1679, USA
| | - Marcus Seldin
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Center for Epigenetics and Metabolism, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Miklós Péterfy
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, 91766, USA
| | - Sarada Charugundla
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Department of Human Genetics, University of California, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, A2-237 CHS, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1679, USA
| | - Zhiqiang Zhou
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Department of Human Genetics, University of California, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, A2-237 CHS, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1679, USA
| | - Stephen D Lee
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Alice Mouton
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Prashant Rajbhandari
- Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism Institute, Icahn School of Medicine Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Wenchao Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Department of Human Genetics, University of California, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, A2-237 CHS, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1679, USA.,The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Matteo Pellegrini
- Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Peter Tontonoz
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Aldons J Lusis
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Department of Human Genetics, University of California, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, A2-237 CHS, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1679, USA
| | - Diana M Shih
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Department of Human Genetics, University of California, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, A2-237 CHS, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1679, USA.
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Lecarpentier Y, Claes V, Hébert JL, Schussler O, Vallée A. Mechanical and Thermodynamic Properties of Non-Muscle Contractile Tissues: The Myofibroblast and the Molecular Motor Non-Muscle Myosin Type IIA. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7738. [PMID: 34299379 PMCID: PMC8306181 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Myofibroblasts are contractile cells found in multiple tissues. They are physiological cells as in the human placenta and can be obtained from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells after differentiation by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). They are also found in the stroma of cancerous tissues and can be located in non-muscle contractile tissues. When stimulated by an electric current or after exposure to KCl, these tissues contract. They relax either by lowering the intracellular Ca2+ concentration (by means of isosorbide dinitrate or sildenafil) or by inhibiting actin-myosin interactions (by means of 2,3-butanedione monoxime or blebbistatin). Their shortening velocity and their developed tension are dramatically low compared to those of muscles. Like sarcomeric and smooth muscles, they obey Frank-Starling's law and exhibit the Hill hyperbolic tension-velocity relationship. The molecular motor of the myofibroblast is the non-muscle myosin type IIA (NMIIA). Its essential characteristic is the extreme slowness of its molecular kinetics. In contrast, NMIIA develops a unitary force similar to that of muscle myosins. From a thermodynamic point of view, non-muscle contractile tissues containing NMIIA operate extremely close to equilibrium in a linear stationary mode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yves Lecarpentier
- Centre de Recherche Clinique, Grand Hôpital de l’Est Francilien, 77100 Meaux, France
| | - Victor Claes
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2180 Wilrijk, Belgium;
| | - Jean-Louis Hébert
- Institut de Cardiologie, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, 75013 Paris, France;
| | - Olivier Schussler
- Département de Chirurgie Thoracique, Hôpital Cochin, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Centre, APHP, Paris-Descartes Université, 75014 Paris, France;
| | - Alexandre Vallée
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Foch Hospital, 92150 Suresnes, France;
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Tabib T, Huang M, Morse N, Papazoglou A, Behera R, Jia M, Bulik M, Monier DE, Benos PV, Chen W, Domsic R, Lafyatis R. Myofibroblast transcriptome indicates SFRP2 hi fibroblast progenitors in systemic sclerosis skin. