Generation of an Frs2alpha conditional null allele

Steroid-induced fibroblast growth factors drive an epithelial-mesenchymal inflammatory axis in severe asthma

Asthma and inflammatory airway diseases restrict airflow in the lung, compromising gas exchange and lung function. Inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) can reduce inflammation, control symptoms, and improve lung function; however, a growing number of patients with severe asthma do not benefit from ICS. Using bronchial airway epithelial brushings from patients with severe asthma or primary human cells, we delineated a corticosteroid-driven fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-dependent inflammatory axis, with FGF-responsive fibroblasts promoting downstream granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) production, hyaluronan secretion, and neutrophilic inflammation. Allergen challenge studies in mice demonstrate that the ICS, fluticasone propionate, inhibited type 2-driven eosinophilia but induced a concomitant increase in FGFs, G-CSF, hyaluronan, and neutrophil infiltration. We developed a model of steroid-induced neutrophilic inflammation mediated, in part, by induction of an FGF-dependent epithelial-mesenchymal axis, which may explain why some individuals do not benefit from ICS. In further proof-of-concept experiments, we found that combination therapy with pan-FGF receptor inhibitors and corticosteroids prevented both eosinophilic and steroid-induced neutrophilic inflammation. Together, these results establish FGFs as therapeutic targets for severe asthma patients who do not benefit from ICS.

Disruption of FGF Signaling Ameliorates Inflammatory Response in Hepatic Stellate Cells

It is a well-documented event that fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) regulate liver development and homeostasis in autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine manners via binding and activating FGF receptors (FGFRs) tyrosine kinase in hepatocytes. Recent research reveals that hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a fundamental role in liver immunology. However, how FGF signaling in HSCs regulates liver inflammation remains unclear. Here, we report that FGF promoted NF-κB signaling, an inflammatory pathway, in human HSCs, which was associated with FGFR1 expression. Both FGF and NF-κB signaling in HSCs were compromised by FGFR1 tyrosine kinase inhibitor. After stimulating HSCs with proinflammatory cytokines, expression of multiple FGF ligands was significantly increased. However, disruption of FGF signaling with FGFR inhibitors prominently reduced the apoptosis, inflammatory response, NF-κB nuclear translocation, and expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) induced by TNFα in HSCs. Interestingly, FGF21 significantly alleviated the inflammation responses in the concanavalin A (Con A)-induced acutely injured liver. Unlike canonic FGFs that elicit signals through activating the FGFR–heparan sulfate complex, FGF21 activates the FGFR–KLB complex and elicits a different set of signals. Therefore, the finding here indicates the urgency of developing pathway-specific inhibitors that only suppress canonical FGF, but not non-canonical FGF21, signaling for alleviating inflammation in the liver, which is presented in all stages of diseased liver.

Lens differentiation is controlled by the balance between PDGF and FGF signaling

How multiple receptor tyrosine kinases coordinate cell fate determination is yet to be elucidated. We show here that the receptor for platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) signaling recruits the p85 subunit of Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) to regulate mammalian lens development. Activation of PI3K signaling not only prevents B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2)-Associated X (Bax)- and BCL2 Antagonist/Killer (Bak)-mediated apoptosis but also promotes Notch signaling to prevent premature cell differentiation. Reducing PI3K activity destabilizes the Notch intracellular domain, while the constitutive activation of Notch reverses the PI3K deficiency phenotype. In contrast, fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) recruit Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor Substrate 2 (Frs2) and Rous sarcoma oncogene (Src) Homology Phosphatase 2 (Shp2) to activate Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) signaling, which induces the Notch ligand Jagged 1 (Jag1) and promotes cell differentiation. Inactivation of Shp2 restored the proper timing of differentiation in the p85 mutant lens, demonstrating the antagonistic interaction between FGF-induced MAPK and PDGF-induced PI3K signaling. By selective activation of PI3K and MAPK, PDGF and FGF cooperate with and oppose each other to balance progenitor cell maintenance and differentiation.

A central aim in understanding cell signaling is to decode the cellular logic that underlies the functional specificity of growth factors. Although these factors are known to activate a common set of intracellular pathways, they nevertheless play specific roles in development and physiology. Using lens development in mice as a model, we show that fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) antagonize each other through their intrinsic biases toward distinct downstream targets. While FGF primarily induces the Ras–Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) axis to promote lens cell differentiation, PDGF preferentially stimulates Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) to enhance Notch signaling, which is necessary for maintaining the lens progenitor cell pool. By revealing the intricate interactions between PDGF, FGF, and Notch, we present a paradigm for how signaling crosstalk enables balanced growth and differentiation in multicellular organisms.

Crk proteins transduce FGF signaling to promote lens fiber cell elongation

Specific cell shapes are fundamental to the organization and function of multicellular organisms. Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) signaling induces the elongation of lens fiber cells during vertebrate lens development. Nonetheless, exactly how this extracellular FGF signal is transmitted to the cytoskeletal network has previously not been determined. Here, we show that the Crk family of adaptor proteins, Crk and Crkl, are required for mouse lens morphogenesis but not differentiation. Genetic ablation and epistasis experiments demonstrated that Crk and Crkl play overlapping roles downstream of FGF signaling in order to regulate lens fiber cell elongation. Upon FGF stimulation, Crk proteins were found to interact with Frs2, Shp2 and Grb2. The loss of Crk proteins was partially compensated for by the activation of Ras and Rac signaling. These results reveal that Crk proteins are important partners of the Frs2/Shp2/Grb2 complex in mediating FGF signaling, specifically promoting cell shape changes.

As an embryo develops, its cells divide multiple times to transform into the specialized cell types that form our tissues and organs. To carry out specific roles, cells need to be of a certain shape. For example, in mammals, the cells that make up the main portion of the eye lens, develop into a fiber-like shape to be perfectly aligned with each other. This enables them to transmit light to the retina at the rear end of the eye. To do so, the lens cells increase over 1000 times in length with the help of a group of proteins called the Fibroblast Growth Factor, or FGF for short.

