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Wu L, Lin S, Hu Y, Jing S, Sun B, Chen X, Jia J, Zeng C, Pei F. Potential mechanism of Luoshi Neiyi prescription in endometriosis based on serum pharmacochemistry and network pharmacology. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1395160. [PMID: 39135784 PMCID: PMC11317381 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1395160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Endometriosis (EMs) is characterized by ectopic growth of active endometrial tissue outside the uterus. The Luoshi Neiyi prescription (LSNYP) has been extensively used for treating EMs in China. However, data on the active chemical components of LSNYP are insufficient, and its pharmacological mechanism in EMs treatment remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the potential mechanism of LSNYP for EMs through network pharmacology based on the components absorbed into the blood. Methods Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry was used to analyze blood components, and a series of network pharmacology strategies were utilized to predict targets of these components and EMs. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, component-target-disease network construction, gene ontology (GO) functional enrichment analysis, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were performed. Additionally, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and in vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to validate the HIF1A/EZH2/ANTXR2 pathway associated with hypoxic pathology in EMs. Results Thirty-four absorbed components suitable for network pharmacology analysis were identified, and core targets, such as interleukin 6, EGFR, HIF1A, and EZH2, were founded. Enrichment results indicated that treatment of EMs with LSNYP may involve the regulation of hypoxia and inflammatory-related signaling pathways and response to oxidative stress and transcription factor activity. Experimental results demonstrated that LSNYP could decrease the expression of HIF1A, ANTXR2, YAP1, CD44, and β-catenin, and increased EZH2 expression in ectopic endometrial stromal cells and endometriotic tissues. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations manifested that there was stable combinatorial activity between core components and key targets of the HIF1A/EZH2/ANTXR2 pathway. Conclusion LSNYP may exert pharmacological effects on EMs via the HIF1A/EZH2/ANTXR2 pathway; hence, it is a natural herb-related therapy for EMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lizheng Wu
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shuhong Lin
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yongjun Hu
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shangwen Jing
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Bowen Sun
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoxin Chen
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinjin Jia
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Cheng Zeng
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Fangli Pei
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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2
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Cheng YH, Huang CW, Lien HT, Hsiao YY, Weng PL, Chang YC, Cheng JH, Lan KC. A Preliminary Investigation of the Roles of Endometrial Cells in Endometriosis Development via In Vitro and In Vivo Analyses. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3873. [PMID: 38612685 PMCID: PMC11011664 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073873] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a complex gynecological disease that affects more than 10% of women in their reproductive years. While surgery can provide temporary relief from women's pain, symptoms often return in as many as 75% of cases within two years. Previous literature has contributed to theories about the development of endometriosis; however, the exact pathogenesis and etiology remain elusive. We conducted a preliminary investigation into the influence of primary endometrial cells (ECs) on the development and progression of endometriosis. In vitro studies, they were involved in inducing Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in rat-isolated primary endometrial cells, which resulted in increased nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA gene expression (quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, qPCR) and protein expression (western blot analysis). Additionally, in vivo studies utilized autogenic and allogeneic transplantations (rat to rat) to investigate endometriosis-like lesion cyst size, body weight, protein levels (immunohistochemistry), and mRNA gene expression. These studies demonstrated that estrogen upregulates the gene and protein regulation of cytoskeletal (CK)-18, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), VEGF, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, particularly in the peritoneum. These findings may influence cell proliferation, angiogenesis, fibrosis, and inflammation markers. Consequently, this could exacerbate the occurrence and progression of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Hua Cheng
- Department of Medical Research and Development, Jen-Ai Hospital, Taichung 412, Taiwan;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
| | - Ching-Wei Huang
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Jen-Ai Hospital, Taichung 412, Taiwan;
| | - Hao-Ting Lien
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University College, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Yang Hsiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University College, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ling Weng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
| | - Yung-Chiao Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
| | - Jai-Hong Cheng
- Center for Shockwave Medicine and Tissue Engineering, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan;
- Medical Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Department of Leisure and Sports Management, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Chung Lan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (H.-T.L.); (Y.-Y.H.); (P.-L.W.); (Y.-C.C.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jen-Ai Hospital, Taichung 412, Taiwan
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
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Tang H, Lin T, Wu M, Tsai S. Progesterone resistance in endometriosis: A pathophysiological perspective and potential treatment alternatives. Reprod Med Biol 2024; 23:e12588. [PMID: 38854774 PMCID: PMC11157498 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Endometriosis is a common gynecological disease affecting women of reproductive age. Patients with endometriosis frequently experience severe chronic pain and have higher chances to experience infertility. Progesterone resistance is a major problem that develops during the medical treatment of endometriosis, which often leads to treatment failure of hormonal therapies. Previous studies indicated that the dysregulation of progesterone receptors (PR) is the primary factor leading to progesterone resistance in endometriosis. Methods This review article systematically reviewed and summarized findings extracted from previously published papers available on PubMed, encompassing both experimental studies and clinical trials. Main findings Various determinants influencing PR expression in endometriosis have been identified, including the environmental toxins, microRNAs, cell signaling pathways, genetic mutations, and the pro-inflammatory cytokines. The selective estrogen/progesterone receptor modulators have emerged as novel therapeutic approaches for treating endometriosis, offering potential improvements in overcoming progesterone resistance. Conclusion Concerns and limitations persist despite the newly developed drugs. Therefore, studies on unraveling new therapeutic targets based on the molecular mechanisms of progesterone resistance is warranted for the development potential alternatives to overcome hormonal treatment failure in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao‐Chien Tang
