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Sakai A, Nagao M, Yamamoto A, Nakao R, Sakai S, Yamaguchi J. Prognostic value of right atrial strain in systemic sclerosis based on tissue tracking analysis using cine cardiac magnetic resonance imaging: a retrospective observational study. Heart Vessels 2024; 39:135-143. [PMID: 37777970 DOI: 10.1007/s00380-023-02320-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Interstitial lung disease and cardiac involvement are common manifestations and prognostic factors of systemic sclerosis. However, it is unclear whether impaired right atrial function associated with interstitial lung disease in systemic sclerosis can be used as a prognostic factor in this patient population. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between right atrial function, interstitial lung disease, and prognosis in patients with systemic sclerosis using tissue tracking analysis with cine cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. In this retrospective observational study, a total of 40 patients with systemic sclerosis were enrolled. Tissue tracking analysis was used to obtain time curves of right atrial strain. Reservoir (total strain), conduit (passive strain), and booster (active strain) pump function were calculated, and right atrial strain, interstitial lung disease, and clinical outcomes were examined. An adverse clinical event was defined as all-cause death. Overall, 23 patients had interstitial lung disease (58%). Six patients died during the follow-up (median, 44 months). The total skin score and right ventricular systolic pressure on echocardiography were higher in patients with an event than in those without an event (28 ± 16% vs. 13 ± 13%, P = 0.02; 46.3 ± 10.7 mmHg vs. 36.0 ± 8.5 mmHg, P = 0.01, respectively). Further, right atrial total strain and active strain were significantly lower in patients with an event than in those without an event (14.3 ± 11.3% vs. 25.8 ± 11.4%, P = 0.03; 3.48 ± 2.37 vs. 11.7 ± 6.78, P = 0.007, respectively). Multivariate analysis revealed that active strain was an independent predictor of all-cause death (hazard ratio 0.76, P = 0.029). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that the survival rate was significantly higher in patients with right atrial active strain levels above the cutoff 7.4 (P < 0.05). In systemic sclerosis, right atrial booster function was predictive of mortality. Hence, right atrial functional assessment may have incremental prognostic value for patients with systemic sclerosis, leading to better risk stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Sakai
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-Cho, Shinjyuku-Ku, Tokyo, 162-8666, Japan.
| | - Michinobu Nagao
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging & Nuclear Medicine, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-Cho, Shinjyuku-Ku, Tokyo, 162-8666, Japan
| | - Atsushi Yamamoto
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging & Nuclear Medicine, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-Cho, Shinjyuku-Ku, Tokyo, 162-8666, Japan
| | - Risako Nakao
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-Cho, Shinjyuku-Ku, Tokyo, 162-8666, Japan
| | - Shuji Sakai
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging & Nuclear Medicine, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-Cho, Shinjyuku-Ku, Tokyo, 162-8666, Japan
| | - Junichi Yamaguchi
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-Cho, Shinjyuku-Ku, Tokyo, 162-8666, Japan
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Hassan M, Shahzadi S, Yasir M, Chun W, Kloczkowski A. Computational prognostic evaluation of Alzheimer's drugs from FDA-approved database through structural conformational dynamics and drug repositioning approaches. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18022. [PMID: 37865690 PMCID: PMC10590448 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45347-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug designing is high-priced and time taking process with low success rate. To overcome this obligation, computational drug repositioning technique is being promptly used to predict the possible therapeutic effects of FDA approved drugs against multiple diseases. In this computational study, protein modeling, shape-based screening, molecular docking, pharmacogenomics, and molecular dynamic simulation approaches have been utilized to retrieve the FDA approved drugs against AD. The predicted MADD protein structure was designed by homology modeling and characterized through different computational resources. Donepezil and galantamine were implanted as standard drugs and drugs were screened out based on structural similarities. Furthermore, these drugs were evaluated and based on binding energy (Kcal/mol) profiles against MADD through PyRx tool. Moreover, pharmacogenomics analysis showed good possible associations with AD mediated genes and confirmed through detail literature survey. The best 6 drug (darifenacin, astemizole, tubocurarine, elacridar, sertindole and tariquidar) further docked and analyzed their interaction behavior through hydrogen binding. Finally, MD simulation study were carried out on these drugs and evaluated their stability behavior by generating root mean square deviation and fluctuations (RMSD/F), radius of gyration (Rg) and soluble accessible surface area (SASA) graphs. Taken together, darifenacin, astemizole, tubocurarine, elacridar, sertindole and tariquidar displayed good lead like profile as compared with standard and can be used as possible therapeutic agent in the treatment of AD after in-vitro and in-vivo assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubashir Hassan
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA.
| | - Saba Shahzadi
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA
| | - Muhammad Yasir
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Wanjoo Chun
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Andrzej Kloczkowski
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA.
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Hu M, Yao Z, Xu L, Peng M, Deng G, Liu L, Jiang X, Cai X. M2 macrophage polarization in systemic sclerosis fibrosis: pathogenic mechanisms and therapeutic effects. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16206. [PMID: 37234611 PMCID: PMC10208842 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16206] [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: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma), is an autoimmune rheumatic disease characterized by fibrosis of the skin and internal organs, and vasculopathy. Preventing fibrosis by targeting aberrant immune cells that drive extracellular matrix (ECM) over-deposition is a promising therapeutic strategy for SSc. Previous research suggests that M2 macrophages play an essential part in the fibrotic process of SSc. Targeted modulation of molecules that influence M2 macrophage polarization, or M2 macrophages, may hinder the progression of fibrosis. Here, in an effort to offer fresh perspectives on the management of scleroderma and fibrotic diseases, we review the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of M2 macrophage polarization in SSc-related organ fibrosis, potential inhibitors targeting M2 macrophages, and the mechanisms by which M2 macrophages participate in fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyue Hu
- Department of Rheumatology of the First Hospital and Institute of Innovation and Applied Research in Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Zhongliu Yao
- Department of Rheumatology of the First Hospital and Institute of Innovation and Applied Research in Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Li Xu
- Department of Rheumatology of the First Hospital and Institute of Innovation and Applied Research in Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Muzi Peng
- Department of Rheumatology of the First Hospital and Institute of Innovation and Applied Research in Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Guiming Deng
- Department of Rheumatology of the First Hospital and Institute of Innovation and Applied Research in Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Liang Liu
- Department of Rheumatology of the First Hospital and Institute of Innovation and Applied Research in Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Xueyu Jiang
- Department of Rheumatology of the First Hospital and Institute of Innovation and Applied Research in Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
- Yueyang Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Yueyang, Hunan 414000, China
| | - Xiong Cai
- Department of Rheumatology of the First Hospital and Institute of Innovation and Applied Research in Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
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The AP-1 transcription factor Fosl-2 drives cardiac fibrosis and arrhythmias under immunofibrotic conditions. Commun Biol 2023; 6:161. [PMID: 36759717 PMCID: PMC9911788 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04534-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrotic changes in the myocardium and cardiac arrhythmias represent fatal complications in systemic sclerosis (SSc), however the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Mice overexpressing transcription factor Fosl-2 (Fosl-2tg) represent animal model of SSc. Fosl-2tg mice showed interstitial cardiac fibrosis, disorganized connexin-43/40 in intercalated discs and deregulated expression of genes controlling conduction system, and developed higher heart rate (HR), prolonged QT intervals, arrhythmias with prevalence of premature ventricular contractions, ventricular tachycardias, II-degree atrio-ventricular blocks and reduced HR variability. Following stimulation with isoproterenol Fosl-2tg mice showed impaired HR response. In contrast to Fosl-2tg, immunodeficient Rag2-/-Fosl-2tg mice were protected from enhanced myocardial fibrosis and ECG abnormalities. Transcriptomics analysis demonstrated that Fosl-2-overexpression was responsible for profibrotic signature of cardiac fibroblasts, whereas inflammatory component in Fosl-2tg mice activated their fibrotic and arrhythmogenic phenotype. In human cardiac fibroblasts FOSL-2-overexpression enhanced myofibroblast signature under proinflammatory or profibrotic stimuli. These results demonstrate that under immunofibrotic conditions transcription factor Fosl-2 exaggerates myocardial fibrosis, arrhythmias and aberrant response to stress.
