1
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Loo Y, Chan ASY, Khor CC, Aung T, Wang Z. Rodent genetically modified models of glaucoma. Mol Aspects Med 2024; 95:101229. [PMID: 38039744 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma, one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide, is a complex and heterogenous disease. While environmental factors are important, it is well-recognized that the disease has a strong heritable component. With the advent of large-cohort genome wide association studies, a myriad of genetic risk loci has been linked to different forms of glaucoma. Animal models have been an indispensable tool in characterizing these loci, especially if they lie within coding regions in the genome. Not only do these models connect genotype to phenotype, advancing our understanding of glaucoma pathogenesis in the process, they also have valuable utility as a platform for the pre-clinical testing of potential therapies. In this review, we will outline genetic models used for studying the major forms of glaucoma, including primary open angle glaucoma, normal tension glaucoma, primary angle closure glaucoma, pigmentary glaucoma, pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, and early onset glaucoma, including congenital and developmental glaucoma, and how studying these models have helped shed light on human glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhua Loo
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
| | - Anita Sook Yee Chan
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
| | - Chiea Chuen Khor
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore; Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
| | - Tin Aung
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
| | - Zhenxun Wang
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore; Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore.
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2
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Hu J, Lazar AJ, Ingram D, Wang WL, Zhang W, Jia Z, Ragoonanan D, Wang J, Xia X, Mahadeo K, Gorlick R, Li S. Cell membrane-anchored and tumor-targeted IL-12 T-cell therapy destroys cancer-associated fibroblasts and disrupts extracellular matrix in heterogenous osteosarcoma xenograft models. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e006991. [PMID: 38199607 PMCID: PMC10806671 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-006991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The extracellular matrix (ECM) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play major roles in tumor progression, metastasis, and the poor response of many solid tumors to immunotherapy. CAF-targeted chimeric antigen receptor-T cell therapy cannot infiltrate ECM-rich tumors such as osteosarcoma. METHOD In this study, we used RNA sequencing to assess whether the recently invented membrane-anchored and tumor-targeted IL-12-armed (attIL12) T cells, which bind cell-surface vimentin (CSV) on tumor cells, could destroy CAFs to disrupt the ECM. We established an in vitro model of the interaction between osteosarcoma CAFs and attIL12-T cells to uncover the underlying mechanism by which attIL12-T cells penetrate stroma-enriched osteosarcoma tumors. RESULTS RNA sequencing demonstrated that attIL12-T cell treatment altered ECM-related gene expression. Immunohistochemistry staining revealed disruption or elimination of high-density CAFs and ECM in osteosarcoma xenograft tumors following attIL12-T cell treatment, and CAF/ECM density was inversely correlated with T-cell infiltration. Other IL12-armed T cells, such as wild-type IL-12-targeted or tumor-targeted IL-12-T cells, did not disrupt the ECM because this effect depended on the engagement between CSV on the tumor cell and its ligand on the attIL12-T cells. Mechanistic studies found that attIL12-T cell treatment elevated IFNγ production on interacting with CSV+ tumor cells, suppressing transforming growth factor beta secretion and in turn upregulating FAS-mediated CAF apoptosis. CAF destruction reshaped the tumor stroma to favor T-cell infiltration and tumor inhibition. CONCLUSIONS This study unveiled a novel therapy-attIL12-T cells-for targeting CAFs/ECM. These findings are highly relevant to humans because CAFs are abundant in human osteosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiemiao Hu
- Department of Pediatrics-Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Alexander J Lazar
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The Universiy of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Davis Ingram
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Wei-Lien Wang
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Wendong Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics-Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Zhiliang Jia
- Department of Pediatrics-Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Dristhi Ragoonanan
- Department of Pediatric Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Xueqing Xia
- Department of Pediatrics-Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kris Mahadeo
- Department of Pediatric Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Richard Gorlick
- Department of Pediatrics-Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shulin Li
- Department of Pediatrics-Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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3
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Geiduschek EK, McDowell CM. The Fibro-Inflammatory Response in the Glaucomatous Optic Nerve Head. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13240. [PMID: 37686046 PMCID: PMC10487997 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a progressive disease and the leading cause of irreversible blindness. The limited therapeutics available are only able to manage the common risk factor of glaucoma, elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), indicating a great need for understanding the cellular mechanisms behind optic nerve head (ONH) damage during disease progression. Here we review the known inflammatory and fibrotic changes occurring in the ONH. In addition, we describe a novel mechanism of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and transforming growth factor beta-2 (TGFβ2) signaling crosstalk in the cells of the ONH that contribute to glaucomatous damage. Understanding molecular signaling within and between the cells of the ONH can help identify new drug targets and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Colleen M. McDowell
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
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4
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Kriseman ML, Tang S, Liao Z, Jiang P, Parks SE, Cope DI, Yuan F, Chen F, Masand RP, Castro PD, Ittmann MM, Creighton CJ, Tan Z, Monsivais D. SMAD2/3 signaling in the uterine epithelium controls endometrial cell homeostasis and regeneration. Commun Biol 2023; 6:261. [PMID: 36906706 PMCID: PMC10008566 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04619-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The regenerative potential of the endometrium is attributed to endometrial stem cells; however, the signaling pathways controlling its regenerative potential remain obscure. In this study, genetic mouse models and endometrial organoids are used to demonstrate that SMAD2/3 signaling controls endometrial regeneration and differentiation. Mice with conditional deletion of SMAD2/3 in the uterine epithelium using Lactoferrin-iCre develop endometrial hyperplasia at 12-weeks and metastatic uterine tumors by 9-months of age. Mechanistic studies in endometrial organoids determine that genetic or pharmacological inhibition of SMAD2/3 signaling disrupts organoid morphology, increases the glandular and secretory cell markers, FOXA2 and MUC1, and alters the genome-wide distribution of SMAD4. Transcriptomic profiling of the organoids reveals elevated pathways involved in stem cell regeneration and differentiation such as the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and retinoic acid signaling (RA) pathways. Therefore, TGFβ family signaling via SMAD2/3 controls signaling networks which are integral for endometrial cell regeneration and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya L Kriseman
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Suni Tang
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Zian Liao
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Peixin Jiang
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Sydney E Parks
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Dominique I Cope
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Fei Yuan
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Fengju Chen
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Ramya P Masand
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Patricia D Castro
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Michael M Ittmann
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Chad J Creighton
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Zhi Tan
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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5
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Astrocyte Immune Functions and Glaucoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032747. [PMID: 36769067 PMCID: PMC9916878 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes, a non-neuronal glial cell type in the nervous system, are essential for regulating physiological functions of the central nervous system. In various injuries and diseases of the central nervous system, astrocytes often change their phenotypes into neurotoxic ones that participate in pro-inflammatory responses (hereafter referred to as "immune functions"). Such astrocytic immune functions are not only limited to brain diseases but are also found in ocular neurodegenerative diseases such as glaucoma, a retinal neurodegenerative disease that is the leading cause of blindness worldwide. The eye has two astrocyte-lineage cells: astrocytes and Müller cells. They maintain the physiological environment of the retina and optic nerve, thereby controlling visual function. Dysfunction of astrocyte-lineage cells may be involved in the onset and progression of glaucoma. These cells become reactive in glaucoma patients, and animal studies have suggested that their immune responses may be linked to glaucoma-related events: tissue remodeling, neuronal death, and infiltration of peripheral immune cells. In this review, we discuss the role of the immune functions of astrocyte-lineage cells in the pathogenesis of glaucoma.
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6
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Guan R, Yuan L, Li J, Wang J, Li Z, Cai Z, Guo H, Fang Y, Lin R, Liu W, Wang L, Zheng Q, Xu J, Zhou Y, Qian J, Ding M, Luo J, Li Y, Yang K, Sun D, Yao H, He J, Lu W. Bone morphogenetic protein 4 inhibits pulmonary fibrosis by modulating cellular senescence and mitophagy in lung fibroblasts. Eur Respir J 2022; 60:13993003.02307-2021. [PMID: 35777761 PMCID: PMC9808813 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.02307-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accumulation of myofibroblasts is critical to fibrogenesis in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Senescence and insufficient mitophagy in fibroblasts contribute to their differentiation into myofibroblasts, thereby promoting the development of lung fibrosis. Bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4), a multifunctional growth factor, is essential for the early stage of lung development; however, the role of BMP4 in modulating lung fibrosis remains unknown. METHODS The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of BMP4 in lung fibrosis using BMP4-haplodeleted mice, BMP4-overexpressed mice, primary lung fibroblasts and lung samples from patients with IPF. RESULTS BMP4 expression was downregulated in IPF lungs and fibroblasts compared to control individuals, negatively correlated with fibrotic genes, and BMP4 decreased with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 stimulation in lung fibroblasts in a time- and dose-dependent manner. In mice challenged with bleomycin, BMP4 haploinsufficiency perpetuated activation of lung myofibroblasts and caused accelerated lung function decline, severe fibrosis and mortality. BMP4 overexpression using adeno-associated virus 9 vectors showed preventative and therapeutic efficacy against lung fibrosis. In vitro, BMP4 attenuated TGF-β1-induced fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation and extracellular matrix (ECM) production by reducing impaired mitophagy and cellular senescence in lung fibroblasts. Pink1 silencing by short-hairpin RNA transfection abolished the ability of BMP4 to reverse the TGF-β1-induced myofibroblast differentiation and ECM production, indicating dependence on Pink1-mediated mitophagy. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of BMP4 on fibroblast activation and differentiation was accompanied with an activation of Smad1/5/9 signalling and suppression of TGF-β1-mediated Smad2/3 signalling in vivo and in vitro. CONCLUSION Strategies for enhancing BMP4 signalling may represent an effective treatment for pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijuan Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Liang Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Jingpei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Jian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Ziying Li
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhou Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hua Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaowei Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ran Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiuyu Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingyi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - You Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Qian
- Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for the Diagnosis and Treatment of COPD, Inner Mongolia People's Hospital, Hohhot, China
| | - Mingjing Ding
- Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for the Diagnosis and Treatment of COPD, Inner Mongolia People's Hospital, Hohhot, China
| | - Jieping Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kai Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dejun Sun
- Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for the Diagnosis and Treatment of COPD, Inner Mongolia People's Hospital, Hohhot, China
| | - Hongwei Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianxing He
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,Wenju Lu and Jianxing He contributed equally to this article as lead authors and supervised the work
| | - Wenju Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China .,Wenju Lu and Jianxing He contributed equally to this article as lead authors and supervised the work
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7
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García-Gareta E, Pérez MÁ, García-Aznar JM. Decellularization of tumours: A new frontier in tissue engineering. J Tissue Eng 2022; 13:20417314221091682. [PMID: 35495097 PMCID: PMC9044784 DOI: 10.1177/20417314221091682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The tumour extracellular
matrix (ECM) has unique features in terms of composition and mechanical
properties, resulting in a structurally and chemically different ECM to that of
native, healthy tissues. This paper reviews to date the efforts into
decellularization of tumours, which in the authors’ view represents a new
frontier in the ever evolving field of tumour tissue engineering. An overview of
the ECM and its importance in cancer is given, ending with examples of research
using decellularized tumours, which has already indicated potential therapeutic
targets, unravelled malignancy mechanisms or response to chemotherapy agents.