- Institute of Basic Medical SciencesCollege of Medicine, National Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
| | - Ting‐Chien Lin
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsNational Cheng Kung University HospitalTainanTaiwan
| | - Meng‐Hsing Wu
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsNational Cheng Kung University HospitalTainanTaiwan
- Department of PhysiologyCollege of Medicine, National Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
| | - Shaw‐Jenq Tsai
- Institute of Basic Medical SciencesCollege of Medicine, National Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
- Department of PhysiologyCollege of Medicine, National Cheng Kung UniversityTainanTaiwan
- Department of Biomedical SciencesCollege of Science, National Chung Cheng UniversityChiayiTaiwan
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Chang HA, Ou Yang RZ, Su JM, Nguyen TMH, Sung JM, Tang MJ, Chiu WT. YAP nuclear translocation induced by HIF-1α prevents DNA damage under hypoxic conditions. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:385. [PMID: 37863897 PMCID: PMC10589224 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01687-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Maladaptive repair of acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with a high risk of developing chronic kidney disease deemed irremediable even in present days. When AKI arises from ischemia-reperfusion injury, hypoxia usually plays a major role. Although both hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and yes-associated protein (YAP) have been proven to promote renal cell survival under hypoxia, there is a lack of research that studies the crosstalk of the two and its effect on kidney repair. In studying the crosstalk, CoCl2 was used to create a mimetic hypoxic environment. Immunoprecipitation and proximity ligation assays were performed to verify protein interactions. The results show that HIF-1α interacts with YAP and promotes nuclear translocation of YAP at a high cell density under hypoxic conditions, suggesting HIF-1α serves as a direct carrier that enables YAP nuclear translocation. This is the first study to identify HIF-1α as a crucial pathway for YAP nuclear translocation under hypoxic conditions. Once translocated into a nucleus, YAP protects cells from DNA damage and apoptosis under hypoxic conditions. Since it is unlikely for YAP to translocate into a nucleus without HIF-1α, any treatment that fosters the crosstalk between the two holds the potential to improve cell recovery from hypoxic insults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng-Ai Chang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Rui-Zhi Ou Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Jing-Ming Su
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Thi My Hang Nguyen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Junne-Ming Sung
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, ROC
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Ming-Jer Tang
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, ROC
- International Center for Wound Repair and Regeneration, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Wen-Tai Chiu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, ROC.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, ROC.
- Medical Device Innovation Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan, ROC.
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5
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Lin SC, Li WN, Lin SC, Hou HT, Tsai YC, Lin TC, Wu MH, Tsai SJ. Targeting YAP1 ameliorates progesterone resistance in endometriosis. Hum Reprod 2023:7128246. [PMID: 37071897 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does YAP1 inhibition alleviate progesterone resistance in endometriosis? SUMMARY ANSWER YAP1 inhibition reduces progesterone resistance in vitro and in vivo. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Progesterone resistance not only causes treatment failure for endometriosis but also inhibits eutopic endometrial cell proliferation, dysregulates decidualization, and reduces the success rates of pregnancy. Hippo/yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) signaling pathway plays an important role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Paraffin-embedded tissues containing paired endometriotic and endometrial specimens (n = 42) and serum samples isolated from normal controls (n = 15) or endometriotic patients with (n = 25) or without (n = 21) prior dienogest treatment were analyzed. A mouse model of endometriosis was also used to evaluate the effects of YAP1 inhibition on progesterone resistance. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Primary endometriotic and endometrial stromal cells treated with YAP1 inhibitor or miR-21 mimic/inhibitor were used for the in vitro studies including decidualization induction, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), and RNA immunoprecipitation. Tissue specimens and serum from human and mouse were used for immunohistochemistry staining, exosome isolation, and microRNA (miRNA) quantification, respectively. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Herein, we report, by using ChIP-PCR and RNA-IP, that YAP1 inhibits progesterone receptor (PGR) expression through upregulation of miR-21-5p. Upregulation of miR-21-5p not only reduces PGR expression but also inhibits endometrial stromal cell decidualization. Indeed, levels of YAP1 and miR-21-5p are inversely correlated with the level of PGR in human endometrial samples. In contrast, knockdown of YAP1 or treatment with verteporfin (VP), a YAP1 inhibitor, reduces miR-21-5p expression, thus leading to an increase in PGR expression in ectopic endometriotic stromal cells. In the mouse model of endometriosis, treatment with VP increases PGR expression and enhances decidualization. More importantly, VP synergistically increases the treatment effect of progestin in causing the regression of endometriotic lesions and improves the decidualization capability of the endometrium. Interestingly, treatment with dienogest, a synthetic progestin, reduces YAP1 and miR-21-5p expression in human cells and in the mouse model of endometriosis. Patients who received dienogest treatment for 6 months show a significant decrease in serum extracellular vesicle-associated miR-21-5p level. LARGE SCALE DATA A public dataset (GSE51981) containing a large cohort of endometriotic tissues is available from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION A large cohort of clinical samples is needed to verify the current diagnostic value of miR-21-5p in future studies. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The reciprocal regulation of YAP1 and PGR suggests that combined YAP1 inhibitor and progestin may be a better therapeutic approach for treating endometriosis. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan (MOST-111-2636-B-006-012, MOST-111-2314-B-006-075-MY3, and MOST-106-2320-B-006-072-MY3). The authors have no conflict of interest to disclose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Chieh Lin
