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Liang XY, Wang Y, Zhu YW, Zhang YX, Yuan H, Liu YF, Jin YQ, Gao W, Ren ZG, Ji XY, Wu DD. Role of hydrogen sulfide in dermatological diseases. Nitric Oxide 2024; 150:18-26. [PMID: 38971520 DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2024.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), together with carbon monoxide (CO) and nitric oxide (NO), is recognized as a vital gasotransmitter. H2S is biosynthesized by enzymatic pathways in the skin and exerts significant physiological effects on a variety of biological processes, such as apoptosis, modulation of inflammation, cellular proliferation, and regulation of vasodilation. As a major health problem, dermatological diseases affect a large proportion of the population every day. It is urgent to design and develop effective drugs to deal with dermatological diseases. Dermatological diseases can arise from a multitude of etiologies, including neoplastic growth, infectious agents, and inflammatory processes. The abnormal metabolism of H2S is associated with many dermatological diseases, such as melanoma, fibrotic diseases, and psoriasis, suggesting its therapeutic potential in the treatment of these diseases. In addition, therapies based on H2S donors are being developed to treat some of these conditions. In the review, we discuss recent advances in the function of H2S in normal skin, the role of altering H2S metabolism in dermatological diseases, and the therapeutic potential of diverse H2S donors for the treatment of dermatological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yi Liang
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Stomatology, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Stomatology, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - Yi-Wen Zhu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - Yan-Xia Zhang
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Stomatology, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - Hang Yuan
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Stomatology, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - Ya-Fang Liu
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Stomatology, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - Yu-Qing Jin
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Stomatology, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - Wei Gao
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Stomatology, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - Zhi-Guang Ren
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Stomatology, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China; Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China.
| | - Xin-Ying Ji
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Stomatology, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China; Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China; Faculty of Basic Medical Subjects, Shu-Qing Medical College of Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou, Henan 450064, China.
| | - Dong-Dong Wu
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Stomatology, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China; Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China; Department of Stomatology, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, School of Stomatology, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China.
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Huang H, Song X, Zhang J, Fan Y, Kong M, Zhang L, Hou H. Novel collagen gradient membranes with multiphasic structures: Preparation, characterization, and biocompatibility. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2024; 243:114146. [PMID: 39173311 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2024.114146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Scaffolds with multiphasic structures are considered to be superior for guided tissue regeneration. Two types of tilapia skin collagen gradient membranes (stepped gradient and linear gradient) with multiphasic structures were prepared by controlling the collagen concentrations and the freezing rates. The results revealed that collagen gradient membranes were more capable of guiding tissue regeneration compared to homogeneous membranes. These two gradient membranes featured a dense outer layer and a loose inner layer, with good mechanical properties as indicated by tensile strengths of more than 250 Kpa and porosities exceeding 85 %. Additionally, these membranes also showed good hydrophilicity and water absorption, with an inner layer contact angle of less than 91° and a water absorption ratio greater than 40 times. Furthermore, the multiphasic scaffolds were proved to be biocompatible by the acute toxicity assay, the intradermal irritation test and so on. Gradient membranes could effectively promote the adhesion and proliferation of fibroblasts and osteoblasts, through elevating the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway by TGF-β and Smads, and activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by LRP5 and β-catenin, similar to homogenous membranes. Therefore, collagen gradient membranes from tilapia skin show important application value in guiding tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huilin Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Food Processing & Safety Control, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, No.1299, Sansha Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266404, PR China
| | - Xue Song
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Food Processing & Safety Control, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, No.1299, Sansha Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266404, PR China
| | - Jiangjiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Food Processing & Safety Control, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, No.1299, Sansha Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266404, PR China
| | - Yan Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Food Processing & Safety Control, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, No.1299, Sansha Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266404, PR China; College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, No.5, Yushan Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266003, PR China.
| | - Ming Kong
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, No.5, Yushan Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266003, PR China
| | - Li Zhang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Beibu Gulf Marine Resources, Environment and Sustainable Development, Fourth Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Beihai 536000, PR China
| | - Hu Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Food Processing & Safety Control, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, No.1299, Sansha Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266404, PR China; Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Qingdao Marine Science and Technology Center, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266237, PR China; Sanya Oceanographic Institution, Ocean University of China, Sanya, Hainan Province 572024, PR China.
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Nie M, Tian Y, Xiao Y, Lei S, Wu D. Enhancing high-quality fat survival: A novel strategy using cell-free fat extract. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23733. [PMID: 38995329 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202400523rrrr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
High-quality fat (HQF) improves the survival rate of fat and volumetric filling compared to traditional Coleman fat. However, this HQF strategy inevitably leads to a significant amount of unused fat being wasted. "CEFFE" (cell-free fat extract) is an acellular aqueous-phase liquid, rich in bioactive proteins. The remaining fat from preparing HQF can be further processed into CEFFE to promote the survival of HQF. HQF was obtained and the remaining fat was processed into CEFFE, then HQF was transplanted subcutaneously in nude mice. Animal studies showed that CEFFE significantly improved the survival rate of HQF. Histological analysis revealed that CEFFE improved the survival rate of HQF, by enhancing cell proliferation activity, reducing apoptosis, increasing angiogenesis, and improving the inflammatory state. Under simulated anaerobic conditions, CEFFE also improved the viability of HQF. In vitro, studies demonstrated that CEFFE enhanced the survival rate of HQF through multiple mechanisms. Transcriptomic analysis and qPCR showed that CEFFE increased the expression of angiogenesis-related genes in ADSCs while enhancing their proliferation-related gene expression and suppressing the expression of three differentiation-related genes. Moreover, functional experiments demonstrated that CEFFE-induced ADSCs exhibited stronger proliferation and adipogenic differentiation abilities. Tube formation and migration assays revealed that CEFFE promoted tube formation and migration of HUVECs, indicating its inherent pro-angiogenic properties. CEFFE facilitated the development of M0 to M2 macrophages, suggesting its role in improving the inflammatory state. This innovative clinical strategy optimizes HQF transplantation strategy, minimizing fat wastage and enhancing the efficiency of fat utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqi Nie
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Yi Tian
- Department of Plastic and Aesthetic (Burn) Surgery, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Yutian Xiao
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Shaorong Lei
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, P.R. China
| | - Dingyu Wu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, P.R. China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, P.R. China
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Huang M, Wang X, Chen Y, Pessoa MT, Terrell KC, Zhang J, Tian J, Xie Z, Pierre SV, Cai L. Role of Na/K-ATPase α1 caveolin-binding motif in adipogenesis. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 327:C48-C64. [PMID: 38708522 PMCID: PMC11371328 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00168.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Deficiencies in mice and in humans have brought to the fore the importance of the caveolar network in key aspects of adipocyte biology. The conserved N-terminal caveolin-binding motif (CBM) of the ubiquitous Na/K-ATPase (NKA) α1 isoform, which allows NKA/caveolin-1 (Cav1) interaction, influences NKA signaling and caveolar distribution. It has been shown to be critical for animal development and ontogenesis, as well as lineage-specific differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). However, its role in postnatal adipogenesis has not been fully examined. Using a genetic approach to alter CBM in hiPSC-derived adipocytes (iAdi-mCBM) and in mice (mCBM), we investigated the regulatory function of NKA CBM signaling in adipogenesis. Seahorse XF cell metabolism analyses revealed impaired glycolysis and decreased ATP synthesis-coupled respiration in iAdi-mCBM. These metabolic dysfunctions were accompanied by evidence of extensive remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM), including increased collagen staining, overexpression of ECM marker genes, and heightened TGF-β signaling uncovered by RNAseq analysis. Rescue of mCBM by lentiviral delivery of WT NKA α1 or treatment of mCBM hiPSCs with the TGF-β inhibitor SB431542 normalized ECM, suggesting that NKA CBM signaling integrity is required for adequate control of TGF-β signaling and ECM stiffness during adipogenesis. The physiological impact was revealed in mCBM male mice with reduced fat mass accompanied by histological and transcriptional evidence of elevated adipose fibrosis and decreased adipocyte size. Based on these findings, we propose that the genetic alteration of the NKA/Cav1 regulatory path uncovered in human iAdi leads to lipodystrophy in mice.NEW & NOTEWORTHY A Na/K-ATPase α1 caveolin-binding motif regulates adipogenesis. Mutation of this binding motif in the mouse leads to reduced fat with increased extracellular matrix production and inflammation. RNA-seq analysis and pharmacological interventions in human iPSC-derived adipocytes revealed that TGF-β signal, rather than Na/K-ATPase-mediated ion transport, is a key mediator of NKA regulation of adipogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minqi Huang
- Marshall Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia, United States
| | - Xiaoliang Wang
- Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia, United States
| | - Yiliang Chen
- Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, West Virginia, United States
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Marco T Pessoa
- Marshall Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia, United States
| | - Kayleigh C Terrell
- Marshall Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia, United States
| | - Jue Zhang
- Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, West Virginia, United States
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Jiang Tian
- Marshall Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia, United States
- Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia, United States
| | - Zijian Xie
- Marshall Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia, United States
| | - Sandrine V Pierre
- Marshall Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia, United States
| | - Liquan Cai
- Marshall Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia, United States
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5
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Samuel CS, Li Y, Wang Y, Widdop RE. Functional crosstalk between angiotensin receptors (types 1 and 2) and relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1): Implications for the therapeutic targeting of fibrosis. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:2302-2318. [PMID: 36560925 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16019] [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: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Class A, rhodopsin-like, G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are by far the largest class of GPCRs and are integral membrane proteins used by various cells to convert extracellular signals into intracellular responses. Initially, class A GPCRs were believed to function as monomers, but a growing body of evidence has emerged to suggest that these receptors can function as homodimers and heterodimers and can undergo functional crosstalk to influence the actions of agonists or antagonists acting at each receptor. This review will focus on the angiotensin type 1 (AT1) and type 2 (AT2) receptors, as well as the relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1), each of which have their unique characteristics but have been demonstrated to undergo some level of interaction when appropriately co-expressed, which influences the function of each receptor. In particular, this receptor functional crosstalk will be discussed in the context of fibrosis, the tissue scarring that results from a failed wound-healing response to injury, and which is a hallmark of chronic disease and related organ dysfunction. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue Therapeutic Targeting of G Protein-Coupled Receptors: hot topics from the Australasian Society of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacologists and Toxicologists 2021 Virtual Annual Scientific Meeting. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.14/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrishan S Samuel
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yifang Li
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yan Wang
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robert E Widdop
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Kwon SH, Lee J, Yoo J, Jung Y. Artificial keloid skin models: understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms and application in therapeutic studies. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:3321-3334. [PMID: 38812375 DOI: 10.1039/d4bm00005f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Keloid is a type of scar formed by the overexpression of extracellular matrix substances from fibroblasts following inflammation after trauma. The existing keloid treatment methods include drug injection, surgical intervention, light exposure, cryotherapy, etc. However, these methods have limitations such as recurrence, low treatment efficacy, and side effects. Consequently, studies are being conducted on the treatment of keloids from the perspective of inflammatory mechanisms. In this study, keloid models are created to understand inflammatory mechanisms and explore treatment methods to address them. While previous studies have used animal models with gene mutations, chemical treatments, and keloid tissue transplantation, there are limitations in fully reproducing the characteristics of keloids unique to humans, and ethical issues related to animal welfare pose additional challenges. Consequently, studies are underway to create in vitro artificial skin models to simulate keloid disease and apply them to the development of treatments for skin diseases. In particular, herein, scaffold technologies that implement three-dimensional (3D) full-thickness keloid models are introduced to enhance mechanical properties as well as biological properties of tissues, such as cell proliferation, differentiation, and cellular interactions. It is anticipated that applying these technologies to the production of artificial skin for keloid simulation could contribute to the development of inflammatory keloid treatment techniques in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Hyun Kwon
- Center for Biomaterials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jongmin Lee
- Center for Biomaterials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea.
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Yoo
- Center for Biomaterials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea.
| | - Youngmee Jung
- Center for Biomaterials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea.