The FGF pathway includes a network of interacting proteins that transmit signals to molecules inside the lens cells to control how they specialize and grow. However, until now it was not clear how it does this. Here, Zhang et al. used mouse lens-cells grown in the laboratory to investigate how FGF signaling causes cells to change their structure. The experiments revealed two related proteins called Crk and Crkl that linked the FGF pathway with another signaling system. When these two proteins were removed from the lens cells, the lens cells were still able to specialize, but could no longer grow in length. This suggests that these two processes are independent of each other.

Moreover, Crk and Crkl helped the cells to change shape by increasing the amount of another group of proteins called Ras, which are known to both help cells to specialize and to regulate their shape. Zhang et al. discovered that the amount of Ras proteins determined whether cells specialized or modified their shape by changing the organization of proteins in the cell.

Millions of children are born with cataracts, a disease caused when lens cells fail to shape properly. A better knowledge of FGF signaling may help to understand how cataracts develop and inspire future treatments. Moreover, the pathways identified in this study could also apply to other organs and diseases in which FGF signaling is active.

Ectopic Phosphorylated Creb Marks Dedifferentiated Proximal Tubules in Cystic Kidney Disease

Ectopic cAMP signaling is pathologic in polycystic kidney disease; however, its spatiotemporal actions are unclear. We characterized the expression of phosphorylated Creb (p-Creb), a target and mediator of cAMP signaling, in developing and cystic kidney models. We also examined tubule-specific effects of cAMP analogs in cystogenesis in embryonic kidney explants. In wild-type mice, p-Creb marked nephron progenitors (NP), early epithelial NP derivatives, ureteric bud, and cortical stroma; p-Creb was present in differentiated thick ascending limb of Henle, collecting duct, and stroma; however, it disappeared in mature NP-derived proximal tubules. In Six2cre;Frs2αFl/Fl mice, a renal cystic model, ectopic p-Creb stained proximal tubule-derived cystic segments that lost the differentiation marker lotus tetragonolobus lectin. Furthermore, lotus tetragonolobus lectin-negative/p-Creb-positive cyst segments (re)-expressed Ncam1, Pax2, and Sox9 markers of immature nephron structures and dedifferentiated proximal tubules after acute kidney injury. These dedifferentiation markers were co-expressed with p-Creb in renal cysts in Itf88 knockout mice subjected to ischemia and Six2cre;Pkd1Fl/Fl mice, other renal cystogenesis models. 8-Br-cAMP addition to wild-type embryonic kidney explants induced proximal tubular cystogenesis and p-Creb expression; these effects were blocked by co-addition of protein kinase A inhibitor. Thus p-Creb/cAMP signaling is appropriate in NP and early nephron derivatives, but disappears in mature proximal tubules. Moreover, ectopic p-Creb expression/cAMP signaling marks dedifferentiated proximal tubular cystic segments. Furthermore, proximal tubules are predisposed to become cystic after cAMP stimulation.

Neurotrophin and FGF Signaling Adapter Proteins, FRS2 and FRS3, Regulate Dentate Granule Cell Maturation and Excitatory Synaptogenesis

Dentate granule cells (DGCs) play important roles in cognitive processes. Knowledge about how growth factors such as FGFs and neurotrophins contribute to the maturation and synaptogenesis of DGCs is limited. Here, using brain-specific and germline mouse mutants we show that a module of neurotrophin and FGF signaling, the FGF Receptor Substrate (FRS) family of intracellular adapters, FRS2 and FRS3, are together required for postnatal brain development. In the hippocampus, FRS promotes dentate gyrus morphogenesis and DGC maturation during developmental neurogenesis, similar to previously published functions for both neurotrophins and FGFs. Consistent with a role in DGC maturation, two-photon imaging revealed that Frs2,3-double mutants have reduced numbers of dendritic branches and spines in DGCs. Functional analysis further showed that double-mutant mice exhibit fewer excitatory synaptic inputs onto DGCs. These observations reveal roles for FRS adapters in DGC maturation and synaptogenesis and suggest that FRS proteins may act as an important node for FGF and neurotrophin signaling in postnatal hippocampal development.

Alx4 relays sequential FGF signaling to induce lacrimal gland morphogenesis

The sequential use of signaling pathways is essential for the guidance of pluripotent progenitors into diverse cell fates. Here, we show that Shp2 exclusively mediates FGF but not PDGF signaling in the neural crest to control lacrimal gland development. In addition to preventing p53-independent apoptosis and promoting the migration of Sox10-expressing neural crests, Shp2 is also required for expression of the homeodomain transcription factor Alx4, which directly controls Fgf10 expression in the periocular mesenchyme that is necessary for lacrimal gland induction. We show that Alx4 binds an Fgf10 intronic element conserved in terrestrial but not aquatic animals, underlying the evolutionary emergence of the lacrimal gland system in response to an airy environment. Inactivation of ALX4/Alx4 causes lacrimal gland aplasia in both human and mouse. These results reveal a key role of Alx4 in mediating FGF-Shp2-FGF signaling in the neural crest for lacrimal gland development.

The dry eye disease caused by lacrimal gland dysgenesis is one of the most common ocular ailments. In this study, we show that Shp2 mediates the sequential use of FGF signaling in lacrimal gland development. Our study identifies Alx4 as a novel target of Shp2 signaling and a causal gene for lacrimal gland aplasia in humans. Given this result, there may also be a potential role for Alx4 in guiding pluripotent stem cells to produce lacrimal gland tissue. Finally, our data reveals an Alx4-Fgf10 regulatory unit broadly conserved in the diverse array of terrestrial animals from humans to reptiles, but not in aquatic animals such as amphibians and fish, which sheds light on how the lacrimal gland arose as an evolutionary innovation of terrestrial animals to adapt to their newfound exposure to an airy environment.