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Ning Li
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Shin-Chih Lin
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Haun-Tzu Hou
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Chuan Tsai
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Tin-Chien Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Hsing Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Shaw-Jenq Tsai
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Huang Y, Yan S, Dong X, Jiao X, Wang S, Li D, Wang G. Deficiency of MST1 in endometriosis related peritoneal macrophages promoted the autophagy of ectopic endometrial stromal cells by IL-10. Front Immunol 2022; 13:993788. [PMID: 36263059 PMCID: PMC9575673 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.993788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Changes in the function of peritoneal macrophages contribute to the homeostasis of the peritoneal immune microenvironment in endometriosis. The mechanism by which ectopic tissues escape phagocytic clearance by macrophages to achieve ectopic colonization and proliferation is unknown. The expression of CD163 in peritoneal macrophages in patients with endometriosis is increased, with the overexpression of MAPK, which can promote the M2-type polarization of macrophages and reduce their ability to phagocytose ectopic endometrial cells. As an upstream regulator of MAPK, MST1 expression is deficient in peritoneal macrophages of patients with endometriosis. This process is regulated by miR-887-5p, a noncoding RNA targeting MST1. Moreover, MST1-knockout macrophages secrete anti-inflammatory factor IL-10, which promotes autophagy of ectopic endometrial stromal cells. These results suggest that MST1 deficient macrophages may accelerate the autophagy of ectopic endometrium via IL-10 which was regulated by miR-887-5p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufei Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Gynecology Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shumin Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Gynecology Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoyu Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Gynecology Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xue Jiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Gynecology Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shuang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Gynecology Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Dong Li
- Cryomedicine Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Guoyun Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Gynecology Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- *Correspondence: Guoyun Wang,
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Wei KC, Lai SF, Huang WL, Yang KC, Lai PC, Wei WJ, Chang TH, Huang YC, Tsai YC, Lin SC, Lin SJ, Lin SC. An innovative targeted therapy for fluoroscopy-induced chronic radiation dermatitis. J Mol Med (Berl) 2022; 100:135-146. [PMID: 34689211 PMCID: PMC8724166 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02146-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Fluoroscopy-induced chronic radiation dermatitis (FICRD) is a complication of fluoroscopy-guided intervention. Unlike acute radiation dermatitis, FICRD is different as delayed onset and usually appears without preexisting acute dermatitis. Unfortunately, the chronic and progressive pathology of FICRD makes it difficult to treat, and some patients need to receive wide excision and reconstruction surgery. Due to lack of standard treatment, investigating underlying mechanism is needed in order to develop an effective therapy. Herein, the Hippo pathway is specifically identified using an RNA-seq analysis in mild damaged skin specimens of patients with FICRD. Furthermore, specific increase of the Yes-associated protein (YAP1), an effector of the Hippo pathway, in skin region with mild damage plays a protective role for keratinocytes via positively regulating the numerous downstream genes involved in different biological processes. Interestingly, irradiated-keratinocytes inhibit activation of fibroblasts under TGF-β1 treatment via remote control by an exosome containing YAP1. More importantly, targeting one of YAP1 downstream genes, nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 1 (NR3C1), which encodes glucocorticoid receptor, has revealed its therapeutic potential to treat FICRD by inhibiting fibroblasts activation in vitro and preventing formation of radiation ulcers in a mouse model and in patients with FICRD. Taken together, this translational research demonstrates the critical role of YAP1 in FICRD and identification of a feasible, effective therapy for patients with FICRD. KEY MESSAGES: • YAP1 overexpression in skin specimens of radiation dermatitis from FICRD patient. • Radiation-induced YAP1 expression plays protective roles by promoting DNA damage repair and inhibiting fibrosis via remote control of exosomal YAP1. • YAP1 positively regulates NR3C1 which encodes glucocorticoid receptor expression. • Targeting glucocorticoid receptor by prednisolone has therapeutic potential for FICRD patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Che Wei
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Cosmetic Applications and Management, Yuhing Junior College of Health Care and Management, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Fan Lai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Lun Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Chung Yang
- Department of Dermatology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ping-Chin Lai
- The Kidney Institute and Division of Nephrology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Ju Wei
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Hsien Chang
- Department and Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Chen Huang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Chuan Tsai
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Shin-Chih Lin
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Sun-Jang Lin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Research Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chieh Lin
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
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8