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4384. [PMID: 34282151 PMCID: PMC8289865 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24607-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin and lung fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc) is driven by myofibroblasts, alpha-smooth muscle actin expressing cells. The number of myofibroblasts in SSc skin correlates with the modified Rodnan skin score, the most widely used clinical measure of skin disease severity. Murine fibrosis models indicate that myofibroblasts can arise from a variety of different cell types, but their origin in SSc skin has remained uncertain. Utilizing single cell RNA-sequencing, we define different dermal fibroblast populations and transcriptome changes, comparing SSc to healthy dermal fibroblasts. Here, we show that SSc dermal myofibroblasts arise in two steps from an SFRP2hi/DPP4-expressing progenitor fibroblast population. In the first step, SSc fibroblasts show globally upregulated expression of transcriptome markers, such as PRSS23 and THBS1. A subset of these cells shows markers indicating that they are proliferating. Only a fraction of SFRP2hi SSc fibroblasts differentiate into myofibroblasts, as shown by expression of additional markers, SFRP4 and FNDC1. Bioinformatics analysis of the SSc fibroblast transcriptomes implicated upstream transcription factors, including FOSL2, RUNX1, STAT1, FOXP1, IRF7 and CREB3L1, as well as SMAD3, driving SSc myofibroblast differentiation. Myofibroblasts drive fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc), but the cellular progenitors are unknown. Utilizing single cell RNA-sequencing, the authors show that SSc dermal myofibroblasts arise in a two-step process from SFRP2/DPP4-expressing progenitors and implicate upstream transcription factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy Tabib
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mengqi Huang
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Nina Morse
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Anna Papazoglou
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rithika Behera
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Minxue Jia
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Joint CMU-Pitt PhD Program in Computational Biology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Melissa Bulik
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Daisy E Monier
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Panayiotis V Benos
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Joint CMU-Pitt PhD Program in Computational Biology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Wei Chen
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Robyn Domsic
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Robert Lafyatis
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Romano E, Rosa I, Fioretto BS, Matucci-Cerinic M, Manetti M. New Insights into Profibrotic Myofibroblast Formation in Systemic Sclerosis: When the Vascular Wall Becomes the Enemy. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:610. [PMID: 34202703 PMCID: PMC8307837 DOI: 10.3390/life11070610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In systemic sclerosis (SSc), abnormalities in microvessel morphology occur early and evolve into a distinctive vasculopathy that relentlessly advances in parallel with the development of tissue fibrosis orchestrated by myofibroblasts in nearly all affected organs. Our knowledge of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying such a unique relationship between SSc-related vasculopathy and fibrosis has profoundly changed over the last few years. Indeed, increasing evidence has suggested that endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT), a process in which profibrotic myofibroblasts originate from endothelial cells, may take center stage in SSc pathogenesis. While in arterioles and small arteries EndoMT may lead to the accumulation of myofibroblasts within the vessel wall and development of fibroproliferative vascular lesions, in capillary vessels it may instead result in vascular destruction and formation of myofibroblasts that migrate into the perivascular space with consequent tissue fibrosis and microvessel rarefaction, which are hallmarks of SSc. Besides endothelial cells, other vascular wall-resident cells, such as pericytes and vascular smooth muscle cells, may acquire a myofibroblast-like synthetic phenotype contributing to both SSc-related vascular dysfunction and fibrosis. A deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying the differentiation of myofibroblasts inside the vessel wall provides the rationale for novel targeted therapeutic strategies for the treatment of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloisa Romano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.R.); (B.S.F.); (M.M.-C.)
| | - Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Bianca Saveria Fioretto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.R.); (B.S.F.); (M.M.-C.)
| | - Marco Matucci-Cerinic
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.R.); (B.S.F.); (M.M.-C.)
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
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Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and systemic sclerosis: pathogenic mechanisms and therapeutic interventions. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:5527-5542. [PMID: 34145462 PMCID: PMC8212897 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03874-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Fibrotic diseases take a very heavy toll in terms of morbidity and mortality equal to or even greater than that caused by metastatic cancer. In this review, we examine the pathogenesis of fibrotic diseases, mainly addressing triggers for induction, processes that lead to progression, therapies and therapeutic trials. For the most part, we have focused on two fibrotic diseases with lung involvement, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, in which the contribution of inflammatory mechanisms may be secondary to non-immune triggers, and systemic sclerosis in which the contribution of adaptive immunity may be predominant.