FGF-Dependent, Context-Driven Role for FRS Adapters in the Early Telencephalon

FGF signaling, an important component of intercellular communication, is required in many tissues throughout development to promote diverse cellular processes. Whether FGF receptors (FGFRs) accomplish such varied tasks in part by activating different intracellular transducers in different contexts remains unclear. Here, we used the developing mouse telencephalon as an example to study the role of the FRS adapters FRS2 and FRS3 in mediating the functions of FGFRs. Using tissue-specific and germline mutants, we examined the requirement of Frs genes in two FGFR-dependent processes. We found that Frs2 and Frs3 are together required for the differentiation of a subset of medial ganglionic eminence (MGE)-derived neurons, but are dispensable for the survival of early telencephalic precursor cells, in which any one of three FGFRs (FGFR1, FGFR2, or FGFR3) is sufficient for survival. Although FRS adapters are dispensable for ERK-1/2 activation, they are required for AKT activation within the subventricular zone of the developing MGE. Using an FRS2,3-binding site mutant of Fgfr1, we established that FRS adapters are necessary for mediating most or all FGFR1 signaling, not only in MGE differentiation, but also in cell survival, implying that other adapters mediate at least in part the signaling from FGFR2 and FGFR3. Our study provides an example of a contextual role for an intracellular transducer and contributes to our understanding of how FGF signaling plays diverse developmental roles.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT FGFs promote a range of developmental processes in many developing tissues and at multiple developmental stages. The mechanisms underlying this multifunctionality remain poorly defined in vivo Using telencephalon development as an example, we show here that FRS adapters exhibit some selectivity in their requirement for mediating FGF receptor (FGFR) signaling and activating downstream mediators that depend on the developmental process, with a requirement in neuronal differentiation but not cell survival. Differential engagement of FRS and non-FRS intracellular adapters downstream of FGFRs could therefore in principle explain how FGFs play several distinct roles in other developing tissues and developmental stages.

Six2creFrs2α knockout mice are a novel model of renal cystogenesis

Six2cre-mediated deletion of Frs2α (Six2creFrs2αKO), a major fibroblast growth factor receptor (Fgfr) docking protein in mouse nephron progenitors results in perinatal renal hypoplasia; however, postnatal Six2creFrs2αKO kidneys develop cysts. We sought to determine the pathogenesis of Six2creFrs2αKO cyst formation. We performed histological assays, Western blots, and quantitative PCR (qPCR). While embryonic day (E) 18.5 Six2Frs2αKO kidneys were hypoplastic and not cystic, postnatal day (P) 7 mutants had proximal tubular-derived cysts that nearly replaced the renal parenchyma by P21. Mutants had high proximal tubular proliferation rates and interstitial fibrosis, similar to known polycystic kidney disease (PKD) models. Six2creFrs2αKO kidneys also had upregulation of Wnt/βcatenin signaling, macrophage infiltration and chemokine production (e.g. ectopic Ccl2 in non-dilated proximal tubules), and augmented hedgehog signaling, features also seen in other PKD models. We saw increased Gli1 (hedgehog readout) in postnatal Six2creFrs2αKO interstitium and ectopic sonic hedgehog (Shh) in subsets of non-dilated P7 mutant proximal tubules (likely driving the stromal Gli expression). As ectopic tubular Shh and Ccl2 expression is seen after acute kidney injury (AKI), we interrogated another bone fide AKI marker, Kim1 and noted ectopic expression in P7 non-dilated proximal tubules. These observations suggest that aberrantly activated “AKI” pathways may drive pathogenesis in PKD.

Targeting of Ras-mediated FGF signaling suppresses Pten-deficient skin tumor

Deficiency in PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10) is the underlying cause of PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome and a wide variety of human cancers. In skin epidermis, we have previously identified an autocrine FGF signaling induced by loss of Pten in keratinocytes. In this study, we demonstrate that skin hyperplasia requires FGF receptor adaptor protein Frs2α and tyrosine phosphatase Shp2, two upstream regulators of Ras signaling. Although the PI3-kinase regulatory subunits p85α and p85β are dispensable, the PI3-kinase catalytic subunit p110α requires interaction with Ras to promote hyperplasia in Pten-deficient skin, thus demonstrating an important cross-talk between Ras and PI3K pathways. Furthermore, genetic and pharmacological inhibition of Ras-MAPK pathway impeded epidermal hyperplasia in Pten animals. These results reveal a positive feedback loop connecting Pten and Ras pathways and suggest that FGF-activated Ras-MAPK pathway is an effective therapeutic target for preventing skin tumor induced by aberrant Pten signaling.

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling regulates transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ)-dependent smooth muscle cell phenotype modulation

Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in normal blood vessels exist in a highly differentiate state characterized by expression of SMC-specific contractile proteins ("contractile phenotype"). Following blood vessel injury in vivo or when cultured in vitro in the presence of multiple growth factors, SMC undergo a phenotype switch characterized by the loss of contractile markers and appearance of expression of non-muscle proteins ("proliferative phenotype"). While a number of factors have been reported to modulate this process, its regulation remains uncertain. Here we show that induction of SMC FGF signaling inhibits TGFβ signaling and converts contractile SMCs to the proliferative phenotype. Conversely, inhibition of SMC FGF signaling induces TGFβ signaling converting proliferating SMCs to the contractile phenotype, even in the presence of various growth factors in vitro or vascular injury in vivo. The importance of this signaling cross-talk is supported by in vivo data that show that an SMC deletion of a pan-FGF receptor adaptor Frs2α (fibroblast growth factor receptor substrate 2 alpha) in mice profoundly reduces neointima formation and vascular remodelling following carotid artery ligation. These results demonstrate that FGF-TGFβ signaling antagonism is the primary regulator of the SMC phenotype switch. Manipulation of this cross-talk may be an effective strategy for treatment of SMC-proliferation related diseases.