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Strepkos D, Markouli M, Papavassiliou KA, Papavassiliou AG, Piperi C. Emerging roles for the YAP/TAZ transcriptional regulators in brain tumour pathology and targeting options. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2021; 48:e12762. [PMID: 34409639 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The transcriptional co-activators Yes-associated protein 1/transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (YAP/TAZ) have emerged as significant regulators of a wide variety of cellular and organ functions with impact in early embryonic development, especially during the expansion of the neural progenitor cell pool. YAP/TAZ signalling regulates organ size development, tissue homeostasis, wound healing and angiogenesis by participating in a complex network of various pathways. However, recent evidence suggests an association of these physiologic regulatory effects of YAP/TAZ with pro-oncogenic activities. Herein, we discuss the physiological functions of YAP/TAZ as well as the extensive network of signalling pathways that control their expression and activity, leading to brain tumour development and progression. Furthermore, we describe current targeting approaches and drug options including direct YAP/TAZ and YAP-TEA domain transcription factor (TEAD) interaction inhibitors, G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR) signalling modulators and kinase inhibitors, which may be used to successfully attack YAP/TAZ-dependent tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Strepkos
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Mariam Markouli
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas A Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios G Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Christina Piperi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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9
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Hung SW, Zhang R, Tan Z, Chung JPW, Zhang T, Wang CC. Pharmaceuticals targeting signaling pathways of endometriosis as potential new medical treatment: A review. Med Res Rev 2021; 41:2489-2564. [PMID: 33948974 PMCID: PMC8252000 DOI: 10.1002/med.21802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis (EM) is defined as endometrial tissues found outside the uterus. Growth and development of endometriotic cells in ectopic sites can be promoted via multiple pathways, including MAPK/MEK/ERK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, NF-κB, Rho/ROCK, reactive oxidative stress, tumor necrosis factor, transforming growth factor-β, Wnt/β-catenin, vascular endothelial growth factor, estrogen, and cytokines. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms include proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, migration, invasion, fibrosis, angiogenesis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and immune escape. Current medical treatments for EM are mainly hormonal and symptomatic, and thus the development of new, effective, and safe pharmaceuticals targeting specific molecular and signaling pathways is needed. Here, we systematically reviewed the literature focused on pharmaceuticals that specifically target the molecular and signaling pathways involved in the pathophysiology of EM. Potential drug targets, their upstream and downstream molecules with key aberrant signaling, and the regulatory mechanisms promoting the growth and development of endometriotic cells and tissues were discussed. Hormonal pharmaceuticals, including melatonin, exerts proapoptotic via regulating matrix metallopeptidase activity while nonhormonal pharmaceutical sorafenib exerts antiproliferative effect via MAPK/ERK pathway and antiangiogenesis activity via VEGF/VEGFR pathway. N-acetyl cysteine, curcumin, and ginsenoside exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects via radical scavenging activity. Natural products have high efficacy with minimal side effects; for example, resveratrol and epigallocatechin gallate have multiple targets and provide synergistic efficacy to resolve the complexity of the pathophysiology of EM, showing promising efficacy in treating EM. Although new medical treatments are currently being developed, more detailed pharmacological studies and large sample size clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of these treatments in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sze Wan Hung
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Ruizhe Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and GeneticsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhou
| | - Zhouyurong Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | | | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- Reproduction and Development, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health SciencesThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- School of Biomedical SciencesThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- Chinese University of Hong Kong‐Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive MedicineThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
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10
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Liu H, He H, Zhang Z, Wang L, Zhang L, Liu Y, Xiong W. Upregulation of the long noncoding RNA UBOX5 antisense RNA 1 (UBOX5-AS1) under hypoxic conditions promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition in endometriosis. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:790. [PMID: 34268403 PMCID: PMC8246194 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-4546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a debilitating gynecological condition that manifests many common malignant features, including migration and invasion. Hypoxia is a hallmark of endometriosis, characterized by endometrial cell metastasis via epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) UBOX antisense RNA 1 (UBOX5-AS1) has been shown to be upregulated in ovarian endometriosis. However, the molecular mechanisms and biological functions of lncRNA UBOX5-AS1 in hypoxia-induced endometriosis EMT remain to be explored. METHODS Normal, eutopic, and ectopic endometrium from ovarian endometriosis tissues were collected, and the expressions of hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1α, lncRNA UBOX5-AS1, E-cadherin, and vimentin were analyzed by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting analysis. Primary human endometrial epithelial cells and human endometrial epithelial adenocarcinoma Ishikawa cell lines were cultured under hypoxic conditions, and western blotting analysis and immunocytochemistry were performed to investigate hypoxia-induced EMT. Moreover, HIF-1α and lncRNA UBOX5-AS1 were overexpressed and knocked down in endometrial epithelial cells to explore the role and mechanisms of lncRNA UBOX5-AS1 in hypoxia-triggered EMT. The migration and invasion potential of human endometrial epithelial cells was detected by Transwell migration/invasion assays. RESULTS In ovarian endometriosis, the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and lncRNA UBOX5-AS1 were significantly increased, and this was accompanied by EMT. Furthermore, endometrial epithelial cells cultured under hypoxic conditions exhibited elevated lncRNA UBOX5-AS1 expression, as well as migration, invasion, and an EMT-like phenotype. This data indicated that HIF-1α signaling was crucial for hypoxia-induced lncRNA UBOX5-AS1 upregulation and the EMT process. Moreover, downregulation of lncRNA UBOX5-AS1 inhibited the hypoxia-induced EMT and attenuated cell migration and invasion. CONCLUSIONS The present research demonstrated that hypoxia upregulated the expression of lncRNA UBOX5-AS1 via HIF-1α-dependent signaling. The increased expression of lncRNA UBOX5-AS1 plays a vital role in mediating the hypoxia-regulated EMT and invasiveness of endometriosis, suggesting that lncRNA UBOX5-AS1 may be an important potential therapeutic target for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengwei Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Haitang He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhibing Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Lili Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wuhan Pu-Ai Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenqian Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Lan J, Xie K. miR-202-3p overexpression attenuates endometriosis-like lesions by modulating YAP-dependent transcription of S100A6 in murine models. Life Sci 2020; 265:118757. [PMID: 33197444 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