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Jin J, Ou Q, Wang Z, Tian H, Xu JY, Gao F, Hu S, Chen J, Wang J, Zhang J, Lu L, Jin C, Xu GT, Zhao J. BMSC-derived extracellular vesicles intervened the pathogenic changes of scleroderma in mice through miRNAs. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:327. [PMID: 34090522 PMCID: PMC8179710 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02400-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a disease that features severe fibrosis of the skin and lacks effective therapy. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are potential stem cell-based tools for the treatment of SSc. Methods BMSCs were isolated from the bone marrow of mice and identified with surface markers according to multilineage differentiation. EVs were isolated from the BMSC culture medium by ultracentrifugation and identified with a Nanosight NS300 particle size analyzer, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and western blot. The microRNAs (miRNAs) of BMSC-derived EVs (BMSC-EVs) were studied via miRNA sequencing (miRNA-seq) and bioinformatic analysis. An SSc mouse model was established via subcutaneous bleomycin (BLM) injection, and the mice were treated with BMSCs or BMSC-derived EVs. Skin tissues were dissociated and analyzed with H&E staining, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), western blot, and immunohistochemical staining. Results Evident pathological changes, like fibrosis and inflammation, were induced in the skin of BLM-treated mice. BMSCs and BMSC-EVs effectively intervened such pathological manifestations and disease processes in a very similar way. The effects of the BMSC-EVs were found to be caused by the miRNAs they carried, which were proven to be involved in regulating the proliferation and differentiation of multiple cell types and in multiple EV-related biological processes. Furthermore, TGF-β1-positive cells and α-SMA-positive myofibroblasts were significantly increased in the scleroderma skin of BLM-treated mice but evidently reduced in the scleroderma skin of the EV-treated SSc group. In addition, the numbers of mast cells and infiltrating macrophages and lymphocytes were evidently increased in the skin of BLM-treated mice but significantly reduced by EV treatment. In line with these observations, there were significantly higher mRNA levels of the inflammatory cytokines Il6, Il10, and Tnf-α in SSc mice than in control mice, but the levels decreased following EV treatment. Through bioinformatics analysis, the TGFβ and WNT signaling pathways were revealed to be closely involved in the pathogenic changes seen in mouse SSc, and these pathways could be therapeutic targets for treating the disease. Conclusions BMSC-derived EVs could be developed as a potential therapy for treating skin dysfunction in SSc, especially considering that they show similar efficacy to BMSCs but have fewer developmental regulatory requirements than cell therapy. The effects of EVs are generated by the miRNAs they carry, which alleviate SSc pathogenic changes by regulating the WNT and TGFβ signaling pathways. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-021-02400-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Jin
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Qingjian Ou
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Haibin Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Jing-Ying Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Furong Gao
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Shuqin Hu
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Jieping Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Lixia Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, China.
| | - Caixia Jin
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, China.
| | - Guo-Tong Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, and Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, China.
| | - Jingjun Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China.
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Mechanical and Immunological Regulation in Wound Healing and Skin Reconstruction. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115474. [PMID: 34067386 PMCID: PMC8197020 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past decade, a new frontier in scarless wound healing has arisen because of significant advances in the field of wound healing realised by incorporating emerging concepts from mechanobiology and immunology. The complete integumentary organ system (IOS) regeneration and scarless wound healing mechanism, which occurs in specific species, body sites and developmental stages, clearly shows that mechanical stress signals and immune responses play important roles in determining the wound healing mode. Advances in tissue engineering technology have led to the production of novel human skin equivalents and organoids that reproduce cell–cell interactions with tissue-scale tensional homeostasis, and enable us to evaluate skin tissue morphology, functionality, drug response and wound healing. This breakthrough in tissue engineering has the potential to accelerate the understanding of wound healing control mechanisms through complex mechanobiological and immunological interactions. In this review, we present an overview of recent studies of biomechanical and immunological wound healing and tissue remodelling mechanisms through comparisons of species- and developmental stage-dependent wound healing mechanisms. We also discuss the possibility of elucidating the control mechanism of wound healing involving mechanobiological and immunological interaction by using next-generation human skin equivalents.
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Targeting of canonical WNT signaling ameliorates experimental sclerodermatous chronic graft-versus-host disease. Blood 2021; 137:2403-2416. [PMID: 33529322 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2020008720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is a major life-threatening complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The molecular mechanisms underlying cGVHD remain poorly understood, and targeted therapies for clinical use are not well established. Here, we examined the role of the canonical WNT pathway in sclerodermatous cGVHD (sclGVHD). WNT signaling was activated in human sclGVHD with increased nuclear accumulation of the transcription factor β-catenin and a WNT-biased gene expression signature in lesional skin. Treatment with the highly selective tankryase inhibitor G007-LK, the CK1α agonist pyrvinium, or the LRP6 inhibitor salinomycin abrogated the activation of WNT signaling and protected against experimental cGVHD, without a significant impact on graft-versus-leukemia effect (GVL). Treatment with G007-LK, pyrvinium, or salinomycin almost completely prevented the development of clinical and histological features in the B10.D2 (H-2d) → BALB/c (H-2d) and LP/J (H-2b) → C57BL/6 (H-2b) models of sclGVHD. Inhibition of canonical WNT signaling reduced the release of extracellular matrix from fibroblasts and reduced leukocyte influx, suggesting that WNT signaling stimulates fibrotic tissue remodeling by direct effects on fibroblasts and by indirect inflammation-dependent effects in sclGVHD. Our findings may have direct translational potential, because pyrvinium is in clinical use, and tankyrase inhibitors are in clinical trials for other indications.