- School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, YU-KIST Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
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Guo C, Liu X, Qiu K, Tu L, Liu D. MALAT1 Knockdown Inhibits the Proliferation, Migration, and Collagen Deposition of Human Hypertrophic Scar Fibroblasts via Targeting miR-29a-3p/Smurf2 Axis. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2024; 17:1387-1404. [PMID: 38881700 PMCID: PMC11180437 DOI: 10.2147/ccid.s460845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Purpose Hypertrophic scarring (HS) is commonly described as an abnormal post-traumatic tissue repair characterized by excessive hypercellularity and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. Mounting evidence suggests that MALAT1 is maladjusted in many fibrotic diseases, but its contribution to HS progression remains poorly understood. Hence, we sought to elucidate the fundamental role of MALAT1 in HS. Methods The expression of MALAT1, miR-29a-3p, and Smurf2 in skin tissues and fibroblasts was assessed by RT-qPCR and Western blotting. Furthermore, lentiviruses, RNAi, or plasmids were utilized to transfect hypertrophic scar fibroblasts (HSFs) for gene overexpression or downregulation. The biological behaviors of HSFs were quantified by the CCK-8 assay, wound healing assay, transwell assay, and flow cytometry. Mechanistically, bioinformatics analysis, dual-luciferase reporter assays, and rescue experiments were performed to verify the relationship between miR-29a-3p and MALAT1 or Smurf2. Results Our data indicate that MALAT1, Smurf2 were overexpressed while miR-29a-3p was suppressed in HS tissues and fibroblasts. Downregulation of MALAT1 may lead to decreased proliferation, migration, and invasion of fibroblasts, accompanied by enhanced apoptosis, reduced TGF-β signal transduction, and ECM accumulation in HSFs, by enhancing miR-29a-3p and suppressing Smurf2 expression. Mechanistically, MALAT1 acted as a sponge for miR-29a-3p, while miR-29a-3p directly targeted Smurf2. More importantly, rescue experiments suggested that MALAT1 downregulation induced impact on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HSFs could be partially overturned through miR-29a-3p knockdown or Smurf2 overexpression. Conclusion MALAT1 knockdown inhibits the proliferation, migration, invasion, and collagen deposition of HSFs via targeting the miR-29a-3p/Smurf2 axis, which may reveal a promising therapeutic exploitable vulnerability to HS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Guo
- Medical Center of Burn Plastic and Wound Repair, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxiao Liu
- Medical Center of Burn Plastic and Wound Repair, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Keqing Qiu
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Longxiang Tu
- Medical Center of Burn Plastic and Wound Repair, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Dewu Liu
- Medical Center of Burn Plastic and Wound Repair, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
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Bhat AS, Chakkittukandiyil A, Muthu SK, Kotha S, Muruganandham S, Rajagopal K, Jayaram S, Kothandan R, Selvaraj D. Network-based drug repositioning of linagliptin as a potential agent for uterine fibroids targeting transforming growth factor-beta mediated fibrosis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 703:149611. [PMID: 38354463 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Uterine fibroid is the most common non-cancerous tumor with no satisfactory options for long-term pharmacological treatment. Fibroblast activation protein-α (FAP) is one of the critical enzymes that enhances the fibrosis in uterine fibroids. Through STITCH database mining, we found that dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4i) have the potential to inhibit the activity of FAP. Both DPP4 and FAP belong to the dipeptidyl peptidase family and share a similar catalytic domain. Hence, ligands which have a binding affinity with DPP4 could also bind with FAP. Among the DPP4i, linagliptin exhibited the highest binding affinity (Dock score = -8.562 kcal/mol) with FAP. Our study uncovered that the differences in the S2 extensive-subsite residues between DPP4 and FAP could serve as a basis for designing selective inhibitors specifically targeting FAP. Furthermore, in a dynamic environment, linagliptin was able to destabilize the dimerization interface of FAP, resulting in potential inhibition of its biological activity. True to the in-silico results, linagliptin reduced the fibrotic process in estrogen and progesterone-induced fibrosis in rat uterus. Furthermore, linagliptin reduced the gene expression of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), a critical factor in collagen secretion and fibrotic process. Masson trichrome staining confirmed that the anti-fibrotic effects of linagliptin were due to its ability to reduce collagen deposition in rat uterus. Altogether, our research proposes that linagliptin has the potential to be repurposed for the treatment of uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anusha Shreenidhi Bhat
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Amritha Chakkittukandiyil
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Santhosh Kumar Muthu
- Department of Biochemistry, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, GN Mills, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Satvik Kotha
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sudharsan Muruganandham
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kalirajan Rajagopal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Saravanan Jayaram
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ram Kothandan
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Divakar Selvaraj
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Ilg MM, Harding S, Lapthorn AR, Kirvell S, Ralph DJ, Bustin SA, Ball G, Cellek S. Temporal gene signature of myofibroblast transformation in Peyronie's disease: first insights into the molecular mechanisms of irreversibility. J Sex Med 2024; 21:278-287. [PMID: 38383071 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdae006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transformation of resident fibroblasts to profibrotic myofibroblasts in the tunica albuginea is a critical step in the pathophysiology of Peyronie's disease (PD). We have previously shown that myofibroblasts do not revert to the fibroblast phenotype and we suggested that there is a point of no return at 36 hours after induction of the transformation. However, the molecular mechanisms that drive this proposed irreversibility are not known. AIM Identify molecular pathways that drive the irreversibility of myofibroblast transformation by analyzing the expression of the genes involved in the process in a temporal fashion. METHODS Human primary fibroblasts obtained from tunica albuginea of patients with Peyronie's disease were transformed to myofibroblasts using transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1). The mRNA of the cells was collected at 0, 24, 36, 48, and 72 hours after stimulation with TGF-β1 and then analyzed using a Nanostring nCounter Fibrosis panel. The gene expression results were analyzed using Reactome pathway analysis database and ANNi, a deep learning-based inference algorithm based on a swarm approach. OUTCOMES The study outcome was the time course of changes in gene expression during transformation of PD-derived fibroblasts to myofibroblasts. RESULTS The temporal analysis of the gene expression revealed that the majority of the changes at the gene expression level happened within the first 24 hours and remained so throughout the 72-hour period. At 36 hours, significant changes were observed in genes involved in MAPK-Hedgehog signaling pathways. CLINICAL TRANSLATION This study highlights the importance of early intervention in clinical management of PD and the future potential of new drugs targeting the point of no return. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS The use of human primary cells and confirmation of results with further RNA analysis are the strengths of this study. The study was limited to 760 genes rather than the whole transcriptome. CONCLUSION This study is to our knowledge the first analysis of temporal gene expression associated with the regulation of the transformation of resident fibroblasts to profibrotic myofibroblasts in PD. Further research is warranted to investigate the role of the MAPK-Hedgehog signaling pathways in reversibility of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus M Ilg
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Sophie Harding
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Alice R Lapthorn
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Kirvell
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - David J Ralph
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
- Urology Department, University College London, London, W1G 8PH, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen A Bustin
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Graham Ball
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Selim Cellek
- Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
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10
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Bigger-Allen A, Gheinani AH, Adam RM. Investigation of the impact of bromodomain inhibition on cytoskeleton stability and contraction. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:184. [PMID: 38493137 PMCID: PMC10944605 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01553-6] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injury to contractile organs such as the heart, vasculature, urinary bladder and gut can stimulate a pathological response that results in loss of normal contractility. PDGF and TGFβ are among the most well studied initiators of the injury response and have been shown to induce aberrant contraction in mechanically active cells of hollow organs including smooth muscle cells (SMC) and fibroblasts. However, the mechanisms driving contractile alterations downstream of PDGF and TGFβ in SMC and fibroblasts are incompletely understood, limiting therapeutic interventions. METHODS To identify potential molecular targets, we have leveraged the analysis of publicly available data, comparing transcriptomic changes in mechanically active cells stimulated with PDGF and TGFβ. Additional Analysis of publicly available data sets were performed on SMC and fibroblasts treated in the presence or absence of the MYC inhibitor JQ1. Validation of in silico findings were performed with qPCR, immunoblots, and collagen gel contraction assays measure the effect of JQ1 on cytoskeleton associated genes, proteins and contractility in mechanically active cells. Likelihood ratio test and FDR adjusted p-values were used to determine significant differentially expressed genes. Student ttest were used to calculate statistical significance of qPCR and contractility analyses. RESULTS Comparing PDGF and TGFβ stimulated SMC and fibroblasts identified a shared molecular profile regulated by MYC and members of the AP-1 transcription factor complex. Additional in silico analysis revealed a unique set of cytoskeleton-associated genes that were sensitive to MYC inhibition with JQ1. In vitro validation demonstrated JQ1 was also able to attenuate TGFβ and PDGF induced changes to the cytoskeleton and contraction of smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts in vitro. CONCLUSIONS These findings identify MYC as a key driver of aberrant cytoskeletal and contractile changes in fibroblasts and SMC, and suggest that JQ1 could be used to restore normal contractile function in hollow organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Bigger-Allen
- Urological Diseases Research Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Enders Bldg 1061.4, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Biological & Biomedical Sciences Program, Division of Medical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ali Hashemi Gheinani
- Urological Diseases Research Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Enders Bldg 1061.4, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Functional Urology Research Group, Department for BioMedical Research DBMR, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Urology, Inselspital University Hospital, 3010, Bern, Switzerland
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Rosalyn M Adam
- Urological Diseases Research Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Enders Bldg 1061.4, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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11
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Yoo D, Horacek M, Chae MK, Kim JY, Bu P, Yoon JS. The Effect of Rho Kinase Inhibitors on In Vitro Human Orbital Preadipocytes. Ophthalmic Plast Reconstr Surg 2024; 40:181-186. [PMID: 37995134 DOI: 10.1097/iop.0000000000002523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify the effects of Rho Kinase (ROCK) inhibitor medications on human orbital adipogenesis, fibroblast proliferation, and fibrosis. METHODS Orbital adipose tissue was obtained from patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) as well as controls (non-GO or normal) after informed consent was done. These tissue samples were cultured and adipogenesis was initiated. Levels of Rho Kinase as well as cellular mediators of orbital inflammation and fibrosis. The same cultures and measurements were then repeated with the use of a ROCK inhibitor (KD025-ROCK2) to assess for changes in adipogenesis as well as markers associated with inflammation and fibrosis. RESULTS Rho Kinase levels in GO tissue were more highly expressed than in controls. These levels were suppressed with the use of the ROCK inhibitor KD025. There was a dose-dependent reduction in differentiation of orbital adipocytes with the use of KD025. KD025 reduced the levels of fibrosis-related gene expression. Finally, there was a significant reduction of transforming growth factor beta mediated phosphorylation signaling pathways in the KD025-treated GO tissue. CONCLUSION This study shows that the ROCK inhibitor, KD025, helps to reduce the expression of ROCK in GO tissue along with reducing orbital adipocyte differentiation as well as cell mediators involved in fibrosis that occurs in GO.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Yoo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Meredith Horacek
- Department of Ophthalmology, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Min Kyung Chae
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Vision Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ji Young Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Vision Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ping Bu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Illinois, U.S.A
| | - Jin Sook Yoon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Vision Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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12
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Leask A, Fadl A, Naik A. A modest proposal: targeting αv integrin-mediated activation of latent TGFbeta as a novel therapeutic approach to treat scleroderma fibrosis. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2024; 33:279-285. [PMID: 38393748 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2024.2323528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The potent profibrotic cytokine transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) has been associated with the onset and progression of the fibrosis seen in the autoimmune connective tissue disease scleroderma (systemic sclerosis, SSc). AREA COVERED This review explores the data supporting the notion that TGF-β contributes to SSc fibrosis and examines why initiating clinical trials in SSc aimed at targeting integrin-mediated latent TGF-β activation is timely. EXPERT OPINION Targeting TGF-β directly has not been proven to be clinically effective in this disease. Conversely, targeting matrix stiffness, which perpetuates fibrosis, may have more promise. Intriguingly, targeting integrin-mediated activation of latent TGF-β, which bridges these concepts, may have therapeutic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Leask
- College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Asmaa Fadl
- College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Angha Naik
- College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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13
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Ahuja S, Zaheer S. Multifaceted TGF-β signaling, a master regulator: From bench-to-bedside, intricacies, and complexities. Cell Biol Int 2024; 48:87-127. [PMID: 37859532 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12097] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Physiological embryogenesis and adult tissue homeostasis are regulated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), an evolutionarily conserved family of secreted polypeptide factors, acting in an autocrine and paracrine manner. The role of TGF-β in inflammation, fibrosis, and cancer is complex and sometimes even contradictory, exhibiting either inhibitory or promoting effects depending on the stage of the disease. Under pathological conditions, especially fibrosis and cancer, overexpressed TGF-β causes extracellular matrix deposition, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer-associated fibroblast formation, and/or angiogenesis. In this review article, we have tried to dive deep into the mechanism of action of TGF-β in inflammation, fibrosis, and carcinogenesis. As TGF-β and its downstream signaling mechanism are implicated in fibrosis and carcinogenesis blocking this signaling mechanism appears to be a promising avenue. However, targeting TGF-β carries substantial risk as this pathway is implicated in multiple homeostatic processes and is also known to have tumor-suppressor functions. There is a need for careful dosing of TGF-β drugs for therapeutic use and patient selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Ahuja
