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Reeck JC, Hardy MJ, Pu X, Keller-Peck C, Oxford JT. Authentication of a novel antibody to zebrafish collagen type XI alpha 1 chain (Col11a1a). BMC Res Notes 2021; 14:359. [PMID: 34526111 PMCID: PMC8444443 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-021-05770-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Extracellular matrix proteins play important roles in embryonic development and antibodies that specifically detect these proteins are essential to understanding their function. The zebrafish embryo is a popular model for vertebrate development but suffers from a dearth of authenticated antibody reagents for research. Here, we describe a novel antibody designed to detect the minor fibrillar collagen chain Col11a1a in zebrafish (AB strain). RESULTS The Col11a1a antibody was raised in rabbit against a peptide comprising a unique sequence within the zebrafish Col11a1a gene product. The antibody was affinity-purified and characterized by ELISA. The antibody is effective for immunoblot and immunohistochemistry applications. Protein bands identified by immunoblot were confirmed by mass spectrometry and sensitivity to collagenase. Col11a1a knockout zebrafish were used to confirm specificity of the antibody. The Col11a1a antibody labeled cartilaginous structures within the developing jaw, consistent with previously characterized Col11a1 antibodies in other species. Col11a1a within formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded zebrafish were recognized by the antibody. The antibodies and the approaches described here will help to address the lack of well-defined antibody reagents in zebrafish research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathon C. Reeck
- Department of Biological Sciences, Biomolecular Sciences Graduate Program, and Biomolecular Research Center, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725 USA
| | - Makenna J. Hardy
- Biomolecular Sciences Graduate Program, Biomolecular Research Center, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725 USA
| | - Xinzhu Pu
- Biomolecular Research Center, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725 USA
| | | | - Julia Thom Oxford
- Department of Biological Sciences, Biomolecular Sciences Graduate Program, and Biomolecular Research Center, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725 USA
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2
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McAlinden A, Hudson DM, Fernandes AA, Ravindran S, Fernandes RJ. Biochemical and immuno-histochemical localization of type IIA procollagen in annulus fibrosus of mature bovine intervertebral disc. Matrix Biol Plus 2021; 12:100077. [PMID: 34337380 PMCID: PMC8313739 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbplus.2021.100077] [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: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
For next generation tissue-engineered constructs and regenerative medicine to succeed clinically, the basic biology and extracellular matrix composition of tissues that these repair techniques seek to restore have to be fully determined. Using the latest reagents coupled with tried and tested methodologies, we continue to uncover previously undetected structural proteins in mature intervertebral disc. In this study we show that the “embryonic” type IIA procollagen isoform (containing a cysteine-rich amino propeptide) was biochemically detectable in the annulus fibrosus of both calf and mature steer caudal intervertebral discs, but not in the nucleus pulposus where the type IIB isoform was predominantly localized. Specifically, the triple-helical type IIA procollagen isoform immunolocalized in the outer margins of the inner annulus fibrosus. Triple helical processed type II collagen exclusively localized within the inter-lamellae regions and with type IIA procollagen in the intra-lamellae regions. Mass spectrometry of the α1(II) collagen chains from the region where type IIA procollagen localized showed high 3-hydroxylation of Proline-944, a post-translational modification that is correlated with thin collagen fibrils as in the nucleus pulposus. The findings implicate small diameter fibrils of type IIA procollagen in select regions of the annulus fibrosus where it likely contributes to the organization of collagen bundles and structural properties within the type I-type II collagen transition zone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey McAlinden
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA.,Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA.,Shriners Hospitals for Children- St Louis, MO, USA
| | - David M Hudson
- Department of Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Aysel A Fernandes
- Department of Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Soumya Ravindran
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Russell J Fernandes
- Department of Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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3
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Ohnishi T, Novais EJ, Risbud MV. Alterations in ECM signature underscore multiple sub-phenotypes of intervertebral disc degeneration. Matrix Biol Plus 2020; 6-7:100036. [PMID: 33543030 PMCID: PMC7852332 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbplus.2020.100036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The intervertebral disc is a specialized connective tissue critical for absorption of mechanical loads and providing flexibility to the spinal column. The disc ECM is complex and plays a vital role in imparting tissue its biomechanical function. The central NP is primarily composed of large aggregating proteoglycans (PGs) while surrounding AF is composed of fibrillar collagens, I and II. Aggrecan and versican in particular, due to their high concentration of sulfated GAG chains form large aggregates with hyaluronic acid (HA) and provide water binding capacity to the disc. Degradation of aggrecan core protein due to aggrecanase and MMP activity, SNPs that affect number of chondroitin sulfate (CS) substitutions and alteration in enzymes critical in synthesis of CS chains can impair the aggrecan functionality. Similarly, levels of many matrix and matrix-related molecules e.g. Col2, Col9, HAS2, ccn2 are dysregulated during disc degeneration and genetic animal models have helped establish causative link between their expression and disc health. In the degenerating and herniated discs, increased levels of inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 are shown to promote matrix degradation through regulating expression and activity of critical proteases and stimulate immune cell activation. Recent studies of different mouse strains have better elucidated the broader impact of spontaneous degeneration on disc matrix homeostasis. SM/J mice showed an increased cell apoptosis, loss of cell phenotype, and cleavage of aggrecan during early stages followed by tissue fibrosis evident by enrichment of several collagens, SLRPs and fibronectin. In summary, while disc degeneration encompasses wide spectrum of degenerative phenotypes extensive matrix degradation and remodeling underscores all of them. The intervertebral disc absorbs loads and provides flexibility to the spine. The ECM is complex and vital for imparting tissue its biomechanical function. Numerous types of proteoglycans and collagens designate the quality of the disc. Many matrix and matrix-related molecules are dysregulated during disc degeneration. Matrix degradation and remodeling underscores wide spectrum of phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Ohnishi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Emanuel J Novais
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Makarand V Risbud
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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4
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Luo Y, He Y, Reker D, Gudmann NS, Henriksen K, Simonsen O, Ladel C, Michaelis M, Mobasheri A, Karsdal M, Bay-Jensen AC. A Novel High Sensitivity Type II Collagen Blood-Based Biomarker, PRO-C2, for Assessment of Cartilage Formation. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19113485. [PMID: 30404167 PMCID: PMC6275061 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19113485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
N-terminal propeptide of type II collagen (PIINP) is a biomarker reflecting cartilage formation. PIINP exists in two main splice variants termed as type IIA and type IIB collagen NH₂-propeptide (PIIANP, PIIBNP). PIIANP has been widely recognized as a cartilage formation biomarker. However, the utility of PIIBNP as a marker in preclinical and clinical settings has not been fully investigated yet. In this study, we aimed to characterize an antibody targeting human PIIBNP and to develop an immunoassay assessing type II collagen synthesis in human blood samples. A high sensitivity electrochemiluminescence immunoassay, hsPRO-C2, was developed using a well-characterized antibody against human PIIBNP. Human cartilage explants from replaced osteoarthritis knees were cultured for ten weeks in the presence of growth factors, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) or recombinant human fibroblast growth factor 18 (rhFGF-18). The culture medium was changed every seven days, and levels of PIIBNP, PIIANP, and matrix metalloproteinase 9-mediated degradation of type II collagen (C2M) were analyzed herein. Serum samples from a cross-sectional knee osteoarthritis cohort, as well as pediatric and rheumatoid arthritis samples, were assayed for PIIBNP and PIIANP. Western blot showed that the antibody recognized PIIBNP either as a free fragment or attached to the main molecule. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated that PIIBNP was predominately located in the extracellular matrix of the superficial and deep zones and chondrocytes in both normal and osteoarthritic articular cartilage. In addition, the hsPRO-C2 immunoassay exhibits acceptable technical performances. In the human cartilage explants model, levels of PIIBNP, but not PIIANP and C2M, were increased (2 to 7-fold) time-dependently in response to IGF-1. Moreover, there was no significant correlation between PIIBNP and PIIANP levels when measured in knee osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and pediatric serum samples. Serum PIIBNP was significantly higher in controls (KL0/1) compared to OA groups (KL2/3/4, p = 0.012). The hsPRO-C2 assay shows completely different biological and clinical patterns than PIIANP ELISA, suggesting that it may be a promising biomarker of cartilage formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunyun Luo
- Department of Rheumatology, Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers and Research, 2730 Herlev, Denmark.
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 København, Denmark.
| | - Yi He
- Department of Rheumatology, Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers and Research, 2730 Herlev, Denmark.
| | - Ditte Reker
- Department of Rheumatology, Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers and Research, 2730 Herlev, Denmark.
| | - Natasja Stæhr Gudmann
- Department of Rheumatology, Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers and Research, 2730 Herlev, Denmark.
| | - Kim Henriksen
- Department of Rheumatology, Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers and Research, 2730 Herlev, Denmark.
| | - Ole Simonsen
- Department Orthopedic Surgery, Aalborg University Hospital, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark.
| | | | | | - Ali Mobasheri
- D-BOARD EU Consortium for Biomarker Discovery, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7AL, Surrey, UK.