AIM Recent evidence has suggested the important implications of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the processes of proliferation and tissue remodeling in endometriosis (EMS). We therefore aim to determine the role of miR-202-3p in the pathophysiology of EMS and its underlying mechanisms. METHODS Experimental endometriosis was induced in ovariectomized mice implanted with a slow-release 17-β estradiol capsule. Eutopic endometrial stromal cells (euESCs) were isolated and assayed for proliferative, invasive and apoptotic properties by EdU staining, Transwell assays, and flow cytometry. The invasive and apoptotic features in the endometrium of mice with EMS in vivo were evaluated by using immunohistochemical staining and TUNEL assays. RESULTS miR-202-3p was observed to be downregulated in the endometrial tissues of EMS patients. MiR-202-3p was also found to target YAP1 which resulted in reduced euESC proliferation and invasion and increased apoptosis. YAP1 was able to phosphorylated STAT3 which consequently upregulated S100A6 to promote the proliferative and invasive abilities of euESCs. MiR-202-3p was thereby proposed to act as an inhibitor of proliferation and tissue damage in the in vivo setting of EMS, its effects however, were able to be counteracted byS100A6, which reversed the effects of miR-202-3p on tissue injury and cell proliferation. CONCLUSION Our data together evidenced that miR-202-3p targeted YAP1 to reduce STAT3-mediated S100A6 whereby preventing the progression of EMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Lan
- The Second Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital (The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University), Changsha 410013, PR China
| | - Kangling Xie
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China.
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12
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Cai W, Zhou W, Han Z, Lei J, Zhuang J, Zhu P, Wu X, Yuan W. Master regulator genes and their impact on major diseases. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9952. [PMID: 33083114 PMCID: PMC7546222 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Master regulator genes (MRGs) have become a hot topic in recent decades. They not only affect the development of tissue and organ systems but also play a role in other signal pathways by regulating additional MRGs. Because a MRG can regulate the concurrent expression of several genes, its mutation often leads to major diseases. Moreover, the occurrence of many tumors and cardiovascular and nervous system diseases are closely related to MRG changes. With the development in omics technology, an increasing amount of investigations will be directed toward MRGs because their regulation involves all aspects of an organism’s development. This review focuses on the definition and classification of MRGs as well as their influence on disease regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanwan Cai
- The Center for Heart Development, State Key Laboratory of Development Biology of Freshwater Fish, Key Laboratory of MOE for Development Biology and Protein Chemistry, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wanbang Zhou
- College of Physical Education, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhe Han
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Center for Precision Disease Modeling, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Junrong Lei
- College of Physical Education, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jian Zhuang
- Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of Cardiac Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ping Zhu
- Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of Cardiac Surgery, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiushan Wu
- The Center for Heart Development, State Key Laboratory of Development Biology of Freshwater Fish, Key Laboratory of MOE for Development Biology and Protein Chemistry, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wuzhou Yuan
- The Center for Heart Development, State Key Laboratory of Development Biology of Freshwater Fish, Key Laboratory of MOE for Development Biology and Protein Chemistry, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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13
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Extracellular vesicle-associated VEGF-C promotes lymphangiogenesis and immune cells infiltration in endometriosis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:25859-25868. [PMID: 33004630 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1920037117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a highly prevalent gynecological disease with severe negative impacts on life quality and financial burden. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this disease, which highlights the need for further investigation about the pathophysiology of this disease to provide clues for developing novel therapeutic regimens. Herein, we identified that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-C, a potent lymphangiogenic factor, is up-regulated in endometriotic cells and contributes to increased lymphangiogenesis. Bioinformatic analysis and molecular biological characterization revealed that VEGF-C is negatively regulated by an orphan nuclear receptor, chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter-transcription factor II (COUP-TFII). Further studies demonstrated that proinflammatory cytokines, via suppression of COUP-TFII level, induce VEGF-C overexpression. More importantly, we show that functional VEGF-C is transported by extracellular vesicles (EVs) to enhance the lymphangiogenic ability of lymphatic endothelial cells. Autotransplanted mouse model of endometriosis showed lenvatinib treatment abrogated the increased lymphatic vessels development in the endometriotic lesion, enlarged retroperitoneal lymph nodes, and immune cells infiltration, indicating that blocking VEGF-C signaling can reduce local chronic inflammation and concomitantly endometriosis development. Evaluation of EV-transmitted VEGF-C from patients' sera demonstrates it is a reliable noninvasive way for clinical diagnosis. Taken together, we identify the vicious cycle of inflammation, COUP-TFII, VEGF-C, and lymphangiogenesis in the endometriotic microenvironment, which opens up new horizons in understanding the pathophysiology of endometriosis. VEGF-C not only can serve as a diagnostic biomarker but also a molecular target for developing therapeutic regimens.