Smooth muscle FGF/TGFβ cross talk regulates atherosclerosis progression

The conversion of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) from contractile to proliferative phenotype is thought to play an important role in atherosclerosis. However, the contribution of this process to plaque growth has never been fully defined. In this study, we show that activation of SMC TGFβ signaling, achieved by suppression of SMC fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling input, induces their conversion to a contractile phenotype and dramatically reduces atherosclerotic plaque size. The FGF/TGFβ signaling cross talk was observed in vitro and in vivo In vitro, inhibition of FGF signaling increased TGFβ activity, thereby promoting smooth muscle differentiation and decreasing proliferation. In vivo, smooth muscle-specific knockout of an FGF receptor adaptor Frs2α led to a profound inhibition of atherosclerotic plaque growth when these animals were crossed on Apoe(-/-) background and subjected to a high-fat diet. In particular, there was a significant reduction in plaque cellularity, increase in fibrous cap area, and decrease in necrotic core size. In agreement with these findings, examination of human coronary arteries with various degrees of atherosclerosis revealed a strong correlation between the activation of FGF signaling, loss of TGFβ activity, and increased disease severity. These results identify SMC FGF/TGFβ signaling cross talk as an important regulator of SMC phenotype switch and document a major contribution of medial SMC proliferation to atherosclerotic plaque growth.

Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition drives atherosclerosis progression

The molecular mechanisms responsible for the development and progression of atherosclerotic lesions have not been fully established. Here, we investigated the role played by endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and its key regulator FGF receptor 1 (FGFR1) in atherosclerosis. In cultured human endothelial cells, both inflammatory cytokines and oscillatory shear stress reduced endothelial FGFR1 expression and activated TGF-β signaling. We further explored the link between disrupted FGF endothelial signaling and progression of atherosclerosis by introducing endothelial-specific deletion of FGF receptor substrate 2 α (Frs2a) in atherosclerotic (Apoe(-/-)) mice. When placed on a high-fat diet, these double-knockout mice developed atherosclerosis at a much earlier time point compared with that their Apoe(-/-) counterparts, eventually demonstrating an 84% increase in total plaque burden. Moreover, these animals exhibited extensive development of EndMT, deposition of fibronectin, and increased neointima formation. Additionally, we conducted a molecular and morphometric examination of left main coronary arteries from 43 patients with various levels of coronary disease to assess the clinical relevance of these findings. The extent of coronary atherosclerosis in this patient set strongly correlated with loss of endothelial FGFR1 expression, activation of endothelial TGF-β signaling, and the extent of EndMT. These data demonstrate a link between loss of protective endothelial FGFR signaling, development of EndMT, and progression of atherosclerosis.

Hyperactivated FRS2α-mediated signaling in prostate cancer cells promotes tumor angiogenesis and predicts poor clinical outcome of patients

Metastasis of tumors requires angiogenesis, which is comprised of multiple biological processes that are regulated by angiogenic factors. The fibroblast growth factor (FGF) is a potent angiogenic factor and aberrant FGF signaling is a common property of tumors. Yet, how the aberration in cancer cells contributes to angiogenesis in the tumor is not well understood. Most studies of its angiogenic signaling mechanisms have been in endothelial cells. FGF receptor substrate 2α (FRS2α) is an FGF receptor-associated protein required for activation of downstream signaling molecules that include those in the mitogen-activated protein and AKT kinase pathways. Herein, we demonstrated that overactivation and hyperactivity of FRS2α, as well as overexpression of cJUN and HIF1α, were positively correlated with vessel density and progression of human prostate cancer (PCa) toward malignancy. We also demonstrate that FGF upregulated the production of vascular endothelial growth factor A mainly by increasing expression of cJUN and HIF1α. This then promoted recruitment of endothelial cells and vessel formation for the tumor. Tumor angiogenesis in mouse PCa tissues was compromised by tissue-specific ablation of Frs2α in prostate epithelial cells. Depletion of Frs2α expression in human PCa cells and in a preclinical xenograft model, MDA PCa 118b, also significantly suppressed tumor angiogenesis accompanied with decreased tumor growth in the bone. The results underscore the angiogenic role of FRS2α-mediated signaling in tumor epithelial cells in angiogenesis. They provide a rationale for treating PCa with inhibitors of FGF signaling. They also demonstrate the potential of overexpressed FRS2α as a biomarker for PCa diagnosis, prognosis and response to therapies.

Prostate Sphere-forming Stem Cells Are Derived from the P63-expressing Basal Compartment

Prostate stem cells (P-SCs) are capable of giving rise to all three lineages of prostate epithelial cells, including basal, luminal, and neuroendocrine cells. Multiple methods have been used to identify P-SCs in adult prostates. These include in vivo renal capsule implantation of a single epithelial cell with urogenital mesenchymal cells, in vitro prostasphere and organoid cultures, and lineage tracing with castration-resistant Nkx3.1 expression (CARN), in conjunction with expression of cell type-specific markers. Both organoid culture and CARN tracing show the existence of P-SCs in the luminal compartment. Although prostasphere cells predominantly express basal cell-specific cytokeratin and P63, the lineage of prostasphere-forming cells in the P-SC hierarchy remains to be determined. Using lineage tracing with P63(CreERT2), we show here that the sphere-forming P-SCs are P63-expressing cells and reside in the basal compartment. Therefore we designate them as basal P-SCs (P-bSCs). P-bSCs are capable of differentiating into AR(+) and CK18(+) organoid cells, but organoid cells cannot form spheres. We also report that prostaspheres contain quiescent stem cells. Therefore, the results show that P-bSCs represent stem cells that are early in the hierarchy of overall prostate tissue stem cells. Understanding the contribution of the two types of P-SCs to prostate development and prostate cancer stem cells and how to manipulate them may open new avenues for control of prostate cancer progression and relapse.