- Arthritis Research UK Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, Nottinghamshire, UK.
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, LT-01102 Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Morten Karsdal
- Department of Rheumatology, Nordic Bioscience, Biomarkers and Research, 2730 Herlev, Denmark.
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5
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Aker L, Ghannam M, Alzuabi MA, Jumah F, Alkhdour SM, Mansour S, Samara A, Cronk K, Massengale J, Holsapple J, Adeeb N, Oskouian RJ, Tubbs RS. Molecular Biology and Interactions in Intervertebral Disc Development, Homeostasis, and Degeneration, with Emphasis on Future Therapies: A Systematic Review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.26632/ss.3.2017.1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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6
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Ghannam M, Jumah F, Mansour S, Samara A, Alkhdour S, Alzuabi MA, Aker L, Adeeb N, Massengale J, Oskouian RJ, Tubbs RS. Surgical anatomy, radiological features, and molecular biology of the lumbar intervertebral discs. Clin Anat 2017; 30:251-266. [PMID: 27997062 DOI: 10.1002/ca.22822] [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: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The intervertebral disc (IVD) is a joint unique in structure and functions. Lying between adjacent vertebrae, it provides both the primary support and the elasticity required for the spine to move stably. Various aspects of the IVD have long been studied by researchers seeking a better understanding of its dynamics, aging, and subsequent disorders. In this article, we review the surgical anatomy, imaging modalities, and molecular biology of the lumbar IVD. Clin. Anat. 30:251-266, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malik Ghannam
- An-Najah National University Hospital, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Fareed Jumah
- An-Najah National University Hospital, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Shaden Mansour
- An-Najah National University Hospital, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Amjad Samara
- An-Najah National University Hospital, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Saja Alkhdour
- An-Najah National University Hospital, Nablus, Palestine
| | | | - Loai Aker
- An-Najah National University Hospital, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Nimer Adeeb
- Department of Neurosurgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University, Massachusetts
| | - Justin Massengale
- Department of Neurosurgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston University, Massachusetts
| | | | - R Shane Tubbs
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, St. George's University, Grenada.,Seattle Science Foundation, Seattle, Washington
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7
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Gudmann NS, Munk HL, Christensen AF, Ejstrup L, Sørensen GL, Loft AG, Karsdal MA, Bay-Jensen AC, He Y, Siebuhr AS, Junker P. Chondrocyte activity is increased in psoriatic arthritis and axial spondyloarthritis. Arthritis Res Ther 2016; 18:141. [PMID: 27306080 PMCID: PMC4910260 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-016-1040-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) are chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases with complex origins. Both are characterized by altered extracellular matrix remodeling in joints and entheses that results in destructive and osteochondral proliferative lesions. There is a need for biomarkers reflecting core disease pathways for diagnosis and disease mapping. Pro-C2 reflects mature cartilage collagen type IIB formation, while C-Col10 represents turnover of type X collagen, which is exclusively expressed by hypertrophic chondrocytes. The objectives of this study were to study cartilage metabolism in axSpA and PsA by assessing Pro-C2 and C-Col10 and to evaluate their diagnostic utility against a healthy reference population. Methods Patients with PsA (n = 101) or axSpA (n = 110) were recruited consecutively from three rheumatology outpatient clinics. Demographic and clinical disease measures were recorded. Pro-C2 and C-Col10 were quantified in serum by using newly developed and specific competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays based on monoclonal antibodies. One-way analysis of variance and Tukey’s multiple comparison tests were performed on log-transformed data. ROC curve analysis was carried out to evaluate their discriminative power. Results Pro-C2 levels in serum were significantly increased in both axSpA (median concentration 1.11 ng/ml, 0.67–1.64) and PsA (median concentration 1.03 ng/ml, 0.53–1.47) compared with healthy controls (median concentration 0.30 ng/ml, 0.16–0.41) (p < 0.0001). Pro-C2 did not differ according to treatment. C-Col10 was slightly but equally elevated in the PsA and axSpA groups vs. the control group, but it was significantly lower in patients with axSpA undergoing tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitor (TNFi) treatment. ROC curve analysis revealed AUCs of 0.85 (95 % CI 0.79–0.89) for axSpA and 0.81 (95 % CI 0.75–0.86) for PsA. Conclusions These findings indicate that cartilage collagen metabolism was enhanced in the axSpA and PsA groups compared with the healthy control group. The lower C-Col10 level in patients with axSpA undergoing TNFi treatment may reflect that hypertrophic chondrocytes in axSpA are targeted by TNFi. ROC curve analysis showed a diagnostic potential for Pro-C2 in axSpA and PsA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasja Stæhr Gudmann
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers and Research, Herlev Hovedgade 207, Herlev, 2730, Denmark.
| | | | | | - Leif Ejstrup
- Department of Rheumatology, Esbjerg Hospital, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - Grith Lykke Sørensen
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Anne Gitte Loft
- Department of Rheumatology, Vejle Hospital, Vejle, Denmark.,Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Morten Asser Karsdal
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers and Research, Herlev Hovedgade 207, Herlev, 2730, Denmark
| | | | - Yi He
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers and Research, Herlev Hovedgade 207, Herlev, 2730, Denmark
| | - Anne Sofie Siebuhr
- Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers and Research, Herlev Hovedgade 207, Herlev, 2730, Denmark
| | - Peter Junker
- Department of Rheumatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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8
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Munk HL, Gudmann NS, Christensen AF, Ejstrup L, Sorensen GL, Loft AG, Bay-Jensen AC, Siebuhr AS, Junker P. Cartilage collagen type II seromarker patterns in axial spondyloarthritis and psoriatic arthritis: associations with disease activity, smoking and HLA-B27. Rheumatol Int 2015; 36:541-9. [PMID: 26620690 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-015-3397-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2015] [Accepted: 11/12/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to assess the possible association between type II collagen turnover seromarkers and disease profile in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (SpA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Outpatients with axial SpA (n = 110) or PsA (n = 101) underwent clinical examination including disease activity measures and HLA-B27 typing. The procollagen IIA N-terminal peptide (PIIANP) and a matrix metalloproteinase-generated type II collagen fragment (C2M) were quantified in serum by ELISA. C2M was higher in SpA than in controls, 0.41 versus 0.36 ng/ml (p = 0.004), while PIIANP did not differ between patients and healthy subjects, 2252 versus 2142 ng/ml (p = 0.13). However, DMARD-naïve SpA patients had higher PIIANP, 2461 ng/ml (p = 0.01) and C2M, 0.44 ng/ml (p = 0.0007) levels than controls, and PIIANP correlated with CRP (ρ = 0.34). C2M was lower in SpA smokers, 0.36 ng/ml versus non-smokers, 0.43 ng/ml (p = 0.02), while PIIANP was higher in HLA-B27 positive, 2312 ng/ml versus negative patients, 2021 ng/ml (p = 0.03). In PsA, PIIANP and C2M did not differ between patients and controls, but PIIANP was elevated in patients not receiving DMARDs, 2726 ng/ml. In PsA, PIIANP and C2M did not differ according to smoking and HLA-B27. Cartilage degradation assessed by C2M is increased in SpA irrespective of treatment but not in PsA. Cartilage synthesis reflected by PIIANP is increased in untreated SpA and PsA. PIIANP correlates with CRP in SpA while not in PsA. In DMARD-naïve SpA but not in PsA, HLA-B27 positivity and smoking are associated with a chondro-proliferative metabolic pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Lausten Munk
- Department of Rheumatology, Odense University Hospital, Sdr. Boulevard 29, 5000, Odense C, Denmark.