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14
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Luo M, Cai X, Yan D, Liu X, Guo SW. Sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate restrains fibrogenesis through induction of senescence in mice with induced deep endometriosis. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:373-384. [PMID: 32651107 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate (STS) induce cellular senescence in endometriotic lesions and thus restrict lesional development and fibrogenesis in a recently established mouse model of deep endometriosis? DESIGN Prospective randomized animal experiment in which deep endometriosis was induced in female Balb/C mice, which were then randomly divided into three groups (low-dose STS, high-dose STS and inert vehicle control) and received treatment for 2 weeks. All mice were then sacrificed and their lesions excised and harvested. Lesion weight was quantified and all lesion samples were subjected to histochemical analysis of the extent of lesional fibrosis by Masson trichrome staining, and of cellular senescence by senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal), along with immunohistochemistry analyses of p53, CCN1, activate Salvador 1 (Sav1), hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2), survivin, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and CD163-positive M2 macrophages. Plasma P-selectin and hyaluronic acid levels were also quantified. Hotplate testing was also administered before the induction, then before and after treatment. RESULTS STS treatment resulted in significantly reduced lesion weight, stalled lesional fibrogenesis and improved hyperalgesia, seemingly through the induction of cellular senescence by activating p53, Sav1 and CCN1 while suppressing HAS2, survivin and GM-CSF, resulting in increased apoptosis and reduced lesional infiltration of alternatively activated macrophages. In addition, STS treatment significantly reduced the plasma concentration of P-selectin and hyaluronic acid, possibly leading to reduced lesional platelet aggregation. CONCLUSIONS STS appears to be a promising compound for treating endometriosis. The results suggest that senescence may restrict lesional progression and fibrogenesis, and targeting the senescence pathway may have desirable therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ningbo No. 7 Hospital, Ningbo Zhejiang 315200, China; These three authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Xianjun Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ningbo No. 7 Hospital, Ningbo Zhejiang 315200, China; These three authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Dingmin Yan
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai 200090, China; These three authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Xishi Liu
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai 200090, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University Shanghai, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai 200090, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University Shanghai, China.
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15
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Chen PS, Chiu WT, Hsu PL, Lin SC, Peng IC, Wang CY, Tsai SJ. Pathophysiological implications of hypoxia in human diseases. J Biomed Sci 2020; 27:63. [PMID: 32389123 PMCID: PMC7212687 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-020-00658-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxygen is essentially required by most eukaryotic organisms as a scavenger to remove harmful electron and hydrogen ions or as a critical substrate to ensure the proper execution of enzymatic reactions. All nucleated cells can sense oxygen concentration and respond to reduced oxygen availability (hypoxia). When oxygen delivery is disrupted or reduced, the organisms will develop numerous adaptive mechanisms to facilitate cells survived in the hypoxic condition. Normally, such hypoxic response will cease when oxygen level is restored. However, the situation becomes complicated if hypoxic stress persists (chronic hypoxia) or cyclic normoxia-hypoxia phenomenon occurs (intermittent hypoxia). A series of chain reaction-like gene expression cascade, termed hypoxia-mediated gene regulatory network, will be initiated under such prolonged or intermittent hypoxic conditions and subsequently leads to alteration of cellular function and/or behaviors. As a result, irreversible processes occur that may cause physiological disorder or even pathological consequences. A growing body of evidence implicates that hypoxia plays critical roles in the pathogenesis of major causes of mortality including cancer, myocardial ischemia, metabolic diseases, and chronic heart and kidney diseases, and in reproductive diseases such as preeclampsia and endometriosis. This review article will summarize current understandings regarding the molecular mechanism of hypoxia in these common and important diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pai-Sheng Chen
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Wen-Tai Chiu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Pei-Ling Hsu
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Shih-Chieh Lin
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - I-Chen Peng
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Chia-Yih Wang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Shaw-Jenq Tsai
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan, Republic of China. .,Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 1 University Road, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan, Republic of China.