Type 2 Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor Signaling Preserves Stemness and Prevents Differentiation of Prostate Stem Cells from the Basal Compartment

Prostate stem cells (P-SCs) are capable of giving rise to all three lineages of prostate epithelial cells, which include basal, luminal, and neuroendocrine cells. Two types of P-SCs have been identified in both human and mouse adult prostates based on prostasphere or organoid cultures, cell lineage tracing, renal capsule implantation, and expression of luminal- and basal-specific proteins. The sphere-forming P-SCs are from the basal cell compartment that express P63, and are therefore designated as basal P-SCs (P-bSCs). Luminal P-SCs (P-lSCs) express luminal cytokeratins and Nkx3.1. Herein, we report that the type 2 FGF receptor (FGFR2) signaling axis is crucial for preserving stemness and preventing differentiation of P-bSCs. FGFR2 signaling mediated by FGFR substrate 2α (FRS2α) is indispensable for formation and maintenance of prostaspheres derived from P63(+) P-bSCs. Ablation of Fgfr2 in P63(+) cells in vitro causes the disintegration of prostaspheres. Ablation of Fgfr2 in vivo reduces the number of P63-expressing basal cells and enriches luminal cells. This suggests a basal stem cell-to-luminal cell differentiation. In addition, ablation of Fgfr2 in P63(+) cells causes defective postnatal development of the prostate. Therefore, the data indicate that FGFR2 signaling is critical for preserving stemness and preventing differentiation of P-bSCs.

Hepatocyte FRS2α is essential for the endocrine fibroblast growth factor to limit the amplitude of bile acid production induced by prandial activity

In addition to being positively regulated by prandial activity, bile acid production is also negatively controlled by the endocrine fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) or the mouse ortholog FGF15 from the ileum that represses hepatic cholesterol 7 α-hydroxylase (Cyp7a1) expression through activating FGF receptor four (FGFR4). However, how these two regulatory mechanisms interplay to control bile acid homeostasis in the body and the downstream pathways by which FGFR4 regulates Cyp7a1 expression are not fully understood. Here we report that hepatocyte FGFR substrate 2α (FRS2α), a scaffold protein essential for canonical FGFRs to activate the ERK and AKT pathways, was required for the regulation of bile acid production by the FGF15/19-FGFR4 signaling axis. This occurred through limiting the extent of increases in Cyp7a1 expression induced by prandial activity. Excess FGFR4 kinase activity reduced the amplitude of the increase whereas a lack of FGFR4 augmented the increase of Cyp7a1 expression in the liver. Ablation of Frs2α alleles in hepatocytes abrogated the regulation of Cyp7a1 expression by FGFR4. Together, the results demonstrate that FRS2α-mediated pathways are essential for the FGF15/FGF19-FGFR4 signaling axis to control bile acid homeostasis.

Fibroblast growth factor receptor-Frs2α signaling is critical for nephron progenitors

Previous studies using transgenic Pax3cre mice have revealed roles for fibroblast growth factor receptors (Fgfrs) and Fgfr substrate 2α (Frs2α) signaling in early metanephric mesenchyme patterning and in ureteric morphogenesis. The role of Fgfr/Frs2α signaling in nephron progenitors is unknown. Thus, we generated mouse models using BAC transgenic Six2EGFPcre (Six2cre) mediated deletion of Fgfrs and/or Frs2α in nephron progenitors. Six2cre mediated deletion of Fgfr1 or Fgfr2 alone led to no obvious kidney defects. Six2creFgfr1(flox/flox)Fgfr2(flox/flox) (Fgfr1/2(NP-/-)) mice generate a discernable kidney; however, they develop nephron progenitor depletion starting at embryonic day 12.5 (E12.5) and later demonstrate severe cystic dysplasia. To determine the role of Frs2α signaling downstream of Fgfr2 in Fgfr1/2(NP-/-) mice, we generated Six2cre(,)Fgfr1(flox/flox)Fgfr2(LR/LR) (Fgfr1(NP-/-)Fgfr2(LR/LR)) mice that have point mutations in the Frs2α binding site of Fgfr2. Like Fgfr1/2(NP-/-) mice, Fgfr1(NP-/-)Fgfr2(LR/LR) develop nephron progenitor depletion, but it does not start until E14.5 and older mice have less severe cystic dysplasia than Fgfr1/2(NP-/-) To determine the role of Frs2α alone in nephron progenitors, we generated Six2creFrs2'A(flox/flox) (Frs2a(NP-/-)) mice. Frs2a(NP-/-)mice also develop nephron progenitor depletion and renal cysts, although these occurred later and were less severe than in the other Six2cre mutant mice. The nephron progenitor loss in all Six2cre mutant lines was associated with decreased Cited1 expression and increased apoptosis versus controls. FAC-sorted nephron progenitors in Six2cre Frs2'A(flox/flox) mice demonstrated evidence of increased Notch activity versus controls, which likely drives the progenitor defects. Thus, Fgfr1 and Fgfr2 have synergistic roles in maintaining nephron progenitors; furthermore, Fgfr signaling in nephron progenitors appears to be mediated predominantly by Frs2α.

The docking protein FRS2α is a critical regulator of VEGF receptors signaling

Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) signal via their cognate receptor tyrosine kinases designated VEGFR1-3. We report that the docking protein fibroblast growth factor receptor substrate 2 (FRS2α) plays a critical role in cell signaling via these receptors. In vitro FRS2α regulates VEGF-A and VEGF-C-dependent activation of extracellular signal-regulated receptor kinase signaling and blood and lymphatic endothelial cells migration and proliferation. In vivo endothelial-specific deletion of FRS2α results in the profound impairment of postnatal vascular development and adult angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, and arteriogenesis. We conclude that FRS2α is a previously unidentified component of VEGF receptors signaling.

Frs2α and Shp2 signal independently of Gab to mediate FGF signaling in lens development

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling requires a plethora of adaptor proteins to elicit downstream responses, but the functional significances of these docking proteins remain controversial. In this study, we used lens development as a model to investigate Frs2α and its structurally related scaffolding proteins, Gab1 and Gab2, in FGF signaling. We show that genetic ablation of Frs2α alone has a modest effect, but additional deletion of tyrosine phosphatase Shp2 causes a complete arrest of lens vesicle development. Biochemical evidence suggests that this Frs2α-Shp2 synergy reflects their epistatic relationship in the FGF signaling cascade, as opposed to compensatory or parallel functions of these two proteins. Genetic interaction experiments further demonstrate that direct binding of Shp2 to Frs2α is necessary for activation of ERK signaling, whereas constitutive activation of either Shp2 or Kras signaling can compensate for the absence of Frs2α in lens development. By contrast, knockout of Gab1 and Gab2 failed to disrupt FGF signaling in vitro and lens development in vivo. These results establish the Frs2α-Shp2 complex as the key mediator of FGF signaling in lens development.