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Pi Z, Qiu X, Liu J, Shi Y, Zeng Z, Xiao R. Activating Protein-1 (AP-1): A Promising Target for the Treatment of Fibrotic Diseases. Curr Med Chem 2023; 31:CMC-EPUB-129375. [PMID: 36757030 DOI: 10.2174/0929867330666230209100059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
The fibrosis of tissues and organs occurs via an aberrant tissue remodeling process characterized by an excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, which can lead to organ dysfunction, organ failure, and death. Because the pathogenesis of fibrosis remains unclear and elusive, there is currently no medication to reverse it; hence, this process deserves further study. Activating protein-1 (AP-1)-comprising Jun (c-Jun, JunB, JunD), Fos (c-fos, FosB, Fra1, and Fra2), and activating transcription factor-is a versatile dimeric transcription factor. Numerous studies have demonstrated that AP-1 plays a crucial role in advancing tissue and organ fibrosis via induction of the expression of fibrotic molecules and activating fibroblasts. This review focuses on the role of AP-1 in a range of fibrotic disorders as well as on the antifibrotic effects of AP-1 inhibitors. It also discusses the potential of AP-1 as a new therapeutic target in conditions involving tissue and organ fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixin Pi
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
- Department of Medical Genetics, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Xiangning Qiu
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Jiani Liu
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Yaqian Shi
- Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University Department of Dermatology Changsha China
| | - Zhuotong Zeng
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Rong Xiao
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
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Zagouras AA, Tang WHW. Myocardial Involvement in Systemic Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2023; 49:45-66. [PMID: 36424026 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2022.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SARDs) are defined by the potential to affect multiple organ systems, and cardiac involvement is a prevalent but often overlooked sequela. Myocardial involvement in SARDs is medicated by macrovascular disease, microvascular dysfunction, and myocarditis. Systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, and sarcoidosis are associated with the greatest risk of myocardial damage and heart failure, though myocardial involvement is also seen in other SARDs or their treatments. Management of myocardial involvement should be disease-specific. Further research is required to elucidate targetable mechanisms of myocardial involvement in SARDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexia A Zagouras
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, , EC-10 Cleveland Clinic, 9501 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - W H Wilson Tang
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, , EC-10 Cleveland Clinic, 9501 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; Kaufman Center for Heart Failure Treatment and Recovery, Heart Vascular and Thoracic Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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Caforio ALP, De Luca G, Baritussio A, Seguso M, Gallo N, Bison E, Cattini MG, Pontara E, Gargani L, Pepe A, Campochiaro C, Plebani M, Iliceto S, Peretto G, Esposito A, Tofani L, Moggi-Pignone A, Dagna L, Marcolongo R, Matucci-Cerinic M, Bruni C. Serum Organ-Specific Anti-Heart and Anti-Intercalated Disk Autoantibodies as New Autoimmune Markers of Cardiac Involvement in Systemic Sclerosis: Frequency, Clinical and Prognostic Correlates. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:2165. [PMID: 34829512 PMCID: PMC8625508 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11112165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heart involvement (HInv) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) may relate to myocarditis and is associated with poor prognosis. Serum anti-heart (AHA) and anti-intercalated disk autoantibodies (AIDA) are organ and disease-specific markers of isolated autoimmune myocarditis. We assessed frequencies, clinical correlates, and prognostic impacts of AHA and AIDA in SSc. METHODS The study included consecutive SSc patients (n = 116, aged 53 ± 13 years, 83.6% females, median disease duration 7 years) with clinically suspected heart involvement (symptoms, abnormal ECG, abnormal troponin I or natriuretic peptides, and abnormal echocardiography). All SSc patients underwent CMR. Serum AHA and AIDA were measured by indirect immunofluorescence in SSc and in control groups of non-inflammatory cardiac disease (NICD) (n = 160), ischemic heart failure (IHF) (n = 141), and normal blood donors (NBD) (n = 270). AHA and AIDA status in SSc was correlated with baseline clinical, diagnostic features, and outcome. RESULTS The frequency of AHA was higher in SSc (57/116, 49%, p < 0.00001) than in NICD (2/160, 1%), IHF (2/141, 1%), or NBD (7/270, 2.5%). The frequency of AIDA was higher (65/116, 56%, p < 0.00001) in SSc than in NICD (6/160, 3.75%), IHF (3/141, 2%), or NBD (1/270, 0.37%). AHAs were associated with interstitial lung disease (p = 0.04), history of chest pain (p = 0.026), abnormal troponin (p = 0.006), AIDA (p = 0.000), and current immunosuppression (p = 0.01). AHAs were associated with death (p = 0.02) and overall cardiac events during follow-up (p = 0.017). CONCLUSIONS The high frequencies of AHA and AIDA suggest a high burden of underdiagnosed autoimmune HInv in SSc. In keeping with the negative prognostic impact of HInv in SSc, AHAs were associated with dismal prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alida Linda Patrizia Caforio
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy; (A.B.); (E.B.); (M.G.C.); (E.P.); (S.I.)
| | - Giacomo De Luca
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (G.D.L.); (C.C.); (L.D.); (M.M.-C.)
| | - Anna Baritussio
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy; (A.B.); (E.B.); (M.G.C.); (E.P.); (S.I.)
| | - Mara Seguso
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy; (M.S.); (N.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Nicoletta Gallo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy; (M.S.); (N.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Elisa Bison
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy; (A.B.); (E.B.); (M.G.C.); (E.P.); (S.I.)