The review highlights that more research is needed in this area, which can
answer important questions related to tumour formation and progression to
ultimately identify new and effective therapeutic targets. Within the
near-future of personalized medicine, this research can create patient-specific
tumour models and therapeutic regimes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena García-Gareta
- Aragonese Agency for R&D (ARAID) Foundation, Zaragoza, Aragón, Spain
- Multiscale in Mechanical & Biological Engineering Research Group, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), School of Engineering & Architecture, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Aragón, Spain
- Division of Biomaterials & Tissue Engineering, UCL Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, UK
| | - María Ángeles Pérez
- Multiscale in Mechanical & Biological Engineering Research Group, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), School of Engineering & Architecture, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Aragón, Spain
| | - José Manuel García-Aznar
- Multiscale in Mechanical & Biological Engineering Research Group, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), School of Engineering & Architecture, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Aragón, Spain
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8
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Geiduschek EK, Milne PD, Mzyk P, Mavlyutov TA, McDowell CM. TLR4 signaling modulates extracellular matrix production in the lamina cribrosa. FRONTIERS IN OPHTHALMOLOGY 2022; 2:968381. [PMID: 36911656 PMCID: PMC9997209 DOI: 10.3389/fopht.2022.968381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The optic nerve head (ONH) is a place of vulnerability during glaucoma progression due to increased intraocular pressure damaging the retinal ganglion cell axons. The molecular signaling pathways involved in generating glaucomatous ONH damage has not been fully elucidated. There is a great deal of evidence that pro-fibrotic TGFβ2 signaling is involved in modulating the ECM environment within the lamina cribrosa (LC) region of the ONH. Here we investigated the role of signaling crosstalk between the TGFβ2 pathway and the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) pathway within the LC. ECM deposition was examined between healthy and glaucomatous human ONH sections, finding increases in fibronectin and fibronectin extra domain A (FN-EDA) an isoform of fibronectin known to be a damage associated molecular pattern (DAMP) that can activate TLR4 signaling. In human LC cell cultures derived from healthy donor eyes, inhibition of TLR4 signaling blocked TGFβ2 induced FN and FN-EDA expression. Activation of TLR4 by cellular FN (cFN) containing the EDA isoform increased both total FN production and Collagen-1 production and this effect was dependent on TLR4 signaling. These studies identify TGFβ2-TLR4 signaling crosstalk in LC cells of the ONH as a novel pathway regulating ECM and DAMP production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma K Geiduschek
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Paige D Milne
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Philip Mzyk
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Timur A Mavlyutov
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Colleen M McDowell
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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9
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Shihan MH, Novo SG, Wang Y, Sheppard D, Atakilit A, Arnold TD, Rossi NM, Faranda AP, Duncan MK. αVβ8 integrin targeting to prevent posterior capsular opacification. JCI Insight 2021; 6:145715. [PMID: 34554928 PMCID: PMC8663568 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.145715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrotic posterior capsular opacification (PCO), a major complication of cataract surgery, is driven by transforming growth factor–β (TGF-β). Previously, αV integrins were found to be critical for the onset of TGF-β–mediated PCO in vivo; however, the functional heterodimer was unknown. Here, β8 integrin–conditional knockout (β8ITG-cKO) lens epithelial cells (LCs) attenuated their fibrotic responses, while both β5 and β6 integrin–null LCs underwent fibrotic changes similar to WT at 5 days post cataract surgery (PCS). RNA-Seq revealed that β8ITG-cKO LCs attenuated their upregulation of integrins and their ligands, as well as known targets of TGF-β–induced signaling, at 24 hours PCS. Treatment of β8ITG-cKO eyes with active TGF-β1 at the time of surgery rescued the fibrotic response. Treatment of WT mice with an anti-αVβ8 integrin function blocking antibody at the time of surgery ameliorated both canonical TGF-β signaling and LC fibrotic response PCS, and treatment at 5 days PCS, after surgically induced fibrotic responses were established, largely reversed this fibrotic response. These data suggest that αVβ8 integrin is a major regulator of TGF-β activation by LCs PCS and that therapeutics targeting αVβ8 integrin could be effective for fibrotic PCO prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahbubul H Shihan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Samuel G Novo
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | | | | | - Thomas D Arnold
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Nicole M Rossi
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Adam P Faranda
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Melinda K Duncan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
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10
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Eliseeva N, Ponomarenko I, Reshetnikov E, Dvornyk V, Churnosov M. The haplotype of the CDKN2B-AS1 gene is associated with primary open-angle glaucoma and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma in the Caucasian population of Central Russia. Ophthalmic Genet 2021; 42:698-705. [PMID: 34387529 DOI: 10.1080/13816810.2021.1955275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To replicate the finding of the association of five CDKN2B-AS1 gene polymorphisms (rs7865618, rs1063192, rs944800, rs2157719, and rs4977756) with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and to analyze them for possible association with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PXFG) in a Caucasian population of Central Russia. METHODS A total of 932 participants of Russian ethnicity (self-reported), including 328 patients with PXFG, 208 patients with POAG (high-tension glaucoma), and 396 controls, were enrolled in the study. The SNPs were analyzed for possible associations using logistic regression. RESULTS Several haplotypes based on the studied SNPs were associated with POAG (three haplotypes) and PXFG (six haplotypes). Haplotype AAAGG of loci rs1063192-rs7865618-rs2157719-rs944800-rs4977756 conferred the highest risk for both POAG (OR = 3.99, рperm = 0.001) and PXFG (OR = 2.84, рperm = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The CDKN2B-AS1 gene was associated with an increased risk of both POAG and PXFG in Caucasians of Central Russia. The gene may be related to the development of various types of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalya Eliseeva
- Department of Medical Biological Disciplines, Belgorod State University, Belgorod, Russia
| | - Irina Ponomarenko
- Department of Medical Biological Disciplines, Belgorod State University, Belgorod, Russia
| | - Evgeny Reshetnikov
- Department of Medical Biological Disciplines, Belgorod State University, Belgorod, Russia
| | - Volodymyr Dvornyk
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Science and General Studies, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mikhail Churnosov
- Department of Medical Biological Disciplines, Belgorod State University, Belgorod, Russia
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11
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Liu D, Deng Q, Lei X, Lu W, Zhao Q, Shen Y. Overexpression of BMP4 protects retinal ganglion cells in a mouse model of experimental glaucoma. Exp Eye Res 2021; 210:108728. [PMID: 34390734 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Activation of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 4 signaling promotes the survival of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) after acute injury. Chordin-like 1 (CHRDL1) is an endogenous BMP antagonist. In this study, we researched whether CHRDL1 was involved in BMP4 signaling and regulation of RGC degeneration in a mouse model of glaucoma. METHODS Magnetic microbeads were intracameral injected to induce experimental glaucoma in a mouse model. A recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) system was designed for overexpression of BMP4 or CHRDL1 in mouse retina. Immunohistochemistry and hematoxylin-eosin (HE) stains were performed to identify changes in retinal morphology. Electroretinogram (ERG) recordings were used to assess changes in visual function. RESULTS The mRNA expression levels of Bmp4 and its downstream BMPRIa, small mothers against decapentaplegic 1 (Smad1), were significantly upregulated in retinas with glaucoma. RGC survival was significantly enhanced in the beads + AAV-BMP4 group and significantly reduced in the beads + AAV-CHRDL1 group, compared with the beads + AAV-EGFP group. Similar results were observed in retinal explant culture in vitro. Consistent with these findings, the photopic negative response (PhNR)responses in ERG, which indicate RGC function, were restored in mice overexpressing BMP4, whereas a-wave and b-wave responses were not. Activation of CHRLD1 inhibited Smad1/5/8 phosphorylation and exacerbated RGC damage. The expression of Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was decreased significantly in beads + AAV-BMP4 group. CONCLUSIONS BMP4 promoted RGC survival and visual function in an experimental glaucoma model. Activation of CHRDL1 exaggerated RGC degeneration by inhibiting the BMP4/Smad1/5/8 pathway. The mechanism of BMP4/Smad1/5/8 pathway may be related to the inhibition of glial cell activation. Our studies suggested that BMP4 and CHRLD1 might serve as therapeutic targets in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongmei Liu
- Eye Institute, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Qinqin Deng
- Eye Institute, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Xinlan Lei
- Eye Institute, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Lu
- Eye Institute, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Qingqing Zhao
- Eye Institute, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China
| | - Yin Shen
- Eye Institute, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, Hubei, China; Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, China.
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12
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Sotiropoulos MG, Chitnis T. Opposing and potentially antagonistic effects of BMP and TGF-β in multiple sclerosis: The "Yin and Yang" of neuro-immune Signaling. J Neuroimmunol 2020; 347:577358. [PMID: 32795734 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2020.577358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Bone Morphogenetic Proteins (BMP) and Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) are cytokines with similar receptors and messengers. They are important for immune cell function, with BMPs exerting mainly proinflammatory but also anti-inflammatory effects, and TGF-β suppressing inflammation. Patients with Multiple Sclerosis exhibit BMP overactivity and suppressed TGF-β signaling. This dysregulated signaling participates in the crosstalk between infiltrating immune cells and glia, where BMP inhibits remyelination. Reciprocal antagonism between the two pathways takes place via a variety of mechanisms. Although this antagonism has not been studied in the setting of Multiple Sclerosis, it could inform further research and treatment discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marinos G Sotiropoulos
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Tanuja Chitnis
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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13
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Vascular contributions to 16p11.2 deletion autism syndrome modeled in mice. Nat Neurosci 2020; 23:1090-1101. [PMID: 32661394 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-020-0663-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
While the neuronal underpinnings of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are being unraveled, vascular contributions to ASD remain elusive. Here, we investigated postnatal cerebrovascular development in the 16p11.2df/+ mouse model of 16p11.2 deletion ASD syndrome. We discover that 16p11.2 hemizygosity leads to male-specific, endothelium-dependent structural and functional neurovascular abnormalities. In 16p11.2df/+ mice, endothelial dysfunction results in impaired cerebral angiogenesis at postnatal day 14, and in altered neurovascular coupling and cerebrovascular reactivity at postnatal day 50. Moreover, we show that there is defective angiogenesis in primary 16p11.2df/+ mouse brain endothelial cells and in induced-pluripotent-stem-cell-derived endothelial cells from human carriers of the 16p11.2 deletion. Finally, we find that mice with an endothelium-specific 16p11.2 deletion (16p11.2ΔEC) partially recapitulate some of the behavioral changes seen in 16p11.2 syndrome, specifically hyperactivity and impaired motor learning. By showing that developmental 16p11.2 haploinsufficiency from endothelial cells results in neurovascular and behavioral changes in adults, our results point to a potential role for endothelial impairment in ASD.