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Bergmann C, Hallenberger L, Chenguiti Fakhouri S, Merlevede B, Brandt A, Dees C, Zhu H, Zehender A, Zhou X, Schwab A, Chen CW, Györfi AH, Matei AE, Chakraborty D, Trinh-Minh T, Rauber S, Coras R, Bozec A, Kreuter A, Ziemer M, Schett G, Distler JHW. X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) inhibition in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Ann Rheum Dis 2021; 80:1048-1056. [PMID: 33903093 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-219822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) is a multifunctional protein with important functions in apoptosis, cellular differentiation and cytoskeletal organisation and is emerging as potential target for the treatment of various cancers. The aim of the current study was to investigate the role of XIAP in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc). METHODS The expression of XIAP in human skin samples of patients with SSc and chronic graft versus host disease (cGvHD) and healthy individuals was analysed by quantitative PCR, immunofluorescence (IF) and western blot. XIAP was inactivated by siRNA-mediated knockdown and pharmacological inhibition. The effects of XIAP inactivation were analysed in cultured fibroblasts and in the fibrosis models bleomycin-induced and topoisomerase-I-(topoI)-induced fibrosis and in Wnt10b-transgenic mice. RESULTS The expression of XIAP, but not of other inhibitor of apoptosis protein family members, was increased in fibroblasts in SSc and sclerodermatous cGvHD. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) induced the expression of XIAP in a SMAD3-dependent manner. Inactivation of XIAP reduced WNT-induced fibroblast activation and collagen release. Inhibition of XIAP also ameliorated fibrosis induced by bleomycin, topoI and overexpression of Wnt10b in well-tolerated doses. The profibrotic effects of XIAP were mediated via WNT/β-catenin signalling. Inactivation of XIAP reduces binding of β-catenin to TCF to in a TLE-dependent manner to block WNT/β-catenin-dependent transcription. CONCLUSIONS Our data characterise XIAP as a novel link between two core pathways of fibrosis. XIAP is overexpressed in SSc and cGvHD in a TGF-β/SMAD3-dependent manner and in turn amplifies the profibrotic effects of WNT/β-catenin signalling on fibroblasts via transducin-like enhancer of split 3. Targeted inactivation of XIAP inhibits the aberrant activation of fibroblasts in murine models of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Bergmann
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Ludwig Hallenberger
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Sara Chenguiti Fakhouri
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Benita Merlevede
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Amelie Brandt
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Clara Dees
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Honglin Zhu
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany.,Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ariella Zehender
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Annemarie Schwab
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research, University Hospital Erlangen, FAU-Erlangen-Nuremberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Chih-Wei Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Andrea Hermina Györfi
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Alexandru Emil Matei
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Debomita Chakraborty
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Thuong Trinh-Minh
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Simon Rauber
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Roland Coras
- Department of Neuropathology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Aline Bozec
- Institute for Clinical Immunology University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Alexander Kreuter
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, HELIOS Sankt Elisabeth Klinik Oberhausen, Oberhausen, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Mirjana Ziemer
- Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Leipzig, Sachsen, Germany
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
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Di Benedetto P, Ruscitti P, Berardicurti O, Vomero M, Navarini L, Dolo V, Cipriani P, Giacomelli R. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in systemic sclerosis. Clin Exp Immunol 2021; 205:12-27. [PMID: 33772754 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by significant vascular alterations and multi-organ fibrosis. Microvascular alterations are the first event of SSc and injured endothelial cells (ECs) may transdifferentiate towards myofibroblasts, the cells responsible for fibrosis and collagen deposition. This process is identified as endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), and understanding of its development is pivotal to identify early pathogenetic events and new therapeutic targets for SSc. In this review, we have highlighted the molecular mechanisms of EndMT and summarize the evidence of the role played by EndMT during the development of progressive fibrosis in SSc, also exploring the possible therapeutic role of its inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Di Benedetto
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - P Ruscitti
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - O Berardicurti
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - M Vomero
- Unit of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Rome 'Campus Biomedico', Rome, Italy
| | - L Navarini
- Unit of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Rome 'Campus Biomedico', Rome, Italy
| | - V Dolo
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - P Cipriani
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - R Giacomelli
- Unit of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Rome 'Campus Biomedico', Rome, Italy
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Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare and complex disease, involving multiple organs, with high morbidity and mortality. Fibrosis is the hallmark of SSc, although vascular and inflammatory mechanisms are also implicated in its pathogenesis. Disease management is challenging, due to its heterogeneous presentation, and to the limited number of controlled clinical trials to guide treating clinicians. Immunosuppressive agents have been used to prevent progression, especially in the lung, before irreversible injury occurs, with some, although modest, benefit. Nintedanib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has recently demonstrated safety and efficacy in interstitial lung disease (ILD) associated with SSc, and many other antifibrotics are being assessed as possible beneficial therapies, with promising results. An important unmet need remains, to clarify to which patients, when, and with which agent therapy should be initiated, to achieve optimal outcomes. This review summarizes available evidence for current and emerging antifibrotic therapies in SSc patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Martin-Lopez
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Patricia E Carreira
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain.