| | - Maria Grazia Cattini
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy; (A.B.); (E.B.); (M.G.C.); (E.P.); (S.I.)
| | - Elena Pontara
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy; (A.B.); (E.B.); (M.G.C.); (E.P.); (S.I.)
| | - Luna Gargani
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Council of Research, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Alessia Pepe
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Radiology, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy;
| | - Corrado Campochiaro
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (G.D.L.); (C.C.); (L.D.); (M.M.-C.)
| | - Mario Plebani
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy; (M.S.); (N.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Sabino Iliceto
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy; (A.B.); (E.B.); (M.G.C.); (E.P.); (S.I.)
| | - Giovanni Peretto
- Unit of Arrhythmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Antonio Esposito
- Clinical and Experimental Radiology Unit, Expirimental Imaging Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Ospedale San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Lorenzo Tofani
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Department of Geriatric Medicine AOUC, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy; (L.T.); (C.B.)
| | - Alberto Moggi-Pignone
- Division of Internal Medicine Unit IV AOUC, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy;
| | - Lorenzo Dagna
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (G.D.L.); (C.C.); (L.D.); (M.M.-C.)
| | - Renzo Marcolongo
- Haematology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy;
| | - Marco Matucci-Cerinic
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (G.D.L.); (C.C.); (L.D.); (M.M.-C.)
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Department of Geriatric Medicine AOUC, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy; (L.T.); (C.B.)
| | - Cosimo Bruni
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Department of Geriatric Medicine AOUC, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy; (L.T.); (C.B.)
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Zagouras AA, Chatterjee S, Tang WHW. Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction and Cardiomyopathy: an Under-recognized Complication of Systemic Sclerosis. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11936-021-00947-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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9
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Mouse Models of Skin Fibrosis. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2299:371-383. [PMID: 34028755 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1382-5_25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare systemic autoimmune disease associated with a high mortality. The first histopathological hallmarks are vasculopathy and inflammation, followed by fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. The molecular and cellular mechanisms are incompletely understood. Rodent models provide important insights into the pathogenesis of SSc and are a mainstay for the development of novel targeted therapies. Here we describe the mechanistic insights of inducible and genetic models, and also discuss in detail the limitations and pitfalls of the most frequently used SSc mouse models. We also describe protocols for running the established bleomycin-induced scleroderma skin fibrosis model.
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Lai J, Guo X, Zhao J, Wang H, Tian Z, Wang Q, Li M, Fang Q, Fang L, Liu Y, Zeng X. Interventricular systolic asynchrony predicts prognosis in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:983-991. [PMID: 34057459 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a serious complication of systemic sclerosis (SSc) with high mortality. Interventricular systolic asynchrony (IVSA) is observed in PAH patients, but the effect of IVSA and its association with long-term mortality and clinical events in SSc-associated PAH are unclear. This study aimed to investigate the impact of IVSA on the prognosis of SSc-associated PAH. METHODS Between March 2010 and July 2018, a total of 60 consecutive patients with SSc-associated PAH were enrolled. The end point was a composite of all-cause mortality and clinical worsening. Asynchrony was assessed by colour-coded tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) echocardiography. The myocardial sustained systole curves (Sm) of the basal portion of the right ventricular (RV) free wall and left ventricular (LV) lateral wall were obtained. IVSA was defined as the time difference from the onset of the QRS complex to the end of Sm between LV and RV. RESULTS Patients with greater IVSA time differences presented with advanced pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR). The IVSA time difference was an independent predictive factor (HR = 1.018, 95% CI 1.005-1.031, p = 0.005) for the composite end point and was significantly associated with PVR (r = 0.399, R2=0.092, p = 0.002). Kaplan-Meier survival curves showed that patients with greater IVSA had worse prognoses (log-rank p = 0.001). CONCLUSION In conclusion, IVSA analyzed by colour-coded TDI echocardiography provided added value as a noninvasive, easy-to-use approach for assessing the prognosis of patients with SSc-associated PAH. A significant IVSA time difference identifies the subgroup of patients at high risk of a poor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinzhi Lai
- Department of Cardiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Guo
- Department of Cardiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China
| | - Jiuliang Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China
| | - Zhuang Tian
- Department of Cardiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China
| | - Mengtao Li
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China
| | - Quan Fang
- Department of Cardiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China
| | - Ligang Fang
- Department of Cardiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China
| | - Yongtai Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zeng
- Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China
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The AP-1 Transcription Factor Fosl-2 Regulates Autophagy in Cardiac Fibroblasts during Myocardial Fibrogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041861. [PMID: 33668422 PMCID: PMC7917643 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Pathological activation of cardiac fibroblasts is a key step in development and progression of cardiac fibrosis and heart failure. This process has been associated with enhanced autophagocytosis, but molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown. Methods and Results: Immunohistochemical analysis of endomyocardial biopsies showed increased activation of autophagy in fibrotic hearts of patients with inflammatory cardiomyopathy. In vitro experiments using mouse and human cardiac fibroblasts confirmed that blockade of autophagy with Bafilomycin A1 inhibited fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition induced by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β. Next, we observed that cardiac fibroblasts obtained from mice overexpressing transcription factor Fos-related antigen 2 (Fosl-2tg) expressed elevated protein levels of autophagy markers: the lipid modified form of microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3B (LC3BII), Beclin-1 and autophagy related 5 (Atg5). In complementary experiments, silencing of Fosl-2 with antisense GapmeR oligonucleotides suppressed production of type I collagen, myofibroblast marker alpha smooth muscle actin and autophagy marker Beclin-1 in cardiac fibroblasts. On the other hand, silencing of either LC3B or Beclin-1 reduced Fosl-2 levels in TGF-β-activated, but not in unstimulated cells. Using a cardiac hypertrophy model induced by continuous infusion of angiotensin II with osmotic minipumps, we confirmed that mice lacking either Fosl-2 (Ccl19CreFosl2flox/flox) or Atg5 (Ccl19CreAtg5flox/flox) in stromal cells were protected from cardiac fibrosis. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that Fosl-2 regulates autophagocytosis and the TGF-β-Fosl-2-autophagy axis controls differentiation of cardiac fibroblasts. These data provide a new insight for the development of pharmaceutical targets in cardiac fibrosis.