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14
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The Genetic and Endoplasmic Reticulum-Mediated Molecular Mechanisms of Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21114171. [PMID: 32545285 PMCID: PMC7312987 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21114171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a heterogenous, chronic, progressive group of eye diseases, which results in irreversible loss of vision. There are several types of glaucoma, whereas the primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) constitutes the most common type of glaucoma, accounting for three-quarters of all glaucoma cases. The pathological mechanisms leading to POAG pathogenesis are multifactorial and still poorly understood, but it is commonly known that significantly elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) plays a crucial role in POAG pathogenesis. Besides, genetic predisposition and aggregation of abrogated proteins within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) lumen and subsequent activation of the protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK)-dependent unfolded protein response (UPR) signaling pathway may also constitute important factors for POAG pathogenesis at the molecular level. Glaucoma is commonly known as a ‘silent thief of sight’, as it remains asymptomatic until later stages, and thus its diagnosis is frequently delayed. Thereby, detailed knowledge about the glaucoma pathophysiology is necessary to develop both biochemical and genetic tests to improve its early diagnosis as well as develop a novel, ground-breaking treatment strategy, as currently used medical therapies against glaucoma are limited and may evoke numerous adverse side-effects in patients.
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15
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Isolation and characterization of human optic nerve head astrocytes and lamina cribrosa cells. Exp Eye Res 2020; 197:108103. [PMID: 32522476 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The lamina cribrosa is the initial site of glaucomatous injury. Pathological changes to the lamina cribrosa include posterior displacement of the lamina cribrosa, loss of trophic support, and remodeling of the extracellular matrix. Optic nerve head (ONH) astrocytes and lamina cribrosa cells synthesize extracellular matrix proteins to support and maintain the lamina cribrosa under physiological conditions. During glaucoma, these cells respond to mechanical strain and other stimuli, which leads to pathological remodeling of the ONH. Although ONH astrocytes and lamina cribrosa cells have been previously cultured, there is no well-accepted, straightforward technique to isolate both cell types from a single dissected human ONH. To better understand the pathophysiology of glaucoma, we obtained and cultured lamina cribrosa explants from human donor eyes. Initially, cells that grew out from the explant were ONH astrocytes and lamina cribrosa cells. Using a specialized medium, we isolated pure populations of lamina cribrosa cells and ONH astrocytes. ONH astrocytes expressed glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Lamina cribrosa cells expressed alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), but were negative for GFAP. This method of ONH cell isolation and cell-culture will provide a technique to better understand the molecular and cell-specific changes in glaucomatous damage to the ONH.
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16
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Henke E, Nandigama R, Ergün S. Extracellular Matrix in the Tumor Microenvironment and Its Impact on Cancer Therapy. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 6:160. [PMID: 32118030 PMCID: PMC7025524 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2019.00160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 532] [Impact Index Per Article: 133.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Solid tumors are complex organ-like structures that consist not only of tumor cells but also of vasculature, extracellular matrix (ECM), stromal, and immune cells. Often, this tumor microenvironment (TME) comprises the larger part of the overall tumor mass. Like the other components of the TME, the ECM in solid tumors differs significantly from that in normal organs. Intratumoral signaling, transport mechanisms, metabolisms, oxygenation, and immunogenicity are strongly affected if not controlled by the ECM. Exerting this regulatory control, the ECM does not only influence malignancy and growth of the tumor but also its response toward therapy. Understanding the particularities of the ECM in solid tumor is necessary to develop approaches to interfere with its negative effect. In this review, we will also highlight the current understanding of the physical, cellular, and molecular mechanisms by which the pathological tumor ECM affects the efficiency of radio-, chemo-, and immunotherapy. Finally, we will discuss the various strategies to target and modify the tumor ECM and how they could be utilized to improve response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Henke
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Rajender Nandigama
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Süleyman Ergün
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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17
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Han X, Qassim A, An J, Marshall H, Zhou T, Ong JS, Hassall MM, Hysi PG, Foster PJ, Khaw PT, Mackey DA, Gharahkhani P, Khawaja AP, Hewitt AW, Craig JE, MacGregor S. Genome-wide association analysis of 95 549 individuals identifies novel loci and genes influencing optic disc morphology. Hum Mol Genet 2019; 28:3680-3690. [DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddz193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Optic nerve head morphology is affected by several retinal diseases. We measured the vertical optic disc diameter (DD) of the UK Biobank (UKBB) cohort (N = 67 040) and performed the largest genome-wide association study (GWAS) of DD to date. We identified 81 loci (66 novel) for vertical DD. We then replicated the novel loci in International Glaucoma Genetic Consortium (IGGC, N = 22 504) and European Prospective Investigation into Cancer–Norfolk (N = 6005); in general the concordance in effect sizes was very high (correlation in effect size estimates 0.90): 44 of the 66 novel loci were significant at P < 0.05, with 19 remaining significant after Bonferroni correction. We identified another 26 novel loci in the meta-analysis of UKBB and IGGC data. Gene-based analyses identified an additional 57 genes. Human ocular tissue gene expression analysis showed that most of the identified genes are enriched in optic nerve head tissue. Some of the identified loci exhibited pleiotropic effects with vertical cup-to-disc ratio, intraocular pressure, glaucoma and myopia. These results can enhance our understanding of the genetics of optic disc morphology and shed light on the genetic findings for other ophthalmic disorders such as glaucoma and other optic nerve diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xikun Han
- Statistical Genetics, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Ayub Qassim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Flinders University, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, Australia
| | - Jiyuan An
- Statistical Genetics, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Henry Marshall
- Department of Ophthalmology, Flinders University, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, Australia
| | - Tiger Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Flinders University, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, Australia
| | - Jue-Sheng Ong
- Statistical Genetics, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Mark M Hassall
- Department of Ophthalmology, Flinders University, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, Australia
| | - Pirro G Hysi
- Department of Ophthalmology, King’s College London, St. Thomas’ Hospital, London, UK
| | - Paul J Foster
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Peng T Khaw
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - David A Mackey
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Australia
- Lions Eye Institute, Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Puya Gharahkhani
- Statistical Genetics, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Anthony P Khawaja
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Alex W Hewitt
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Australia
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jamie E Craig
- Department of Ophthalmology, Flinders University, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, Australia
| | - Stuart MacGregor
- Statistical Genetics, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
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18
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Knickmeyer MD, Mateo JL, Eckert P, Roussa E, Rahhal B, Zuniga A, Krieglstein K, Wittbrodt J, Heermann S. TGFβ-facilitated optic fissure fusion and the role of bone morphogenetic protein antagonism. Open Biol 2019; 8:rsob.170134. [PMID: 29593116 PMCID: PMC5881030 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.170134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The optic fissure is a transient gap in the developing vertebrate eye, which must be closed as development proceeds. A persisting optic fissure, coloboma, is a major cause for blindness in children. Although many genes have been linked to coloboma, the process of optic fissure fusion is still little appreciated, especially on a molecular level. We identified a coloboma in mice with a targeted inactivation of transforming growth factor β2 (TGFβ2). Notably, here the optic fissure margins must have touched, however failed to fuse. Transcriptomic analyses indicated an effect on remodelling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) as an underlying mechanism. TGFβ signalling is well known for its effect on ECM remodelling, but it is at the same time often inhibited by bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling. Notably, we also identified two BMP antagonists among the downregulated genes. For further functional analyses we made use of zebrafish, in which we found TGFβ ligands expressed in the developing eye, and the ligand binding receptor in the optic fissure margins where we also found active TGFβ signalling and, notably, also gremlin 2b (grem2b) and follistatin a (fsta), homologues of the regulated BMP antagonists. We hypothesized that TGFβ is locally inducing expression of BMP antagonists within the margins to relieve the inhibition from its regulatory capacity regarding ECM remodelling. We tested our hypothesis and found that induced BMP expression is sufficient to inhibit optic fissure fusion, resulting in coloboma. Our findings can likely be applied also to other fusion processes, especially when TGFβ signalling or BMP antagonism is involved, as in fusion processes during orofacial development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max D Knickmeyer
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg D-79104, Germany.,Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Schaenzlestrasse 1, Freiburg D-79104, Germany
| | - Juan L Mateo
- Departamento de Informática, Universidad de Oviedo, Jesús Arias de Velasco, Oviedo 33005, Spain
| | - Priska Eckert
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg D-79104, Germany.,Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Schaenzlestrasse 1, Freiburg D-79104, Germany
| | - Eleni Roussa
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg D-79104, Germany
| | - Belal Rahhal
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg D-79104, Germany
| | - Aimee Zuniga
- Developmental Genetics, University of Basel Medical School, Basel CH-4058, Switzerland
| | - Kerstin Krieglstein
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg D-79104, Germany
| | | | - Stephan Heermann
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg D-79104, Germany
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19
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Ning J, Zhao Y, Ye Y, Yu J. Opposing roles and potential antagonistic mechanism between TGF-β and BMP pathways: Implications for cancer progression. EBioMedicine 2019; 41:702-710. [PMID: 30808576 PMCID: PMC6442991 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily participates in tumour proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, migration, invasion, immune evasion and extracellular matrix remodelling. Genetic deficiency in distinct components of TGF-β and BMP-induced signalling pathways or their excessive activation has been reported to regulate the development and progression of some cancers. As more in-depth studies about this superfamily have been conducted, more evidence suggests that the TGF-β and BMP pathways play an opposing role. The cross-talk of these 2 pathways has been widely studied in kidney disease and bone formation, and the opposing effects have also been observed in some cancers. However, the antagonistic mechanisms are still insufficiently investigated in cancer. In this review, we aim to display more evidences and possible mechanisms accounting for the antagonism between these 2 pathways, which might provide some clues for further study in cancer. Describe the basics of TGF-β and BMP signalling Summarize the potential mechanisms accounting for the antagonism between TGF-β and BMP pathways Provide some evidence about the antagonistic effects between pathways observed in some cancers
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Affiliation(s)
- Junya Ning
- Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Core, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China; Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Yi Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Information Processing, Advanced Computer Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Computer Architecture, Institute of Computing Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yingnan Ye
- Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Core, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Jinpu Yu
- Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Core, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China; Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, PR China.
