A microtiter-based assay for hyaluronidase activity not requiring specialized reagents

Plasma hyaluronan, hyaluronidase activity and endogenous hyaluronidase inhibition in sepsis: an experimental and clinical cohort study

Background

Plasma hyaluronan concentrations are increased during sepsis but underlying mechanisms leading to high plasma hyaluronan concentration are poorly understood. In this study we evaluate the roles of plasma hyaluronan, effective plasma hyaluronidase (HYAL) activity and its endogenous plasma inhibition in clinical and experimental sepsis. We specifically hypothesized that plasma HYAL acts as endothelial glycocalyx shedding enzyme, sheddase.

Methods

Plasma hyaluronan, effective HYAL activity and HYAL inhibition were measured in healthy volunteers (n = 20), in patients with septic shock (n = 17, day 1 and day 4), in patients with acute pancreatitis (n = 7, day 1 and day 4) and in anesthetized and mechanically ventilated pigs (n = 16). Sixteen pigs were allocated (unblinded, open label) into three groups: Sepsis-1 with infusion of live Escherichia coli (E. coli) 1 × 10⁸ CFU/h of 12 h (n = 5), Sepsis-2 with infusion of E. coli 1 × 10⁸ CFU/h of 6 h followed by 1 × 10⁹ CFU/h of the remaining 6 h (n = 5) or Control with no E. coli infusion (n = 6).

Results

In experimental E. coli porcine sepsis and in time controls, plasma hyaluronan increases with concomitant decrease in effective plasma HYAL activity and increase of endogenous HYAL inhibition. Plasma hyaluronan increased in patients with septic shock but not in acute pancreatitis. Effective plasma HYAL was lower in septic shock and acute pancreatitis as compared to healthy volunteers, while plasma HYAL inhibition was only increased in septic shock.

Conclusion

Elevated plasma hyaluronan levels coincided with a concomitant decrease in effective plasma HYAL activity and increase of endogenous plasma HYAL inhibition both in experimental and clinical sepsis. In acute pancreatitis, effective plasma HYAL activity was decreased which was not associated with increased plasma hyaluronan concentrations or endogenous HYAL inhibition. The results suggest that plasma HYAL does not act as sheddase in sepsis or pancreatitis.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40635-021-00418-3.

Synthesis and biological evaluations of oleanolic acid indole derivatives as hyaluronidase inhibitors with enhanced skin permeability

Oleanolic acid (OA) is a natural cosmeceutical compound with various skin beneficial activities including inhibitory effect on hyaluronidase but the anti-hyaluronidase activity and mechanisms of action of its synthetic analogues remain unclear. Herein, a series of OA derivatives were synthesised and evaluated for their inhibitory effects on hyaluronidase. Compared to OA, an induction of fluorinated (6c) and chlorinated (6g) indole moieties led to enhanced anti-hyaluronidase activity (IC₅₀ = 80.3 vs. 9.97 and 9.57 µg/mL, respectively). Furthermore, spectroscopic and computational studies revealed that 6c and 6g can bind to hyaluronidase protein and alter its secondary structure leading to reduced enzyme activity. In addition, OA indole derivatives showed feasible skin permeability in a slightly acidic environment (pH = 6.5) and 6c exerted skin protective effect by reducing cellular reactive oxygen species in human skin keratinocytes. Findings from the current study support that OA indole derivatives are potential cosmeceuticals with anti-hyaluronidase activity.

Dispersive effects and focused biodistribution of recombinant human hyaluronidase PH20: A locally acting and transiently active permeation enhancer

Background

Recombinant human hyaluronidase PH20 (rHuPH20) facilitates the dispersion and absorption of subcutaneously administered therapeutic agents. This study aimed to characterize the transient, local action of rHuPH20 in the subcutaneous (SC) space using focused biodistribution and dye dispersion studies conducted in mice.

Materials and methods

To evaluate the biodistribution of rHuPH20, mice were intradermally administered rHuPH20 (80 U). The enzymatic activity of rHuPH20 was analyzed in the skin, lymph nodes, and plasma. Animal model sensitivity was determined by intravenous administration of rHuPH20 (80 U) to the tail vein. To evaluate local dispersion, mice received an intradermal injection of rHuPH20 followed by an intradermal injection of Trypan Blue dye at a contralateral site 45 minutes later. Dye dispersion was measured using a digital caliper.

Results

After intradermal rHuPH20 injection, enzymatic activity was detected within the skin near the injection site with levels decreasing rapidly after 15 minutes. There was no clear evidence of systemic exposure after administration of rHuPH20, and no discernible rHuPH20 activity was observed in lymph or plasma as a function of time after dosing. In the dye dispersion study, delivery of rHuPH20 at one site did not impact dye dispersion at a distal skin site.