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Makavos G, Varoudi M, Papangelopoulou K, Kapniari E, Plotas P, Ikonomidis I, Papadavid E. Echocardiography in Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases for Diagnosis and Prognosis of Cardiovascular Complications. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2020; 56:medicina56090445. [PMID: 32883041 PMCID: PMC7558642 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56090445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune rheumatic diseases are systemic diseases frequently affecting the heart and vessels. The main cardiovascular complications are pericarditis, myocarditis, valvular disease, obstructive coronary artery disease and coronary microcirculatory dysfunction, cardiac failure and pulmonary hypertension. Echocardiography, including transthoracic two and three-dimensional echocardiography, Doppler imaging, myocardial deformation and transesophageal echo, is an established and widely available imaging technique for the identification of cardiovascular manifestations that are crucial for prognosis in rheumatic diseases. Echocardiography is also important for monitoring the impact of drug treatment on cardiac function, coronary microcirculatory function, valvular function and pulmonary artery pressures. In this article we summarize established and evolving knowledge on the role of echocardiography for diagnosis and prognosis of cardiovascular abnormalities in rheumatic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Makavos
- Second Cardiology Department, Attikon Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (M.V.); (K.P.); (P.P.); (I.I.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-210-5832187
| | - Maria Varoudi
- Second Cardiology Department, Attikon Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (M.V.); (K.P.); (P.P.); (I.I.)
| | - Konstantina Papangelopoulou
- Second Cardiology Department, Attikon Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (M.V.); (K.P.); (P.P.); (I.I.)
| | - Eirini Kapniari
- Second Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Attikon Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (E.K.); (E.P.)
| | - Panagiotis Plotas
- Second Cardiology Department, Attikon Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (M.V.); (K.P.); (P.P.); (I.I.)
| | - Ignatios Ikonomidis
- Second Cardiology Department, Attikon Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (M.V.); (K.P.); (P.P.); (I.I.)
| | - Evangelia Papadavid
- Second Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Attikon Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (E.K.); (E.P.)
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The Pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis: An Understanding Based on a Common Pathologic Cascade across Multiple Organs and Additional Organ-Specific Pathologies. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9092687. [PMID: 32825112 PMCID: PMC7565034 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9092687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem autoimmune and vascular disease resulting in fibrosis of various organs with unknown etiology. Accumulating evidence suggests that a common pathologic cascade across multiple organs and additional organ-specific pathologies underpin SSc development. The common pathologic cascade starts with vascular injury due to autoimmune attacks and unknown environmental factors. After that, dysregulated angiogenesis and defective vasculogenesis promote vascular structural abnormalities, such as capillary loss and arteriolar stenosis, while aberrantly activated endothelial cells facilitate the infiltration of circulating immune cells into perivascular areas of various organs. Arteriolar stenosis directly causes pulmonary arterial hypertension, scleroderma renal crisis and digital ulcers. Chronic inflammation persistently activates interstitial fibroblasts, leading to the irreversible fibrosis of multiple organs. The common pathologic cascade interacts with a variety of modifying factors in each organ, such as keratinocytes and adipocytes in the skin, esophageal stratified squamous epithelia and myenteric nerve system in gastrointestinal tract, vasospasm of arterioles in the heart and kidney, and microaspiration of gastric content in the lung. To better understand SSc pathogenesis and develop new disease-modifying therapies, it is quite important to understand the complex pathogenesis of SSc from the two distinct perspectives, namely the common pathologic cascade and additional organ-specific pathologies.
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Yamasaki Y, Kuwana M. Nintedanib for the treatment of systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2020; 16:547-560. [DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2020.1777857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshioki Yamasaki
- Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masataka Kuwana
- Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
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Stronati G, Manfredi L, Ferrarini A, Zuliani L, Fogante M, Schicchi N, Capucci A, Giovagnoni A, Russo AD, Gabrielli A, Guerra F. Subclinical progression of systemic sclerosis-related cardiomyopathy. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2020; 27:1876-1886. [PMID: 32306757 DOI: 10.1177/2047487320916591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Cardiac involvement in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) is frequent and represents a negative prognostic factor. Recent studies have described subclinical heart involvement of both the right ventricle (RV) and left ventricle (LV) via speckle-tracking-derived global longitudinal strain (GLS). It is currently unknown if SSc-related cardiomyopathy progresses through time. Our aim was to assess the progression of subclinical cardiac involvement in patients with SSc via speckle-tracking-derived GLS. METHODS This was a prospective longitudinal study enrolling 72 consecutive patients with a diagnosis of SSc and no structural heart disease nor pulmonary hypertension. A standard echocardiographic exam and GLS calculations were performed at baseline and at follow-up. RESULTS Traditional echocardiographic parameters did not differ from baseline to 20-month follow-up. LV GLS, despite being already impaired at baseline, worsened significantly during follow-up (from -19.8 ± 3.5% to -18.7 ± 3.5%, p = .034). RV GLS impairment progressed through the follow-up period (from -20.9 ± 6.1% to -18.7 ± 5.4%, p = .013). The impairment was more pronounced for the endocardial layers of both LV (from -22.5 ± 3.9% to -21.4 ± 3.9%, p = .041) and RV (-24.2 ± 6.2% to -20.6 ± 5.9%, p = .001). A 1% worsening in RV GLS was associated with an 18% increased risk of all-cause death or major cardiovascular event (p = .03) and with a 55% increased risk of pulmonary hypertension (p = .043). CONCLUSION SSC-related cardiomyopathy progresses over time and can be detected by speckle-tracking GLS. The highest progression towards reduced deformation was registered for the endocardial layers, which supports the hypothesis that microvascular dysfunction is the main determinant of heart involvement in SSc patients and starts well before overt pulmonary hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Stronati
- Cardiology and Arrhythmology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, University Hospital 'Ospedali Riuniti', Italy
| | - Lucia Manfredi
- Clinica Medica, Marche Polytechnic University, University Hospital 'Ospedali Riuniti', Italy
| | - Alessia Ferrarini
- Clinica Medica, Marche Polytechnic University, University Hospital 'Ospedali Riuniti', Italy
| | - Lucia Zuliani
- Clinica Medica, Marche Polytechnic University, University Hospital 'Ospedali Riuniti', Italy
| | - Marco Fogante
- Radiology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, University Hospital 'Ospedali Riuniti', Italy
| | - Nicolò Schicchi
- Radiology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, University Hospital 'Ospedali Riuniti', Italy
| | - Alessandro Capucci
- Cardiology and Arrhythmology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, University Hospital 'Ospedali Riuniti', Italy
| | - Andrea Giovagnoni
- Radiology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, University Hospital 'Ospedali Riuniti', Italy
| | - Antonio Dello Russo
- Cardiology and Arrhythmology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, University Hospital 'Ospedali Riuniti', Italy
| | - Armando Gabrielli
- Clinica Medica, Marche Polytechnic University, University Hospital 'Ospedali Riuniti', Italy
| | - Federico Guerra
- Cardiology and Arrhythmology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, University Hospital 'Ospedali Riuniti', Italy