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20
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Belmares R, Raychaudhuri U, Maansson S, Clark AF. Histological investigation of human glaucomatous eyes: Extracellular fibrotic changes and galectin 3 expression in the trabecular meshwork and optic nerve head. Clin Anat 2018; 31:1031-1049. [PMID: 30117188 DOI: 10.1002/ca.23263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss and is associated with fibrotic changes in two ocular tissues-the optic nerve head (ONH) and trabecular meshwork (TM). We investigated the differences in extracellular matrix components (ECM) including collagen, elastin, transforming growth factor beta-2, type-II receptor (TGFβRII) and Galectin3 (Gal3) in the glaucomatous human eyes to quantify fibrotic changes in ONH and TM. Glaucomatous and control human donor eyes were prepared for chemical and immunological staining to quantify ECM protein expression in the TM and ONH. Chemical staining included: Trichrome (collagen), Vernhoeff-Van Giesen (elastin) and Sirius Red (collagen). Immunohistochemistry was used to determine levels of Gal3 and TGFβ2RII. Quantitative analyses were performed using Image J software. Student's t-test was used to compare groups and Pearson's test was used to determine correlations P-values of 0.05 (or less) were considered statistically significant. Deposition of ECM proteins was elevated in glaucomatous tissues. There was increased collagen (P = 0.0469), Gal3 (P < 0.0001) and TGFβ2RII (P = 0.0005) in the TM of glaucomatous eyes. Likewise, collagen (P = 0.0517) and Galectin3 (P = 0.041) were increased in the ONH glaucomatous eyes. There was a correlation of TGFβRII with Gal3 in the TM (P < 0.0001) and optic nerve (P = 0.0003). The TM and ONH of glaucomatous eyes showed increased expression of ECM proteins supporting a fibrotic pathology. Galectin3 and TGFβ-2R II showed a positive correlation in TM and optic nerve supporting co-localization and suggesting their potential role in the glaucoma fibrotic process. Clin. Anat. 31:1031-1049, 2018. © 2018 The Authors. Clinical Anatomy published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Association of Clinical Anatomists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Belmares
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas.,Center for Anatomical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Urmimala Raychaudhuri
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Sandra Maansson
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Abbot F Clark
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas.,Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
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21
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Restriction of drug transport by the tumor environment. Histochem Cell Biol 2018; 150:631-648. [DOI: 10.1007/s00418-018-1744-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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22
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Marquez-Exposito L, Lavoz C, Rodrigues-Diez RR, Rayego-Mateos S, Orejudo M, Cantero-Navarro E, Ortiz A, Egido J, Selgas R, Mezzano S, Ruiz-Ortega M. Gremlin Regulates Tubular Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition via VEGFR2: Potential Role in Renal Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1195. [PMID: 30386246 PMCID: PMC6199372 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is emerging as an important health problem due to the increase number of CKD patients and the absence of an effective curative treatment. Gremlin has been proposed as a novel therapeutic target for renal inflammatory diseases, acting via Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-2 (VEGFR2). Although many evidences suggest that Gremlin could regulate renal fibrosis, the receptor involved has not been yet clarified. Gremlin, as other TGF-β superfamily members, regulates tubular epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and, therefore, could contribute to renal fibrosis. In cultured tubular epithelial cells Gremlin binding to VEGFR2 is linked to proinflammatory responses. Now, we have found out that in these cells VEGFR2 is also involved in the profibrotic actions of Gremlin. VEGFR2 blockade by a pharmacological kinase inhibitor or gene silencing diminished Gremlin-mediated gene upregulation of profibrotic factors and restored changes in EMT-related genes. Moreover, VEGFR2 inhibition blocked EMT phenotypic changes and dampened the rate of wound healing in response to Gremlin. The role of VEGFR2 in experimental fibrosis was evaluated in experimental unilateral ureteral obstruction. VEFGR2 inhibition diminished the upregulation of profibrotic genes and EMT changes, as well as the accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins, such as fibronectin and collagens in the obstructed kidneys. Notch pathway activation participates in renal damage progression by regulating cell growth/proliferation, regeneration and inflammation. In cultured tubular epithelial cells, Notch inhibition markedly downregulated Gremlin-induced EMT changes and wound healing speed. These results show that Gremlin regulates the EMT process via VEGFR2 and Notch pathway activation, suggesting that the Gremlin/VEGFR2 axis could be a potential therapeutic target for CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Marquez-Exposito
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carolina Lavoz
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Raul R Rodrigues-Diez
- Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain.,Laboratory of Nephrology, Fundación para la Investigación Biomédica del Hospital Universitario la Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sandra Rayego-Mateos
- Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain.,Vascular and Renal Translational Research Group, Institut de Recerca Biomédica de Lleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Macarena Orejudo
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Cantero-Navarro
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alberto Ortiz
- Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain.,Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Egido
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael Selgas
- Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain.,Laboratory of Nephrology, Fundación para la Investigación Biomédica del Hospital Universitario la Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio Mezzano
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Marta Ruiz-Ortega
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal, Madrid, Spain
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23
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BMP-Responsive Protease HtrA1 Is Differentially Expressed in Astrocytes and Regulates Astrocytic Development and Injury Response. J Neurosci 2018; 38:3840-3857. [PMID: 29483282 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2031-17.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Revised: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes perform a wide array of physiological functions, including structural support, ion exchange, and neurotransmitter uptake. Despite this diversity, molecular markers that label subpopulations of astrocytes are limited, and mechanisms that generate distinct astrocyte subtypes remain unclear. Here we identified serine protease high temperature requirement A 1 (HtrA1), a bone morphogenetic protein 4 signaling regulated protein, as a novel marker of forebrain astrocytes, but not of neural stem cells, in adult mice of both sexes. Genetic deletion of HtrA1 during gliogenesis accelerates astrocyte differentiation. In addition, ablation of HtrA1 in cultured astrocytes leads to altered chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan expression and inhibition of neurite extension, along with elevated levels of transforming growth factor-β family proteins. Brain injury induces HtrA1 expression in reactive astrocytes, and loss of HtrA1 leads to an impairment in wound closure accompanied by increased proliferation of endothelial and immune cells. Our findings demonstrate that HtrA1 is differentially expressed in adult mouse forebrain astrocytes, and that HtrA1 plays important roles in astrocytic development and injury response.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Astrocytes, an abundant cell type in the brain, perform a wide array of physiological functions. Although characterized as morphologically and functionally diverse, molecular markers that label astrocyte subtypes or signaling pathways that lead to their diversity remain limited. Here, after examining the expression profile of astrocytes generated in response to bone morphogenetic protein signaling, we identify high temperature requirement A 1 (HtrA1) as an astrocyte-specific marker that is differentially expressed in distinct adult mouse brain regions. HtrA1 is a serine protease that has been linked to cerebral autosomal recessive arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy, a small blood vessel disease in humans. Understanding the role of HtrA1 during development and after injury will provide insights into how distinct astrocyte populations are generated and their unique roles in injury and disease.
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24
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Jin L, Li Y, Zhou X, Yuan H. Co-expression network analysis of lncRNAs and mRNAs in OPTN-silenced cells. Int J Mol Med 2017; 41:1013-1020. [PMID: 29251316 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2017.3313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to reveal the role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the regulation of the pathogenesis of optineurin (OPTN)-silenced cells. The microarray data set GSE12452 was re-annotated using the non-coding RNA function annotation server to identify differentially expressed lncRNAs. Weighted correlation network analysis was used to construct an lncRNA-lncRNA co-expression network and identify co-expression modules. Three OPTN small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) were transiently transfected into HeLa cells. Reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blot analysis were used to detect OPTN expression and select the most effective OPTN siRNA to construct stably transfected cells. RT-qPCR was used to quantify the identified lncRNAs in the OPTN-silenced cells. The potential functions of these modules were explored by the functional enrichment of the corresponding co-expressed genes. A total of 3,495 lncRNAs were re-annotated. Of these, matrix metalloprotease 12 and RP11-169D4.1 were upregulated, and RP1-212P9.2 was downregulated. The results of the RT-qPCR analysis of RP1-212P9.2 and RP11‑169D4.1 were consistent with the re-annotated data in the OPTN‑silenced cells. Gene Ontology analyses indicated that the biological functions of the mRNAs co-expressed with these lncRNAs were associated with gene product regulation, and neuronal migration, polarity and differentiation. In addition, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis indicated that the two validated lncRNAs were associated with the transforming growth factor-β signaling pathway and the apoptosis pathway, respectively. In conclusion, the abnormal lncRNAs identified in OPTN-silenced cells indicate that lncRNAs may contribute to the molecular pathogenesis of OPTN-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Jin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
| | - Xinrong Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
| | - Huiping Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150081, P.R. China
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25
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Hudnall AM, Arthur JW, Lowery JW. Clinical Relevance and Mechanisms of Antagonism Between the BMP and Activin/TGF-β Signaling Pathways. J Osteopath Med 2017; 116:452-61. [PMID: 27367950 DOI: 10.7556/jaoa.2016.089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily is a large group of signaling molecules that participate in embryogenesis, organogenesis, and tissue homeostasis. These molecules are present in all animal genomes. Dysfunction in the regulation or activity of this superfamily's components underlies numerous human diseases and developmental defects. There are 2 distinct arms downstream of the TGF-β superfamily ligands-the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and activin/TGF-β signaling pathways-and these 2 responses can oppose one another's effects, most notably in disease states. However, studies have commonly focused on a single arm of the TGF-β superfamily, and the antagonism between these pathways is unknown in most physiologic and pathologic contexts. In this review, the authors summarize the clinically relevant scenarios in which the BMP and activin/TGF-β pathways reportedly oppose one another and identify several molecular mechanisms proposed to mediate this interaction. Particular attention is paid to experimental findings that may be informative to human pathology to highlight potential therapeutic approaches for future investigation.