| | | | | | - Leif Ejstrup
- Department of Rheumatology, Esbjerg Hospital, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - Grith Lykke Sorensen
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Anne Gitte Loft
- Department of Rheumatology, Vejle Hospital, Vejle, Denmark.,Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anne C Bay-Jensen
- Rheumatology Biomarkers and Research, Nordic Bioscience, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Anne Sofie Siebuhr
- Rheumatology Biomarkers and Research, Nordic Bioscience, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Peter Junker
- Department of Rheumatology, Odense University Hospital, Sdr. Boulevard 29, 5000, Odense C, Denmark
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Li F, Niyibizi C. Engraftability of Murine Bone Marrow-Derived Multipotent Mesenchymal Stem Cell Subpopulations in the Tissues of Developing Mice following Systemic Transplantation. Cells Tissues Organs 2015; 201:14-25. [PMID: 26447469 DOI: 10.1159/000438985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cell therapies for generalized musculoskeletal diseases would require distribution of cells to all the skeletal tissues; however, there are controversies regarding the transplantability of multipotent mesenchymal stems cells (MSCs). We generated single-cell subpopulations of MSCs from murine bone marrow and assessed them for differences in trafficking through the circulatory system and engraftment in bone and other tissues. MATERIALS AND METHODS Seven single-cell clonal subpopulations were generated by serial dilution of GFP-marked MSCs isolated from bone marrow. The subpopulations were examined for putative MSC surface marker expression, in vitro differentiation toward osteogenic and adipogenic lineages, migration and engraftment in different tissues following intravenous delivery in normal, sublethally irradiated neonatal mice. RESULTS The surface marker expression profile revealed notable differences among clonal cells, specifically CD44 and CD105. All the cell subpopulations differentiated toward osteogenic and adipogenic lineages, with some committed to only one or the other. Two clones enriched in CXCR4 expression were highly efficient in migrating and engrafting in skeletal tissue including bone; this confirmed the role of this chemokine in cell migration. Donor cells retrieved from various tissues displayed different morphologies and potential differentiation into tissue cell type of engraftment, suggesting modification by the tissues in which the donor cells engrafted. CONCLUSION We have reported that, within bone marrow, there are heterogeneous subpopulations of MSCs that may differ in their ability to migrate in the circulatory system and engraft in different tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Li
- Division of Musculoskeletal Sciences, Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pa., USA
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10
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Omlor GW, Nerlich AG, Tirlapur UK, Urban JP, Guehring T. Loss of notochordal cell phenotype in 3D-cell cultures: implications for disc physiology and disc repair. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2014; 134:1673-81. [PMID: 25348151 DOI: 10.1007/s00402-014-2097-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Embryonic notochordal disc nucleus cells (NC) have been identified to protect disc tissue against disc degeneration but in human beings NC phenotype gets lost with aging and the pathophysiological mechanisms are poorly understood. NC may stimulate other cells via soluble factors, and NC-conditioned medium can be used to stimulate matrix production of other disc cells and mesenchymal stem cells and thus may be of special interest for biological disc repair. As this stimulatory effect is associated with the NC phenotype, we investigated how cell morphology and gene-expression of the NC phenotype changes with time in 3D-cell culture. MATERIALS AND METHODS NC and inner annulus chondrocyte-like cells (CLC) from immature pigtails (freshly isolated cells/tissue, 3D-alginate beads, 3D-clusters) were cultured for up to 16 days under normoxia and hypoxia. Protein-expression was analysed by immunohistology and gene-expression analysis was carried out on freshly isolated cells and cultured cells. Cell morphology and proliferation were analysed by two-photon-laser-microscopy. RESULTS Two-photon-laser-microscopy showed a homogenous and small CLC population in the inner annulus, which differed from the large vacuole-containing NC in the nucleus. Immunohistology found 93 % KRT8 positive cells in the nucleus and intracellular and pericellular Col2, IL6, and IL12 staining while CLC were KRT8 negative. Freshly isolated NC showed significantly higher KRT8 and CAIII but lower Col2 gene-expression than CLC. NC in 3D-cultures demonstrated significant size reduction and loss of vacuoles with culture time, all indicating a loss of the characteristic NC morphology. Hypoxia reduced the rate of decrease in NC size and vacuoles. Gene-expression of KRT8 and CAIII in NC fell significantly early in culture while Col2 did not decrease significantly within the culture period. In CLC, KRT8 and CAIII gene-expression was low and did not change noticeably in culture, whereas Col2 expression fell with time in culture. CONCLUSIONS 3D-culture caused a rapid loss of NC phenotype towards a CLC phenotype with disappearance of vacuoles, reduced cell size, increased proliferation, and gene-expression changes. These findings may be related to NC nutritional demands and support the latest hypothesis of NC maturation into CLC opposing the idea that NC get lost in human discs by cell death or apoptosis to be replaced by CLC from the inner annulus.
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Affiliation(s)
- G W Omlor
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Trauma Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69118, Heidelberg, Germany
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11
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Abstract
Over two decades ago, two isoforms of the type II procollagen gene (COL2A1) were discovered. These isoforms, named IIA and IIB, are generated in a developmentally-regulated manner by alternative splicing of exon 2. Chondroprogenitor cells synthesize predominantly IIA isoforms (containing exon 2) while differentiated chondrocytes produce mainly IIB transcripts (devoid of exon 2). Importantly, this IIA-to-IIB alternative splicing switch occurs only during chondrogenesis. More recently, two other isoforms have been reported (IIC and IID) that also involve splicing of exon 2; these findings highlight the complexities involving regulation of COL2A1 expression. The biological significance of why different isoforms of COL2A1 exist within the context of skeletal development and maintenance is still not completely understood. This review will provide current knowledge on COL2A1 isoform expression during chondrocyte differentiation and what is known about some of the mechanisms that control exon 2 alternative splicing. Utilization of mouse models to address the biological significance of Col2a1 alternative splicing in vivo will also be discussed. From the knowledge acquired to date, some new questions and concepts are now being proposed on the importance of Col2a1 alternative splicing in regulating extracellular matrix assembly and how this may subsequently affect cartilage and endochondral bone quality and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey McAlinden
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Musculoskeletal Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine , St Louis, MO , USA
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12
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Aubert-Foucher E, Mayer N, Pasdeloup M, Pagnon A, Hartmann D, Mallein-Gerin F. A unique tool to selectively detect the chondrogenic IIB form of human type II procollagen protein. Matrix Biol 2013; 34:80-8. [PMID: 24055103 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2013.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2013] [Revised: 09/05/2013] [Accepted: 09/07/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Type II collagen, the major fibrillar collagen of cartilage, is synthesized as precursor forms (procollagens) containing N- and C-terminal propeptides. Three splice variants are thought to be translated to produce procollagen II isoforms (IIA/D and IIB) which differ in their amino propeptide parts. The IIA and IID are transient embryonic isoforms that include an additional cysteine-rich domain encoded by exon 2. The IIA and IID transcripts are co-expressed during chondrogenesis then decline and the IIB isoform is the only one expressed and synthesized in fully differentiated chondrocytes. Additionally, procollagens IIA/D can be re-expressed by dedifferentiating chondrocytes and in osteoarthritic cartilage. Therefore, it is an important point to determine which isoform(s) is (are) synthesized in vivo in normal and pathological situations and in vitro, to fully assess the phenotype of cells producing type II collagen protein. Antibodies directed against the cysteine-rich extra domain found in procollagens IIA and IID are already available but antibodies detecting only the chondrogenic IIB form of type II procollagen were missing so far. A synthetic peptide encompassing the junction between exon 1 and exon 3 of the human sequence was used as immunogen to produce rabbit polyclonal antibodies to procollagen IIB. After affinity purification on immobilized peptide their absence of crossreaction with procollagens IIA/D and with the fibrillar procollagens I, III and V was demonstrated by Western blotting. These antibodies were used to reveal at the protein level that the treatment of dedifferentiated human chondrocytes by bone morphogenic protein (BMP)-2 induces the synthesis of the IIB (chondrocytic) isoform of procollagen II. In addition, immunohistochemical staining of bovine cartilage demonstrates the potential of these antibodies in the analysis of the differential spatiotemporal distribution of N-propeptides of procollagens IIA/D and IIB during normal development and in pathological situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Aubert-Foucher
- Université Lyon 1, Univ Lyon, CNRS, UMR 5305-LBTI: Laboratoire de Biologie Tissulaire et Ingénierie thérapeuthique, IBCP, 7 passage du Vercors, F69367 Lyon, France
| | - Nathalie Mayer
- Université Lyon 1, Univ Lyon, CNRS, UMR 5305-LBTI: Laboratoire de Biologie Tissulaire et Ingénierie thérapeuthique, IBCP, 7 passage du Vercors, F69367 Lyon, France
| | - Marielle Pasdeloup
- Université Lyon 1, Univ Lyon, CNRS, UMR 5305-LBTI: Laboratoire de Biologie Tissulaire et Ingénierie thérapeuthique, IBCP, 7 passage du Vercors, F69367 Lyon, France
| | | | - Daniel Hartmann
- UCBL 1/ISPB, Faculté de Pharmacie, UMR CNRS 5510/MATEIS, Equipe I2B-"Interactions Biologiques et Biomatériaux", 8 avenue Rockefeller, F69373 Lyon, Cedex 08, France
| | - Frédéric Mallein-Gerin
- Université Lyon 1, Univ Lyon, CNRS, UMR 5305-LBTI: Laboratoire de Biologie Tissulaire et Ingénierie thérapeuthique, IBCP, 7 passage du Vercors, F69367 Lyon, France.