Fibroblast growth factor signaling is essential for self-renewal of dental epithelial stem cells

A constant supply of epithelial cells from dental epithelial stem cell (DESC) niches in the cervical loop (CL) enables mouse incisors to grow continuously throughout life. Elucidation of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying this unlimited growth potential is of broad interest for tooth regenerative therapies. Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling is essential for the development of mouse incisors and for maintenance of the CL during prenatal development. However, how FGF signaling in DESCs controls the self-renewal and differentiation of the cells is not well understood. Herein, we report that FGF signaling is essential for self-renewal and the prevention of cell differentiation of DESCs in the CL as well as in DESC spheres. Inhibiting the FGF signaling pathway decreased proliferation and increased apoptosis of the cells in DESC spheres. Suppressing FGFR or its downstream signal transduction pathways diminished Lgr5-expressing cells in the CL and promoted cell differentiation both in DESC spheres and the CL. Furthermore, disruption of the FGF pathway abrogated Wnt signaling to promote Lgr5 expression in DESCs both in vitro and in vivo. This study sheds new light on understanding the mechanism by which the homeostasis, expansion, and differentiation of DESCs are regulated.

Deficient FGF signaling causes optic nerve dysgenesis and ocular coloboma

FGF signaling plays a pivotal role in eye development. Previous studies using in vitro chick models and systemic zebrafish mutants have suggested that FGF signaling is required for the patterning and specification of the optic vesicle, but due to a lack of genetic models, its role in mammalian retinal development remains elusive. In this study, we show that specific deletion of Fgfr1 and Fgfr2 in the optic vesicle disrupts ERK signaling, which results in optic disc and nerve dysgenesis and, ultimately, ocular coloboma. Defective FGF signaling does not abrogate Shh or BMP signaling, nor does it affect axial patterning of the optic vesicle. Instead, FGF signaling regulates Mitf and Pax2 in coordinating the closure of the optic fissure and optic disc specification, which is necessary for the outgrowth of the optic nerve. Genetic evidence further supports that the formation of an Frs2α-Shp2 complex and its recruitment to FGF receptors are crucial for downstream ERK signaling in this process, whereas constitutively active Ras signaling can rescue ocular coloboma in the FGF signaling mutants. Our results thus reveal a previously unappreciated role of FGF-Frs2α-Shp2-Ras-ERK signaling axis in preventing ocular coloboma. These findings suggest that components of FGF signaling pathway may be novel targets in the diagnosis of and the therapeutic interventions for congenital ocular anomalies.

FGF regulates TGF-β signaling and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition via control of let-7 miRNA expression

Maintenance of normal endothelial function is critical to various aspects of blood vessel function, but its regulation is poorly understood. In this study, we show that disruption of baseline fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling to the endothelium leads to a dramatic reduction in let-7 miRNA levels that, in turn, increases expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β ligands and receptors and activation of TGF-β signaling, leading to endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (Endo-MT). We also find that Endo-MT is an important driver of neointima formation in a murine transplant arteriopathy model and in rejection of human transplant lesions. The decline in endothelial FGF signaling input is due to the appearance of an FGF resistance state that is characterized by inflammation-dependent reduction in expression and activation of key components of the FGF signaling cascade. These results establish FGF signaling as a critical factor in maintenance of endothelial homeostasis and point to an unexpected role of Endo-MT in vascular pathology.

Signaling in cell differentiation and morphogenesis

All the information to make a complete, fully functional living organism is encoded within the genome of the fertilized oocyte. How is this genetic code translated into the vast array of cellular behaviors that unfold during the course of embryonic development, as the zygote slowly morphs into a new organism? Studies over the last 30 years or so have shown that many of these cellular processes are driven by secreted or membrane-bound signaling molecules. Elucidating how the genetic code is translated into instructions or signals during embryogenesis, how signals are generated at the correct time and place and at the appropriate level, and finally, how these instructions are interpreted and put into action, are some of the central questions of developmental biology. Our understanding of the causes of congenital malformations and disease has improved substantially with the rapid advances in our knowledge of signaling pathways and their regulation during development. In this article, I review some of the signaling pathways that play essential roles during embryonic development. These examples show some of the mechanisms used by cells to receive and interpret developmental signals. I also discuss how signaling pathways downstream from these signals are regulated and how they induce specific cellular responses that ultimately affect cell fate and morphogenesis.

FRS2α-mediated FGF signals suppress premature differentiation of cardiac stem cells through regulating autophagy activity

RATIONALE

Although the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling axis plays important roles in heart development, the molecular mechanism by which the FGF regulates cardiogenesis is not fully understood.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the mechanism by which FGF signaling regulates cardiac progenitor cell differentiation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using mice with tissue-specific ablation of FGF receptors and FGF receptor substrate 2α (Frs2α) in heart progenitor cells, we demonstrate that disruption of FGF signaling leads to premature differentiation of cardiac progenitor cells in mice. Using embryoid body cultures of mouse embryonic stem cells, we reveal that FGF signaling promotes mesoderm differentiation in embryonic stem cells but inhibits cardiomyocyte differentiation of the mesoderm cells at later stages. Furthermore, we also report that inhibiting FRS2α-mediated signals increases autophagy and that activating autophagy promotes myocardial differentiation and vice versa.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that the FGF/FRS2α-mediated signals prevent premature differentiation of heart progenitor cells through suppressing autophagy. The findings provide the first evidence that autophagy plays a role in heart progenitor differentiation.