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26
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Fullerton PT, Monsivais D, Kommagani R, Matzuk MM. Follistatin is critical for mouse uterine receptivity and decidualization. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:E4772-E4781. [PMID: 28559342 PMCID: PMC5474784 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1620903114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation remains a significant challenge for assisted reproductive technology, with implantation failure occurring in ∼50% of in vitro fertilization attempts. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying uterine receptivity will enable the development of new interventions and biomarkers. TGFβ family signaling in the uterus is critical for establishing and maintaining pregnancy. Follistatin (FST) regulates TGFβ family signaling by selectively binding TGFβ family ligands and sequestering them. In humans, FST is up-regulated in the decidua during early pregnancy, and women with recurrent miscarriage have lower endometrial expression of FST during the luteal phase. Because global knockout of Fst is perinatal lethal in mice, we generated a conditional knockout (cKO) of Fst in the uterus using progesterone receptor-cre to study the roles of uterine Fst during pregnancy. Uterine Fst-cKO mice demonstrate severe fertility defects and deliver only 2% of the number of pups delivered by control females. In Fst-cKO mice, the uterine luminal epithelium does not respond properly to estrogen and progesterone signals and remains unreceptive to embryo attachment by continuing to proliferate and failing to differentiate. The uterine stroma of Fst-cKO mice also responds poorly to artificial decidualization, with lower levels of proliferation and differentiation. In the absence of uterine FST, activin B expression and signaling are up-regulated, and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signals are impaired. Our findings support a model in which repression of activin signaling by FST enables uterine receptivity by preserving critical BMP signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul T Fullerton
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Ramakrishna Kommagani
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Martin M Matzuk
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030;
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
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27
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Danford ID, Verkuil LD, Choi DJ, Collins DW, Gudiseva HV, Uyhazi KE, Lau MK, Kanu LN, Grant GR, Chavali VRM, O'Brien JM. Characterizing the "POAGome": A bioinformatics-driven approach to primary open-angle glaucoma. Prog Retin Eye Res 2017; 58:89-114. [PMID: 28223208 PMCID: PMC5464971 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2017.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Revised: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 02/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is a genetically, physiologically, and phenotypically complex neurodegenerative disorder. This study addressed the expanding collection of genes associated with POAG, referred to as the "POAGome." We used bioinformatics tools to perform an extensive, systematic literature search and compiled 542 genes with confirmed associations with POAG and its related phenotypes (normal tension glaucoma, ocular hypertension, juvenile open-angle glaucoma, and primary congenital glaucoma). The genes were classified according to their associated ocular tissues and phenotypes, and functional annotation and pathway analyses were subsequently performed. Our study reveals that no single molecular pathway can encompass the pathophysiology of POAG. The analyses suggested that inflammation and senescence may play pivotal roles in both the development and perpetuation of the retinal ganglion cell degeneration seen in POAG. The TGF-β signaling pathway was repeatedly implicated in our analyses, suggesting that it may be an important contributor to the manifestation of POAG in the anterior and posterior segments of the globe. We propose a molecular model of POAG revolving around TGF-β signaling, which incorporates the roles of inflammation and senescence in this disease. Finally, we highlight emerging molecular therapies that show promise for treating POAG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian D Danford
- Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Lana D Verkuil
- Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Daniel J Choi
- Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - David W Collins
- Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Harini V Gudiseva
- Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Katherine E Uyhazi
- Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Marisa K Lau
- Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Levi N Kanu
- Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Gregory R Grant
- Department of Genetics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA, Penn Center for Bioinformatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Venkata R M Chavali
- Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Joan M O'Brien
- Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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28
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Bermudez JY, Montecchi-Palmer M, Mao W, Clark AF. Cross-linked actin networks (CLANs) in glaucoma. Exp Eye Res 2017; 159:16-22. [PMID: 28238754 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2017.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Revised: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
One of the major causes of decreased vision, irreversible vision loss and blindness worldwide is glaucoma. Increased intraocular pressure (IOP) is a major risk factor associated with glaucoma and its molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. The trabecular meshwork (TM) is the primary site of injury in glaucoma, and its dysfunction results in elevated IOP. The glaucomatous TM has increased extracellular matrix deposition as well as cytoskeletal rearrangements referred to as cross-linked actin networks (CLANs) that consist of dome like structures consisting of hubs and spokes. CLANs are thought to play a role in increased aqueous humor outflow resistance and increased IOP by creating stiffer TM cells and tissue. CLANs are inducible by glucocorticoids (GCs) and TGFβ2 in confluent TM cells and TM tissues. The signaling pathways of these induction agents give insight into the possible mechanisms of CLAN formation, but to date, the mechanism of CLANs regulation by these pathways has yet to be determined. Understanding the role CLANs play in IOP elevation and their mechanisms of induction and regulation may lead to novel treatment options to help prevent or intervene in glaucomatous damage to the trabecular meshwork.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaclyn Y Bermudez
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States.
| | - Michela Montecchi-Palmer
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States.
| | - Weiming Mao
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States.
| | - Abbot F Clark
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States.
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29
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Increased Global DNA Methylation and Decreased TGFβ1 Promoter Methylation in Glaucomatous Lamina Cribrosa Cells. J Glaucoma 2016; 25:e834-e842. [DOI: 10.1097/ijg.0000000000000453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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30
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A Survey of Strategies to Modulate the Bone Morphogenetic Protein Signaling Pathway: Current and Future Perspectives. Stem Cells Int 2016; 2016:7290686. [PMID: 27433166 PMCID: PMC4940573 DOI: 10.1155/2016/7290686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) constitute the largest subdivision of the TGF-β family of ligands and are unequivocally involved in regulating stem cell behavior. Appropriate regulation of canonical BMP signaling is critical for the development and homeostasis of numerous human organ systems, as aberrations in the BMP pathway or its regulation are increasingly associated with diverse human pathologies. In this review, we provide a wide-perspective on strategies that increase or decrease BMP signaling. We briefly outline the current FDA-approved approaches, highlight emerging next-generation technologies, and postulate prospective avenues for future investigation. We also detail how activating other pathways may indirectly modulate BMP signaling, with a particular emphasis on the relationship between the BMP and Activin/TGF-β pathways.
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31
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The role of integrins in glaucoma. Exp Eye Res 2016; 158:124-136. [PMID: 27185161 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Revised: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Integrins are a family of heterodimeric transmembrane receptors that mediate adhesion to the extracellular matrix (ECM). In addition to their role as adhesion receptors, integrins can act as ''bidirectional signal transducers'' that coordinate a large number of cellular activities in response to the extracellular environment and intracellular signaling events. This bidirectional signaling helps maintain tissue homeostasis. Dysregulated bidirectional signaling, however, could trigger the propagation of feedback loops that can lead to the establishment of a disease state such as glaucoma. Here we discuss the role of integrins and bidirectional signaling as they relate to the glaucomatous phenotype with special emphasis on the αvβ3 integrin. We present evidence that this particular integrin may have a significant impact on the pathogenesis of glaucoma.
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32
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Schneider M, Fuchshofer R. The role of astrocytes in optic nerve head fibrosis in glaucoma. Exp Eye Res 2015; 142:49-55. [PMID: 26321510 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2015.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2015] [Revised: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is defined as a progressive optic neuropathy and is characterized by an irreversible loss of retinal ganglion cells. The main risk factor to develop glaucoma is an increased intraocular pressure (IOP). During the course of glaucoma structural changes in the optic nerve head (ONH) take place which lead to the characteristic excavation or cupping of the ONH. In this review we will focus on mechanisms and processes involved in structural alterations of the extracellular matrix in the lamina cribrosa (LC) of the ONH, which are associated with astrocytes. In glaucoma, a disordered deposition of elastic and collagen fibers and a typical pronounced thickening of the connective tissue septae surrounding the nerve fibers can be observed in the LC region. The remodeling process of the LC and the loss of ON axons are associated with a conversion of astrocytes from quiescent to a reactivated state. The extracellular matrix changes in the LC are thought to be due to a disturbed homeostatic balance of growth factors and the reactivated astrocytes are part of this process. Reactivated astrocytes, remodeling of the ECM within the LC and an elevated IOP are taking part in the retinal ganglion cell loss in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Schneider
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Rudolf Fuchshofer
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
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33
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Downs JC. Optic nerve head biomechanics in aging and disease. Exp Eye Res 2015; 133:19-29. [PMID: 25819451 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2015.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Revised: 12/31/2014] [Accepted: 02/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This nontechnical review is focused upon educating the reader on optic nerve head biomechanics in both aging and disease along two main themes: what is known about how mechanical forces and the resulting deformations are distributed in the posterior pole and ONH (biomechanics) and what is known about how the living system responds to those deformations (mechanobiology). We focus on how ONH responds to IOP elevations as a structural system, insofar as the acute mechanical response of the lamina cribrosa is confounded with the responses of the peripapillary sclera, prelaminar neural tissues, and retrolaminar optic nerve. We discuss the biomechanical basis for IOP-driven changes in connective tissues, blood flow, and cellular responses. We use glaucoma as the primary framework to present the important aspects of ONH biomechanics in aging and disease, as ONH biomechanics, aging, and the posterior pole extracellular matrix (ECM) are thought to be centrally involved in glaucoma susceptibility, onset and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Crawford Downs
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, 1670 University Blvd., VH 390A, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
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34