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Liu BY, Wu WC, Zeng QX, Liu ZH, Niu LL, Tian Y, Cheng XL, Luo Q, Zhao ZH, Huang L, Wang H, He JG, Xiong CM. Two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography detected interventricular dyssynchrony predicts exercise capacity and disease severity in pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 8:456. [PMID: 32395500 PMCID: PMC7210168 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2020.03.146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Background Right ventricular (RV) intraventricular mechanical dyssynchrony detected by two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) has been reported to be correlated with a decrease in RV contractile efficiency in pulmonary hypertension (PH) patients, while little attention has been paid to biventricular dysfunction. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the predictive value of 2D-STE detected interventricular dyssynchrony for exercise capacity and disease severity in patients with pre-capillary PH (PcPH). Methods Conventional transthoracic echocardiography, 2D-STE and cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPETs) were performed in all participants. Intra- and interventricular dyssynchrony were calculated as the standard deviation (SD) of the time intervals corrected for heart rate between QRS onset and peak longitudinal strain. Multivariate linear regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of peak oxygen consumption (PVO2) during the CPET. Multivariable logistical regression modeling was used to analyze the associations between interventricular dyssynchrony and risk assessment. Results Sixty-six PcPH patients were consecutively recruited (19 male and 47 female, average 35 years old). WHO functional class, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and body mass index were included as independent predictors in the first multivariate regression analysis of clinical data without echocardiographic parameters (Model-1, r2=0.423, P<0.001). We subsequently added conventional echocardiographic parameters and 2D-STE parameters to the clinical data, RV fractional area change (Model-2, r2=0.417, P<0.001), RV global longitudinal strain (Model-3, r2=0.454, P=0.001), RV intraventricular dyssynchrony (Model-4: r2=0.474, P<0.001) and interventricular dyssynchrony (Model-5, r2=0.483, P<0.001) were identified as independent predictors of PVO2. Interventricular dyssynchrony, calculated as the SD of the time intervals of nine segments, was independently associated with risk assessment (odd ratio 1.027, 95% CI: 1.003–1.052, P=0.03). The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.73 (P<0.001). Conclusions Interventricular dyssynchrony detected by 2D-STE contributed to a better evaluation of exercise capacity and disease severity in PcPH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing-Yang Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonary Vascular Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Wei-Chun Wu
- Department of Echocardiography, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Qi-Xian Zeng
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonary Vascular Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Zhi-Hong Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonary Vascular Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Li-Li Niu
- Department of Echocardiography, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Yue Tian
- Department of Echocardiography, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Xiao-Ling Cheng
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonary Vascular Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Qin Luo
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonary Vascular Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Zhi-Hui Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonary Vascular Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Li Huang
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonary Vascular Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Echocardiography, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Jian-Guo He
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonary Vascular Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, China
| | - Chang-Ming Xiong
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonary Vascular Disease Center, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, China
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17
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Lazou A, Ikonomidis I, Bartekova M, Benedek T, Makavos G, Palioura D, Cabrera Fuentes H, Andreadou I. Chronic inflammatory diseases, myocardial function and cardioprotection. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:5357-5374. [PMID: 31943142 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The association between chronic inflammatory diseases (CIDs) and increased cardiovascular (CV) risk is well documented and can be a most threatening complication in these patients. However, the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying increased CV risk remain elusive, especially in their cellular and biochemical pathways. Using animal models to understand mechanisms underlying cardiac involvement are limited. Additionally, treatments may influence cardiovascular events through different outcomes. Some drugs used to treat CIDs can negatively affect cardiac function by a direct toxicity, whereas others may protect the myocardium. In the present article, we focus on the cardiac manifestations and risk factors, the pathogenetic mechanisms, and the effect of treatments on myocardial function and cardioprotection for five common worldwide CIDs (rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease). We also give recommendations in order to evaluate common targets between CID and CV disease (CVD) and to design therapies to alleviate CID-related CVD. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Risk factors, comorbidities, and comedications in cardioprotection. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.23/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antigone Lazou
- School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ignatios Ikonomidis
- Second Cardiology Department, Attikon Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Monika Bartekova
- Institute for Heart Research, Centre of Experimental Medicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Theodora Benedek
- Clinic of Cardiology, Cardiac Critical Care Unit, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Târgu Mureş, Romania
| | - George Makavos
- Second Cardiology Department, Attikon Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitra Palioura
- School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Hector Cabrera Fuentes
- SingHealth Duke-NUS Cardiovascular Sciences Academic Clinical Programme and Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore.,National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre, Singapore.,Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Tecnologico de Monterrey, Centro de Biotecnologia-FEMSA, Monterrey, NL, Mexico.,Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, Kazan, Russian Federation
| | - Ioanna Andreadou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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18
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Acute Heart Failure in Scleroderma Renal Crisis: A Case Study for Review of Cardiac Disease in Systemic Sclerosis. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL CASE REPORTS 2020; 8:1-7. [PMID: 31773058 PMCID: PMC6878899 DOI: 10.12691/ajmcr-8-1-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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19
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Speckle tracking echocardiography in systemic sclerosis: how far have we arrived and where can we go. Clin Rheumatol 2020; 39:125-126. [DOI: 10.1007/s10067-019-04774-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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20
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Kuwana M, Azuma A. Nintedanib: New indication for systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease. Mod Rheumatol 2019; 30:225-231. [PMID: 31747840 DOI: 10.1080/14397595.2019.1696505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Nintedanib (Ofev™), an oral triple kinase inhibitor targeting pro-fibrotic pathways, has been used for treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Based on positive results from phase III, placebo-controlled, randomized comparative clinical trial conducted in patients with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD), nintedanib received marketing approval in the United States and Japan for the treatment of SSc-ILD. Nintedanib significantly reduced the annual rate of decline in forced vital capacity over 52 weeks compared with placebo. The safety profiles observed in this trial were consistent with those reported in IPF patients, and the most common adverse events were gastrointestinal disorders, including diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, which sometimes lead to discontinuation or permanent dose reduction of nintedanib. In contrast, serious adverse events were infrequent and were related mostly to worsening of cardiopulmonary involvement of SSc. This review summarizes the milestones in development of nintedanib leading to the approval for the treatment of SSc-ILD, and covers mechanisms of action, efficacy results and safety profiles, and future perspectives of nintedanib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masataka Kuwana
- Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Nippon Medical School, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Arata Azuma
- Department of Pulmonary, Infection and Oncology, Nippon Medical School, Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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21
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Birnhuber A, Biasin V, Schnoegl D, Marsh LM, Kwapiszewska G. Transcription factor Fra-2 and its emerging role in matrix deposition, proliferation and inflammation in chronic lung diseases. Cell Signal 2019; 64:109408. [PMID: 31473307 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2019.109408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Fos-related antigen-2 (Fra-2) belongs to the activator protein 1 (AP-1) family of transcription factors and is involved in a broad variety of cellular processes, such as proliferation or differentiation. Aberrant expression of Fra-2 or regulation can lead to severe growth defects or diverse pathologies. Elevated Fra-2 expression has been described in several chronic lung diseases, such as pulmonary fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma. However, the pathomechanisms behind the Fra-2-induced pulmonary remodelling are still not fully elucidated. Fra-2 overexpressing mice were initially described as a model of systemic sclerosis associated organ fibrosis, with predominant alterations in the lung. High levels of Fra-2 expression give rise to profound inflammation with severe remodelling of the parenchyma and the vasculature, resulting in fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension, respectively, but also alters bronchial function. In this review we discuss the central role of Fra-2 connecting inflammation, cellular proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition underlying chronic lung diseases and what we can learn for future therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Birnhuber