Conclusion

These observations support the classification of rHuPH20 as a transiently active and locally acting permeation enhancer.

A Phase I Study to Evaluate the Safety, Tolerability, Pharmacokinetics, and Pharmacodynamics of Recombinant Human Hyaluronidase PH20 Administered Intravenously in Healthy Volunteers

Background

Recombinant human hyaluronidase PH20 (rHuPH20) is used in subcutaneous formulations (eg, RITUXAN HYCELA [rituximab and hyaluronidase human], HERCEPTIN HYLECTA [trastuzumab and hyaluronidase-oysk], PHESGO [pertuzumab/trastuzumab/hyaluronidase-zzxf], and Darzalex FASPRO [daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj]) to increase the dispersion and absorption of coadministered therapeutics. Although unlikely, subcutaneous products that include rHuPH20 could be mistaken for the intravenous formulation of the corresponding drugs (eg, RITUXAN [rituximab], HERCEPTIN [trastuzumab], and DARZALEX [daratumumab]). To understand the potential effects of inadvertent intravenous injection of rHuPH20, we investigated the safety profile, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamics (PD) of rHuPH20 administered intravenously.

Objectives

This Phase I, open-label, single-center study in healthy volunteers was designed to assess the safety profile, tolerability, PK, and PD of rHuPH20 administered intravenously.

Methods

Healthy volunteers received 5 mL intravenous infusion of either 10,000 U (n = 12) or 30,000 U (n = 12) rHuPH20 over 5 minutes. Blood samples for PK and PD analysis were obtained at baseline and at various times after initiation of infusion. Adverse events and laboratory parameters were measured to assess the safety profile and tolerability of the intravenous infusion. The PK of rHuPH20 was assessed using both an enzymatic assay and a mass-based immunoassay, and plasma hyaluronan concentrations were measured as a PD marker using an HPLC–MS/MS disaccharide assay.

Results

All 24 volunteers (mean age = 36.5 years) completed the study, and no serious adverse events were reported in either treatment group. Overall, 2 adverse events (both Grade 1) were reported; catheter site pain in the 10,000 U group and hypotension in the 30,000 U group. Plasma concentrations of rHuPH20 increased during the 5-minute intravenous infusion (median t_max = 6 minutes from intravenous initiation) followed by a rapid plasma clearance (t_1/2 ∼10 minutes from intravenous initiation). Plasma hyaluronan concentrations increased with dose and time (t_max range = 45‒120 minutes from intravenous initiation) and returned to baseline within 1 week of administration. Changes in both PK and PD measurements appeared proportional to dose.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated that intravenous administration of up to 30,000 U rHuPH20 was well tolerated, rapidly cleared from the plasma, and did not appear to be associated with any serious adverse effects at doses used in subcutaneous therapeutic products. (Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2020; 81)

Sergentomyia schwetzi: Salivary gland transcriptome, proteome and enzymatic activities in two lineages adapted to different blood sources

During the blood feeding, sand fly females inject saliva containing immunomodulatory and anti-haemostatic molecules into their vertebrate hosts. The saliva composition is species-specific, likely due to an adaptation to particular haemostatic pathways of their preferred host. Research on sand fly saliva is limited to the representatives of two best-studied genera, Phlebotomus and Lutzomyia. Although the members of the genus Sergentomyia are highly abundant in many areas in the Old World, their role in human disease transmission remains uncertain. Most Sergentomyia spp. preferentially attack various species of reptiles, but feeding on warm-blooded vertebrates, including humans and domestic animals, has been repeatedly described, especially for Sergentomyia schwetzi, of which salivary gland transcriptome and proteome is analyzed in the current study. Illumina RNA sequencing and de novo assembly of the reads and their annotation revealed 17,293 sequences homologous to other arthropods’ proteins. In the sialome, all proteins typical for sand fly saliva were identified–antigen 5-related, lufaxin, yellow-related, PpSP15-like, D7-related, ParSP25-like, and silk proteins, as well as less frequent salivary proteins included 71kDa-like, ParSP80-like, SP16-like, and ParSP17-like proteins. Salivary enzymes include apyrase, hyaluronidase, endonuclease, amylase, lipase A2, adenosine deaminase, pyrophosphatase, 5’nucleotidase, and ribonuclease. Proteomics analysis of salivary glands identified 631 proteins, 81 of which are likely secreted into the saliva. We also compared two S. schwetzi lineages derived from the same origin. These lineages were adapted for over 40 generations for blood feeding either on mice (S-M) or geckos (S-G), two vertebrate hosts with different haemostatic mechanisms. Altogether, 20 and 40 annotated salivary transcripts were up-regulated in the S-M and S-G lineage, respectively. Proteomic comparison revealed ten salivary proteins more abundant in the lineage S-M, whereas 66 salivary proteins were enriched in the lineage S-G. No difference between lineages was found for apyrase activity; contrarily the hyaluronidase activity was significantly higher in the lineage feeding on mice.