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Sufian Zaheer
- Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
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14
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Stocks M, Walter AS, Akova E, Gauglitz G, Aszodi A, Boecker W, Saller MM, Volkmer E. RNA-seq unravels distinct expression profiles of keloids and Dupuytren's disease. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23681. [PMID: 38187218 PMCID: PMC10770622 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Keloid scars and Dupuytren's disease are two common, chronic, and incurable fibroproliferative disorders that, among other shared clinical features, may induce joint contractures. We employed bulk RNA sequencing to discern potential shared gene expression patterns and underlying pathological pathways between these two conditions. Our aim was to uncover potential molecular targets that could pave the way for novel therapeutic strategies. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were functionally annotated using Gene Ontology (GO) terms and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways with the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID). The protein-protein-interaction (PPI) networks were constructed by using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) and Cytoscape. The Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) plugin was used for downstream analysis of the PPI networks. A total of 1922 DEGs were identified within Dupuytren's and keloid samples, yet no overlapping gene expression profiles were detected. Significantly enriched GO terms were related to skin development and tendon formation in keloid scars and Dupuytren's disease, respectively. The PPI network analysis revealed 10 genes and the module analysis provided six protein networks, which might play an integral part in disease development. These genes, including CDH1, ERBB2, CASP3 and RPS27A, may serve as new targets for future research to develop biomarkers and/or therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Stocks
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximillians-University (LMU), Frauenhoferstr. 12, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Annika S. Walter
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximillians-University (LMU), Frauenhoferstr. 12, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Elif Akova
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximillians-University (LMU), Frauenhoferstr. 12, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Gerd Gauglitz
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Hospital, LMU, Thalkirchnerstr. 48, 80337 Munich, Germany
| | - Attila Aszodi
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximillians-University (LMU), Frauenhoferstr. 12, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Boecker
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximillians-University (LMU), Frauenhoferstr. 12, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Maximilian M. Saller
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximillians-University (LMU), Frauenhoferstr. 12, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Elias Volkmer
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximillians-University (LMU), Frauenhoferstr. 12, 80336 Munich, Germany
- Clinic of Hand Surgery, Helios Klinikum Muenchen West, Steinerweg 5, 81241 Munich, Germany
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15
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Cappelletto A, Alfì E, Volf N, Vu TVA, Bortolotti F, Ciucci G, Vodret S, Fantuz M, Perin M, Colliva A, Rozzi G, Rossi M, Ruozi G, Zentilin L, Vuerich R, Borin D, Lapasin R, Piazza S, Chiesa M, Lorizio D, Triboli L, Kumar S, Morello G, Tripodo C, Pinamonti M, Piperno GM, Benvenuti F, Rustighi A, Jo H, Piccolo S, Del Sal G, Carrer A, Giacca M, Zacchigna S. EMID2 is a novel biotherapeutic for aggressive cancers identified by in vivo screening. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:15. [PMID: 38195652 PMCID: PMC10777502 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02942-4] [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: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND New drugs to tackle the next pathway or mutation fueling cancer are constantly proposed, but 97% of them are doomed to fail in clinical trials, largely because they are identified by cellular or in silico screens that cannot predict their in vivo effect. METHODS We screened an Adeno-Associated Vector secretome library (> 1000 clones) directly in vivo in a mouse model of cancer and validated the therapeutic effect of the first hit, EMID2, in both orthotopic and genetic models of lung and pancreatic cancer. RESULTS EMID2 overexpression inhibited both tumor growth and metastatic dissemination, consistent with prolonged survival of patients with high levels of EMID2 expression in the most aggressive human cancers. Mechanistically, EMID2 inhibited TGFβ maturation and activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts, resulting in more elastic ECM and reduced levels of YAP in the nuclei of cancer cells. CONCLUSION This is the first in vivo screening, precisely designed to identify proteins able to interfere with cancer cell invasiveness. EMID2 was selected as the most potent protein, in line with the emerging relevance of the tumor extracellular matrix in controlling cancer cell invasiveness and dissemination, which kills most of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambra Cappelletto
- Cardiovascular Biology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Edoardo Alfì
- Cardiovascular Biology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Nina Volf
- Cardiovascular Biology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Thi Van Anh Vu
- Cardiovascular Biology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Francesca Bortolotti
- Molecular Medicine, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Giulio Ciucci
- Cardiovascular Biology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Simone Vodret
- Cardiovascular Biology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Fantuz
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
- University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Martina Perin
- Cardiovascular Biology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Andrea Colliva
- Cardiovascular Biology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Giacomo Rozzi
- Cardiovascular Biology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Matilde Rossi
- Cardiovascular Biology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Giulia Ruozi
- Molecular Medicine, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Lorena Zentilin
- Molecular Medicine, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Roman Vuerich
- Cardiovascular Biology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Daniele Borin
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Romano Lapasin
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Silvano Piazza
- Bioinformatics, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
- Bioinformatics Facility, Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | | | | | - Luca Triboli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Cancer Cell Signaling, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Sandeep Kumar
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gaia Morello
- Tumor Immunology Unit, Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care "G. D'Alessandro", University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Claudio Tripodo
- Tumor Immunology Unit, Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care "G. D'Alessandro", University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- Histopathology Unit, Institute of Molecular Oncology Foundation (IFOM), ETS - The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Maurizio Pinamonti
- Pathology Department Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano-Isontina and University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giulia Maria Piperno
- Cellular Immunology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Federica Benvenuti
- Cellular Immunology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessandra Rustighi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Cancer Cell Signaling, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Hanjoong Jo
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Giannino Del Sal
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Cancer Cell Signaling, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
- IFOM ETS, The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Carrer
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
- University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Mauro Giacca
- Molecular Medicine, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
- King's College London, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, London, UK
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Serena Zacchigna
- Cardiovascular Biology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy.
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy.
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16
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Mutsaers SE, Krymskaya VP. Pleural Fibrosis: Now That's What mTORC(ing) About. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2024; 70:8-10. [PMID: 37788451 PMCID: PMC10768835 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2023-0327ed] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Steven E Mutsaers
- Institute for Respiratory Health and School of Biomedical Sciences The University of Western Australia Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Vera P Krymskaya
- Department of Medicine, Lung Biology Institute Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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17
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Maus M, López-Polo V, Mateo L, Lafarga M, Aguilera M, De Lama E, Meyer K, Sola A, Lopez-Martinez C, López-Alonso I, Guasch-Piqueras M, Hernandez-Gonzalez F, Chaib S, Rovira M, Sanchez M, Faner R, Agusti A, Diéguez-Hurtado R, Ortega S, Manonelles A, Engelhardt S, Monteiro F, Stephan-Otto Attolini C, Prats N, Albaiceta G, Cruzado JM, Serrano M. Iron accumulation drives fibrosis, senescence and the senescence-associated secretory phenotype. Nat Metab 2023; 5:2111-2130. [PMID: 38097808 PMCID: PMC10730403 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-023-00928-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Fibrogenesis is part of a normal protective response to tissue injury that can become irreversible and progressive, leading to fatal diseases. Senescent cells are a main driver of fibrotic diseases through their secretome, known as senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Here, we report that cellular senescence, and multiple types of fibrotic diseases in mice and humans are characterized by the accumulation of iron. We show that vascular and hemolytic injuries are efficient in triggering iron accumulation, which in turn can cause senescence and promote fibrosis. Notably, we find that senescent cells persistently accumulate iron, even when the surge of extracellular iron has subdued. Indeed, under normal conditions of extracellular iron, cells exposed to different types of senescence-inducing insults accumulate abundant ferritin-bound iron, mostly within lysosomes, and present high levels of labile iron, which fuels the generation of reactive oxygen species and the SASP. Finally, we demonstrate that detection of iron by magnetic resonance imaging might allow non-invasive assessment of fibrotic burden in the kidneys of mice and in patients with renal fibrosis. Our findings suggest that iron accumulation plays a central role in senescence and fibrosis, even when the initiating events may be independent of iron, and identify iron metabolism as a potential therapeutic target for senescence-associated diseases.
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Grants
- SAF2017-82613-R "la Caixa" Foundation (Caixa Foundation)
- of M. Serrano was funded by the IRB and “laCaixa” Foundation, and by grants from the Spanish Ministry of Science co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) (SAF2017-82613-R), European Research Council (ERC-2014-AdG/669622), and grant RETOS COLABORACION RTC2019-007125-1 from MCIN/AEI, and Secretaria d'Universitats i Recerca del Departament d'Empresa i Coneixement of Catalonia (Grup de Recerca consolidat 2017 SGR 282)
- M.M. received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie grant agreement (No 794744) and from the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (MCIN) (RYC2020-030652-I /AEI /10.13039/501100011033)
- V.L.P. was recipient of a predoctoral contract from Spanish Ministry of Education (FPU-18/05917).
- K.M. was recipient of fellowships from the German Cardiac, the German Research Foundation, and a postdoctoral contract Juan de la Cierva from the MCIN.
- F.H.G. was supported by the PhD4MD Collaborative Research Training Programme for Medical Doctors (IRB Barcelona/Hospital Clinic/IDIBAPS).
- M. Sanchez was funded by grants PID2021-122436OB-I00 from MCIN/ AEI /10.13039/501100011033 / FEDER, UE, and RETOS COLABORACION RTC2019-007074-1 from MCIN/AEI /10.13039/501100011033.
- G.A. was funded by Instituto de Salud Carlos III through project PI 20/01360, FEDER funds.
- J.M.C was funded by Instituto de Salud Carlos III through projects PI18/00910 and PI21/00931 (Co-funded by European Regional Development Fund. ERDF, a way to build Europe), and thanks CERCA Programme / Generalitat de Catalunya for institutional support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mate Maus
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain.
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Vanessa López-Polo
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lidia Mateo
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel Lafarga
- Departamento de Anatomía y Biología Celular, Universidad de Cantabria-IDIVAL, Santander, Spain
| | - Mònica Aguilera
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eugenia De Lama
- Radiology Department, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Kathleen Meyer
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- Altos Labs, Cambridge Institute of Science, Cambridge, UK
| | - Anna Sola
- Nephrology and Renal Transplantation Research Group. Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cecilia Lopez-Martinez
- Departamento de Biología Funcional, Instituto Universitario de Oncología del principado de Asturias, Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
- Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Cardiológicos. Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
- CIBER-Enfermedades Respiratorias, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ines López-Alonso
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Universidad de Oviedo, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | | | - Fernanda Hernandez-Gonzalez
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Respiratory Institute, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Selim Chaib
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel Rovira
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mayka Sanchez
- Iron Metabolism: Regulation and Diseases Group, Department of Basic Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (UIC), Sant Cugat del Vallès, Spain
| | - Rosa Faner
- Biomedicine Department, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBERES, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alvar Agusti
- Universitat de Barcelona, Institut Respiratori, Hospital Clinic, IDIBAPS, CIBERES, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rodrigo Diéguez-Hurtado
- Deparment of Tissue Morphogenesis, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Sagrario Ortega
- Transgenics Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Anna Manonelles
- Nephrology and Renal Transplantation Research Group. Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Nephrology Department, Bellvitge University Hospital, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Barcelona, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Stefan Engelhardt
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Freddy Monteiro
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Camille Stephan-Otto Attolini
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Neus Prats
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Guillermo Albaiceta
- Departamento de Biología Funcional, Instituto Universitario de Oncología del principado de Asturias, Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
- Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Cardiológicos. Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
- CIBER-Enfermedades Respiratorias, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Josep M Cruzado
- Nephrology and Renal Transplantation Research Group. Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Nephrology Department, Bellvitge University Hospital, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Barcelona, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Serrano
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain.
- Altos Labs, Cambridge Institute of Science, Cambridge, UK.
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain.