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria
| | - V Biasin
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria
| | - D Schnoegl
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria
| | - L M Marsh
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria
| | - G Kwapiszewska
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria; Otto Loewi Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
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22
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Crnkovic S, Egemnazarov B, Damico R, Marsh LM, Nagy BM, Douschan P, Atsina K, Kolb TM, Mathai SC, Hooper JE, Ghanim B, Klepetko W, Fruhwald F, Lassner D, Olschewski A, Olschewski H, Hassoun PM, Kwapiszewska G. Disconnect between Fibrotic Response and Right Ventricular Dysfunction. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2019; 199:1550-1560. [PMID: 30557518 PMCID: PMC6580669 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201809-1737oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Remodeling and fibrosis of the right ventricle (RV) may cause RV dysfunction and poor survival in patients with pulmonary hypertension. Objectives: To investigate the consequences of RV fibrosis modulation and the accompanying cellular changes on RV function. Methods: Expression of fibrotic markers was assessed in the RV of patients with pulmonary hypertension, the murine pulmonary artery banding, and rat monocrotaline and Sugen5416/hypoxia models. Invasive hemodynamic and echocardiographic assessment was performed on galectin-3 knockout or inhibitor-treated mice. Measurements and Main Results: Established fibrosis was characterized by marked expression of galectin-3 and an enhanced number of proliferating RV fibroblasts. Galectin-3 genetic and pharmacologic inhibition or antifibrotic treatment with pirfenidone significantly diminished RV fibrosis progression in the pulmonary artery banding model, without improving RV functional parameters. RV fibrotic regions were populated with mesenchymal cells coexpressing vimentin and PDGFRα (platelet-derived growth factor receptor-α), but generally lacked αSMA (α-smooth muscle actin) positivity. Serum levels of galectin-3 were increased in patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension but did not correlate with cardiac function. No changes of galectin-3 expression were observed in the lungs. Conclusions: We identified extrapulmonary galectin-3 as an important mediator that drives RV fibrosis in pulmonary hypertension through the expansion of PDGFRα/vimentin-expressing cardiac fibroblasts. However, interventions effectively targeting fibrosis lack significant beneficial effects on RV function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Slaven Crnkovic
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Rachel Damico
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine and
| | - Leigh M. Marsh
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria
| | - Bence M. Nagy
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria
| | - Philipp Douschan
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria
- Division of Pulmonology
| | - Kwame Atsina
- Division of Cardiology, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Todd M. Kolb
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine and
| | | | - Jody E. Hooper
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Bahil Ghanim
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; and
| | - Walter Klepetko
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; and
| | | | - Dirk Lassner
- Institute for Cardiac Diagnostic and Therapy, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andrea Olschewski
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria
| | | | | | - Grazyna Kwapiszewska
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria
- Otto Loewi Center, Physiology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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23
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Yasuoka H, Tam YYA, Okazaki Y, Tamura Y, Matsuo K, Feghali-Bostwick C, Takeuchi T, Kuwana M. Fos-related antigen-1 transgenic mouse as a model for systemic sclerosis: A potential role of M2 polarization. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2019; 4:137-148. [DOI: 10.1177/2397198319838140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: To investigate the systemic sclerosis–related phenotype in fos-related antigen-1 transgenic mice and its underlying mechanisms. Methods: Lung and skin sections of constitutive fos-related antigen-1 transgenic mice and wild-type mice were examined by tissue staining and immunohistochemistry. The tricuspid regurgitation pressure gradient was measured by transthoracic echocardiography with a Doppler technique. To assess the impact of fos-related antigen-1 expression on macrophage function, bone marrow–derived mononuclear cells were derived from mice that expressed fos-related antigen-1 under the control of doxycycline and wild-type littermates. These bone marrow–derived mononuclear cells were induced to differentiate into macrophages with or without doxycycline, and analyzed for gene and protein expression. Finally, lung explants obtained from systemic sclerosis patients and control donors were subjected to immunohistochemistry. Results: The lungs of fos-related antigen-1 transgenic mice showed excessive fibrosis of the interstitium and thickening of vessel walls, with narrowing lumen, in an age-dependent manner. The tricuspid regurgitation pressure gradient was significantly elevated in fos-related antigen-1 transgenic versus control mice. Increased dermal thickness and the loss of subdermal adipose tissue were also observed in the fos-related antigen-1 transgenic mice. These changes were preceded by a perivascular infiltration of mononuclear cells, predominantly consisting of alternatively activated or M2 macrophages. Overexpressing fos-related antigen-1 in bone marrow–derived mononuclear cell cultures increased the expression of M2-related genes, such as Il10, Alox15, and Arg1. Finally, fos-related antigen-1-expressing M2 macrophages were increased in the lung tissues of systemic sclerosis patients. Conclusions: The fos-related antigen-1 transgenic mouse serves as a genetic model of systemic sclerosis that recapitulates the major vascular and fibrotic manifestations of the lungs and skin in systemic sclerosis patients. M2 polarization mediated by the up-regulation of fos-related antigen-1 may play a critical role in the development of systemic sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidekata Yasuoka
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuen Yu Angela Tam
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuka Okazaki
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuichi Tamura
- International University of Health and Welfare, Mita Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koichi Matsuo
- Laboratory of Cell and Tissue Biology, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Tsutomu Takeuchi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masataka Kuwana
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
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Sanghera C, Wong LM, Panahi M, Sintou A, Hasham M, Sattler S. Cardiac phenotype in mouse models of systemic autoimmunity. Dis Model Mech 2019; 12:dmm036947. [PMID: 30858306 PMCID: PMC6451423 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.036947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients suffering from systemic autoimmune diseases are at significant risk of cardiovascular complications. This can be due to systemically increased levels of inflammation leading to accelerated atherosclerosis, or due to direct damage to the tissues and cells of the heart. Cardiac complications include an increased risk of myocardial infarction, myocarditis and dilated cardiomyopathy, valve disease, endothelial dysfunction, excessive fibrosis, and bona fide autoimmune-mediated tissue damage by autoantibodies or auto-reactive cells. There is, however, still a considerable need to better understand how to diagnose and treat cardiac complications in autoimmune patients. A range of inducible and spontaneous mouse models of systemic autoimmune diseases is available for mechanistic and therapeutic studies. For this Review, we systematically collated information on the cardiac phenotype in the most common inducible, spontaneous and engineered mouse models of systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic sclerosis. We also highlight selected lesser-known models of interest to provide researchers with a decision framework to choose the most suitable model for their study of heart involvement in systemic autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandan Sanghera
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Lok Man Wong
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Mona Panahi
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Amalia Sintou
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Muneer Hasham
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
| | - Susanne Sattler
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, UK