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Shu C, Smith SS, Little CB, Melrose J. Comparative immunolocalisation of perlecan, heparan sulphate, fibroblast growth factor-18, and fibroblast growth factor receptor-3 and their prospective roles in chondrogenic and osteogenic development of the human foetal spine. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2013; 22:1774-84. [PMID: 23397188 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-013-2680-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2012] [Revised: 01/16/2013] [Accepted: 01/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE A comparative immunolocalisation study of perlecan, HS, FGF-18 and FGFR-3 in the 12-20-week gestational age human foetal spine was undertaken to identify spatiotemporal associations between these components to provide insights into prospective roles in spinal development. METHODS Comparative immunolocalisations of matrix and cell associated components in Histochoice-fixed paraffin-embedded human foetal spinal tissues. RESULTS The 12-14-week-old human foetal spine was a predominantly cartilaginous structure with the discs displaying a relative paucity of proteoglycan compared to the adjacent cartilaginous vertebral rudiments, notochordal remnants were also observed. HS and perlecan had a widespread distribution throughout the spine at 12 weeks, however, FGF-18 was only localised to the outer AF margins and hypertrophic cell condensations in the vertebral bodies. This contrasted with HS distributions at 14-20 weeks, which were prominent in the developing intervertebral disc (IVD). Ossification centres were also evident centrally within the vertebral rudiments surrounded by small columns of hypertrophic chondrocytes which expressed FGFR-3 and FGF-18 and upregulated levels of perlecan. FGF-18 also had a prominent localisation pattern in the developing IVD and the cartilaginous endplate while FGFR-3 was expressed throughout the disc interspace. This suggested roles for perlecan, FGF-18 and FGFR-3 in chondrogenic and osteogenic events which drive discal development and ossification of the vertebral bodies. CONCLUSIONS The above data supported a role for FGF-18 in discal development and in the terminal osteogenic differentiation of chondroprogenitor cell populations, which promote vertebral ossification during spinal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Shu
- Raymond Purves Bone and Joint Research Laboratories, Institute of Bone and Joint Research, The Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney at Royal North Shore Hospital, Level 10, Building B6, St. Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
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14
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Christensen AF, Hørslev-Petersen K, Christgau S, Lindegaard HM, Lottenburger T, Junker K, Hetland ML, Stengaard-Pedersen K, Jacobsen S, Ellingsen T, Andersen LS, Hansen I, Skjødt H, Pedersen JK, Lauridsen UB, Svendsen AJ, Tarp U, Pødenphant J, Heegaard NHH, Vestergaard A, Jurik AG, Ostergaard M, Junker P. Uncoupling of collagen II metabolism in newly diagnosed, untreated rheumatoid arthritis is linked to inflammation and antibodies against cyclic citrullinated peptides. J Rheumatol 2010; 37:1113-20. [PMID: 20436079 DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.091265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationship between markers of collagen II synthesis and degradation with disease activity measures, autoantibodies, and radiographic outcomes in a 4-year protocol on patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who are naïve to disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. METHODS One hundred sixty patients with newly diagnosed, untreated RA entered the Cyclosporine, Methotrexate, Steroid in RA (CIMESTRA) trial. Disease activity and radiograph status were measured at baseline and 4 years. The N-terminal propeptide of collagen IIA (PIIANP) and the cross-linked C-telopeptide of collagen II (CTX-II) were quantified at baseline by ELISA. PIIANP was also assayed at 2 and 4 years. Anticyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) was recorded at baseline. An uncoupling index for cartilage collagen metabolism was calculated from PIIANP and CTX-II measurements. RESULTS PIIANP was low at diagnosis and 4 years on (p < 0.001), irrespective of treatment and disease activity. PIIANP was lowest in anti-CCP positive patients (p = 0.006), and there was a negative correlation between PIIANP and anti-CCP titers (rho = -0.25, p 0.002). CTX-II was increased (p < 0.001) and correlated positively with disease activity and radiographic progression, but not with anti-CCP (p = 0.93). The uncoupling index was not superior to CTX-II in predicting radiographic changes. CONCLUSION These results suggest that cartilage collagen formation and degradation are unbalanced when RA is diagnosed. The different associations of collagen II anabolism (PIIANP) and collagen II degradation (CTX-II) with anti-CCP, synovitis, and radiographic progression indicate that at this early stage of RA, cartilage collagen degradation is mainly driven by synovitis, while anti-CCP antibodies may interfere with cartilage regeneration by inhibiting collagen IIA formation. Trial registration j.nr NCT00209859.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Friesgaard Christensen
- Department of Rheumatology at Odense University Hospital and Institute of Clinical Research, Medical Biotechnology Centre, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
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15
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Christensen AF, Lottenburger T, Lindegaard HM, Junker K, Hørslev-Petersen K, Junker P. Circadian pattern and the effect of standardized physical exercise on procollagen IIA N-peptide (PIIANP) in rheumatoid arthritis at different stages and in healthy individuals. Biomarkers 2010; 15:80-5. [PMID: 19814628 DOI: 10.3109/13547500903302927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Variant collagen IIA is re-expressed in diseased cartilage. Low procollagen IIA N-peptide (PIIANP) levels in serum have recently been reported in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We investigated circadian rhythmicity and effect of physical activity on PIIANP in early and longstanding RA and in healthy subjects. METHODS Patients with early and longstanding RA and controls were included. Fasting and serial blood samples were collected during 24 h. PIIANP response to physical activity was studied before and serially after standardized exercise. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION In RA at different stages and healthy individuals, PIIANP exhibited no circadian rhythmicity, and PIIANP in serum was not influenced by physical activity.
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16
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Guehring T, Nerlich A, Kroeber M, Richter W, Omlor GW. Sensitivity of notochordal disc cells to mechanical loading: an experimental animal study. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2009; 19:113-21. [PMID: 19936803 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-009-1217-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2009] [Revised: 09/04/2009] [Accepted: 11/05/2009] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The immature disc nucleus pulposus (NP) consists of notochordal cells (NCs). With maturation NCs disappear in humans, to be replaced by chondrocyte-like mature NP cells (MNPCs); this change in cell phenotype coincidences with early signs of disc degeneration. The reasons for NC disappearance are important to understand disc degeneration, but remain unknown, yet. This study investigated, whether loading induced a change from a notochordal nucleus phenotype to a chondrocyte-like one. An in vivo disc compression model with fixateur externe was used in 36 mature rabbits. Discs were compressed for different time periods (1, 28, 56 days), and compared with uncompressed control discs (56 days without treatment), and discs with sham compression (28 days). Nucleus cell phenotype was determined by histology and immunohistochemistry. NCs, but not MNPCs highly expressed bone-morphogenetic-protein 2 and cytokeratin 8, thus NC and MNPC numbers could be determined. A histologic score was used to detect structural endplate changes after compression (28 days). Control and sham compressed discs contained around 70% NCs and 30% MNPCs, to be decreased to <10% NCs after 28-56 days of loading. NC density fell sharply by >50% after 28-56 days of compression (P < 0.05 vs. controls). Signs of decreased endplate cellularity and increased endplate sclerosis and fibrosis were found after loading. These experiments show that NCs were less resistant to mechanical stress than MNPCs suggesting that increased intradiscal pressures after loading, and limited nutrition through structurally altered endplates could instigate the disappearance of NCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thorsten Guehring
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, BG Trauma Center Ludwigshafen, University of Heidelberg, Ludwig Guttmann Str 13, 67071 Ludwigshafen, Germany.
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17
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Cellular mechanobiology of the intervertebral disc: new directions and approaches. J Biomech 2009; 43:137-45. [PMID: 19828150 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2009.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2009] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The more we learn about the intervertebral disc (IVD), the more we come to appreciate the intricacies involved in transmission of forces through the ECM to the cell, and in the biological determinants of its response to mechanical stress. This review highlights recent developments in our knowledge of IVD physiology and examines their impact on cellular mechanobiology. Discussion centers around the continually evolving cellular and microstructural anatomy of the nucleus pulposus (NP) and the annulus fibrosus (AF) in response to complex stresses generated in support of axial load and spinal motion. Particular attention has been given to cells from the immature NP and the interlamellar AF, and assessment of their potential mechanobiologic contributions to the health and function of the IVD. In addition, several innovative approaches that have been brought to bear on studying the interplay between disc cells and their micromechanical environment are discussed. Techniques for "engineering" cellular function and technologies for fabricating more structurally defined biomaterial scaffolds have recently been employed in disc research. Such tools can be used to elucidate the biological and physical mechanisms by which different IVD cell populations are regulated by mechanical stress, and contribute to advancement of preventative and therapeutic measures.