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18
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Bigger-Allen A, Gheinani AH, Adam RM. Investigation of the impact of bromodomain inhibition on cytoskeleton stability and contraction. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.14.567076. [PMID: 38014184 PMCID: PMC10680757 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.14.567076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Injury to contractile organs such as the heart, vasculature, urinary bladder and gut can stimulate a pathological response that results in loss of normal contractility. PDGF and TGFβ are among the most well studied initiators of the injury response and have been shown to induce aberrant contraction in mechanically active cells of hollow organs including smooth muscle cells (SMC) and fibroblasts. However the mechanisms driving contractile alterations downstream of PDGF and TGFβ in SMC and fibroblasts are incompletely understood, limiting therapeutic interventions. To identify potential molecular targets, we have leveraged the analysis of publicly available data, comparing transcriptomic changes in mechanically active cells stimulated with PDGF and TGFβ and identified a shared molecular profile regulated by MYC and members of the AP-1 transcription factor complex. We also analyzed data sets from SMC and fibroblasts treated in the presence or absence of the MYC inhibitor JQ1. This analysis revealed a unique set of cytoskeleton-associated genes that were sensitive to MYC inhibition. JQ1 was also able to attenuate TGFβ and PDGF induced changes to the cytoskeleton and contraction of smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts in vitro. These findings identify MYC as a key driver of aberrant cytoskeletal and contractile changes in fibroblasts and SMC, and suggest that JQ1 could be used to restore normal contractile function in hollow organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Bigger-Allen
- Urological Diseases Research Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Biological & Biomedical Sciences Program, Division of Medical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ali Hashemi Gheinani
- Urological Diseases Research Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Functional Urology Research Group, Department for BioMedical Research DBMR, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Rosalyn M. Adam
- Urological Diseases Research Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
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19
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Eftimie R, Rolin G, Adebayo OE, Urcun S, Chouly F, Bordas SPA. Modelling Keloids Dynamics: A Brief Review and New Mathematical Perspectives. Bull Math Biol 2023; 85:117. [PMID: 37855947 DOI: 10.1007/s11538-023-01222-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Keloids are fibroproliferative disorders described by excessive growth of fibrotic tissue, which also invades adjacent areas (beyond the original wound borders). Since these disorders are specific to humans (no other animal species naturally develop keloid-like tissue), experimental in vivo/in vitro research has not led to significant advances in this field. One possible approach could be to combine in vitro human models with calibrated in silico mathematical approaches (i.e., models and simulations) to generate new testable biological hypotheses related to biological mechanisms and improved treatments. Because these combined approaches do not really exist for keloid disorders, in this brief review we start by summarising the biology of these disorders, then present various types of mathematical and computational approaches used for related disorders (i.e., wound healing and solid tumours), followed by a discussion of the very few mathematical and computational models published so far to study various inflammatory and mechanical aspects of keloids. We conclude this review by discussing some open problems and mathematical opportunities offered in the context of keloid disorders by such combined in vitro/in silico approaches, and the need for multi-disciplinary research to enable clinical progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Eftimie
- Laboratoire de Mathématiques de Besançon, Université de Franche-Comté, 25000, Besançon, France.
| | - G Rolin
- INSERM CIC-1431, CHU Besançon, F-25000, Besançon, France
- EFS, INSERM, UMR 1098 RIGHT, Université de Franche-Comté, F-25000, Besançon, France
| | - O E Adebayo
- Laboratoire de Mathématiques de Besançon, Université de Franche-Comté, 25000, Besançon, France
| | - S Urcun
- Institute for Computational Engineering, Faculty of Science, Technology and Communication, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - F Chouly
- Institut de Mathématiques de Bourgogne, Université de Franche-Comté, 21078, Dijon, France
- Center for Mathematical Modelling and Department of Mathematical Engineering, University of Chile and IRL 2807 - CNRS, Santiago, Chile
- Departamento de Ingeniería Matemática, CI2MA, Universidad de Concepción, Casilla 160-C, Concepción, Chile
| | - S P A Bordas
- Institute for Computational Engineering, Faculty of Science, Technology and Communication, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
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20
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Zhang M, Chen H, Qian H, Wang C. Characterization of the skin keloid microenvironment. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:207. [PMID: 37587491 PMCID: PMC10428592 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01214-0] [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: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Keloids are a fibroproliferative skin disorder that develops in people of all ages. Keloids exhibit some cancer-like behaviors, with similar genetic and epigenetic modifications in the keloid microenvironment. The keloid microenvironment is composed of keratinocytes, fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, vascular endothelial cells, immune cells, stem cells and collagen fibers. Recent advances in the study of keloids have led to novel insights into cellular communication among components of the keloid microenvironment as well as potential therapeutic targets for treating keloids. In this review, we summarized the nature of genetic and epigenetic regulation in keloid-derived fibroblasts, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition of keratinocytes, immune cell infiltration into keloids, the differentiation of keloid-derived stem cells, endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition of vascular endothelial cells, extracellular matrix synthesis and remodeling, and uncontrolled angiogenesis in keloids with the aim of identifying new targets for therapeutic benefit. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengwen Zhang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Hailong Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Huan Qian
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Chen Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
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21
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Main EN, Cruz TM, Bowlin GL. Mitochondria as a therapeutic: a potential new frontier in driving the shift from tissue repair to regeneration. Regen Biomater 2023; 10:rbad070. [PMID: 37663015 PMCID: PMC10468651 DOI: 10.1093/rb/rbad070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis, or scar tissue development, is associated with numerous pathologies and is often considered a worst-case scenario in terms of wound healing or the implantation of a biomaterial. All that remains is a disorganized, densely packed and poorly vascularized bundle of connective tissue, which was once functional tissue. This creates a significant obstacle to the restoration of tissue function or integration with any biomaterial. Therefore, it is of paramount importance in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine to emphasize regeneration, the successful recovery of native tissue function, as opposed to repair, the replacement of the native tissue (often with scar tissue). A technique dubbed 'mitochondrial transplantation' is a burgeoning field of research that shows promise in in vitro, in vivo and various clinical applications in preventing cell death, reducing inflammation, restoring cell metabolism and proper oxidative balance, among other reported benefits. However, there is currently a lack of research regarding the potential for mitochondrial therapies within tissue engineering and regenerative biomaterials. Thus, this review explores these promising findings and outlines the potential for mitochondrial transplantation-based therapies as a new frontier of scientific research with respect to driving regeneration in wound healing and host-biomaterial interactions, the current successes of mitochondrial transplantation that warrant this potential and the critical questions and remaining obstacles that remain in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan N Main
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Memphis, 330 Engineering Technology Building, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
| | - Thaiz M Cruz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Memphis, 330 Engineering Technology Building, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
| | - Gary L Bowlin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Memphis, 330 Engineering Technology Building, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
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22
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Muraoka A, Suzuki M, Hamaguchi T, Watanabe S, Iijima K, Murofushi Y, Shinjo K, Osuka S, Hariyama Y, Ito M, Ohno K, Kiyono T, Kyo S, Iwase A, Kikkawa F, Kajiyama H, Kondo Y. Fusobacterium infection facilitates the development of endometriosis through the phenotypic transition of endometrial fibroblasts. Sci Transl Med 2023; 15:eadd1531. [PMID: 37315109 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.add1531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Retrograde menstruation is a widely accepted cause of endometriosis. However, not all women who experience retrograde menstruation develop endometriosis, and the mechanisms underlying these observations are not yet understood. Here, we demonstrated a pathogenic role of Fusobacterium in the formation of ovarian endometriosis. In a cohort of women, 64% of patients with endometriosis but <10% of controls were found to have Fusobacterium infiltration in the endometrium. Immunohistochemical and biochemical analyses revealed that activated transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling resulting from Fusobacterium infection of endometrial cells led to the transition from quiescent fibroblasts to transgelin (TAGLN)-positive myofibroblasts, which gained the ability to proliferate, adhere, and migrate in vitro. Fusobacterium inoculation in a syngeneic mouse model of endometriosis resulted in a marked increase in TAGLN-positive myofibroblasts and increased number and weight of endometriotic lesions. Furthermore, antibiotic treatment largely prevented establishment of endometriosis and reduced the number and weight of established endometriotic lesions in the mouse model. Our data support a mechanism for the pathogenesis of endometriosis via Fusobacterium infection and suggest that eradication of this bacterium could be an approach to treat endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayako Muraoka
- Division of Cancer Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Miho Suzuki
- Division of Cancer Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Tomonari Hamaguchi
- Division of Neurogenetics, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Shinya Watanabe
- Division of Cancer Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Kenta Iijima
- Division of Cancer Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yoshiteru Murofushi
- Division of Cancer Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Keiko Shinjo
- Division of Cancer Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Satoko Osuka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yumi Hariyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Toyota Kosei Hospital, 500-1, Ihohara, Zyosui-cho, Toyota 470-0396, Japan
| | - Mikako Ito
- Division of Neurogenetics, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Kinji Ohno
- Division of Neurogenetics, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Tohru Kiyono
- Project for Prevention of HPV-related Cancer, Exploratory Oncology Research and Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Kashiwanoha 6-5-1, Kashiwa 277-8577, Japan
| | - Satoru Kyo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shimane University Faculty of Medicine, 89-1 Enya-Cho, Izumo 693-8501, Japan
| | - Akira Iwase
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-22 Showa-machi, Maebashi 371-8511, Japan
| | - Fumitaka Kikkawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kajiyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kondo
- Division of Cancer Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
- Institute for Glyco-core Research (iGCORE), Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
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23
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Zhou X, Ye H, Wang X, Sun J, Tu J, Lv J. Ursolic acid inhibits human dermal fibroblasts hyperproliferation, migration, and collagen deposition induced by TGF-β via regulating the Smad2/3 pathway. Gene 2023; 867:147367. [PMID: 36931410 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Hypertrophic scar (HS) is a skin condition characterized by excessive fibrosis with disordered collagens from skin fibroblasts, which causes abnormal esthetic and even functional symptoms, thereby affecting millions of people. Ursolic acid (UA) is widely used in skincare and exerts anti-fibrotic effects. The present study aimed to delve into the impact of UA on HS and the mechanism. Fibroblasts (FBs) were incubated with TGF-β to investigate physiological characteristics compared with FBs isolated from normal skin (NSFBs) and hyperplastic scars (HSFBs). TGF-β-incubated FBs were subjected to treatment with UA (0-20 μM). The expressions of Vimentin, α-SMA, Collagen I, and Collagen III were examined using immunofluorescence, RT-qPCR, and western blot. Cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and contractility were examined by CCK-8, EdU, Annexin V-FITC/PI, Transwell, and collagen gel contraction assays, respectively. The activation of Smad2/3 signaling was also determined by western blot. The binding sites for UA of TGF-βR1 (ALK5) were predicted by the Autodock tool. Compared with NSFBs, the cell proliferation, migration, and contractility of both HSFBs and TGF-β-incubated FBs were all significantly up-regulated. UA markedly impaired the TGF-β-induced increase in cell proliferation, migration, and contractility, α-SMA, collagen I, and Collagen III expression of FBs. UA significantly inhibited the phosphorylation levels of Smad2/3 in TGF-β-incubated FBs with no influence on TGF-βR1 and TGF-βR2 expressions, which might be because of the binding of UA to the catalytic domain of ALK5 protein. UA attenuated TGF-β1-induced hyperproliferation, migration, and collagen deposition in FBs via regulating the Smad2/3 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoliang Zhou
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Hua Ye
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Xianlin Wang
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Junfeng Sun
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Jiajin Tu
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Jing Lv
- Department of Rheumatic and Immunity, Ganzhou People's Hospital, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China.