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Guerra F, Stronati G, Fischietti C, Ferrarini A, Zuliani L, Pomponio G, Capucci A, Danieli MG, Gabrielli A. Global longitudinal strain measured by speckle tracking identifies subclinical heart involvement in patients with systemic sclerosis. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2018; 25:1598-1606. [PMID: 29966435 DOI: 10.1177/2047487318786315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Systemic sclerosis is characterised by progressive cutaneous and organ fibrosis. Among all organs, a subclinical heart involvement is difficult to detect through conventional imaging. Design We evaluated whether speckle tracking-derived global longitudinal strain could help detect early subclinical systolic dysfunction in systemic sclerosis patients without overt clinical involvement. Methods A case-control, single-centre study on 52 systemic sclerosis patients and 52 age and gender-matched controls. Patients with structural heart disease, heart failure, atrial fibrillation and pulmonary hypertension were excluded. For every patient, standard echocardiographic and speckle tracking-derived variables for the systolic and diastolic function of the left ventricle and right ventricle were acquired. Results Traditional parameters of left and right systolic function did not differ between systemic sclerosis patients and controls (all P = ns). Left and right ventricular global longitudinal strain was significantly impaired in patients with systemic sclerosis when compared to controls (-19.2% vs. -21.1%; P = 0.009 and -18.2% vs. -22.3%; P = 0.012, respectively). Systemic sclerosis patients had a 2.5-fold increased risk of subclinical left ventricular systolic impairment (odds ratio 2.5, 95% confidence interval 1.1-5.5; P = 0.027) and a 3.3-fold increased risk of subclinical right ventricular systolic impairment when compared to controls (odds ratio 3.3, 95% confidence interval 1.4-7.7; P = 0.004). Alterations in the myocardial deformation pattern of systemic sclerosis patients were homogeneous in the right ventricle and eccentric in the left ventricle. Conclusions While traditional echocardiographic parameters are ineffective in detecting subclinical systolic impairment, reduced global longitudinal strain is common in patients with systemic sclerosis and significant for both ventricles. Global longitudinal strain could become a low-cost, non-invasive and reliable tool in order to detect early cardiac involvement in systemic sclerosis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Guerra
- 1 Cardiology and Arrhythmology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Italy
| | - Giulia Stronati
- 1 Cardiology and Arrhythmology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Italy
| | | | | | - Lucia Zuliani
- 2 Clinica Medica, Marche Polytechnic University, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Capucci
- 1 Cardiology and Arrhythmology Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Italy
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Schreiber BE, Parish V, Knight DS, Bell AD, Denton CP, Banner N, Coghlan G. Cardiac transplantation in a 20-year-old woman with scleroderma. JOURNAL OF SCLERODERMA AND RELATED DISORDERS 2018; 3:NP1-NP4. [PMID: 35382118 PMCID: PMC8892872 DOI: 10.1177/2397198318758417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe cardiac transplantation in a young woman with juvenile onset diffuse scleroderma and cardiac involvement. METHODS Case report. RESULTS A young White girl developed anti-topoisomerase-1 positive diffuse scleroderma aged 14 years with myositis. Pulmonary function tests were normal. Skin disease was treated with mycophenolate mofetil 1 g twice daily, methotrexate 7.5 mg weekly and periodic intravenous prostacyclin. When aged 17 years, she developed raised troponin T of 0.207 mcg/L (normal range <0.03) and NTproBNP (155 pmol/L); 6-min walking distance was 341 m, and she had episodes of presyncope with effort. The next year she developed symptomatic ventricular tachycardias and dual-chamber implantable cardioverter-defibrillator was inserted, with further episodes of ventricular tachycardia and one shock delivered. By age 19 years, 6-min walking distance was 125 m. Echocardiography showed ejection fraction of 15%-20% with dilated left ventricle and pericardial effusion. She was treated with intravenous Rituximab. She became breathless while dressing and managed only 118 m in 6 min. She experienced increasing orthopnoea and peripheral oedema and was found to be in a low cardiac output state, requiring treatment with intravenous milrinone to maintain renal function. She underwent orthotopic cardiac transplantation, making an excellent post-operative recovery, and was discharged 16 days later with tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil and prednisolone. After 1 year, she was in New York Heart Association functional class I and with normal cardiac function on echocardiography. CONCLUSION This case illustrates the severe cardiac involvement that can occur in juvenile onset diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis, in which cardiac involvement is the leading cause of death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin E Schreiber
- Royal Free London, NHS Foundation Trust,
London - UK
- Pulmonary Hypertension and Rheumatology,
Royal Free Hospital, Royal Free London, NHS Foundation Trust, London - UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Nicholas Banner
- Pulmonary Hypertension and Rheumatology,
Royal Free Hospital, Royal Free London, NHS Foundation Trust, London - UK
| | - Gerry Coghlan
- Royal Free London, NHS Foundation Trust,
London - UK
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27
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Egemnazarov B, Crnkovic S, Nagy BM, Olschewski H, Kwapiszewska G. Right ventricular fibrosis and dysfunction: Actual concepts and common misconceptions. Matrix Biol 2018; 68-69:507-521. [PMID: 29343458 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2018.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis and remodeling of the right ventricle (RV) are associated with RV dysfunction and mortality of patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) but it is unknown how much RV fibrosis contributes to RV dysfunction and mortality. RV fibrosis manifests as fibroblast accumulation and collagen deposition which may be excessive. Although extracellular matrix deposition leads to elevated ventricular stiffness, it is not known to which extent it affects RV function. Various animal models of pulmonary hypertension have been established to investigate the role of fibrosis in RV dysfunction and failure. However, they do not perfectly resemble the human disease. In the current review we describe the major characteristics of RV fibrosis, molecular mechanisms regulating the fibrotic process, and discuss how therapeutic targeting of fibrosis might affect RV function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Slaven Crnkovic
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria
| | - Bence M Nagy
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria
| | - Horst Olschewski
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria; Division of Pulmonology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Grazyna Kwapiszewska
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Lung Vascular Research, Graz, Austria; Institute of Physiology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
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Huang J, Maier C, Zhang Y, Soare A, Dees C, Beyer C, Harre U, Chen CW, Distler O, Schett G, Wollin L, Distler JHW. Nintedanib inhibits macrophage activation and ameliorates vascular and fibrotic manifestations in the Fra2 mouse model of systemic sclerosis. Ann Rheum Dis 2017; 76:1941-1948. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2016-210823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Revised: 05/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BackgroundNintedanib is an inhibitor targeting platelet-derived growth factor receptor, fibroblast growth factor receptor and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor tyrosine kinases that has recently been approved for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The aim of this study was to analyse the effects of nintedanib in the fos-related antigen-2 (Fra2) mouse model of systemic sclerosis (SSc).MethodsThe effects of nintedanib on pulmonary arterial hypertension with proliferation of pulmonary vascular smooth muscle cells (PVSMCs) and luminal occlusion, on microvascular disease with apoptosis of microvascular endothelial cells (MVECs) and on fibroblast activation with myofibroblast differentiation and accumulation of extracellular matrix were analysed. We also studied the effects of nintedanib on the levels of key mediators involved in the pathogenesis of SSc and on macrophage polarisation.ResultsNintedanib inhibited proliferation of PVSMCs and prevented thickening of the vessel walls and luminal occlusion of pulmonary arteries. Treatment with nintedanib also inhibited apoptosis of MVECs and blunted the capillary rarefaction in Fra2-transgenic mice. These effects were associated with a normalisation of the serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor in Fra2 mice on treatment with nintedanib. Nintedanib also effectively blocked myofibroblast differentiation and reduced pulmonary, dermal and myocardial fibrosis in Fra2-transgenic mice. The antifibrotic effects of nintedanib were associated with impaired M2 polarisation of monocytes and reduced numbers of M2 macrophages.ConclusionNintedanib targets core features of SSc in Fra2-transgenic mice and ameliorates histological features of pulmonary arterial hypertension, destructive microangiopathy and pulmonary and dermal fibrosis. These data might have direct implications for the ongoing phase III clinical trial with nintedanib in SSc-associated interstitial lung disease.