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18
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Rastogi A, Thakore P, Leung A, Benavides M, Machado M, Morschauser MA, Hsieh AH. Environmental regulation of notochordal gene expression in nucleus pulposus cells. J Cell Physiol 2009; 220:698-705. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.21816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Zeng Y, Danielson KG, Albert TJ, Shapiro IM, Risbud MV. HIF-1 alpha is a regulator of galectin-3 expression in the intervertebral disc. J Bone Miner Res 2007; 22:1851-61. [PMID: 17592963 DOI: 10.1359/jbmr.070620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The regulation of galectin-3 expression in skeletal tissues is not completely understood. Our studies indicate that HIF-1 alpha regulates galectin-3 expression by interacting with hypoxia regulatory elements in the promoter region. Finally, we show that galectin-3 serves a prosurvival role in the intervertebral disc. INTRODUCTION Earlier reports indicated that galectin-3 (gal-3) is highly expressed in the epiphyseal growth plate cartilage and the intervertebral disc. Because these skeletal tissues have a limited vascular supply and the cells reside in a low O2 environment, we determined if the oxemic status modulates gal-3 expression. MATERIALS AND METHODS Cells were cultured in normoxia (21% O2) or hypoxia (2% O2), and gal-3 expression and promoter activity were evaluated. Interaction of hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1 alpha with the gal-3 promoter was confirmed by gel shift and site-directed mutagenesis. RESULTS There was minimal oxygen-dependent change in HIF-1 alpha levels and no change in gal-3 expression and promoter activity in nucleus pulposus cells. In contrast, hypoxia induced gal-3 mRNA, protein, and promoter activity in HeLa cells and mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) from HIF-1 alpha wildtype but not HIF-1-null mice. To evaluate the importance of HIF-1 in regulation of gal-3 expression, we overexpressed HIF-1 alpha or constitutively active-HIF-1 alpha in null MEF. An increase in gal-3 promoter activity was observed in both normoxia and hypoxia. Similarly, suppression of HIF-1 alpha in nucleus pulposus cells, and wildtype MEF, using siRNA and pharmacological inhibitors resulted in suppression of gal-3 promoter activity and mRNA levels. Analysis of the gal-3 promoter indicated that it contained two hypoxia response elements (HREs). Gel-shift and chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis confirmed that there was binding of HIF-1 alpha to the gal-3 HRE. Furthermore, site-directed mutagenesis of HRE completely blocked hypoxic induction of gal-3 promoter activity. In nucleus pulposus cells, suppression of gal-3 expression promoted FasL-mediated apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS Together, these studies showed that gal-3 is a HIF-1-regulated lectin that plays an important role in nucleus pulposus cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zeng
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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20
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Gilchrist CL, Chen J, Richardson WJ, Loeser RF, Setton LA. Functional integrin subunits regulating cell-matrix interactions in the intervertebral disc. J Orthop Res 2007; 25:829-40. [PMID: 17318895 DOI: 10.1002/jor.20343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Cellular interactions with the extracellular matrix are key factors regulating cell survival, differentiation, and response to environmental stimuli in cartilagenous tissues. Much is known about the extracellular matrix proteins in the intervertebral disc (IVD) and their variations with region, age, or degenerative state of the tissue. In contrast, little is known of the integrin cell surface receptors that directly bind to and interact with these matrix proteins in the IVD. In almost all tissues, these integrin-mediated cell-matrix interactions are important for transducing environmental cues arising from mechanical stimuli, matrix degradation fragments, and cytokines into intracellular signals. In this study, cells from the nucleus pulposus and anulus fibrosus regions of porcine IVDs were analyzed via flow cytometry to quantify integrin expression levels upon isolation and after monolayer culture. Assays of cell attachment to collagens, fibronectin, and laminin were performed after functional blocking of select integrin subunits to evaluate the role of specific integrins in cell attachment. In situ distribution and co-localization of integrins and laminin were also characterized. Results identify integrin receptors critical for IVD cell interactions with collagens (alpha1beta1) and fibronectin (alpha5beta1). Additionally, dramatic differences in cell-laminin interactions were observed between cells of the nucleus and anulus regions, including differences in alpha6 integrin expression, cell adhesion to laminin, and in situ pericellular environments. These findings suggest laminin-cell interactions may be important and unique to the nucleus pulposus region of the IVD. The results of this study provide new information on functional cell-matrix interactions in tissues of the IVD.
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Tzachanis D, Li L, Lafuente EM, Berezovskaya A, Freeman GJ, Boussiotis VA. Twisted gastrulation (Tsg) is regulated by Tob and enhances TGF-beta signaling in activated T lymphocytes. Blood 2007; 109:2944-52. [PMID: 17164348 PMCID: PMC1852213 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2006-03-006510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Quiescent T cells express Tob, an APRO gene family member, which functions as a transcriptional regulator. Subtractive hybridization identified Twisted gastrulation (Tsg) as one of the genes suppressed by Tob. Tsg is a secreted protein that interacts with Drosophila decapentaplegic (Dpp) and its vertebrate orthologs BMP2/4 and regulates morphogenetic effects in embryos. Here, we report the expression and function of Tsg in human T cells. Tsg mRNA was almost undetectable in unstimulated T cells and was up-regulated after activation by TCR/CD3 and either CD28, IL-2, or PMA. Tsg protein had no effect on responses of primary T cells to TCR/CD3 stimulation but had a potent inhibitory effect on proliferation and cytokine production of primed alloreactive CD4+ cells. Surprisingly, Tsg did not affect phosphorylation of the BMP-specific Smad1 but induced phosphorylation of the TGF-beta-specific Smad2 and mediated DNA binding on Smad3/4 consensus-binding sites, suggesting that it acted downstream of TGF-beta. In vitro association assays revealed a direct interaction of Tsg and TGF-beta proteins. Thus, Tsg functions as an agonist synergizing with TGF-beta to inhibit T-cell activation. Modulation of Tsg signaling may represent a novel target for molecular intervention toward control of aberrant T-cell responses during ongoing graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Tzachanis
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Beth Israel-Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
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22
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Leung VYL, Chan D, Cheung KMC. Regeneration of intervertebral disc by mesenchymal stem cells: potentials, limitations, and future direction. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2006; 15 Suppl 3:S406-13. [PMID: 16845553 PMCID: PMC2335386 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-006-0183-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2006] [Revised: 06/16/2006] [Accepted: 06/21/2006] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Over the past few years, substantial progress has been made in the field of stem cell regeneration of the intervertebral disc. Autogenic mesenchymal stem cells in animal models can arrest intervertebral disc degeneration or even partially regenerate it and the effect is suggested to be dependent on the severity of degeneration. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are able to escape alloantigen recognition which is an advantage for allogenic transplantation. A number of injectable scaffolds have been described and various methods to pre-modulate MSCs' activity have been tested. In future, work will need to address the use of mesenchymal stem cells in large animal models and the fate of the implanted mesenchymal stem cells, particularly in the long term, in animals. This review examines the state-of-the-art in the field of stem cell regeneration of the intervertebral disc, and critically discusses, with scientific support, the issues involved, before stem cells could be used in human subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Y. L. Leung
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Danny Chan
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kenneth M. C. Cheung
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong Medical Centre, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
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D'Antonio M, Michalovich D, Paterson M, Droggiti A, Woodhoo A, Mirsky R, Jessen KR. Gene profiling and bioinformatic analysis of Schwann cell embryonic development and myelination. Glia 2006; 53:501-15. [PMID: 16369933 DOI: 10.1002/glia.20309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
To elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in Schwann cell development, we profiled gene expression in the developing and injured rat sciatic nerve. The genes that showed significant changes in expression in developing and dedifferentiated nerve were validated with RT-PCR, in situ hybridisation, Western blot and immunofluorescence. A comprehensive approach to annotating micro-array probes and their associated transcripts was performed using Biopendium, a database of sequence and structural annotation. This approach significantly increased the number of genes for which a functional insight could be found. The analysis implicates agrin and two members of the collapsin response-mediated protein (CRMP) family in the switch from precursors to Schwann cells, and synuclein-1 and alphaB-crystallin in peripheral nerve myelination. We also identified a group of genes typically related to chondrogenesis and cartilage/bone development, including type II collagen, that were expressed in a manner similar to that of myelin-associated genes. The comprehensive function annotation also identified, among the genes regulated during nerve development or after nerve injury, proteins belonging to high-interest families, such as cytokines and kinases, and should therefore provide a uniquely valuable resource for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio D'Antonio
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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24
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Kim KW, Ha KY, Park JB, Woo YK, Chung HN, An HS. Expressions of membrane-type I matrix metalloproteinase, Ki-67 protein, and type II collagen by chondrocytes migrating from cartilage endplate into nucleus pulposus in rat intervertebral discs: a cartilage endplate-fracture model using an intervertebral disc organ culture. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2005; 30:1373-8. [PMID: 15959365 DOI: 10.1097/01.brs.0000166155.48168.0e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Immunohistochemistry was performed in organ-cultured intact and cartilage endplate (CE)-fractured rat intervertebral discs (IVDs). OBJECTIVES To demonstrate biologic events associated with migration of chondrocytes from hyaline CE into nucleus pulposus (NP). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA It was recently revealed that the transition from a notochordal NP to a fibrocartilaginous NP in the rabbit IVD is accomplished exogenously by chondrocytes migrating from CEs into the NP. This observation has not been studied in other animal models, and the biologic events associated with chondrocyte migration have not been elucidated in the literature. METHODS IVDs including cranial and caudal CEs were obtained from 4-week, 6-month, 12-month, and 18-month old Wistar rats. To accelerate chondrocyte migration, CEs of IVDs were fractured and cultured for 48 hours. IVDs without CE-fracture were used as a control for each age group. Expressions of membrane-type I matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP, as a marker for cell migration and extracellular matrix digestion) and Ki-67 protein (as a proliferation marker) and pericellular deposition of type II collagen (as a marker for fibrocartilaginous matrix) by the chondrocytes migrating from CE into NP were examined immunohistochemically. RESULTS In the control groups, chondrocyte migration limited only along the periphery of the notochordal NP and no chondrocytes were inside the NP proper. However, all the IVDs in the CE-fracture groups showed direct and more extensive migration of chondrocytes from CEs into the NP proper. The migrating chondrocytes in both control and CE-fracture groups expressed MT1-MMP and Ki-67 protein and deposited type II collagen in the NP. CONCLUSIONS This report demonstrates the chondrocyte migration from CE into NP in the organ-cultured rat IVDs. This phenomenon is accelerated in the presence of CE fracture. The chondrocytes migrating from CEs into the NP expressed MT1-MMP and Ki-67 protein and deposited type II collagen. These biologic strategies probably enable chondrocytes of the hyaline CE to migrate into the ectopic NP region, replace notochordal cells, and change the notochordal tissue into fibrocartilage. These results suggest that similar biologic mechanisms may be involved in the natural transition from the notochordal NP to the fibrocartilaginous NP in other animal models, including human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Won Kim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.