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24
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Alavifard H, Mazhari S, Meyfour A, Tokhanbigli S, Ghavami S, Zali MR, Aghdaei HA, Hatami B, Baghaei K. Imatinib suppresses activation of hepatic stellate cells by targeting STAT3/IL-6 pathway through miR-124. Cell Biol Int 2023; 47:969-980. [PMID: 36655489 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The activation of hepatic stellate cells is the primary function of facilitating liver fibrosis. Interfering with the coordinators of different signaling pathways in activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) could be a potential approach in ameliorating liver fibrosis. Regarding the illustrated anti-fibrotic effect of imatinib in liver fibrosis, we investigated the imatinib's potential role in inhibiting HSC activation through miR-124 and its interference with the STAT3/hepatic leukemia factor (HLF)/IL-6 circuit. The anti-fibrotic effect of imatinib was investigated in the LX-2 cell line and carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 )-induced Sprague-Dawley rat. The expression of IL-6, STAT3, HLF, miR-124, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were quantified by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and the protein level of α-SMA and STAT3 was measured by western blot analysis both in vitro and in vivo. The LX-2 cells were subjected to immunocytochemistry (ICC) for α-SMA expression. After administering imatinib in the liver fibrosis model, histopathological examinations were done, and hepatic function serum markers were checked. Imatinib administration alleviated mentioned liver fibrosis markers. The expression of miR-124 was downregulated, while IL-6/HLF/STAT3 circuit agents were upregulated in vitro and in vivo. Notably, imatinib intervention decreased the expression of IL-6, STAT3, and HLF. Elevated expression of miR-124 suppressed the expression of STAT3 and further inhibited HSCs activation. Our results demonstrated that imatinib not only ameliorated hepatic fibrosis through tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) activity but also interfered with the miR-124 and STAT3/HLF/IL-6 pathway. Considering the important role of miR-124 in regulating liver fibrosis and HSCs activation, imatinib may exert its anti-fibrotic activity through miR-124.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helia Alavifard
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Research Center for Liver Disease, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sogol Mazhari
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Anna Meyfour
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samaneh Tokhanbigli
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeid Ghavami
- Research Institute in Oncology and Hematology, Cancer Care Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.,Autophagy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Faculty of Medicine, Katowice School of Technology, Katowice, Poland
| | - Mohammad Reza Zali
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Asadzadeh Aghdaei
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behzad Hatami
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kaveh Baghaei
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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25
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Zhang Q, Wang C, Li R, Liu J, Wang J, Wang T, Wang B. The BAP31/miR-181a-5p/RECK axis promotes angiogenesis in colorectal cancer via fibroblast activation. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1056903. [PMID: 36895489 PMCID: PMC9989165 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1056903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background B-cell receptor-associated protein 31 (BAP31) has been recognized as a tumor-associated protein and has largely been shown to promote metastasis in a variety of cancers. Cancer metastasis arises through multistep pathways, and the induction of angiogenesis is shown to be a rate-limiting step in the process of tumor metastasis. Methods and results This study explored the effect of BAP31 on colorectal cancer (CRC) angiogenesis by regulating the tumor microenvironment. First, exosomes from BAP31-regulated CRCs affected the transition of normal fibroblasts to proangiogenic cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in vivo and in vitro. Next, microRNA sequencing was performed to analyze the microRNA expression profile of exosomes secreted from BAP31- overexpressing CRCs. The results indicated that the expression of BAP31 in CRCs significantly altered the levels of exosomal microRNAs, such as miR-181a- 5p. Meanwhile, an in vitro tube formation assay showed that fibroblasts with high levels of miR-181a-5p significantly promoted endothelial cell angiogenesis. Critically, we first identified that miR-181a-5p directly targeted the 3'-untranslated region (3'UTR) of reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with kazal motifs (RECK) using the dual-luciferase activity assay, which drove fibroblast transformation into proangiogenic CAFs by upregulating matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and phosphorylation of mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2/Mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 3 (Smad2/3). Conclusion Exosomes from BAP31-overexpressing/BAP31-knockdown CRCs are found to manipulate the transition of fibroblasts into proangiogenic CAFs by the miR-181a-5p/RECK axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- College of Life Science and Health, Northeastern University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Changli Wang
- College of Life Science and Health, Northeastern University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Ruijia Li
- College of Life Science and Health, Northeastern University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Jingjing Liu
- College of Life Science and Health, Northeastern University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Jiyu Wang
- College of Life Science and Health, Northeastern University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Tianyi Wang
- College of Life Science and Health, Northeastern University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Bing Wang
- College of Life Science and Health, Northeastern University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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26
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Tie Y, Tang F, Peng D, Zhang Y, Shi H. TGF-beta signal transduction: biology, function and therapy for diseases. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2022; 3:45. [PMID: 36534225 PMCID: PMC9761655 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-022-00109-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) is a crucial cytokine that get increasing concern in recent years to treat human diseases. This signal controls multiple cellular responses during embryonic development and tissue homeostasis through canonical and/or noncanonical signaling pathways. Dysregulated TGF-β signal plays an essential role in contributing to fibrosis via promoting the extracellular matrix deposition, and tumor progression via inducing the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, immunosuppression, and neovascularization at the advanced stage of cancer. Besides, the dysregulation of TGF-beta signal also involves in other human diseases including anemia, inflammatory disease, wound healing and cardiovascular disease et al. Therefore, this signal is proposed to be a promising therapeutic target in these diseases. Recently, multiple strategies targeting TGF-β signals including neutralizing antibodies, ligand traps, small-molecule receptor kinase inhibitors targeting ligand-receptor signaling pathways, antisense oligonucleotides to disrupt the production of TGF-β at the transcriptional level, and vaccine are under evaluation of safety and efficacy for the forementioned diseases in clinical trials. Here, in this review, we firstly summarized the biology and function of TGF-β in physiological and pathological conditions, elaborated TGF-β associated signal transduction. And then, we analyzed the current advances in preclinical studies and clinical strategies targeting TGF-β signal transduction to treat diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Tie
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guo Xue Xiang, Chengdu, 610041 China
| | - Fan Tang
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guo Xue Xiang, Chengdu, 610041 China ,grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Orthopaedic Research Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dandan Peng
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guo Xue Xiang, Chengdu, 610041 China
| | - Ye Zhang
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839Department of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021 China
| | - Huashan Shi
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guo Xue Xiang, Chengdu, 610041 China
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27
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Zhou Y, Li M, Shen T, Yang T, Shi G, Wei Y, Chen C, Wang D, Wang Y, Zhang T. Celastrol Targets Cullin-Associated and Neddylation-Dissociated 1 to Prevent Fibroblast-Myofibroblast Transformation against Pulmonary Fibrosis. ACS Chem Biol 2022; 17:2734-2743. [PMID: 36076154 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.2c00099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Celastrol (CEL), a pentacyclic triterpene compound, has been proven to have a definite antipulmonary fibrosis effect. However, its direct targets for antipulmonary fibrosis remain unknown. In this study, we designed and synthesized a series of celastrol-based probes to identify the direct targets in human pulmonary fibroblasts using an activity-based protein profiling strategy. Among many fished targets, we identified a key protein, cullin-associated and neddylation-dissociated 1 (CAND1), which was involved in fibroblast-myofibroblast transformation (FMT). More importantly, we found that the inhibitory effect of celastrol on FMT is dependent on CAND1, through improving the interactions between CAND1 and Cullin1 to promote the activity of Skp1/Cullin1/F-box ubiquitin ligases. In silico studies and cysteine mutation experiments further demonstrated that Cys264 of CAND1 is the site for conjugation of celastrol. This reveals a new mechanism of celastrol against pulmonary fibrosis and may provide a novel therapeutic option for antipulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Manru Li
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Tao Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Tianming Yang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Design and Drug Discovery, Tianjin Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Tianjin 300301, China.,State Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Pharmacokinetics, Tianjin Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Tianjin 300301, China
| | - Gaona Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yazi Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Chengjuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Dongmei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yanan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Tiantai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
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Kondo M, Suzuki T, Kawano Y, Kojima S, Miyashiro M, Matsumoto A, Kania G, Błyszczuk P, Ross RL, Mulipa P, Del Galdo F, Zhang Y, Distler JHW. Dersimelagon, a novel oral melanocortin 1 receptor agonist, demonstrates disease-modifying effects in preclinical models of systemic sclerosis. Arthritis Res Ther 2022; 24:210. [PMID: 36050717 PMCID: PMC9434962 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-022-02899-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Activation of melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) is known to exert broad anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential of dersimelagon, a novel oral MC1R agonist, as a therapeutic agent for systemic sclerosis (SSc). Methods The effects of dersimelagon phosphoric acid (MT-7117) on skin fibrosis and lung inflammation were evaluated in bleomycin (BLM)-induced SSc murine models that were optimized for prophylactic and therapeutic evaluation. Microarray-based gene expression analysis and serum protein profiling were performed in the BLM-induced SSc models. The effect of MT-7117 on transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-induced activation of human dermal fibroblasts was evaluated in vitro. Immunohistochemical analyses of MC1R expression in the skin of SSc patients were performed. Results Prophylactic treatment with MT-7117 (≥ 0.3 mg/kg/day p.o.) significantly inhibited skin fibrosis and lung inflammation, and therapeutic treatment with MT-7117 (≥ 3 mg/kg/day p.o.) significantly suppressed the development of skin fibrosis in the BLM-induced SSc models. Gene array analysis demonstrated that MT-7117 exerts an anti-inflammatory effect via suppression of the activation of inflammatory cells and inflammation-related signals; additionally, vascular dysfunction was extracted as the pathology targeted by MT-7117. Serum protein profiling revealed that multiple SSc-related biomarkers including P-selectin, osteoprotegerin, cystatin C, growth and differentiation factor-15, and S100A9 were suppressed by MT-7117. MT-7117 inhibited the activation of human dermal fibroblasts by suppressing TGF-β-induced ACTA2 (encoding α-smooth muscle actin) mRNA elevation. MC1R was expressed by monocytes/macrophages, neutrophils, blood vessels (endothelial cells), fibroblasts, and epidermis (keratinocytes) in the skin of SSc patients, suggesting that these MC1R-positive cells could be targets for MT-7117. Conclusions MT-7117 demonstrates disease-modifying effects in preclinical models of SSc. Investigations of its mechanism of action and target expression analyses indicate that MT-7117 exerts its positive effect by affecting inflammation, vascular dysfunction, and fibrosis, which are all key pathologies of SSc. The results of the present study suggest that MT-7117 is a potential therapeutic agent for SSc. A phase 2 clinical trial investigating the efficacy and tolerability of MT-7117 in patients with early, progressive diffuse cutaneous SSc is currently in progress. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13075-022-02899-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Kondo
- Sohyaku. Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000 Kamoshida-cho, Aoba-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 227-0033, Japan.
| | - Tsuyoshi Suzuki
- Sohyaku. Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000 Kamoshida-cho, Aoba-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 227-0033, Japan
| | - Yuko Kawano
- Sohyaku. Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000 Kamoshida-cho, Aoba-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 227-0033, Japan
| | - Shinji Kojima
- Sohyaku. Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000 Kamoshida-cho, Aoba-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 227-0033, Japan
| | - Masahiko Miyashiro
- Sohyaku. Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000 Kamoshida-cho, Aoba-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 227-0033, Japan
| | - Atsuhiro Matsumoto
- Sohyaku. Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000 Kamoshida-cho, Aoba-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 227-0033, Japan
| | - Gabriela Kania
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistr. 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Przemysław Błyszczuk
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistr. 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Rebecca L Ross
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK.,NIHR Leeds Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Centre, Leeds, UK
| | - Panji Mulipa
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK.,NIHR Leeds Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Centre, Leeds, UK
| | - Francesco Del Galdo
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK.,NIHR Leeds Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Centre, Leeds, UK
| | - Yun Zhang
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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Puerta Cavanzo N, Riesmeijer SA, Holt-Kedde IL, Werker PMN, Piersma B, Olinga P, Bank RA. Verteporfin ameliorates fibrotic aspects of Dupuytren's disease nodular fibroblasts irrespective the activation state of the cells. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13940. [PMID: 35977978 PMCID: PMC9386017 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18116-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Dupuytren’s disease is a chronic, progressive fibroproliferative condition of the hand fascia which results in digital contraction. So far, treatments do not directly interfere with the (myo)fibroblasts that are responsible for the formation of the collagen-rich cords and its contraction. Here we investigated whether verteporfin (VP) is able to inhibit the activation and subsequent differentiation of DD nodular fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. Fibroblasts were isolated from nodules of 7 Dupuytren patients. Cells are treated (1) for 48 h with 5 ng/ml transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) followed by 48 h with/without 250 nM VP in the absence of TGF-β1, or treated (2) for 48 h with TGF-β1 followed by 48 h with/without VP in the presence of TGF-β1. mRNA levels were measured by means of Real-Time PCR, and proteins were visualized by means of Western blotting and/or immunofluorescence. Quantitative data were statistically analyzed with GraphPad Prism using the paired t-test. We found that fibroblasts activated for 48 h with TGF-β1 show a decrease in mRNA levels of COL1A1, COL3A1, COL4A1, PLOD2, FN1EDA, CCN2 and SERPINE1 when exposed for another 48 h with VP, whereas no decrease is seen for ACTA2, YAP1, SMAD2 and SMAD3 mRNA levels. Cells exposed for an additional 48 h with TGF-β1, but now in the presence of VP, are not further activated anymore, whereas in the absence of VP the cells continue to differentiate into myofibroblasts. Collagen type I, fibronectin-extra domain A, α-smooth muscle actin, YAP1, Smad2 and Smad3 protein levels were attenuated by both VP treatments. We conclude that VP has strong anti-fibrotic properties: it is able to halt the differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, and is also able to reverse the activation status of fibroblasts. The decreased protein levels of YAP1, Smad2 and Smad3 in the presence of VP explain in part the strong anti-fibrotic properties of VP. Verteporfin is clinically used as a photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy to eliminate abnormal blood vessels in the eye to attenuate macular degeneration. The antifibrotic properties of VP do not rely on photo-activation, as we used the molecule in its non-photoinduced state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataly Puerta Cavanzo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands.,MATRIX Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sophie A Riesmeijer
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Iris L Holt-Kedde
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul M N Werker
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bram Piersma
- MATRIX Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Olinga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ruud A Bank
- MATRIX Research Group, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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30
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Huang X, Lin X, Wang L, Xie Y, Que Y, Li S, Hu P, Tong X. Substitution of SERCA2 Cys 674 aggravates cardiac fibrosis by promoting the transformation of cardiac fibroblasts to cardiac myofibroblasts. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 203:115164. [PMID: 35809651 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase 2 (SERCA2) is vital to maintain intracellular calcium homeostasis, and its redox Cys674 (C674) is the key to regulating activity. Our goal was to investigate whether the redox state of SERCA2 C674 is critical for cardiac fibrosis and the mechanisms involved. Heterozygous SERCA2 C674S knock-in (SKI) mice, in which half of C674 was substituted by serine, were used to mimic the partial loss of the reactive C674 thiol in pathological conditions. In cardiac fibroblasts, the substitution of C674 thiol increased Ca2+ levels in cytoplasm and mitochondria, and intracellular ROS levels, and activated calcineurin/nuclear factor of activated T-lymphocytes (NFAT) pathway, increased the protein expression of profibrotic factors TGF beta 1 (TGF-β1), alpha smooth muscle actin, collagen I and collagen III, and promoted the transformation of cardiac fibroblasts to cardiac myofibroblasts, which could be reversed by calcineurin/NFAT inhibitor, SERCA2 agonist, or ROS scavenger. Activation of SERCA2 or scavenging ROS is beneficial to alleviate cardiac fibrosis caused by the substitution of C674. In conclusion, the partial loss of the reactive C674 thiol in the SERCA2 exacerbates cardiac fibrosis by activating the calcineurin/NFAT/TGF-β1 pathway to promote the transformation of cardiac fibroblasts to cardiac myofibroblasts, which highlights the importance of C674 redox state in maintaining the homeostasis of cardiac fibroblasts. SERCA2 is a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyang Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Xiaojuan Lin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Langtao Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Yufei Xie
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Yumei Que
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Siqi Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Pingping Hu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Xiaoyong Tong
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China.