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Caforio AL, Adler Y, Agostini C, Allanore Y, Anastasakis A, Arad M, Böhm M, Charron P, Elliott PM, Eriksson U, Felix SB, Garcia-Pavia P, Hachulla E, Heymans S, Imazio M, Klingel K, Marcolongo R, Matucci Cerinic M, Pantazis A, Plein S, Poli V, Rigopoulos A, Seferovic P, Shoenfeld Y, Zamorano JL, Linhart A. Diagnosis and management of myocardial involvement in systemic immune-mediated diseases: a position statement of the European Society of Cardiology Working Group on Myocardial and Pericardial Disease. Eur Heart J 2017; 38:2649-2662. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehx321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We discuss recent advances in evaluating and optimizing animal models of systemic sclerosis (SSc). Such models could be of value for illuminating etiopathogenesis using hypothesis-testing experimental approaches, for developing effective disease-modifying therapies, and for uncovering clinically relevant biomarkers. RECENT FINDINGS We describe recent advances in previously reported and novel animal models of SSc. The limitations of each animal model and their ability to recapitulate the pathophysiology of recognized molecular subsets of SSc are discussed. We highlight attrition of dermal white adipose tissue as a consistent pathological feature of dermal fibrosis in mouse models, and its relevance to SSc-associated cutaneous fibrosis. SUMMARY Several animal models potentially useful for studying SSc pathogenesis have been described. Recent studies highlight particular strengths and weaknesses of selected models in recapitulating distinct features of the human disease. When used in the appropriate experimental setting, and in combination, these models singly and together provide a powerful set of in-vivo tools to define underlying mechanisms of disease and to develop and evaluate effective antifibrotic therapies.
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Asano Y. Recent advances in animal models of systemic sclerosis. J Dermatol 2017; 43:19-28. [PMID: 26782003 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.13185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem connective tissue disease characterized by the three cardinal pathological features, comprising aberrant immune activation, vasculopathy and tissue fibrosis, with unknown etiology. Although many inducible and genetic animal models mimicking the selected aspects of SSc have been well documented, the lack of models encompassing the full clinical manifestations hindered the development and preclinical testing of therapies against this disease. Under this situation, three new genetic animal models have recently been established, such as Fra2 transgenic mice, urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor deficient mice and Klf5(+/-) ;Fli1(+/-) mice, all of which recapitulate the pathological cascade of SSc. The former two murine models demonstrate endothelial cell apoptosis and capillary loss followed by tissue fibrosis, whereas the immune systems show no remarkable abnormality. Klf5(+/-) ;Fli1(+/-) mice develop immune activation, vasculopathy and tissue fibrosis in this sequence, eventually resulting in the development of dermal fibrosis, interstitial lung disease and pulmonary vascular involvement resembling those of SSc. Because Krueppel-like factor (KLF)5 and Friend leukemia integration 1 transcription factor (Fli1) are the transcription factors epigenetically suppressed in SSc dermal fibroblasts, the reproduction of SSc manifestations in Klf5(+/-) ;Fli1(+/-) mice supports the canonical idea that environmental influences play a central role in the development of SSc in genetically predisposed individuals. These new animal models offer important clues for the better understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms of SSc pathology and the identification of potential molecular targets for the treatment of this incurable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihide Asano
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease of unknown etiology that is characterized by fibrosis of the skin and several internal organs, vasculopathy, inflammation and autoimmunity. Animal models have improved our understanding of the pathogenesis of SSc. Many inducible and genetic animal models of SSc have been developed and characterized in the last years. All of these models have different strengths and limitations and mimic different aspects of the pathogenesis of SSc. The purpose of this review is to summarize the characteristics of the various animal models of SSc and to provide an outline of how to use these models to study certain aspects in the pathogenesis of SSc and to test the effects of potential therapeutic approaches.
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Manetti M, Rosa I, Fazi M, Guiducci S, Carmeliet P, Ibba-Manneschi L, Matucci-Cerinic M. Systemic sclerosis-like histopathological features in the myocardium of uPAR-deficient mice. Ann Rheum Dis 2015; 75:474-8. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2015-207803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2015] [Accepted: 07/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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34
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De Langhe E, Lories R. Fibrogenesis, novel lessons from animal models. Semin Immunopathol 2015; 37:565-74. [PMID: 26141608 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-015-0510-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a devastating chronic autoimmune connective tissue disease characterized by vasculopathy, autoimmunity with inflammation, and progressive fibrogenesis. The current paradigm of the pathogenesis of SSc is that of an unknown initial trigger, leading to a complex interaction of immune cells, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts, producing cytokines, growth and angiogenic factors, and resulting in uncontrolled and persistent tissue fibrogenesis by an altered mesenchymal cell compartment. Animal models are of utmost importance to investigate the different steps in the pathogenesis. This review will elaborate on recent findings in established and more recently developed animal models, presenting data on compounds that are in or ready to be translated into clinical trials, or provide interesting new findings in the understanding of the pathophysiology of SSc. We focus on recent findings concerning the vessel-extracellular matrix interaction, the initial triggering aggressor, the concept of autoimmunity and inflammatory changes, the effector cells and their origins, and the complex interaction of the different signaling pathways in fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen De Langhe
- Laboratory of Tissue Homeostasis and Disease, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
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