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Romano E, Rosa I, Fioretto BS, Cerinic MM, Manetti M. The Role of Pro-fibrotic Myofibroblasts in Systemic Sclerosis: from Origin to Therapeutic Targeting. Curr Mol Med 2021; 22:209-239. [PMID: 33823766 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210325102749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma) is a complex connective tissue disorder characterized by multisystem clinical manifestations resulting from immune dysregulation/autoimmunity, vasculopathy and, most notably, progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. In recent years, it has emerged that the main drivers of SSc-related tissue fibrosis are myofibroblasts, a type of mesenchymal cells with both the extracellular matrix-synthesizing features of fibroblasts and the cytoskeletal characteristics of contractile smooth muscle cells. The accumulation and persistent activation of pro-fibrotic myofibroblasts during SSc development and progression result into elevated mechanical stress and reduced matrix plasticity within the affected tissues and may be ascribed to a reduced susceptibility of these cells to pro-apoptotic stimuli, as well as their increased formation from tissue-resident fibroblasts or transition from different cell types. Given the crucial role of myofibroblasts in SSc pathogenesis, finding the way to inhibit myofibroblast differentiation and accumulation by targeting their formation, function and survival may represent an effective approach to hamper the fibrotic process or even halt or reverse established fibrosis. In this review, we discuss the role of myofibroblasts in SSc-related fibrosis, with a special focus on their cellular origin and the signaling pathways implicated in their formation and persistent activation. Furthermore, we provide an overview of potential therapeutic strategies targeting myofibroblasts that may be able to counteract fibrosis in this pathological condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloisa Romano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Bianca Saveria Fioretto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Marco Matucci Cerinic
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence. Italy
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50
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Rosa I, Romano E, Fioretto BS, Matucci-Cerinic M, Manetti M. Adipose-derived stem cells: Pathophysiologic implications vs therapeutic potential in systemic sclerosis. World J Stem Cells 2021; 13:30-48. [PMID: 33584978 PMCID: PMC7859990 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v13.i1.30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) residing in the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) of white adipose tissue are recently emerging as an alternative tool for stem cell-based therapy in systemic sclerosis (SSc), a complex connective tissue disorder affecting the skin and internal organs with fibrotic and vascular lesions. Several preclinical and clinical studies have reported promising therapeutic effects of fat grafting and autologous SVF/ADSC-based local treatment for facial and hand cutaneous manifestations of SSc patients. However, currently available data indicate that ADSCs may represent a double-edged sword in SSc, as they may exhibit a pro-fibrotic and anti-adipogenic phenotype, possibly behaving as an additional pathogenic source of pro-fibrotic myofibroblasts through the adipocyte-to-myofibroblast transition process. Thus, in the perspective of a larger employ of SSc-ADSCs for further therapeutic applications, it is important to definitely unravel whether these cells present a comparable phenotype and similar immunosuppressive, anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic and pro-angiogenic properties in respect to healthy ADSCs. In light of the dual role that ADSCs seem to play in SSc, this review will provide a summary of the most recent insights into the preclinical and clinical studies employing SVF and ADSCs for the treatment of the disease and, at the same time, will focus on the main findings highlighting the possible involvement of these stem cells in SSc-related fibrosis pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
| | - Eloisa Romano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
| | - Bianca Saveria Fioretto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
| | - Marco Matucci-Cerinic
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy.
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