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Hydrogen Sulfide Suppresses Skin Fibroblast Proliferation via Oxidative Stress Alleviation and Necroptosis Inhibition. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:7434733. [PMID: 35774378 PMCID: PMC9239837 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7434733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Keloid is a common dermatofibrotic disease with excessive skin fibroblast proliferation. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) as the third gasotransmitter improves fibrosis of various organs and tissues. Our study is aimed at investigating the effects and possible mechanisms of H2S on skin fibroblast proliferation. Scar tissues from six patients with keloid and discarded skin tissue from six normal control patients were collected after surgery, respectively. Plasma H2S content and skin H2S production in patients with keloid were measured. Keloid fibroblasts and transforming growth factor-β1- (TGF-β1, 10 ng/mL) stimulated normal skin fibroblasts were pretreated with H2S donor as NaHS (50 μM) for 4 h. Cell migration after scratch was assessed. The expressions of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), collagen I, and collagen III were detected by immunofluorescence, real-time PCR, and/or Western blot. Intracellular superoxide anion and mitochondrial superoxide were evaluated by dihydroethidium (DHE) and MitoSOX staining, respectively. Mitochondrial membrane potential was detected by JC-1 staining. Apoptotic cells were detected by TDT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL). The expressions of receptor interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1), RIPK3, and mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL) were measured by Western blot. We found that H2S production was impaired in both the plasma and skin of patients with keloid. In keloid fibroblasts and TGF-β1-stimulated normal skin fibroblasts, exogenous H2S supplementation suppressed the expressions of α-SMA, PCNA, collagen I, and collagen III, reduced intracellular superoxide anion and mitochondrial superoxide, improved the mitochondrial membrane potential, decreased the positive rate of TUNEL staining, and inhibited RIPK1 and RIPK3 expression as well as MLKL phosphorylation. Overall, H2S suppressed skin fibroblast proliferation via oxidative stress alleviation and necroptosis inhibition.
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32
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Li Y, Ricardo SD, Samuel CS. Enhancing the Therapeutic Potential of Mesenchymal Stromal Cell-Based Therapies with an Anti-Fibrotic Agent for the Treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116035. [PMID: 35682717 PMCID: PMC9181689 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 1 in 10 members of the general population, placing these patients at an increasingly high risk of kidney failure. Despite the significant burden of CKD on various healthcare systems, there are no effective cures that reverse or even halt its progression. In recent years, human bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) have been recognised as a novel therapy for CKDs, owing to their well-established immunomodulatory and tissue-reparative properties in preclinical settings, and their promising safety profile that has been demonstrated in patients with CKDs from several clinical trials. However, renal fibrosis (scarring), a hallmark of CKD, has been shown to impair the viability and functionality of BM-MSCs post-transplantation. This has suggested that BM-MSCs might require a pre-treatment or adjunct therapy that can enhance the viability and therapeutic efficacy of these stromal cells in chronic disease settings. To address this, recent studies that have combined BM-MSCs with the anti-fibrotic drug serelaxin (RLX), have demonstrated the enhanced therapeutic potential of this combination therapy in normotensive and hypertensive preclinical models of CKD. In this review, a critical appraisal of the preclinical data available on the anti-fibrotic and renoprotective actions of BM-MSCs or RLX alone and when combined, as a treatment option for normotensive vs. hypertensive CKD, is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifang Li
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Department of Pharmacology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia;
| | - Sharon D. Ricardo
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Department of Pharmacology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
- Correspondence: (S.D.R.); (C.S.S.)
| | - Chrishan S. Samuel
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Department of Pharmacology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia;
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Department of Pharmacology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Correspondence: (S.D.R.); (C.S.S.)
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Chen J, Ge SJ, Feng HJ, Wu SZ, Ji R, Huang WR, Huang W, Lu CH. KRT17 Promotes the Activation of HSCs via EMT in Liver Fibrosis. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2022; 10:207-218. [PMID: 35528988 PMCID: PMC9039702 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2021.00101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Although activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) plays a central role in the development of liver fibrosis, the mechanism underlying the activation of HSCs remains unclear. Keratin 17 (KRT17), a member of the intermediate filament family, can regulate tumor cell proliferation and migration. The current study aimed to elucidate the role of KRT17 in the activation of HSCs and the mechanisms underlying liver fibrosis. METHODS The expression of KRT17 was determined using immunohistochemistry in tissue microarray. Western blotting and qRT-PCR assays were used to determine the KRT17 expression in fibrotic liver tissues obtained from human subjects and mice. LX-2 cells were treated with TGF-β1 recombinant protein and adipocyte differentiation mixture (MDI) mix to induce and reverse LX-2 cell activation, respectively, in order to explore the correlation between KRT17 and HSC activation. Additionally, cell proliferation and migration abilities of LX-2 cells transfected with KRT17-overexpressing plasmid or small interfering RNA were determined using CCK-8, flow cytometry, Transwell, and wound healing assays. Finally, rescue assay was used to explore the role of KRT17 in HSC activation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). RESULTS The expression of KRT17 was higher in the human and mouse fibrotic liver tissues than in healthy liver tissues, and it was positively correlated with HSC activation. Upregulated KRT17 enhanced proliferation, migration, HSC activation and EMT in LX-2 cells, while knockdown of KRT17 reversed these effects. TGF-β1 recombinant protein accelerated KRT17-mediated EMT, HSC activation and proliferation, while TGF-β1 inhibitor counteracted the effect of KRT17 in vitro. CONCLUSIONS KRT17 promoted HSC activation, proliferation and EMT in hepatic fibrosis probably via TGF-β1 signaling, and KRT17 might serve as a therapeutic target for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Nantong University, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Si-Jia Ge
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Nantong University, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Hai-Juan Feng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Nantong University, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Shu-Zhen Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Nantong University, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Ran Ji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Nantong University, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Wei-Rong Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Nantong University, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Correspondence to: Wei Huang and Cui-Hua Lu, Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8471-530X (WH), https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1377-5820 (CHL). Tel: +86-13962991839 (WH), +86-13962801685 (CHL), Fax: +86-513-8116-1826, E-mail: (WH), (CHL)
| | - Cui-Hua Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Correspondence to: Wei Huang and Cui-Hua Lu, Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8471-530X (WH), https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1377-5820 (CHL). Tel: +86-13962991839 (WH), +86-13962801685 (CHL), Fax: +86-513-8116-1826, E-mail: (WH), (CHL)
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The Synergistic Cooperation between TGF-β and Hypoxia in Cancer and Fibrosis. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12050635. [PMID: 35625561 PMCID: PMC9138354 DOI: 10.3390/biom12050635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) is a multifunctional cytokine regulating homeostasis and immune responses in adult animals and humans. Aberrant and overactive TGF-β signaling promotes cancer initiation and fibrosis through epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), as well as the invasion and metastatic growth of cancer cells. TGF-β is a key factor that is active during hypoxic conditions in cancer and is thereby capable of contributing to angiogenesis in various types of cancer. Another potent role of TGF-β is suppressing immune responses in cancer patients. The strong tumor-promoting effects of TGF-β and its profibrotic effects make it a focus for the development of novel therapeutic strategies against cancer and fibrosis as well as an attractive drug target in combination with immune regulatory checkpoint inhibitors. TGF-β belongs to a family of cytokines that exert their function through signaling via serine/threonine kinase transmembrane receptors to intracellular Smad proteins via the canonical pathway and in combination with co-regulators such as the adaptor protein and E3 ubiquitin ligases TRAF4 and TRAF6 to promote non-canonical pathways. Finally, the outcome of gene transcription initiated by TGF-β is context-dependent and controlled by signals exerted by other growth factors such as EGF and Wnt. Here, we discuss the synergistic cooperation between TGF-β and hypoxia in development, fibrosis and cancer.
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35
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Shi N, Wang Z, Zhu H, Liu W, Zhao M, Jiang X, Zhao J, Ren C, Zhang Y, Luo L. Research progress on drugs targeting the TGF-β signaling pathway in fibrotic diseases. Immunol Res 2022; 70:276-288. [PMID: 35147920 PMCID: PMC9197809 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-022-09267-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Tissue fibrosis is a key factor leading to disability and death worldwide; however, thus far, there are no approved treatments for fibrosis. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is a major pro-fibrotic cytokine, which is expected to become a target in the treatment of fibrosis; however, since TGF-β has a wide range of biological functions involving a variety of biological processes in the body, a slight change in TGF-β may have a systematic effect. Indiscriminate inhibition of TGF-β can lead to adverse reactions, which can affect the efficacy of treatment. Therefore, it has become very important to explore how both the TGF-β signaling pathway is inhibited and the safe and efficient TGF-β small molecule inhibitors or neutralizing antibodies are designed in the treatment of fibrotic diseases. In this review, we mainly discuss the key role of the TGF-β signaling pathway in fibrotic diseases, as well as the development of fibrotic drugs in recent years, and explore potential targets in the treatment of fibrotic diseases in order to guide subsequent drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Shi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health and the Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Zhihong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Taiping Road #27, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Hecheng Zhu
- Changsha Kexin Cancer Hospital, Changsha, 410205, Hunan, China
| | - Weidong Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health and the Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Ming Zhao
- Changsha Kexin Cancer Hospital, Changsha, 410205, Hunan, China
| | - Xingjun Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Jin Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health and the Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Caiping Ren
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Research Institute, School of Basic Medical Science, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health and the Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Medical Center, General Hospital of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China.
| | - Longlong Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Taiping Road #27, Beijing, 100850, China.
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Yang S, Wang X, Xiao W, Xu Z, Ye H, Sha X, Yang H. Dihydroartemisinin Exerts Antifibrotic and Anti-Inflammatory Effects in Graves' Ophthalmopathy by Targeting Orbital Fibroblasts. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:891922. [PMID: 35663306 PMCID: PMC9157422 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.891922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) is a common orbital disease that threatens visual function and appearance. Orbital fibroblasts (OFs) are considered key target and effector cells in GO. In addition, hyaluronan (HA) production, inflammation, and orbital fibrosis are intimately linked to the pathogenesis of GO. In this study, we explored the therapeutic effects of dihydroartemisinin (DHA), an antimalarial drug, on GO-derived, primary OFs. CCK8 and EdU assays were applied to evaluate the antiproliferative effect of DHA on OFs. Wound healing assays were conducted to assess OF migration capacity, while qRT-PCR, western blotting, ELISA, and immunofluorescence were used to determine the expression of fibrosis-related and pro-inflammatory markers in these cells. Moreover, RNA sequencing was conducted to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in DHA-treated OFs, and Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis of DEGs was performed to explore potential mechanisms mediating the antifibrotic effect of DHA on GO-derived OFs. Results showed that DHA dose-dependently inhibited OF proliferation and downregulated, at the mRNA and protein levels, TGF-β1-induced expression of fibrosis markers, including alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). Furthermore, DHA inhibited TGF-β1 induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), which suggested that DHA exerted antifibrotic effects via suppression of the ERK and STAT3 signaling pathways. In addition, DHA suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, including IL-6, IL-8, CXCL-1, MCP-1, and ICAM-1, and attenuated HA production induced by IL-1β in GO-derived OFs. In conclusion, our study provides first-time evidence that DHA may significantly alleviate pathogenic manifestations of GO by inhibiting proliferation, fibrosis- and inflammation-related gene expression, and HA production in OFs. These data suggest that DHA may be a promising candidate drug for treatment of GO.