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Kim KW, Kim YS, Ha KY, Woo YK, Park JB, Park WS, An HS. An autocrine or paracrine Fas-mediated counterattack: a potential mechanism for apoptosis of notochordal cells in intact rat nucleus pulposus. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2005; 30:1247-51. [PMID: 15928547 DOI: 10.1097/01.brs.0000164256.72241.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Immunohistochemistry and in situ nick end-labeling (TUNEL) were performed in rat lumbar intervertebral discs. OBJECTIVES To demonstrate the mechanism of notochordal cell death in the nucleus pulposus (NP). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA With age, notochordal cells gradually disappear in the NP. We hypothesized that this phenomenon might be related to Fas-mediated apoptosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Expressions of Fas; Fas ligand (FasL); caspase 3, 8, 9, 10; Ki-67 protein; and TUNEL were examined in 4-week-, 6-month- and 12-month-old rat NPs. Apoptosis (TUNEL-positive) and proliferation potential (Ki-67-positive) indexes of notochordal cells were calculated and compared among age groups. RESULTS Notochordal cells constitutively expressed both Fas and FasL. Among their downstream initiator (caspase 8, 9, and 10) and executioner (caspase 3) caspases tested, caspase 9 and 3 were expressed. Proliferation potential of the notochordal cells was the highest at 4 weeks (1.96 +/- 1.3%) and decreased to a significantly lower level at 6 (0.81 +/- 0.68%) and 12 months (0.8 +/- 0.37%; P = 0.03 and 0.01, respectively). In contrast, apoptosis of the notochordal cells was the lowest at 4 weeks (3.52 +/- 1.07%) and increased to a significantly higher level at 6 (19.38 +/- 10.99%) and 12 months (21.51 +/- 16.99%; P < 0.001 in both comparisons). CONCLUSIONS Fas-mediated mitochondrial caspase 9 pathway is constitutively present in the rat notochordal cells. The constitutive expression of Fas, FasL and its downstream caspases, as well as the homogeneity ofnotochordal cell population suggests an autocrine or paracrine Fas-mediated counterattack to be a potential mechanism for apoptosis of rat notochordal cells. A regulated negative balance of notochordal cell proliferation against apoptosis is likely to involve the disappearance of notochordal cells in the rat NP. This information on the mechanism for apoptosis of notochordal cells could be important in the investigation of intervertebral disc development as well as aging and perhaps degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Won Kim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, St. Mary's Hospital, Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.
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Gruber HE, Norton HJ, Ingram JA, Hanley EN. The SOX9 transcription factor in the human disc: decreased immunolocalization with age and disc degeneration. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2005; 30:625-30. [PMID: 15770176 DOI: 10.1097/01.brs.0000155420.01444.c6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Human intervertebral disc anulus tissue was obtained in a prospective study of immunolocalization of SOX9, a protein that plays a role in chondrogenesis and Type II collagen expression. The Human Subjects Institutional Review Board approved experimental studies. Discs were obtained from surgical specimens and from control donors. OBJECTIVES To determine whether SOX9 could be detected in discs of Thompson Grades I-IV using immunohistochemistry and to quantify the percentage of cells with SOX9 expression. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA SOX9 is involved with cell-specific activation of COL2A1 in chondrocytes. Recent studies have used adenoviral delivery vectors expressing SOX9 to infect a chondroblastic cell line and human disc cells; SOX9 and Type II collagen production increased. The AdSOX9 virus has also been injected directly into rabbit discs in which disc architecture was preserved for 5 weeks. Despite current interest in SOX9 for gene therapy, there have been few studies of SOX9 in normal or degenerated discs. METHODS Discs from 12 normal donors and 25 surgical subjects 15-76 years old were examined for SOX9 immunolocalization. Eight Thompson Grade I discs, 7 Grade II discs, 10 Grade III discs, and 12 Grade IV discs were studied. RESULTS In Thompson Grade I discs, SOX9 was uniformly localized throughout the anulus and in some cells of the nucleus. However, in discs from adult donors, anulus cells were present that showed no SOX9 localization, although neighboring cells might be positive. Mean percent localization was 74% for Grade II discs, 69% for Grade III, and 71.6% for Grade IV. Cervical sites showed significantly greater localization than lumbar sites. CONCLUSIONS Findings showed a uniform expression of SOX9 in the newborn healthy anulus. With aging and disc degeneration, some anulus cells no longer express this transcription product. These observations suggest that the loss of expression of SOX9 in some disc cells may play a role indisc aging and disc degeneration by resulting in decreased expression and production of Type II collagen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen E Gruber
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC 28232, USA.
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Rousseau JC, Zhu Y, Miossec P, Vignon E, Sandell LJ, Garnero P, Delmas PD. Serum levels of type IIA procollagen amino terminal propeptide (PIIANP) are decreased in patients with knee osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2004; 12:440-7. [PMID: 15135140 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2004.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2003] [Accepted: 02/03/2004] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to develop a specific immunoassay for PIIANP and measure its serum concentration in healthy controls and in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In addition, we investigated circulating forms recognized by antiserum IIA in pools of serum from healthy adults, patients with OA and patients with RA. DESIGN Using as immunogen and standard the recombinant human Glutathione S-Transferase (GST)-exon 2 fusion protein of type II collagen, we developed a competitive polyclonal antibody-based ELISA. We compare serum PIIANP levels in 43 patients with knee OA (23 women and 20 men; mean age: 62.6+/-9.6 yr), 63 women with RA (mean age: 54+/-16 yr) and 88 healthy controls (67 women, mean age: 53+/-13 yr and 21 men, mean age: 63+/-7 yr). We randomly selected serum in each group for analyze circulating forms. RESULTS The immunoassay we developed demonstrated adequate intra and inter-assay precision (CV<10%) and dilution recovery (mean: 96%), allowing accurate measurements of serum PIIANP from 1.13 to 40 ng/ml. No significant cross-reactivity of the ELISA was observed with purified intact human procollagen type I N-propeptide, circulating thrombospondin and von Willebrand factor, proteins which exhibit significant sequence homology with PIIANP. Western blot analysis showed that antiserum IIA recognized two circulating immunoreactive forms of approximately 80 and 100 KDa respectively in serum from healthy adults, patients with OA and RA but also in a pool of synovial fluids from patients with OA. Serum PIIANP levels were markedly decreased in patients with knee OA (12.0+/-3.2 vs 25.8+/-7.5 ng/ml for OA and controls respectively, P<0.0001) and RA (14.1+/-2.5 ng/ml vs 21.7+/-7.6 ng/ml for RA and controls respectively, P<0.0001). In patients with RA, serum PIIANP levels were higher in those taking low-dose prednisone compared to non-users (15.0+/-2.4 vs 13.5+/-2.4 ng/ml, P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS We have developed the first specific immunoassay for serum PIIANP which exhibits adequate technical performances. This assay detects specifically two immunoreactive forms both in healthy adults and patients with arthritis and does not cross react with other proteins with sequence homology with PIIANP. Levels of PIIANP were significantly decreased in patients with knee OA and RA suggesting that type IIA collagen synthesis may be altered in these arthritic diseases. The measurement of type IIA collagen synthesis with this new molecular marker may be useful for the clinical investigation of patients with joint diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-C Rousseau
- INSERM Unit 403, Pavillon F, Hôpital E. Herriot, Lyon, France.