FRS2α is essential for the fibroblast growth factor to regulate the mTOR pathway and autophagy in mouse embryonic fibroblasts

Although the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling axis plays important roles in cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation, the molecular mechanism underlying how the FGF elicits these diverse regulatory signals is not well understood. By using the Frs2α null mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) in conjunction with inhibitors to multiple signaling pathways, here we report that the FGF signaling axis activates mTOR via the FGF receptor substrate 2α (FRS2α)-mediated PI3K/Akt pathway, and suppresses autophagy activity in MEFs. In addition, the PI3K/Akt pathway regulated mTOR is crucial for the FGF signaling axis to suppress autophagy in MEFs. Since autophagy has been proposed to play important roles in cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation, the findings suggest a novel mechanism for the FGF signaling axis to transmit regulatory signals to downstream effectors.

Independent roles of Fgfr2 and Frs2alpha in ureteric epithelium

Mice with conditional deletion of fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (Fgfr2) in the ureteric bud using a Hoxb7cre line (Fgfr2(UB-/-)) develop severe ureteric branching defects; however, ureteric deletion of fibroblast growth factor receptor substrate 2α (Frs2α), a key docking protein that transmits fibroblast growth factor receptor intracellular signaling (Frs2α(UB-/-)) leads to mild ureteric defects. Mice with point mutations in the Frs2α binding site of Fgfr2 (Fgfr2(LR/LR)) have normal kidneys. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between Fgfr2 and Frs2α in the ureteric lineage. Mice with ureteric deletion of both Fgfr2 and Frs2α (Fgfr2/Frs2α(UB-/)) were compared with Frs2α(UB-/-) and Fgfr2(UB-/-) mice. To avoid potential rescue of Fgfr1 forming heterodimers with Fgfr2(LR) alleles to recruit Frs2α, compound mutant mice were generated with ureteric deletion of Fgfr1 and with Fgfr2(LR/LR) point mutations (Fgfr1(UB-/-)Fgfr2(LR/LR)). At E13.5, three-dimensional reconstructions and histological assessment showed that, whereas Fgfr2(UB-/-) kidneys had more severe ureteric branching defects than Frs2α(UB-/-), Fgfr2(UB-/-) kidneys were indistinguishable from Fgfr2/Frs2α(UB-/-). At later stages, however, Fgfr2/Frs2α(UB-/-) kidneys were more severely affected than either Fgfr2(UB-/-) or Frs2α(UB-/-) kidneys. Taken together, although Fgfr2 and Frs2α have crucial roles in the ureteric lineage, they appear to act separately and additively.

Microtubule-associated protein 1S (MAP1S) bridges autophagic components with microtubules and mitochondria to affect autophagosomal biogenesis and degradation

The ubiquitously distributed MAP1S is a homologue of the exclusively neuronal distributed microtubule-associated protein 1A and 1B (MAP1A/B). They give rise to multiple isoforms through similar post-translational modification. Isoforms of MAP1S have been implicated in microtubule dynamics and mitotic abnormalities and mitotic cell death. Here we show that ablation of the Map1s gene in mice caused reduction in the B-cell CLL/lymphoma 2 or xL (Bcl-2/xL) and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1B (P27) protein levels, accumulation of defective mitochondria, and severe defects in response to nutritive stress, suggesting defects in autophagosomal biogenesis and clearance. Furthermore, MAP1S isoforms interacted with the autophagosome-associated light chain 3 of MAP1A/B (LC3), a homologue of yeast autophagy-related gene 8 (ATG8), and recruited it to stable microtubules in a MAP1S and LC3 isoform-dependent mode. In addition, MAP1S interacted with mitochondrion-associated leucine-rich PPR-motif containing protein (LRPPRC) that interacts with the mitophagy initiator and Parkinson disease-related protein Parkin. The three-way interactions of MAP1S isoforms with LC3 and microtubules as well as the interaction of MAP1S with LRPPRC suggest that MAP1S isoforms may play positive roles in integration of autophagic components with microtubules and mitochondria in both autophagosomal biogenesis and degradation. For the first time, our results clarify roles of MAP1S in bridging microtubules and mitochondria with autophagic and mitophagic initiation, maturation, trafficking, and lysosomal clearance. Defects in the MAP1S-regulated autophagy may impact heart disease, cancers, neurodegenerative diseases, and a wide range of other diseases.

Phosphoprotein enriched in astrocytes 15 kDa (PEA-15) reprograms growth factor signaling by inhibiting threonine phosphorylation of fibroblast receptor substrate 2alpha

Changes in expression of PEA-15 contribute to diabetes, tumor invasion, and cellular senescence. PEA-15 increases activation of the ERK MAP kinase pathway; the present study shows that it does so by interfering with ERK1/2 phosphorylation of FRS2, terminator of downstream signaling from FGF receptors.

Changes in cellular expression of phosphoprotein enriched in astrocytes of 15 kDa (PEA-15) are linked to insulin resistance, tumor cell invasion, and cellular senescence; these changes alter the activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathway. Here, we define the mechanism whereby increased PEA-15 expression promotes and sustains ERK1/2 activation. PEA-15 binding prevented ERK1/2 membrane recruitment and threonine phosphorylation of fibroblast receptor substrate 2α (FRS2α), a key link in fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptor activation of ERK1/2. This reduced threonine phosphorylation led to increased FGF-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of FRS2α, thereby enhancing downstream signaling. Conversely, short hairpin RNA-mediated depletion of endogenous PEA-15 led to reduced FRS2α tyrosine phosphorylation. Thus, PEA-15 interrupts a negative feedback loop that terminates growth factor receptor signaling downstream of FRS2α. This is the dominant mechanism by which PEA-15 activates ERK1/2 because genetic deletion of FRS2α blocked the capacity of PEA-15 to activate the MAP kinase pathway. Thus, PEA-15 prevents ERK1/2 localization to the plasma membrane, thereby inhibiting ERK1/2-dependent threonine phosphorylation of FRS2α to promote activation of the ERK1/2 MAP kinase pathway.