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Pharmacological Effects of Centella asiatica on Skin Diseases: Evidence and Possible Mechanisms. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:5462633. [PMID: 34845411 PMCID: PMC8627341 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5462633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The medicinal herb Centella asiatica (L.) Urban known as gotu kola has been reported to exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities. In particular, a significant body of scientific research exists on the therapeutic properties of preparations of C. asiatica or its triterpenes in the treatment of skin diseases. The present study is aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the beneficial effects of C. asiatica on skin diseases. Peer-reviewed articles on the potent dermatological effects of C. asiatica were acquired from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and SciFinder. This review provides an understanding of pharmacological studies which confirm the potent dermatological effects and underlying molecular mechanisms of C. asiatica. This medicinal plant and its triterpenes include asiaticoside, madecassoside, and their aglycones, asiatic acid and madecassic acid. These compounds exert therapeutic effects on dermatological diseases such as acne, burns, atopic dermatitis, and wounds via NF-κB, TGF-β/Smad, MAPK, Wnt/β-catenin, and STAT signaling in in vitro and in vivo studies. However, additional rigorously controlled long-term clinical trials will be necessary to confirm the full potential of C. asiatica as a therapeutic agent.
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Carver W, Fix E, Fix C, Fan D, Chakrabarti M, Azhar M. Effects of emodin, a plant-derived anthraquinone, on TGF-β1-induced cardiac fibroblast activation and function. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:7440-7449. [PMID: 34041746 PMCID: PMC8530838 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis accompanies a number of pathological conditions and results in altered myocardial structure, biomechanical properties and function. The signaling networks leading to fibrosis are complex, contributing to the general lack of progress in identifying effective therapeutic approaches to prevent or reverse this condition. Several studies have shown protective effects of emodin, a plant-derived anthraquinone, in animal models of fibrosis. A number of questions remain regarding the mechanisms whereby emodin impacts fibrosis. Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) is a potent stimulus of fibrosis and fibroblast activation. In the present study, experiments were performed to evaluate the effects of emodin on activation and function of cardiac fibroblasts following treatment with TGF-β1. We demonstrate that emodin attenuates TGF-β1-induced fibroblast activation and collagen accumulation in vitro. Emodin also inhibits activation of several canonical (SMAD2/3) and noncanonical (Erk1/2) TGF-β signaling pathways, while activating the p38 pathway. These results suggest that emodin may provide an effective therapeutic agent for fibrosis that functions via specific TGF-β signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne Carver
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29209
| | - Ethan Fix
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29209
| | - Charity Fix
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29209
| | - Daping Fan
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29209
| | - Mrinmay Chakrabarti
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29209
| | - Mohamad Azhar
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29209
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Fuchigami T, Ono Y, Kishida S, Nakamura N. Molecular biological findings of ameloblastoma. JAPANESE DENTAL SCIENCE REVIEW 2021; 57:27-32. [PMID: 33737992 PMCID: PMC7946346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdsr.2020.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Ameloblastoma is benign odontogenic tumours that mainly occur in the jawbone. This tumour induces aggressive invasion into the surrounding bone and has a high recurrence rate after surgery. Therefore, mandibular resection is performed in many patients with this tumour, causing aesthetic and functional problems. It is necessary to develop a novel treatment strategy for ameloblastoma, but there are currently no innovative treatments. Although our understanding of the molecular biological mechanisms of ameloblastoma is still insufficient, there have been many recent reports of new molecular biological findings on ameloblastoma. Therefore, bioactive factors that have potential for novel therapeutic methods, such as molecular targeted therapy, have been discovered in ameloblastoma. In this review, we summarize the molecular biological findings of ameloblastoma reported over several decades, focusing on factors involved in invasion into surrounding tissues and disease-specific gene mutations. We also mention the effect of the interaction between tumour cells and stromal components in ameloblastoma on tumour development. Scientific field of dental Science: Oral surgery, Odontogenic tumor, Ameloblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takao Fuchigami
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Field of Maxillofacial Rehabilitation Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Japan
| | - Yusuke Ono
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Field of Maxillofacial Rehabilitation Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Japan
| | - Shosei Kishida
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Japan
| | - Norifumi Nakamura
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Field of Maxillofacial Rehabilitation Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Japan
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40
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Vorstandlechner V, Laggner M, Copic D, Klas K, Direder M, Chen Y, Golabi B, Haslik W, Radtke C, Tschachler E, Hötzenecker K, Ankersmit HJ, Mildner M. The serine proteases dipeptidyl-peptidase 4 and urokinase are key molecules in human and mouse scar formation. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6242. [PMID: 34716325 PMCID: PMC8556235 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26495-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite recent advances in understanding skin scarring, mechanisms triggering hypertrophic scar formation are still poorly understood. In the present study, we investigate mature human hypertrophic scars and developing scars in mice at single cell resolution. Compared to normal skin, we find significant differences in gene expression in most cell types present in scar tissue. Fibroblasts show the most prominent alterations in gene expression, displaying a distinct fibrotic signature. By comparing genes upregulated in murine fibroblasts during scar development with genes highly expressed in mature human hypertrophic scars, we identify a group of serine proteases, tentatively involved in scar formation. Two of them, dipeptidyl-peptidase 4 (DPP4) and urokinase (PLAU), are further analyzed in functional assays, revealing a role in TGFβ1-mediated myofibroblast differentiation and over-production of components of the extracellular matrix in vitro. Topical treatment with inhibitors of DPP4 and PLAU during scar formation in vivo shows anti-fibrotic activity and improvement of scar quality, most prominently after application of the PLAU inhibitor BC-11. In this study, we delineate the genetic landscape of hypertrophic scars and present insights into mechanisms involved in hypertrophic scar formation. Our data suggest the use of serine protease inhibitors for the treatment of skin fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Vorstandlechner
- Laboratory for Cardiac and Thoracic Diagnosis, Regeneration and Applied Immunology, Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Aposcience AG (FN 308089y), Dresdner Straße 87/A21, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Maria Laggner
- Laboratory for Cardiac and Thoracic Diagnosis, Regeneration and Applied Immunology, Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Aposcience AG (FN 308089y), Dresdner Straße 87/A21, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dragan Copic
- Laboratory for Cardiac and Thoracic Diagnosis, Regeneration and Applied Immunology, Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Aposcience AG (FN 308089y), Dresdner Straße 87/A21, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katharina Klas
- Laboratory for Cardiac and Thoracic Diagnosis, Regeneration and Applied Immunology, Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Aposcience AG (FN 308089y), Dresdner Straße 87/A21, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Direder
- Laboratory for Cardiac and Thoracic Diagnosis, Regeneration and Applied Immunology, Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Aposcience AG (FN 308089y), Dresdner Straße 87/A21, Vienna, Austria
| | - Yiyan Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- University of Applied Sciences, FH Campus Wien, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bahar Golabi
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Werner Haslik
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christine Radtke
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Erwin Tschachler
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Konrad Hötzenecker
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hendrik Jan Ankersmit
- Laboratory for Cardiac and Thoracic Diagnosis, Regeneration and Applied Immunology, Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
- Aposcience AG (FN 308089y), Dresdner Straße 87/A21, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Michael Mildner
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Hamilton DW, Walker JT, Tinney D, Grynyshyn M, El-Warrak A, Truscott E, Flynn LE. The pig as a model system for investigating the recruitment and contribution of myofibroblasts in skin healing. Wound Repair Regen 2021; 30:45-63. [PMID: 34708478 DOI: 10.1111/wrr.12981] [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: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In the skin-healing field, porcine models are regarded as a useful analogue for human skin due to their numerous anatomical and physiological similarities. Despite the widespread use of porcine models in skin healing studies, the initial origin, recruitment and transition of fibroblasts to matrix-secreting contractile myofibroblasts are not well defined for this model. In this review, we discuss the merit of the pig as an animal for studying myofibroblast origin, as well as the challenges associated with assessing their contributions to skin healing. Although a variety of wound types (incisional, partial thickness, full thickness, burns) have been investigated in pigs in attempts to mimic diverse injuries in humans, direct comparison of human healing profiles with regards to myofibroblasts shows evident differences. Following injury in porcine models, which often employ juvenile animals, myofibroblasts are described in the developing granulation tissue at 4 days, peaking at Days 7-14, and persisting at 60 days post-wounding, although variations are evident depending on the specific pig breed. In human wounds, the presence of myofibroblasts is variable and does not correlate with the age of the wound or clinical contraction. Our comparison of porcine myofibroblast-mediated healing processes with those in humans suggests that further validation of the pig model is essential. Moreover, we identify several limitations evident in experimental design that need to be better controlled, and standardisation of methodologies would be beneficial for the comparison and interpretation of results. In particular, we discuss anatomical location of the wounds, their size and depth, as well as the healing microenvironment (wet vs. moist vs. dry) in pigs and how this could influence myofibroblast recruitment. In summary, although a widespread model used in the skin healing field, further research is required to validate pigs as a useful analogue for human healing with regards to myofibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas W Hamilton
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - John T Walker
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dylan Tinney
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael Grynyshyn
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexander El-Warrak
- Animal Care and Veterinary Services, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emily Truscott
- Animal Care and Veterinary Services, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lauren E Flynn
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Thompson Engineering Building, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
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42
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Elwakeel E, Weigert A. Breast Cancer CAFs: Spectrum of Phenotypes and Promising Targeting Avenues. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11636. [PMID: 34769066 PMCID: PMC8583860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Activationof the tumor-associated stroma to support tumor growth is a common feature observed in different cancer entities. This principle is exemplified by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which are educated by the tumor to shape its development across all stages. CAFs can alter the extracellular matrix (ECM) and secrete a variety of different molecules. In that manner they have the capability to affect activation, survival, proliferation, and migration of other stromal cells and cancer cell themselves. Alteration of the ECM, desmoplasia, is a common feature of breast cancer, indicating a prominent role for CAFs in shaping tumor development in the mammary gland. In this review, we summarize the multiple roles CAFs play in mammary carcinoma. We discuss experimental and clinical strategies to interfere with CAFs function in breast cancer. Moreover, we highlight the issues arising from CAFs heterogeneity and the need for further research to identify CAFs subpopulation(s) that can be targeted to improve breast cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiman Elwakeel
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany;
| | - Andreas Weigert
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany;
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Frankfurt, 60590 Frankfurt, Germany
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43
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Arndt S, Unger P, Bosserhoff AK, Berneburg M, Karrer S. The Anti-Fibrotic Effect of Cold Atmospheric Plasma on Localized Scleroderma In Vitro and In Vivo. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9111545. [PMID: 34829774 PMCID: PMC8615017 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) has shown promising results in the treatment of various skin diseases. The therapeutic effect of CAP on localized scleroderma (LS), however, has not yet been evaluated. We investigated the effects of CAP on LS by comparing human normal fibroblasts (hNF), human TGF-β-activated fibroblasts (hAF), and human localized scleroderma-derived fibroblasts (hLSF) after direct CAP treatment, co-cultured with plasma-treated human epidermal keratinocytes (hEK) and with an experimental murine model of scleroderma. In hAF and hLSF, 2 min CAP treatment with the MicroPlaSterβ® plasma torch did not affect pro-fibrotic gene expression of alpha smooth muscle actin, fibroblast activating protein, and collagen type I, however, it promoted re-expression of matrix metalloproteinase 1. Functionally, CAP treatment reduced cell migration and stress fiber formation in hAF and hLSF. The relevance of CAP treatment was confirmed in an in vivo model of bleomycin-induced dermal fibrosis. In this model, CAP-treated mice showed significantly reduced dermal thickness and collagen deposition as well as a decrease in both alpha smooth muscle actin-positive myofibroblasts and CD68-positive macrophages in the affected skin in comparison to untreated fibrotic tissue. In conclusion, this study provides the first evidence for the successful use of CAP for treating LS and may be the basis for clinical trials including patients with LS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Arndt
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauss Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (P.U.); (M.B.); (S.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-941-944-9650
| | - Petra Unger
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauss Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (P.U.); (M.B.); (S.K.)
| | - Anja-Katrin Bosserhoff
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Erlangen-Nuernberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany;
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Mark Berneburg
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauss Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (P.U.); (M.B.); (S.K.)
| | - Sigrid Karrer
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauss Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (P.U.); (M.B.); (S.K.)