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Hunter CJ, Matyas JR, Duncan NA. The functional significance of cell clusters in the notochordal nucleus pulposus: survival and signaling in the canine intervertebral disc. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2004; 29:1099-104. [PMID: 15131437 DOI: 10.1097/00007632-200405150-00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Cell viability was assessed in relation to cell clustering, and mechanisms of cell-cell signaling in the clusters were investigated. OBJECTIVES To explore the functional role of cell clustering in the notochordal nucleus pulposus. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA The intervertebral disc of some species contains residual cells from the embryonic notochord. These cells form large three-dimensional clusters in the young, healthy disc but are replaced by chondrocyte-like cells during aging and degeneration. METHODS Forty nucleus pulposi of adult dog lumbar intervertebral discs were isolated, and were left untreated, mechanically disrupted through a syringe, or enzymatically digested. The presence of functional gap junctions was determined by the fluorescence recovery after photobleaching method. Cell viability was also assessed over 20 days in vitro. RESULTS The cell clusters were interconnected via functional gap junctions. Mechanical disruption of the tissue had little effect on long-term cell viability, but enzymatic disruption of the tissue had a substantial negative impact on cell survival. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that the notochordal cells in adult dog nucleus pulposi are able to communicate via cytoplasmic signals and that such communications may influence the functionality of these cells in the young disc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Hunter
- McCaig Centre for Joint Injury and Arthritis Research, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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29
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Abstract
Fibrocartilage is an avascular tissue that is best documented in menisci, intervertebral discs, tendons, ligaments, and the temporomandibular joint. Several of these sites are of particular interest to those in the emerging field of tissue engineering. Fibrocartilage cells frequently resemble chondrocytes in having prominent rough endoplasmic reticulum, many glycogen granules, and lipid droplets, and intermediate filaments together with and actin stress fibers that help to determine cell organization in the intervertebral disc. Fibrocartilage cells can synthesize a variety of matrix molecules including collagens, proteoglycans, and noncollagenous proteins. All the fibrillar collagens (types I, II, III, V, and XI) have been reported, together with FACIT (types IX and XII) and network-forming collagens (types VI and X). The proteoglycans include large, aggregating types (aggrecan and versican) and small, leucine-rich types (decorin, biglycan, lumican, and fibromodulin). Less attention has been paid to noncollagenous proteins, although tenascin-C expression may be modulated by mechanical strain. As in hyaline cartilage, matrix metalloproteinases are important in matrix turnover and fibrocartilage cells are capable of apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Benjamin
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3US, United Kingdom
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Melrose J, Smith S, Ghosh P, Whitelock J. Perlecan, the multidomain heparan sulfate proteoglycan of basement membranes, is also a prominent component of the cartilaginous primordia in the developing human fetal spine. J Histochem Cytochem 2003; 51:1331-41. [PMID: 14500701 DOI: 10.1177/002215540305101010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to localize perlecan in human fetal spine tissues. Human fetal spines (12-20 weeks; n=6) were fixed in either Histochoice or 10% neutral buffered formalin, routinely processed, paraffin-embedded, and 4-microm sagittal sections were cut and stained with toluidine blue, H&E, and von Kossa. Perlecan, types I, II, IV, and X collagen, CD-31, aggrecan core protein, and native and delta-HS 4, 5 hexuronate stub epitopes were immunolocalized. Toluidine blue staining visualized the cartilaginous vertebral body (VB) rudiments and annular lamellae encompassing the nucleus pulposus (NP). Von Kossa staining identified the VB primary center of ossification. Immunolocalization of type IV collagen, CD-31, and perlecan delineated small blood vessels in the outer annulus fibrosus (AF) and large canals deep within the VBs. Perlecan and type X collagen were also prominently expressed by the hypertrophic vertebral growth plate chondrocytes. Aggrecan was extracellularly distributed in the intervertebral disk (IVD) with intense staining in the posterior AF. Notochordal tissue stained strongly for aggrecan but negatively for perlecan and types I and II collagen. Type I collagen was prominent in the outer AF and less abundant in the NP, while type II collagen was localized throughout the IVD and VB. The immunolocalization patterns observed indicated key roles for perlecan in vasculogenic, chondrogenic, and endochondral ossification processes associated with spinal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Melrose
- The Institute of Bone and Joint Research, The University of Sydney, (Department of Surgery) at the Royal North Shore Hospital of Sydney, St. Leonards, Australia.
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Crawford BD, Henry CA, Clason TA, Becker AL, Hille MB. Activity and distribution of paxillin, focal adhesion kinase, and cadherin indicate cooperative roles during zebrafish morphogenesis. Mol Biol Cell 2003; 14:3065-81. [PMID: 12925747 PMCID: PMC181551 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e02-08-0537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the focal adhesion proteins paxillin and Fak, and the cell-cell adhesion protein cadherin in developing zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos. Cadherins are expressed in presomitic mesoderm where they delineate cells. The initiation of somite formation coincides with an increase in the phosphorylation of Fak, and the accumulation of Fak, phosphorylated Fak, paxillin, and fibronectin at nascent somite boundaries. In the notochord, cadherins are expressed on cells during intercalation, and phosphorylated Fak accumulates in circumferential rings where the notochord cells contact laminin in the perichordal sheath. Subsequently, changes in the orientations of collagen fibers in the sheath suggest that Fak-mediated adhesion allows longitudinal expansion of the notochord, but not lateral expansion, resulting in notochord elongation. Novel observations showed that focal adhesion kinase and paxillin concentrate at sites of cell-cell adhesion in the epithelial enveloping layer and may associate with actin cytoskeleton at epithelial junctions containing cadherins. Fak is phosphorylated at these epithelial junctions but is not phosphorylated on Tyr397, implicating a noncanonical mechanism of regulation. These data suggest that Fak and paxillin may function in the integration of cadherin-based and integrin-based cell adhesion during the morphogenesis of the early zebrafish embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan D Crawford
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-1800, USA
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Hunter CJ, Matyas JR, Duncan NA. The Notochordal Cell in the Nucleus Pulposus: A Review in the Context of Tissue Engineering. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003; 9:667-77. [PMID: 13678445 DOI: 10.1089/107632703768247368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
An understanding of developmental biology can provide useful insights into how different tissue-engineered repairs might be designed. During embryogenesis of the intervertebral disk, the cells of the notochord play a critical role in initiating tissue formation, and may be responsible for development of the nucleus pulposus. In some species, including humans, these notochordal cells may eventually be lost, either through apoptosis or terminal differentiation, and are replaced by chondrocyte-like cells. However, there is some evidence that the notochordal cells may persist in at least some humans. This review discusses some of the potential applications of notochordal cells in tissue engineering of the nucleus pulposus.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Hunter
- McCaig Centre for Joint Injury and Arthritis Research, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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33
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Wu JJ, Eyre DR. Intervertebral disc collagen. Usage of the short form of the alpha1(IX) chain in bovine nucleus pulposus. J Biol Chem 2003; 278:24521-5. [PMID: 12719416 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m302431200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleus pulposus, the central zone of the intervertebral disc, is gel-like and has a similar collagen phenotype to that of hyaline cartilage. Amino-terminal protein sequence analysis of the alpha1(IX)COL3 domain purified from bovine nucleus pulposus gave a different sequence to that of the long alpha1(IX) transcript expressed in hyaline cartilage and matched the predicted sequence of short alpha1(IX). The findings indicate that the matrix of bovine nucleus pulposus contains only the short form of alpha1(IX) that lacks the NC4 domain. The sequence encoded by exon 7, predicted from human COL9A1, is absent from both short and long forms of alpha1(IX) from bovine nucleus pulposus and articular cartilage. A structural analysis of the cross-linking sites occupied in type IX collagen from nucleus pulposus showed that usage of the short alpha1(IX) transcript in disc tissue had no apparent effect on cross-linking behavior. As in cartilage, type IX collagen of nucleus pulposus was heavily cross-linked to type II collagen and to other molecules of type IX collagen with a similar site occupancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiann-Jiu Wu
- Orthopedic Research Laboratories, University of Washington, Seattle 98195, USA.
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34
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Valcourt U, Gouttenoire J, Aubert-Foucher E, Herbage D, Mallein-Gerin F. Alternative splicing of type II procollagen pre-mRNA in chondrocytes is oppositely regulated by BMP-2 and TGF-beta1. FEBS Lett 2003; 545:115-9. [PMID: 12804760 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-5793(03)00510-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Type II collagen is the major protein of cartilage and is synthesized as a procollagen in two forms (IIA and IIB), generated by differential splicing of the gene primary transcript. Previous studies have indicated that only type IIB is expressed in differentiated chondrocytes. Here, we examined the effects of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-2 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1 on the expression of IIA and IIB forms expressed in de-differentiated chondrocytes grown in monolayer. Our results demonstrate that BMP-2 favors expression of type IIB whereas TGF-beta1 potentiates expression of type IIA induced by subculture. These observations reveal the specific capability of BMP-2 to reverse the de-differentiation state of chondrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Valcourt
- Institut de Biologie et Chimie des Protéines, UMR 5086 CNRS/UCB Lyon 1-IFR 128, 7 passage du Vercors, 69367 Cedex 07, Lyon, France.