Deletion of Frs2alpha from the ureteric epithelium causes renal hypoplasia

Fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (Fgfr2) signaling is critical in maintaining ureteric branching architecture and mesenchymal stromal morphogenesis in the kidney. Fibroblast growth factor receptor substrate 2alpha (Frs2alpha) is a major docking protein for Fgfr2 with downstream targets including Ets variant (Etv) 4 and Etv5 in other systems. Furthermore, global deletion of Frs2alpha causes early embryonic lethality. The purpose of the study was to determine the role of Frs2alpha in mediating Fgfr2 signaling in the ureteric epithelium. To that end, we generated mice with conditional deletion of Frs2alpha in the ureteric epithelium (Frs2alpha(UB-/-)) and mice with point mutations in the Frs2alpha binding site of Fgfr2 (Fgfr2(LR/LR)). Frs2alpha(UB-/-) mice developed mild renal hypoplasia characterized by decreased ureteric branching morphogenesis but maintained normal overall branching architecture and had normal mesenchymal stromal development. Reduced nephron endowment in postnatal mutant mice was observed, corresponding with the reduction in branching morphogenesis. Furthermore, there were no apparent renal abnormalities in Fgfr2(LR/LR) mice. Interestingly, Etv4 and Etv5 expression was unaltered in Frs2alpha(UB-/-) mice, as was Sprouty1, an antagonist of Frs2alpha signaling. However, Ret and Wnt11 (molecules critical for ureteric branching morphogenesis) mRNA levels were lower in mutants vs. controls. Taken together, these findings suggest that Fgfr2 signals through adapter molecules other than Frs2alpha in the ureteric epithelium. Furthermore, Frs2alpha may transmit signals through other receptor kinases present in ureteric epithelium. Finally, the renal hypoplasia observed in Frs2alpha(UB-/-) mice is likely secondary to decreased Ret and Wnt11 expression.

Frs2alpha-deficiency in cardiac progenitors disrupts a subset of FGF signals required for outflow tract morphogenesis

The cardiac outflow tract (OFT) is a developmentally complex structure derived from multiple lineages and is often defective in human congenital anomalies. Although emerging evidence shows that fibroblast growth factor (FGF) is essential for OFT development, the downstream pathways mediating FGF signaling in cardiac progenitors remain poorly understood. Here, we report that FRS2alpha (FRS2), an adaptor protein that links FGF receptor kinases to multiple signaling pathways, mediates crucial aspects of FGF-dependent OFT development in mouse. Ablation of Frs2alpha in mesodermal OFT progenitor cells that originate in the second heart field (SHF) affects their expansion into the OFT myocardium, resulting in OFT misalignment and hypoplasia. Moreover, Frs2alpha mutants have defective endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition and neural crest cell recruitment into the OFT cushions, resulting in OFT septation defects. These results provide new insight into the signaling molecules downstream of FGF receptor tyrosine kinases in cardiac progenitors.

Role of epithelial cell fibroblast growth factor receptor substrate 2alpha in prostate development, regeneration and tumorigenesis

The fibroblast growth factor (FGF) regulates a broad spectrum of biological activities by activation of transmembrane FGF receptor (FGFR) tyrosine kinases and their coupled intracellular signaling pathways. FGF receptor substrate 2alpha (FRS2alpha) is an FGFR interactive adaptor protein that links multiple signaling pathways to the activated FGFR kinase. We previously showed that FGFR2 in the prostate epithelium is important for branching morphogenesis and for the acquisition of the androgen responsiveness. Here we show in mice that FRS2alpha is uniformly expressed in the epithelial cells of developing prostates, whereas it is expressed only in basal cells of the mature prostate epithelium. However, expression of FRS2alpha was apparent in luminal epithelial cells of regenerating prostates and prostate tumors. To investigate FRS2alpha function in the prostate, the Frs2alpha alleles were ablated specifically in the prostatic epithelial precursor cells during prostate development. Similar to the ablation of Fgfr2, ablation of Frs2alpha disrupted MAP kinase activation, impaired prostatic ductal branching morphogenesis and compromised cell proliferation. Unlike the Fgfr2 ablation, disrupting Frs2alpha had no effect on the response of the prostate to androgens. More importantly, ablation of Frs2alpha inhibited prostatic tumorigenesis induced by oncogenic viral proteins. The results suggest that FRS2alpha-mediated signals in prostate epithelial cells promote branching morphogenesis and proliferation, and that aberrant activation of FRS2-linked pathways might promote tumorigenesis. Thus, the prostate-specific Frs2alpha(cn) mice provide a useful animal model for scrutinizing the molecular mechanisms underlying prostatic development and tumorigenesis.

Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) tyrosine phosphorylation regulates binding of FGFR substrate 2alpha (FRS2alpha) but not FRS2 to the receptor

Binding of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) to the FGF receptor (FGFR) tyrosine kinase leads to receptor tyrosine autophosphorylation as well as phosphorylation of multiple downstream signaling molecules that are recruited to the receptor either by direct binding or through adaptor proteins. The FGFR substrate 2 (FRS2) family consists of two members, FRS2alpha and FRS2beta, and has been shown to recruit multiple signaling molecules, including Grb2 and Shp2, to FGFR1. To better understand how FRS2 interacted with FGFR1, in vivo binding assays with coexpressed FGFR1 and FRS2 recombinant proteins in mammalian cells were carried out. The results showed that the interaction of full-length FRS2alpha, but not FRS2beta, with FGFR1 was enhanced by activation of the receptor kinase. The truncated FRS2alpha mutant that was comprised only of the phosphotyrosine-binding domain (PTB) bound FGFR1 constitutively, suggesting that the C-terminal sequence downstream the PTB domain inhibited the PTB-FGFR1 binding. Inactivation of the FGFR1 kinase and substitutions of tyrosine phosphorylation sites of FGFR1, but not FRS2alpha, reduced binding of FGFR1 with FRS2alpha. The results suggest that although the tyrosine autophosphorylation sites of FGFR1 did not constitute the binding sites for FRS2alpha, phosphorylation of these residues was essential for optimal interaction with FRS2alpha. In addition, it was demonstrated that the Grb2-binding sites of FRS2alpha are essential for mediating signals of FGFR1 to activate the FiRE enhancer of the mouse syndecan 1 gene. The results, for the first time, demonstrate the specific signals mediated by the Grb2-binding sites and further our understanding of FGF signal transmission at the adaptor level.