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16
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Thompson BJ. YAP/TAZ: Drivers of Tumor Growth, Metastasis, and Resistance to Therapy. Bioessays 2020; 42:e1900162. [DOI: 10.1002/bies.201900162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Barry J. Thompson
- EMBL AustraliaJohn Curtin School of Medical ResearchThe Australian National University 131 Garran Rd, Acton 2602 Canberra ACT Australia
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17
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Song C, Xu W, Wei Z, Ou C, Wu J, Tong J, Cai Y, Dong X, Han W. Anti-LDLR modified TPZ@Ce6-PEG complexes for tumor hypoxia-targeting chemo-/radio-/photodynamic/photothermal therapy. J Mater Chem B 2020; 8:648-654. [PMID: 31898718 DOI: 10.1039/c9tb02248a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia, a state of low oxygen tension in solid tumors, is not only closely correlated with resistance to both radiotherapy and chemotherapy, but also associated with poor prognosis of tumors and regional lymph node status. Herein, based on the analysis of cell samples from tumor patients, low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) was found to be overexpressed on the surface of hypoxic tumor cell membranes, and confirmed to be an effective hypoxia marker through specific binding with anti-LDLR antibody in solid tumors. In addition, using the special therapeutic microenvironment of hypoxia, tirapazamine (TPZ, which can be used as both a hypoxia-activated chemotherapy prodrug and radiotherapy sensitizer) was integrated with PEGylated photosensitizer chlorin e6 (Ce6-PEG) by self-assembly, and anti-LDLR was then modified on the surface to form tumor hypoxia-targeting multifunctional nanoparticles (CPTA). CPTA possesses a multimodal antitumor effect via a simultaneous photothermal therapy (PTT)/photodynamic therapy (PDT) effect generated by Ce6, and chemotherapy/radiotherapy actions sensitized by TPZ. It is noteworthy that tumor oxygen was consumed in the process of PDT and the hypoxia was subsequently exacerbated, which can greatly increase the TPZ-sensitized chemotherapy and lead to a synergistic antitumor effect. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that CPTA possesses an excellent therapeutic effect through PTT, PDT, and TPZ sensitized radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This hypoxic tumor targeting synergetic therapeutic strategy has great potential for future clinical transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanhui Song
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, No. 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, 210008, China. and Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, No. 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| | - Wenguang Xu
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, No. 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, 210008, China. and Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, No. 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| | - Zheng Wei
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, No. 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, 210008, China. and Pediatric Dentistry, Nanjing Stomatology Hospital, Medical school of Nanjing University, No. 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Changjin Ou
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing 210044, China.
| | - Jinhui Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Medical School of Nanjing University and School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China
| | - Jinlong Tong
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, No. 1 Zhongfu Road, Nanjing, 210003, China
| | - Yu Cai
- Central Laboratory of Stomatology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, No. 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| | - Xiaochen Dong
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing 210044, China.
| | - Wei Han
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, No. 30 Zhongyang Road, Nanjing, 210008, China.
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Yang B, Sun H, Xu X, Zhong H, Wu Y, Wang J. YAP1 inhibits the induction of TNF‐α‐stimulated bone‐resorbing mediators by suppressing the NF‐κB signaling pathway in MC3T3‐E1 cells. J Cell Physiol 2019; 235:4698-4708. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Beining Yang
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan Hubei China
| | - Hualing Sun
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan Hubei China
| | - Xiaoxiao Xu
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan Hubei China
| | - Heli Zhong
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan Hubei China
| | - Yanru Wu
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan Hubei China
| | - Jiawei Wang
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan Hubei China
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Wang D, Luo Y, Wang G, Yang Q. Circular RNA expression profiles and bioinformatics analysis in ovarian endometriosis. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2019; 7:e00756. [PMID: 31144476 PMCID: PMC6637292 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Circular RNAs (circRNAs) with miRNA response elements (MREs) could function as competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) in regulating gene expression, thus playing vital roles in pathogenesis and progression of many diseases. However, the function of circRNAs in endometriosis remains unknown. This study was carried to profile the expression patterns of circRNAs in ovarian endometriosis. Methods High throughput RNA‐Seq was performed in six paired ectopic and eutopic endometrium tissues (ecEM vs. euEM), followed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) in 30 paired samples. Through bioinformatics prediction, we constructed a circRNA‐miRNA ‐mRNA network and elucidated circRNAs functions by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses. Results A total of 146 upregulated and 148 downregulated circRNAs were identified, binding with 2,495 MREs. The qRT‐PCR validation results of four upregulated circRNAs matched the RNA‐Seq data. The ceRNA network included 48 miRNAs and 296 mRNAs. Functional analysis revealed several important pathways such as MAPK signaling pathway, and PI3K‐AKT signaling pathway, which might be associated with the pathogenesis and development of endometriosis. Conclusion Our data suggested that circRNAs are differentially expressed in endometriosis, which might be candidate factors for pathogenesis of this disease and be considered as promising therapeutic targets in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yajuan Luo