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35
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Kim KW, Lim TH, Kim JG, Jeong ST, Masuda K, An HS. The origin of chondrocytes in the nucleus pulposus and histologic findings associated with the transition of a notochordal nucleus pulposus to a fibrocartilaginous nucleus pulposus in intact rabbit intervertebral discs. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2003; 28:982-90. [PMID: 12768135 DOI: 10.1097/01.brs.0000061986.03886.4f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Intact rabbit lumbar intervertebral discs were examined histologically. OBJECTIVES To demonstrate the origin of chondrocytes in the nucleus pulposus, and to document histologic findings associated with the transition of a notochordal to a fibrocartilaginous nucleus pulposus. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA A human nucleus pulposus undergoes a chronological transition from a notochordal to a fibrocartilaginous nucleus pulposus. However, the origin of chondrocytes forming fibrocartilage in the nucleus pulposus and the mechanisms of transition remain unknown. METHODS Hematoxylin-eosin- and safranin O-stained slides obtained from 125 intact rabbit intervertebral discs were observed with light and polarized light microscopy. RESULTS Of the 125 intervertebral discs examined, 58 had a notochordal nucleus pulposus. The remaining intervertebral discs had a nucleus pulposus with fibrocartilage lamellas or fibrocartilage fibers. All forms of fibrocartilage lamellas and fibers found in the nucleus pulposus were formed by chondrocytes that had originated and migrated from the cartilage endplate. The origin of chondrocytes proceeded in a centripetal direction from the periphery toward the center of the cartilage endplate. The newly formed fibrocartilage lamellas and fibers, therefore, initially involved replacement of the peripheral regions of the nucleus pulposus, followed by replacement of the central region. This centripetal sequential replacement mechanism decreased the size of the notochordal tissue while increasing the lamellar structure of the intervertebral disc. CONCLUSIONS Chondrocytes in the intact rabbit nucleus pulposus originated and migrated from the cartilage endplate. The chondrocytes changed notochordal nucleus pulposus into fibrocartilaginous nucleus pulposus by depositing fibrocartilage lamellas and fibers in a centripetal direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Won Kim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, St. Mary's Hospital, the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
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Hunter CJ, Matyas JR, Duncan NA. The three-dimensional architecture of the notochordal nucleus pulposus: novel observations on cell structures in the canine intervertebral disc. J Anat 2003; 202:279-91. [PMID: 12713268 PMCID: PMC1571084 DOI: 10.1046/j.1469-7580.2003.00162.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells from the nucleus pulposus of young (< 2 years) and old (> 5 years) non-chondrodystrophoid dogs were studied using routine histology, confocal laser scanning microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The architecture of cell structures--from the tissue scale down to subcellular scale--was reported. Clusters of notochordal cells were observed in young nuclei pulposi, ranging from 10 to 426 cells each. These clusters resisted mechanical disruption and showed evidence of cell-cell signalling via gap junctions. Cells (30-40 microm in diameter) within the clusters had a physaliferous appearance, containing numerous large inclusions which ranged from 1 to 20 microm in diameter. The inclusions were surrounded by a dense actin cortex but were not contained by a lipid bilayer. The contents of the inclusions were determined not to be predominantly carbohydrate or neutral lipid as assessed by histochemical staining, but the exact composition of the contents remained uncertain. There were striking differences in the cell architecture of young vs. old nuclei pulposi, with a loss of both cell clusters and physaliferous cells during ageing. These observations demonstrate unique cell structures, which may influence our understanding of the differences between notochordal and chondrocytic cells in the nucleus pulposus. Such differences could have substantial impact upon how we think about development, degeneration and repair of the intervertebral disc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Hunter
- McCaig Centre for Joint Injury and Arthritis Research, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Abstract
STUDY DESIGN There have been many advances over the past decade in understanding and experimentally modulating biologic aspects of intervertebral disc cell function. An overview of the current state of this biologic research is presented. OBJECTIVES To provide clinicians with a review of important recent advances in biologic studies of the disc and their implications for potential disc therapies. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Historically, anatomic, biochemical, radiologic, and biomechanical studies of the intervertebral disc formed the foundation on which our understanding of disc function was built. Magnetic resonance imaging techniques that allowed viewing of soft tissue components of the disc further advanced imaging capabilities. METHODS Recent publications are reviewed. RESULTS Experimental approaches over the past decade have enabled researchers to look more critically at disc cell function. This is important because disc cell function produces the extracellular matrix components of the disc, which, in turn, shape the disc's subsequent physiologic and biomechanical functions. New approaches to the study of disc cell function, methods to manipulate disc cells, studies of intact discs and disc nutrition, vertebral endplate structure and function, tissue engineering, gene therapy, and the potential of stem cells in disc therapy are reviewed and discussed. CONCLUSIONS Many believe that disc degeneration has a cellular basis. New research is helping us better understand healthy, aging, and degenerating discs. Modern methods to manipulate and modulate disc cell function open exciting and challenging new therapeutic possibilities for future biologic treatments of disc degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen E Gruber
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina 28232, USA.
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Bornstein P. The NH(2)-terminal propeptides of fibrillar collagens: highly conserved domains with poorly understood functions. Matrix Biol 2002; 21:217-26. [PMID: 12009328 DOI: 10.1016/s0945-053x(02)00008-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The impetus for this review comes from the recent finding that the absence of the majority of the non-triple-helical sequence in the NH(2)-terminal propeptide (N-propeptide) of the pro alpha 1(I) collagen chain fails to generate a significant phenotype in the mouse (Bornstein et al., J. Biol. Chem., 277:2605-2613, 2002). This result is in apparent conflict with those of numerous studies in vitro that have implicated the N-propeptide in a number of processes that are involved in the biogenesis, maturation and function of type 1 collagen. To seek an explanation for this discrepancy, the sequences of the highly conserved, 55-57-amino acid, cysteine-rich repeats (CRR), which constitute the majority of the globular domains in the N-propeptides, were compared among 13 vertebrate species. Surprisingly, the CRR in mice and rats differs substantially from those in other mammalian species. Indeed, the CRR in birds, fish and amphibia are more similar to those of other mammals than are the CRR in rodents. This finding raises the possibility that the mutant mouse, which lacks exon 2 that encodes the CRR in the N-propeptide, might not be an appropriate model in which to study the function of the N-propeptide in other mammals. Alternatively, compensation, possibly by procollagens II or III, could account for the mild phenotype of the exon 2-deleted mouse. Yet another possibility is that the CRR plays a developmental role in the mouse, akin to that recently proposed for the N-propeptide in type IIA procollagen, rather than a function in collagen biogenesis. Some support for the latter possibility is provided by the observation that, on one background, the breeding of heterozygous exon 2-deleted mice generated homozygous mutants at less than the expected frequency. Experiments to examine these possibilities are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Bornstein
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, WA, Seattle 98195, USA.
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Fukui N, McAlinden A, Zhu Y, Crouch E, Broekelmann TJ, Mecham RP, Sandell LJ. Processing of type II procollagen amino propeptide by matrix metalloproteinases. J Biol Chem 2002; 277:2193-201. [PMID: 11705992 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m105485200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
In many embryonic tissues, type IIA procollagen is synthesized and deposited into the extracellular matrix containing the NH(2)-propeptide, the cysteine-rich domain of which binds to bone morphogenic proteins. To investigate whether matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) synthesized during development and disease can cleave the NH(2) terminus of type II procollagens, we tested eight types of enzymes. Recombinant trimeric type IIA collagen NH(2)-propeptide encoded by exons 1-8 fused to the lectin domain of rat surfactant protein D was used as a substrate. The latter allowed trimerization of the propeptide domain and permitted isolation by saccharide affinity chromatography. Although MMPs 1, 2, and 8 did not show cleavage, MMPs 3, 7, 9, 13, and 14 cleaved the recombinant protein both at the telopeptide region and at the procollagen N-proteinase cleavage site. MMPs 7 and 13 demonstrated other cleavage sites in the type II collagen-specific region of the N-propeptide; MMP-7 had another cleavage site close to the COOH terminus of the cysteine-rich domain. To prove that an MMP can cleave the native type IIA procollagen in situ, we demonstrated that MMP-7 removes the NH(2)-propeptide from collagen fibrils in the extracellular matrix of fetal cartilage and identified the cleavage products. Because the N-proteinase and telopeptidase cleavage sites are present in both type IIA and type IIB procollagens and the telopeptide cleavage site is retained in the mature collagen fibril, this processing could be important to type IIB procollagen and to mature collagen fibrils as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoshi Fukui
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Barnes-Jewish Hospital at Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
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