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Lavoz C, Alique M, Rodrigues-Diez R, Pato J, Keri G, Mezzano S, Egido J, Ruiz-Ortega M. Gremlin regulates renal inflammation via the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 pathway. J Pathol 2015; 236:407-20. [PMID: 25810250 DOI: 10.1002/path.4537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Revised: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation is a main feature of progressive kidney disease. Gremlin binds to bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), acting as an antagonist and regulating nephrogenesis and fibrosis among other processes. Gremlin also binds to vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR2) in endothelial cells to induce angiogenesis. In renal cells, gremlin regulates proliferation and fibrosis, but there are no data about inflammatory-related events. We have investigated the direct effects of gremlin in the kidney, evaluating whether VEGFR2 is a functional gremlin receptor. Administration of recombinant gremlin to murine kidneys induced rapid and sustained activation of VEGFR2 signalling, located in proximal tubular epithelial cells. Gremlin bound to VEGFR2 in these cells in vitro, activating this signalling pathway independently of its action as an antagonist of BMPs. In vivo, gremlin caused early renal damage, characterized by activation of the nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathway linked to up-regulation of pro-inflammatory factors and infiltration of immune inflammatory cells. VEGFR2 blockade diminished gremlin-induced renal inflammatory responses. The link between gremlin/VEGFR2 and NF-κB/inflammation was confirmed in vitro. Gremlin overexpression was associated with VEGFR2 activation in human renal disease and in the unilateral ureteral obstruction experimental model, where VEGFR2 kinase inhibition diminished renal inflammation. Our data show that a gremlin/VEGFR2 axis participates in renal inflammation and could be a novel target for kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Lavoz
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, REDINREN, Spain
| | - Matilde Alique
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, REDINREN, Spain
| | - Raquel Rodrigues-Diez
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, REDINREN, Spain
| | | | - Gyorgy Keri
- VichemChemie Ltd, Budapest, Hungary.,MTA-SE Pathobiochemistry Research Group, Department of Medical Chemistry, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Sergio Mezzano
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Jesús Egido
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension. IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, CIBERDEM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Ruiz-Ortega
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, REDINREN, Spain
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35
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Lowery JW, Intini G, Gamer L, Lotinun S, Salazar VS, Ote S, Cox K, Baron R, Rosen V. Loss of BMPR2 leads to high bone mass due to increased osteoblast activity. J Cell Sci 2015; 128:1308-15. [PMID: 25663702 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.156737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Imbalances in the ratio of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) versus activin and TGFβ signaling are increasingly associated with human diseases yet the mechanisms mediating this relationship remain unclear. The type 2 receptors ACVR2A and ACVR2B bind BMPs and activins but the type 2 receptor BMPR2 only binds BMPs, suggesting that type 2 receptor utilization might play a role in mediating the interaction of these pathways. We tested this hypothesis in the mouse skeleton, where bone mass is reciprocally regulated by BMP signaling and activin and TGFβ signaling. We found that deleting Bmpr2 in mouse skeletal progenitor cells (Bmpr2-cKO mice) selectively impaired activin signaling but had no effect on BMP signaling, resulting in an increased bone formation rate and high bone mass. Additionally, activin sequestration had no effect on bone mass in Bmpr2-cKO mice but increased bone mass in wild-type mice. Our findings suggest a novel model whereby BMPR2 availability alleviates receptor-level competition between BMPs and activins and where utilization of ACVR2A and ACVR2B by BMPs comes at the expense of activins. As BMP and activin pathway modulation are of current therapeutic interest, our findings provide important mechanistic insight into the relationship between these pathways in human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan W Lowery
- Department of Biomedical Science, Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46222, USA Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Giuseppe Intini
- Department of Oral Medicine, Infection, and Immunity, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Laura Gamer
- Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Sutada Lotinun
- Department of Oral Medicine, Infection, and Immunity, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA Department of Physiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Valerie S Salazar
- Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Satoshi Ote
- Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Karen Cox
- Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Roland Baron
- Department of Oral Medicine, Infection, and Immunity, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Vicki Rosen
- Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Abstract
The characterization of genes responsible for glaucoma is the critical first step toward the development of gene-based diagnostic and screening tests, which could identify individuals at risk for disease before irreversible optic nerve damage occurs. Early-onset forms of glaucoma affecting children and young adults are typically inherited as Mendelian autosomal dominant or recessive traits whereas glaucoma affecting older adults has complex inheritance. In this report, we present a comprehensive overview of the genes and genomic regions contributing to inherited glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts 02114
| | - Janey L Wiggs
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts 02114
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Wellbrock J, Sheikhzadeh S, Oliveira-Ferrer L, Stamm H, Hillebrand M, Keyser B, Klokow M, Vohwinkel G, Bonk V, Otto B, Streichert T, Balabanov S, Hagel C, Rybczynski M, Bentzien F, Bokemeyer C, von Kodolitsch Y, Fiedler W. Overexpression of Gremlin-1 in patients with Loeys-Dietz syndrome: implications on pathophysiology and early disease detection. PLoS One 2014; 9:e104742. [PMID: 25116393 PMCID: PMC4130545 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0104742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds The Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS) is an inherited connective tissue disorder caused by mutations in the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) receptors TGFBR1 or TGFBR2. Most patients with LDS develop severe aortic aneurysms resulting in early need of surgical intervention. In order to gain further insight into the pathophysiology of the disorder, we investigated circulating outgrowth endothelial cells (OEC) from the peripheral blood of LDS patients from a cohort of 23 patients including 6 patients with novel TGF-β receptor mutations. Methods and Results We performed gene expression profiling of OECs using microarray analysis followed by quantitative PCR for verification of gene expression. Compared to OECs of age- and sex-matched healthy controls, OECs isolated from three LDS patients displayed altered expression of several genes belonging to the TGF-β pathway, especially those affecting bone morphogenic protein (BMP) signalling including BMP2, BMP4 and BMPR1A. Gene expression of BMP antagonist Gremlin-1 (GREM1) showed the most prominent up-regulation. This increase was confirmed at the protein level by immunoblotting of LDS-OECs. In immunohistochemistry, abundant Gremlin-1 protein expression could be verified in endothelial cells as well as smooth muscle cells within the arterial media. Furthermore, Gremlin-1 plasma levels of LDS patients were significantly elevated compared to healthy control subjects. Conclusions These findings open new avenues in the understanding of the pathogenesis of Loeys-Dietz syndrome and the development of new diagnostic serological methods for early disease detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Wellbrock
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Sara Sheikhzadeh
- Center of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Leticia Oliveira-Ferrer
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hauke Stamm
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mathias Hillebrand
- Center of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Britta Keyser
- Institute of Human Genetics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marianne Klokow
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gabi Vohwinkel
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Veronika Bonk
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Benjamin Otto
- Department of Clinical Chemistry/Central Laboratories, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Streichert
- Department of Clinical Chemistry/Central Laboratories, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Balabanov
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Division of Hematology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christian Hagel
- Institute for Neuropathology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Meike Rybczynski
- Center of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Frank Bentzien
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carsten Bokemeyer
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Yskert von Kodolitsch
- Center of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Walter Fiedler
- Hubertus Wald University Cancer Centre, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with section Pneumology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Ciuclan L, Sheppard K, Dong L, Sutton D, Duggan N, Hussey M, Simmons J, Morrell NW, Jarai G, Edwards M, Dubois G, Thomas M, Van Heeke G, England K. Treatment with anti-gremlin 1 antibody ameliorates chronic hypoxia/SU5416-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension in mice. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2014; 183:1461-73. [PMID: 24160323 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2013.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2013] [Revised: 06/20/2013] [Accepted: 07/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The expression of the bone morphogenetic protein antagonist, Gremlin 1, was recently shown to be increased in the lungs of pulmonary arterial hypertension patients, and in response to hypoxia. Gremlin 1 released from the vascular endothelium may inhibit endogenous bone morphogenetic protein signaling and contribute to the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Here, we investigate the impact of Gremlin 1 inhibition in disease after exposure to chronic hypoxia/SU5416 in mice. We investigated the effects of an anti-Gremlin 1 monoclonal antibody in the chronic hypoxia/SU5416 murine model of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Chronic hypoxic/SU5416 exposure of mice induced upregulation of Gremlin 1 mRNA in lung and right ventricle tissue compared with normoxic controls. Prophylactic treatment with an anti-Gremlin 1 neutralizing mAb reduced the hypoxic/SU5416-dependent increase in pulmonary vascular remodeling and right ventricular hypertrophy. Importantly, therapeutic treatment with an anti-Gremlin 1 antibody also reduced pulmonary vascular remodeling and right ventricular hypertrophy indicating a role for Gremlin 1 in the progression of the disease. We conclude that Gremlin 1 plays a role in the development and progression of pulmonary arterial hypertension in the murine hypoxia/SU5416 model, and that Gremlin 1 is a potential therapeutic target for pulmonary arterial hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana Ciuclan
- Respiratory Disease Area, Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Horsham, West Sussex, United Kingdom
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Gremlin activates the Smad pathway linked to epithelial mesenchymal transdifferentiation in cultured tubular epithelial cells. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:802841. [PMID: 24949470 PMCID: PMC4052161 DOI: 10.1155/2014/802841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Revised: 04/25/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Gremlin is a developmental gene upregulated in human chronic kidney disease and in renal cells in response to transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) is one process involved in renal fibrosis. In tubular epithelial cells we have recently described that Gremlin induces EMT and acts as a downstream TGF-β mediator. Our aim was to investigate whether Gremlin participates in EMT by the regulation of the Smad pathway. Stimulation of human tubular epithelial cells (HK2) with Gremlin caused an early activation of the Smad signaling pathway (Smad 2/3 phosphorylation, nuclear translocation, and Smad-dependent gene transcription). The blockade of TGF-β, by a neutralizing antibody against active TGF-β, did not modify Gremlin-induced early Smad activation. These data show that Gremlin directly, by a TGF-β independent process, activates the Smad pathway. In tubular epithelial cells long-term incubation with Gremlin increased TGF-β production and caused a sustained Smad activation and a phenotype conversion into myofibroblasts-like cells. Smad 7 overexpression, which blocks Smad 2/3 activation, diminished EMT changes observed in Gremlin-transfected tubuloepithelial cells. TGF-β neutralization also diminished Gremlin-induced EMT changes. In conclusion, we propose that Gremlin could participate in renal fibrosis by inducing EMT in tubular epithelial cells through activation of Smad pathway and induction of TGF-β.