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Guangwei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qing Yang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Lin SC, Lee HC, Hsu CT, Huang YH, Li WN, Hsu PL, Wu MH, Tsai SJ. Targeting Anthrax Toxin Receptor 2 Ameliorates Endometriosis Progression. Theranostics 2019; 9:620-632. [PMID: 30809297 PMCID: PMC6376465 DOI: 10.7150/thno.30655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Endometriosis is a highly prevalent gynecological disease in women of reproductive age that markedly reduces life quality and fertility. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this disease, which highlights that more efforts are needed to investigate the underlying mechanism for designing novel therapeutic regimens. This study aims to investigate druggable membrane receptors distinctively expressed in endometriotic cells. Methods: Bioinformatic analysis of public databases was employed to identify potential druggable candidates. Normal endometrial tissues and ectopic endometriotic lesions were obtained for the determination of target genes. Primary endometrial and endometriotic stromal cells as well as two different mouse models of endometriosis were used to characterize molecular mechanisms and therapeutic outcomes of endometriosis, respectively. Results: Anthrax toxin receptor 2 (ANTXR2) mRNA and protein are upregulated in the endometriotic specimens. Elevation of ANTXR2 promotes endometriotic cell adhesion, proliferation, and angiogenesis. Furthermore, hypoxia is the driving force for ANTXR2 upregulation via altering histone modification of ANTXR2 promoter by reducing the repressive mark, histone H3 lysine 27 (H3K27) trimethylation, and increasing the active mark, H3K4 trimethylation. Activation of ANTXR2 signaling leads to increased Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) nuclear translocation and transcriptional activity, which contributes to numerous pathological processes of endometriosis. Pharmacological blocking of ANTXR2 signaling not only prevents endometriotic lesion development but also causes the regression of established lesion. Conclusion: Taken together, we have identified a novel target that contributes to the disease pathogenesis of endometriosis and provided a potential therapeutic regimen to treat it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Chieh Lin
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Chi Lee
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Ting Hsu
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Han Huang
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Ning Li
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ling Hsu
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Hsing Wu
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University and Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Shaw-Jenq Tsai
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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21
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Wu MH, Hsiao KY, Tsai SJ. Hypoxia: The force of endometriosis. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2019; 45:532-541. [PMID: 30618168 DOI: 10.1111/jog.13900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
AIM Summarize recent findings of how hypoxia regulates numerous important processes to facilitate the implantation, proliferation and progression of ectopic endometriotic lesions. METHODS Most up-to-date evidences about how hypoxia contributes to the disease pathogenesis of endometriosis and potential therapeutic approaches were collected by conducting a comprehensive search of medical literature electronic databases. Quality of data was analyzed by experienced experts including gynecologist and basic scientists. RESULTS Uterus is a highly vascularized organ, which makes endometrial cells constantly expose to high concentration of oxygen. When endometrial tissues shed off from the eutopic uterus and retrograde to the peritoneal cavity, they face severe hypoxic stress. Even with successful implantation to ovaries or peritoneum, the hypoxic stress remains as a critical issue because endometrial cells are used to live in the well-oxygenated environment. Under the hypoxia condition, cells undergo epigenetic modulation and evolve several survival processes including steroidogenesis, angiogenesis, inflammation and metabolic switch. The complex gene regulatory network driven by hypoxia ensures endometriotic cells can survive under the hostile peritoneal microenvironment. CONCLUSION Hypoxia plays critical roles in promoting pathological processes to facilitate the development of endometriosis. Targeting hypoxia-mediated gene network represents an alternative approach for the treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Hsing Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Kuei-Yang Hsiao
- Institute of Biochemistry, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shaw-Jenq Tsai
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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22
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Liu H, Du Y, Zhang Z, Lv L, Xiong W, Zhang L, Li N, He H, Li Q, Liu Y. Autophagy contributes to hypoxia-induced epithelial to mesenchymal transition of endometrial epithelial cells in endometriosis. Biol Reprod 2018; 99:968-981. [PMID: 29860279 PMCID: PMC6297317 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2017] [Revised: 03/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a benign gynecologic disorder, and presents with malignant characteristics, such as migration and invasion. Hypoxia has been implicated in triggering epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Hypoxia is also known to induce autophagy. However, the relationship between autophagy and EMT under hypoxia conditions in endometriosis remains unknown. In the present study, we found that the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), microtubule associated protein light chain 3 (LC3), and mesenchymal cell marker vimentin was significantly higher in ectopic endometrium from patients with endometriosis, along with decreased expression of epithelial cell marker E-cadherin. After hypoxia treatment, endometrial epithelial cells exhibited enhanced migration and invasion abilities, as well as promoted autophagy and the EMT phenotype. Our analyses also show that HIF-1α was responsible for induction of autophagy. Moreover, inhibition of autophagy by chemical or genetic approaches suppressed hypoxia triggered EMT and reduced cell migration and invasion. Collectively, our findings identify that autophagy is critical for the migration and invasion of endometrial cells through the induction of EMT and indicate that inhibition of autophagy may be a novel useful strategy in the treatment of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengwei Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Du
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhibing Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, USA
| | - Liqun Lv
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wu Han Kang Jian Fu Ying Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenqian Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Haitang He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qi Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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