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44
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Mendoza FA, Jimenez SA. Serine-Threonine Kinase inhibition as antifibrotic therapy: TGF-β and ROCK inhibitors. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:1354-1365. [PMID: 34664623 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Serine-threonine kinases mediate the phosphorylation of intracellular protein targets, transferring a phosphorus group from an ATP molecule to the specific amino acid residues within the target proteins. Serine-threonine kinases regulate multiple key cellular functions. From this large group of kinases, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) through the serine-threonine activity of its receptors and Rho kinase (ROCK) play an important role in the development and maintenance of fibrosis in various human diseases, including systemic sclerosis. In recent years, multiple drugs targeting and inhibiting these kinases, have been developed, opening the possibility of becoming potential antifibrotic agents of clinical value for treating fibrotic diseases. This review analyzes the contribution of TGF- β and ROCK-mediated serine-threonine kinase molecular pathways to the development and maintenance of pathological fibrosis and the potential clinical use of their inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian A Mendoza
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine. Thomas Jefferson University. Philadelphia, PA, USA 19107.,Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center. Thomas Jefferson University. Philadelphia, PA, USA 19107
| | - Sergio A Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center. Thomas Jefferson University. Philadelphia, PA, USA 19107
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45
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Global gene expression analysis of systemic sclerosis myofibroblasts demonstrates a marked increase in the expression of multiple NBPF genes. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20435. [PMID: 34650102 PMCID: PMC8516909 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99292-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Myofibroblasts are the key effector cells responsible for the exaggerated tissue fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc). Despite their importance to SSc pathogenesis, the specific transcriptome of SSc myofibroblasts has not been described. The purpose of this study was to identify transcriptome differences between SSc myofibroblasts and non-myofibroblastic cells. Alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expressing myofibroblasts and α-SMA negative cells were isolated employing laser capture microdissection from dermal cell cultures from four patients with diffuse SSc of recent onset. Total mRNA was extracted from both cell populations, amplified and analyzed employing microarrays. Results for specific genes were validated by Western blots and by immunohistochemistry. Transcriptome analysis revealed 97 differentially expressed transcripts in SSc myofibroblasts compared with non-myofibroblasts. Annotation clustering of the SSc myofibroblast-specific transcripts failed to show a TGF-β signature. The most represented transcripts corresponded to several different genes from the Neuroblastoma Breakpoint Family (NBPF) of genes. NBPF genes are highly expanded in humans but are not present in murine or rat genomes. In vitro studies employing cultured SSc dermal fibroblasts and immunohistochemistry of affected SSc skin confirmed increased NBPF expression in SSc. These results indicate that SSc myofibroblasts represent a unique cell lineage expressing a specific transcriptome that includes very high levels of transcripts corresponding to numerous NBPF genes. Elevated expression of NBPF genes in SSc myofibroblasts suggests that NBPF gene products may play a role in SSc pathogenesis and may represent a novel therapeutic target.
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46
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Cao Y, Yang L, Qiao X, Xue C, Xu J. Dietary astaxanthin: an excellent carotenoid with multiple health benefits. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2021:1-27. [PMID: 34581210 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2021.1983766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Astaxanthin is a carotenoid widely found in marine organisms and microorganisms. With extensive use in nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and animal feed, astaxanthin will have the largest share in the global market for carotenoids in the near future. Owing to its unique molecular features, astaxanthin has excellent antioxidant activity and holds promise for use in biochemical studies. This review focuses on the observed health benefits of dietary astaxanthin, as well as its underlying bioactivity mechanisms. Recent studies have increased our understanding of the role of isomerization and esterification in the structure-function relationship of dietary astaxanthin. Gut microbiota may involve the fate of astaxanthin during digestion and absorption; thus, further knowledge is needed to establish accurate recommendations for dietary intake of both healthy and special populations. Associated with the regulation of redox balance and multiple biological mechanisms, astaxanthin is proposed to affect oxidative stress, inflammation, cell death, and lipid metabolism in humans, thus exerting benefits for skin condition, eye health, cardiovascular system, neurological function, exercise performance, and immune response. Additionally, preclinical trials predict its potential effects such as intestinal flora regulation and anti-diabetic activity. Therefore, astaxanthin is worthy of further investigation for boosting human health, and wide applications in the food industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunrui Cao
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, PR China
| | - Lu Yang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, PR China
| | - Xing Qiao
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, PR China
| | - Changhu Xue
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, PR China.,Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, PR China
| | - Jie Xu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, PR China
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Pernakov M, Ermini ML, Sulaieva O, Cassano D, Santucci M, Husak Y, Korniienko V, Giannone G, Yusupova A, Liubchak I, Hristova MT, Savchenko A, Holubnycha V, Voliani V, Pogorielov M. Complementary Effect of Non-Persistent Silver Nano-Architectures and Chlorhexidine on Infected Wound Healing. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1215. [PMID: 34572402 PMCID: PMC8469683 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Surgical site infection (SSI) substantially contributes each year to patients' morbidity and mortality, accounting for about 15% of all nosocomial infections. SSI drastically increases the rehab stint and expenses while jeopardizing health outcomes. Besides prevention, the treatment regime relies on an adequate antibiotic therapy. On the other hand, resistant bacterial strains have currently reached up to 34.3% of the total infections, and this percentage grows annually, reducing the efficacy of the common treatment schemes. Thus, new antibacterial strategies are urgently demanded. Here, we demonstrated in rats the effectiveness of non-persistent silver nano-architectures (AgNAs) in infected wound healing together with their synergistic action in combination with chlorhexidine. Besides the in vivo efficacy evaluation, we performed analysis of the bacteriological profile of purulent wound, histological evaluations, and macrophages polarization quantifications to further validate our findings and elucidate the possible mechanisms of AgNAs action on wound healing. These findings open the way for the composition of robust multifunctional nanoplatforms for the translation of safe and efficient topical treatments of SSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mykola Pernakov
- Sumy State University, 40007 Sumy, Ukraine; (M.P.); (Y.H.); (V.K.); (A.Y.); (I.L.); (A.S.); (V.H.)
| | - Maria Laura Ermini
- Center for Nanotechnology Innovation @NEST, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (M.L.E.); (D.C.); (M.S.); (G.G.); (V.V.)
| | | | - Domenico Cassano
- Center for Nanotechnology Innovation @NEST, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (M.L.E.); (D.C.); (M.S.); (G.G.); (V.V.)
| | - Marco Santucci
- Center for Nanotechnology Innovation @NEST, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (M.L.E.); (D.C.); (M.S.); (G.G.); (V.V.)
| | - Yevhenia Husak
- Sumy State University, 40007 Sumy, Ukraine; (M.P.); (Y.H.); (V.K.); (A.Y.); (I.L.); (A.S.); (V.H.)
| | - Viktoriia Korniienko
- Sumy State University, 40007 Sumy, Ukraine; (M.P.); (Y.H.); (V.K.); (A.Y.); (I.L.); (A.S.); (V.H.)
| | - Giulia Giannone
- Center for Nanotechnology Innovation @NEST, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (M.L.E.); (D.C.); (M.S.); (G.G.); (V.V.)
- NEST-Scuola Normale Superiore, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Aziza Yusupova
- Sumy State University, 40007 Sumy, Ukraine; (M.P.); (Y.H.); (V.K.); (A.Y.); (I.L.); (A.S.); (V.H.)
| | - Iryna Liubchak
- Sumy State University, 40007 Sumy, Ukraine; (M.P.); (Y.H.); (V.K.); (A.Y.); (I.L.); (A.S.); (V.H.)
- The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | | | - Anton Savchenko
- Sumy State University, 40007 Sumy, Ukraine; (M.P.); (Y.H.); (V.K.); (A.Y.); (I.L.); (A.S.); (V.H.)
| | - Viktoriia Holubnycha
- Sumy State University, 40007 Sumy, Ukraine; (M.P.); (Y.H.); (V.K.); (A.Y.); (I.L.); (A.S.); (V.H.)
| | - Valerio Voliani
- Center for Nanotechnology Innovation @NEST, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (M.L.E.); (D.C.); (M.S.); (G.G.); (V.V.)
| | - Maksym Pogorielov
- Sumy State University, 40007 Sumy, Ukraine; (M.P.); (Y.H.); (V.K.); (A.Y.); (I.L.); (A.S.); (V.H.)
- NanoPrime, 39200 Debica, Poland
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48
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Jiménez-Uribe AP, Gómez-Sierra T, Aparicio-Trejo OE, Orozco-Ibarra M, Pedraza-Chaverri J. Backstage players of fibrosis: NOX4, mTOR, HDAC, and S1P; companions of TGF-β. Cell Signal 2021; 87:110123. [PMID: 34438016 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2021.110123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The fibrotic process could be easily defined as a pathological excess of extracellular matrix deposition, leading to disruption of tissue architecture and eventually loss of function; however, this process involves a complex network of several signal transduction pathways. Virtually almost all organs could be affected by fibrosis, the most affected are the liver, lung, skin, kidney, heart, and eyes; in all of them, the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) has a central role. The canonical and non-canonical signal pathways of TGF-β impact the fibrotic process at the cellular and molecular levels, inducing the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the induction of profibrotic gene expression with the consequent increase in proteins such as alpha-smooth actin (α-SMA), fibronectin, collagen, and other extracellular matrix proteins. Recently, it has been reported that some molecules that have not been typically associated with the fibrotic process, such as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase 4 (NOX4), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), histone deacetylases (HDAC), and sphingosine-1 phosphate (S1P); are critical in its development. In this review, we describe and discuss the role of these new players of fibrosis and the convergence with TGF-β signaling pathways, unveiling new insights into the panorama of fibrosis that could be useful for future therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tania Gómez-Sierra
- Facultad de Química, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX 04510, Mexico
| | - Omar Emiliano Aparicio-Trejo
- Departamento de Fisiopatología Cardio-Renal, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología "Ignacio Chávez", Mexico City 14080, Mexico
| | - Marisol Orozco-Ibarra
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología Molecular y Celular, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Manuel Velasco Suárez, Av. Insurgentes Sur # 3877, La Fama, Alcaldía Tlalpan, CP 14269 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - José Pedraza-Chaverri
- Facultad de Química, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX 04510, Mexico.
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49
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Exosomes derived from induced pluripotent stem cells suppresses M2-type macrophages during pulmonary fibrosis via miR-302a-3p/TET1 axis. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 99:108075. [PMID: 34435585 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.108075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a type of chronic lung disease. Here, we investigated the effect of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived exosomes (iPSC-exosomes) on M2-type macrophages which play a critical role in pulmonary fibrosis. Exosomes were purified from the conditioned medium of iPSCs. Mice models of pulmonary fibrosis were established by intratracheal instillation with 5 mg/kg bleomycin. Thereafter, the histopathological changes and collagen deposition were detected by HE and masson staining. Meanwhile the level of M2-type macrophages was elevated by immunofluorescence staining with F4/80 and Arg-1. Luciferase reporter assay was conducted to verify the binding of miR-302a-3p to ten-eleven translocation 1 (TET1). Our results showed that, after treatment with iPSC-exosomes, the pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin was relieved, with less collagen deposition. In addition, the increased M2-type macrophages in PF mice were reduced upon treatment with iPSC-exosomes. Moreover, we found that the iPSC-exosomes showed higher level of miR-302a-3p. Interestingly, the level of miR-302a-3p in the lungs of PF mice was increased upon treatment with iPSC-exosomes. Furthermore, we verified that TET1 was a direct target of miR-302a-3p. Up-regulation of miR-302a-3p or TET1 silencing repressed M2-type macrophages. Down-regulation of miR-302a-3p abolished the beneficial effects of iPSC-exosomes on pulmonary fibrosis. Collectively, our study revealed that iPSC-exosomes delivered miR-302a-3p to suppress the M2-type macrophages via targeting TET1, thus mitigating pulmonary fibrosis. This study indicates that iPSC-exosomes may become a potential therapeutic agent for pulmonary fibrosis.
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50
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Tuckey B, Srbely J, Rigney G, Vythilingam M, Shah J. Impaired Lymphatic Drainage and Interstitial Inflammatory Stasis in Chronic Musculoskeletal and Idiopathic Pain Syndromes: Exploring a Novel Mechanism. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2021; 2:691740. [PMID: 35295453 PMCID: PMC8915610 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2021.691740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A normal functioning lymphatic pump mechanism and unimpaired venous drainage are required for the body to remove inflammatory mediators from the extracellular compartment. Impaired vascular perfusion and/or lymphatic drainage may result in the accumulation of inflammatory substances in the interstitium, creating continuous nociceptor activation and related pathophysiological states including central sensitization and neuroinflammation. We hypothesize that following trauma and/or immune responses, inflammatory mediators may become entrapped in the recently discovered interstitial, pre-lymphatic pathways and/or initial lymphatic vessels. The ensuing interstitial inflammatory stasis is a pathophysiological state, created by specific pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion including tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 6, and interleukin 1b. These cytokines can disable the local lymphatic pump mechanism, impair vascular perfusion via sympathetic activation and, following transforming growth factor beta 1 expression, may lead to additional stasis through direct fascial compression of pre-lymphatic pathways. These mechanisms, when combined with other known pathophysiological processes, enable us to describe a persistent feed-forward loop capable of creating and maintaining chronic pain syndromes. The potential for concomitant visceral and/or vascular dysfunction, initiated and maintained by the same feed-forward inflammatory mechanism, is also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Tuckey
- Department of Physical Therapy, Tuckey and Associates Physical Therapy, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - John Srbely
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Grant Rigney
- Department of Psychiatry, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Meena Vythilingam
- Department of Health and Human Services, Center for Health Innovation, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Jay Shah
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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