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Rodrigues-Diez R, Lavoz C, Carvajal G, Rayego-Mateos S, Rodrigues Diez RR, Ortiz A, Egido J, Mezzano S, Ruiz-Ortega M. Gremlin is a downstream profibrotic mediator of transforming growth factor-beta in cultured renal cells. Nephron Clin Pract 2013; 122:62-74. [PMID: 23548835 DOI: 10.1159/000346575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2012] [Accepted: 12/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Chronic kidney disease is characterized by accumulation of extracellular matrix in the tubulointerstitial area. Fibroblasts are the main matrix-producing cells. One source of activated fibroblasts is the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). In cultured tubular epithelial cells, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β1) induced Gremlin production associated with EMT phenotypic changes, and therefore Gremlin has been proposed as a downstream TGF-β1 mediator. Gremlin is a developmental gene upregulated in chronic kidney diseases associated with matrix accumulation, but its direct role in the modulation of renal fibrosis and its relation with TGF-β has not been investigated. METHODS Murine renal fibroblasts and human tubular epithelial cells were studied. Renal fibrosis was determined by evaluation of key profibrotic factors, extracellular matrix proteins (ECM) and EMT markers by Western blot/confocal microscopy or real-time PCR. Endogenous Gremlin was targeted with small interfering RNA. RESULTS In murine fibroblasts, stimulation with recombinant Gremlin upregulated profibrotic genes, such as TGF-β1, and augmented the production of ECM proteins, including type I collagen. The blockade of endogenous Gremlin with small interfering RNA inhibited TGF-β1-induced ECM upregulation. In tubular epithelial cells Gremlin also increased profibrotic genes and caused EMT changes: phenotypic modulation to myofibroblast-like morphology, loss of epithelial markers and in-duction of mesenchymal markers. Moreover, Gremlin gene silencing inhibited TGF-β1-induced EMT changes. CONCLUSIONS Gremlin directly activates profibrotic events in cul-tured renal fibroblasts and tubular epithelial cells. Moreover, endogenous Gremlin blockade inhibited TGF-β-mediated matrix production and EMT, suggesting that Gremlin could be a novel therapeutic target for renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Rodrigues-Diez
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma, Madrid, Spain
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Lowery JW, LaVigne AW, Kokabu S, Rosen V. Comparative genomics identifies the mouse Bmp3 promoter and an upstream evolutionary conserved region (ECR) in mammals. PLoS One 2013; 8:e57840. [PMID: 23451274 PMCID: PMC3579780 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0057840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2012] [Accepted: 01/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) pathway is a multi-member signaling cascade whose basic components are found in all animals. One member, BMP3, which arose more recently in evolution and is found only in deuterostomes, serves a unique role as an antagonist to both the canonical BMP and Activin pathways. However, the mechanisms that control BMP3 expression, and the cis-regulatory regions mediating this regulation, remain poorly defined. With this in mind, we sought to identify the Bmp3 promoter in mouse (M. musculus) through functional and comparative genomic analyses. We found that the minimal promoter required for expression in resides within 0.8 kb upstream of Bmp3 in a region that is highly conserved with rat (R. norvegicus). We also found that an upstream region abutting the minimal promoter acts as a repressor of the minimal promoter in HEK293T cells and osteoblasts. Strikingly, a portion of this region is conserved among all available eutherian mammal genomes (47/47), but not in any non-eutherian animal (0/136). We also identified multiple conserved transcription factor binding sites in the Bmp3 upstream ECR, suggesting that this region may preserve common cis-regulatory elements that govern Bmp3 expression across eutherian mammals. Since dysregulation of BMP signaling appears to play a role in human health and disease, our findings may have application in the development of novel therapeutics aimed at modulating BMP signaling in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan W. Lowery
- Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Anna W. LaVigne
- Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Shoichiro Kokabu
- Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Vicki Rosen
- Department of Developmental Biology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Mao W, Millar JC, Wang WH, Silverman SM, Liu Y, Wordinger RJ, Rubin JS, Pang IH, Clark AF. Existence of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway in the human trabecular meshwork. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2012; 53:7043-51. [PMID: 22956608 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.12-9664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We previously discovered elevated levels of secreted frizzled-related protein 1 (sFRP1), the Wnt signaling pathway inhibitor, in the glaucomatous trabecular meshwork (GTM), and found that key canonical Wnt signaling pathway genes are expressed in the trabecular meshwork (TM). The purpose of our study was to determine whether a functional canonical Wnt signaling pathway exists in the human TM (HTM). METHODS Western immunoblotting and/or immunofluorescent microscopy were used to study β-catenin translocation as well as the actin cytoskeleton in transformed and primary HTM cells. A TCF/LEF luciferase assay was used to study functional canonical Wnt signaling, which was confirmed further by WNT3a-induced expression of a pathway target gene, AXIN2, via quantitative PCR. Intravitreal injection of an Ad5 adenovirus expressing Dickkopf-related protein-1 (DKK1) was used to study the in vivo effect of canonical Wnt signaling on IOP in mice. RESULTS WNT3a induced β-catenin translocation in the HTM, which was blocked by co-treatment with sFRP1. Similarly, WNT3a enhanced luciferase levels in TCF/LEF luciferase assays, which also were blocked by sFRP1. Furthermore, AXIN2 expression was elevated significantly by WNT3a. However, neither WNT3a nor sFRP1 affected actin cytoskeleton organization, which theoretically could be regulated by noncanonical Wnt signaling in HTM cells. Exogenous DKK1, a specific inhibitor for the canonical Wnt signaling pathway, or sFRP1 elevated mouse IOP to equivalent levels. CONCLUSIONS There is a canonical Wnt signaling pathway in the TM, and this canonical Wnt pathway, but not the noncanonical Wnt signaling pathway, regulates IOP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiming Mao
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas 76107, USA.
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Wiggs JL, Yaspan BL, Hauser MA, Kang JH, Allingham RR, Olson LM, Abdrabou W, Fan BJ, Wang DY, Brodeur W, Budenz DL, Caprioli J, Crenshaw A, Crooks K, Delbono E, Doheny KF, Friedman DS, Gaasterland D, Gaasterland T, Laurie C, Lee RK, Lichter PR, Loomis S, Liu Y, Medeiros FA, McCarty C, Mirel D, Moroi SE, Musch DC, Realini A, Rozsa FW, Schuman JS, Scott K, Singh K, Stein JD, Trager EH, Vanveldhuisen P, Vollrath D, Wollstein G, Yoneyama S, Zhang K, Weinreb RN, Ernst J, Kellis M, Masuda T, Zack D, Richards JE, Pericak-Vance M, Pasquale LR, Haines JL. Common variants at 9p21 and 8q22 are associated with increased susceptibility to optic nerve degeneration in glaucoma. PLoS Genet 2012; 8:e1002654. [PMID: 22570617 PMCID: PMC3343074 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1002654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 226] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2012] [Accepted: 03/01/2012] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Optic nerve degeneration caused by glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. Patients affected by the normal-pressure form of glaucoma are more likely to harbor risk alleles for glaucoma-related optic nerve disease. We have performed a meta-analysis of two independent genome-wide association studies for primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) followed by a normal-pressure glaucoma (NPG, defined by intraocular pressure (IOP) less than 22 mmHg) subgroup analysis. The single-nucleotide polymorphisms that showed the most significant associations were tested for association with a second form of glaucoma, exfoliation-syndrome glaucoma. The overall meta-analysis of the GLAUGEN and NEIGHBOR dataset results (3,146 cases and 3,487 controls) identified significant associations between two loci and POAG: the CDKN2BAS region on 9p21 (rs2157719 [G], OR = 0.69 [95%CI 0.63-0.75], p = 1.86×10⁻¹⁸), and the SIX1/SIX6 region on chromosome 14q23 (rs10483727 [A], OR = 1.32 [95%CI 1.21-1.43], p = 3.87×10⁻¹¹). In sub-group analysis two loci were significantly associated with NPG: 9p21 containing the CDKN2BAS gene (rs2157719 [G], OR = 0.58 [95% CI 0.50-0.67], p = 1.17×10⁻¹²) and a probable regulatory region on 8q22 (rs284489 [G], OR = 0.62 [95% CI 0.53-0.72], p = 8.88×10⁻¹⁰). Both NPG loci were also nominally associated with a second type of glaucoma, exfoliation syndrome glaucoma (rs2157719 [G], OR = 0.59 [95% CI 0.41-0.87], p = 0.004 and rs284489 [G], OR = 0.76 [95% CI 0.54-1.06], p = 0.021), suggesting that these loci might contribute more generally to optic nerve degeneration in glaucoma. Because both loci influence transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) signaling, we performed a genomic pathway analysis that showed an association between the TGF-beta pathway and NPG (permuted p = 0.009). These results suggest that neuro-protective therapies targeting TGF-beta signaling could be effective for multiple forms of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janey L Wiggs
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America.
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Zode GS, Bugge KE, Mohan K, Grozdanic SD, Peters JC, Koehn DR, Anderson MG, Kardon RH, Stone EM, Sheffield VC. Topical ocular sodium 4-phenylbutyrate rescues glaucoma in a myocilin mouse model of primary open-angle glaucoma. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2012; 53:1557-65. [PMID: 22328638 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.11-8837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Mutations in the myocilin gene (MYOC) are the most common known genetic cause of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). The purpose of this study was to determine whether topical ocular sodium 4-phenylbutyrate (PBA) treatment rescues glaucoma phenotypes in a mouse model of myocilin-associated glaucoma (Tg-MYOC(Y437H) mice). METHODS Tg-MYOC(Y437H) mice were treated with PBA eye drops (n = 10) or sterile PBS (n = 8) twice daily for 5 months. Long-term safety and effectiveness of topical PBA (0.2%) on glaucoma phenotypes were examined by measuring intraocular pressure (IOP) and pattern ERG (PERG), performing slit lamp evaluation of the anterior chamber, analyzing histologic sections of the anterior segment, and comparing myocilin levels in the aqueous humor and trabecular meshwork of Tg-MYOC(Y437H) mice. RESULTS Tg-MYOC(Y437H) mice developed elevated IOP at 3 months of age when compared with wild-type (WT) littermates (n = 24; P < 0.0001). Topical PBA did not alter IOP in WT mice. However, it significantly reduced elevated IOP in Tg-MYOC(Y437H) mice to the level of WT mice. Topical PBA-treated Tg-MYOC(Y437H) mice also preserved PERG amplitudes compared with vehicle-treated Tg-MYOC(Y437H) mice. No structural abnormalities were observed in the anterior chamber of PBA-treated WT and Tg-MYOC(Y437H) mice. Analysis of the myocilin in the aqueous humor and TM revealed that PBA significantly improved the secretion of myocilin and reduced myocilin accumulation as well as endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in the TM of Tg-MYOC(Y437H) mice. Furthermore, topical PBA reduced IOP elevated by induction of ER stress via tunicamycin injections in WT mice. CONCLUSIONS Topical ocular PBA reduces glaucomatous phenotypes in Tg-MYOC(Y437H) mice, most likely by reducing myocilin accumulation and ER stress in the TM. Topical ocular PBA could become a novel treatment for POAG patients with myocilin mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulab S Zode
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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Xu J, Zhu D, Sonoda S, He S, Spee C, Ryan SJ, Hinton DR. Over-expression of BMP4 inhibits experimental choroidal neovascularization by modulating VEGF and MMP-9. Angiogenesis 2012; 15:213-27. [PMID: 22392094 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-012-9254-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2011] [Accepted: 02/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Bone morphorgenetic protein (BMP)-4 has been shown to play a pivotal role in eye development; however, its role in mature retina or ocular angiogenic diseases is unclear. Activating downstream Smad signaling, BMP4 can be either pro-angiogenic or anti-angiogenic, depending on the context of cell types and associated microenvironment. In this study, we generated transgenic mice over-expressing BMP4 in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells (Vmd2-Bmp4 Tg mice), and used the laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) model to study the angiogenic properties of BMP4 in adult eyes. Vmd2-Bmp4 Tg mice displayed normal retinal histology at 10 weeks of age when compared with age-matched wildtype mice. Over-expression of BMP4 in RPE in the transgenic mice was confirmed by real-time PCR and immunostaining. Elevated levels of Smad1,5 phosphorylation were found in BMP4 transgenic mice compared to wildype mice. Over-expression of BMP4 was associated with less severe CNV as characterized by fluorescein angiography, CNV volume measurement and histology. While control mice showed increased levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 after laser injury, Vmd2-Bmp4 Tg showed no increase in either VEGF or MMP-9. Further, we found that TNF-induced MMP-9 secretion in vitro was reduced by pretreatment of RPE cells with BMP4. The inhibition of MMP-9 was Smad-dependent because BMP4 failed to repress TNF-induced MMP-9 expression when Smad1,5 was silenced by siRNA. In summary, our studies identified an anti-angiogenic role for BMP4 in laser-induced CNV, mediated by direct inhibition of MMP-9 and indirect inhibition of VEGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keck School of Medicine, The University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
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Mao W, Rubin JS, Anoruo N, Wordinger RJ, Clark AF. SFRP1 promoter methylation and expression in human trabecular meshwork cells. Exp Eye Res 2012; 97:130-6. [PMID: 22248913 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2012.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2011] [Revised: 12/21/2011] [Accepted: 01/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. In primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients, impaired trabecular meshwork (TM) function results in elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), which is the primary risk factor of developing optic neuropathy. Our previous studies showed that Wnt signaling pathway components are expressed in the human TM (HTM), and the Wnt inhibitor, secreted frizzled-related protein 1 (SFRP1) is elevated in the glaucomatous TM (GTM). Elevated SFRP1 increased IOP in mice eyes and in perfusion cultured anterior segments of the human eye. However, the cause of elevated SFRP1 in the GTM remains unknown. Promoter methylation plays a key role in regulating SFRP1 expression in certain cancer cells. In light of this, we studied whether promoter methylation is also involved in SFRP1 differential expression in the TM. Two normal TM (NTM) and two GTM cell strains were cultured for an additional 7 days after they were confluent. RNA and genomic DNA (gDNA) were isolated simultaneously to compare SFRP1 expression levels by quantitative PCR (qPCR) and to determine SFRP1 promoter methylation status by bisulfite conversion and methylation-sensitive high resolution melting analysis (MS-HRM). To study whether DNA methylation inhibitors affect SFRP1 expression in TM cells, the four TM cell strains were treated with or without 2 μM 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (AZA-dC) for 4 days. RNA was isolated to compare SFRP1 expression by qPCR. In addition, a human cancer cell line, NCI-H460, was used as a positive control. We found that the two GTM cell strains had significantly higher expression levels of SFRP1 than the two NTM cell strains. However, the SFRP1 promoter of all four TM cell strains was unmethylated. In addition, AZA-dC treatment did not affect SFRP1 expression in any of the TM cell strains (n = 3, p > 0.05). In contrast, the hypermethylated SFRP1 promoter of NCI-H460 cells was partially demethylated by the same treatment. AZA-dC treatment also elevated SFRP1 expression by approximately two fold in NCI-H460 cells (n = 3, p < 0.01). Our data suggest that the differential expression of SFRP1 in HTM cells is not due to differential promoter methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiming Mao
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, CBH440, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA.
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Fuchshofer R, Tamm ER. The role of TGF-β in the pathogenesis of primary open-angle glaucoma. Cell Tissue Res 2011; 347:279-90. [PMID: 22101332 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-011-1274-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2011] [Accepted: 10/24/2011] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β2 (TGF-β2) is found in increasing amounts in aqueous humor and reactive optic nerve astrocytes of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), a major cause of blindness worldwide. The available data strongly indicate that TGF-β2 is a key player contributing to the structural changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the trabecular meshwork and optic nerve head as characteristically seen in POAG. The changes involve an induction in the expression of various ECM molecules and are remarkably similar in trabecular meshwork cells and optic nerve head astrocytes. The ECM changes in the trabecular meshwork most probably play a role in the increase of aqueous humor outflow resistance causing higher intraocular pressure (IOP). In the optic nerve head, TGF-β2-induced changes might contribute to deformation of the optic nerve axons causing impairment of axonal transport and neurotrophic supply and leading to their continuous degeneration. The increase in IOP further adds mechanical stress and strain to optic nerve axons and accelerates degenerative changes. In addition, high IOP might induce the expression of activated TGF-β1 in trabecular meshwork cells and optic nerve head astrocytes; this again might significantly lead to the progress of axonal degeneration. The action of TGF-β2 in POAG is largely mediated through the connective tissue growth factor, whereas the activities of TGF-β1 and -β2 are modulated by the blocking effects of bone morphogenetic protein-4 (BMP-4) and BMP-7, by gremlin that inhibits BMP signaling and by several species of microRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rudolf Fuchshofer
- Institute of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Sethi A, Mao W, Wordinger RJ, Clark AF. Transforming growth factor-beta induces extracellular matrix protein cross-linking lysyl oxidase (LOX) genes in human trabecular meshwork cells. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2011; 52:5240-50. [PMID: 21546528 PMCID: PMC3176072 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.11-7287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2011] [Revised: 04/03/2011] [Accepted: 04/05/2011] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The profibrotic cytokine TGFβ is associated with glaucoma and plays an important role in the regulation of extracellular matrix metabolism in the trabecular meshwork (TM). The purpose of this study was to determine whether expression of ECM cross-linking LOX genes is regulated by TGFβ in TM cells. METHODS Expression of the five LOX genes (LOX, LOXL1, LOXL2, LOXL3, and LOXL4) was examined in cultured human TM cells by using RT-PCR, quantitative RT-PCR, and Western immunoblot analysis. TM cells were treated with recombinant TGFβ1, -2, and -3, to determine the effects on LOX and LOXL1 to -4 expression. The TM cells were pretreated with TGFBR inhibitors (LY364947, SB431542), canonical Smad signaling pathway (SIS3 or Smad2, -3, and -4 siRNAs) inhibitors, or inhibitors of the non-Smad signaling pathways (SP600125, SR11302), to identify the signaling pathway(s) involved in TGFβ induction of LOX and LOXL gene and protein expression. A novel LOX activity assay was used to determine the effects of the LOX inhibitor BAPN on tropoelastin cross-linking. RESULTS All five LOX genes (LOX, LOXL1 to -4) were expressed in cultured human TM cells and were induced by all three isoforms of TGFβ. This TGFβ induction of LOX and LOXL expression was blocked by TGFβ inhibitors as well as by inhibitors of the canonical Smad2, -3, and -4 signaling and non-Smad JNK/AP-1 signaling pathways (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Both Smad and non-Smad signaling pathways are involved in TGFβ-mediated LOX induction, suggesting complex regulation of these important extracellular matrix cross-linking enzymes. Increased LOX activity may be at least partially responsible for TGFβ-mediated IOP elevation and increased aqueous humor outflow resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirudh Sethi
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, North Texas Eye Research Institute (NTERI), University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Weiming Mao
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, North Texas Eye Research Institute (NTERI), University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Robert J. Wordinger
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, North Texas Eye Research Institute (NTERI), University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Abbot F. Clark
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, North Texas Eye Research Institute (NTERI), University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
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Sethi A, Jain A, Zode GS, Wordinger RJ, Clark AF. Role of TGFbeta/Smad signaling in gremlin induction of human trabecular meshwork extracellular matrix proteins. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2011; 52:5251-9. [PMID: 21642622 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.11-7587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The bone morphogenic protein (BMP) antagonist gremlin is elevated in glaucomatous trabecular meshwork (TM) cells and tissues and elevates intraocular pressure (IOP). Gremlin also blocks BMP4 inhibition of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β2 induction of TM extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. The purpose of this study was to determine whether Gremlin regulates ECM proteins in cultured human TM cells. METHODS Human TM cells were treated with recombinant gremlin to determine the effects on ECM gene and protein expression. Expression of the ECM genes FN, COL1, PAI1, and ELN was examined in cultured human TM cells by quantitative RT-PCR and Western immunoblot analysis. TM cells were pretreated with TGFBR inhibitors (LY364947, SB431542 or TGFBR1/TGFB2 siRNAs), inhibitors of the Smad signaling pathway (SIS3 or Smad2/3/4 siRNAs), or CTGF siRNA to identify the signaling pathway(s) involved in gremlin induction of ECM gene and protein expression. RESULTS All ECM genes analyzed (FN, COL1, PAI1, and ELN) were induced by gremlin. This gremlin induction of ECM genes and protein expression was blocked by inhibitors of TGFBR and the canonical Smad2/3/4 and CTGF signaling pathways. CONCLUSIONS Gremlin employs canonical TGFβ2/Smad signaling to induce ECM genes and proteins in cultured human TM cells. Gremlin also induces both TGFβ2 and CTGF, which can act downstream to mediate some of these ECM changes in TM cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirudh Sethi
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas 76107, USA
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Transforming growth factor-beta2 utilizes the canonical Smad-signaling pathway to regulate tissue transglutaminase expression in human trabecular meshwork cells. Exp Eye Res 2011; 93:442-51. [PMID: 21722634 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2011.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2010] [Revised: 04/04/2011] [Accepted: 06/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta2 (TGF-β2) is elevated in the aqueous humor of patients with glaucoma. This growth factor is known to increase extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition in the trabecular meshwork (TM) as well as increase intraocular pressure (IOP) in perfused human cultured anterior eye segments. In addition overexpression of TGF-β2 in the mouse TM leads to elevated IOP. Exogenous TGF-β2 also increases tissue transglutaminase (TGM2) protein levels and enzyme activity in TM cells. TGM2 is a calcium-dependent enzyme that mediates cross-linking of ECM proteins, thus making ECM proteins resistant to enzymatic degradation and physical breakdown. We have investigated the signaling pathway by which TGF-β2 induces TGM2 in human TM cells. Primary cultures of human TM cells (N = 6) were treated for 48 h with TGF-β2 (0-10 ng/ml) in serum-free medium. TGM2 enzyme activity differences between non-treated and TGF-β2 treated TM cells were studied using a biotin cadaverine assay. Endogenous TGF-β2 protein levels were examined in normal trabecular meshwork (NTM) and glaucomatous trabecular meshwork (GTM) cell strains. Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate the expression and co-localization of TGF-β2 and TGM2 in NTM and GTM tissues. Activation of Smad3 signaling pathway was evaluated by western immunoblot analysis using phospho-specific antibodies following exogenous TGF-β2 treatment. Pharmacological specific inhibitor of Smad3 (SIS3) and short interfering (si)RNAs were used to suppress Smad3 activity and CTGF gene expression respectively. Endogenous TGF-β2 levels were significantly elevated in cultured GTM cells (p < 0.05) when compared to NTM cells. Immunohistochemistry studies also demonstrated elevated expression and co-localization of both TGF-β2 and TGM2 in glaucoma human TM tissues. Exogenous TGF-β2 increased both TGM2 protein levels and enzyme activity in TM cells. Phosphorylation of Smad3 was stimulated in TM cell strains by exogenous TGF-β2. TGF-β2 induction of TGM2 was not inhibited with selective siRNA knockdown of CTGF. In contrast, a specific inhibitor of Smad3 (SIS3) and siRNA knockdown of Smad3 (p < 0.05) suppressed TGF-β2 induction of TGM2. This study demonstrated that TGF-β2 induction of TGM2 can be mediated via the canonical Smad-signaling pathway but does not appear to involve CTGF as a downstream mediator. Regulation of the Smad-signaling pathway in the TM may be useful in the therapy for glaucoma associated with aberrant TGF-β2 signaling.
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