Cloning, Expression, and Characterization of a New Glycosaminoglycan Lyase from Microbacterium sp. H14

Glycosaminoglycan (GAG) lyase is an effective tool for the structural and functional studies of glycosaminoglycans and preparation of functional oligosaccharides. A new GAG lyase from Microbacterium sp. H14 was cloned, expressed, purified, and characterized, with a molecular weight of approximately 85.9 kDa. The deduced lyase HCLaseM belonged to the polysaccharide lyase (PL) family 8. Based on the phylogenetic tree, HCLaseM could not be classified into the existing three subfamilies of this family. HCLaseM showed almost the same enzyme activity towards hyaluronan (HA), chondroitin sulfate A (CS-A), CS-B, CS-C, and CS-D, which was different from reported GAG lyases. HCLaseM exhibited the highest activities to both HA and CS-A at its optimal temperature (35 °C) and pH (pH 7.0). HCLaseM was stable in the range of pH 5.0–8.0 and temperature below 30 °C. The enzyme activity was independent of divalent metal ions and was not obviously affected by most metal ions. HCLaseM is an endo-type enzyme yielding unsaturated disaccharides as the end products. The facilitated diffusion effect of HCLaseM is dose-dependent in animal experiments. These properties make it a candidate for further basic research and application.

The growth of a xenograft breast cancer tumor model with engineered hyaluronan-accumulating stroma is dependent on hyaluronan and independent of CD44

Hyaluronan accumulation in the tumor microenvironment is associated with poor prognosis in several solid human cancers. To understand the role of stromal hyaluronan in tumor progression, we engineered 3T3HAS3, a hyaluronan-producing fibroblast cell line, by lentiviral transduction of Balb/c 3T3 cells with the human hyaluronan synthase 3(HAS3) gene. 3T3HAS3 cells significantly enhanced tumor growth when co-grafted with MDA-MB-468 cells in nude mice. Immunohistochemical analysis of the xenograft tumors showed that MDA-MB-468 cells were surrounded by hyaluronan-accumulating stroma, closely resembling the morphology observed in human breast cancer specimens. Tumor growth of MDA-MB-468 + 3T3HAS3 co-grafts was greatly reduced upon hyaluronan degradation by lentiviral transduction of a human hyaluronidase gene in 3T3HAS3 cells, or by systemic administration of pegvorhyaluronidase alfa (PEGPH20). In contrast, the growth of the co-graft tumors was not inhibited when CD44 expression was reduced or ablated by small hairpin RNA-mediated CD44 knockdown in MDA-MB-468 cells, CD44 CRISPR knockout in 3T3HAS3 cells, or by grafting these cells in CD44 knockout nude mice. Collectively, these data demonstrate that tumor growth of an engineered xenograft breast cancer model with hyaluronan-accumulating stroma can be dependent on hyaluronan and independent of CD44.

First Aldol Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel: Fast and Hydrolytically Stable Hydrogel with Tissue Adhesive Properties

Currently, there are limited approaches to tailor 3D scaffolds cross-linked with a stable covalent C-C bond that does not require any catalysts or initiators. We present here the first hydrogels employing aldol condensation chemistry that exhibit exceptional physicochemical properties. We investigated the aldol-cross-linking chemistry using two types of aldehyde-modified hyaluronic acid (HA) derivatives, namely, an enolizable HA-aldehyde (HA-Eal) and a non-enolizable HA-aldehyde (HA-Nal). Hydrogels formed using HA-Eal demonstrate inferior cross-linking efficiency (due to intramolecular loop formation), when compared with hydrogels formed by mixing HA-Eal and HA-NaI leading to a cross-aldol product. The change in mechanical properties as a result of cross-linking at different pH values is determined using rheological measurements and is interpreted in terms of molecular weight between cross-links (M_c). The novel HA cross-aldol hydrogel demonstrate excellent hydrolytic stability and favorable mechanical properties but allow hyaluronidase-mediated enzymatic degradation. Interestingly, residual aldehyde functionality within the aldol product rendered the tissue-adhesive properties by bonding two bone tissues. The aldehyde functionality also facilitated facile post-synthetic modifications with nucleophilic reagents. Finally, we demonstrate that the novel hydrogel is biocompatible with encapsulated stem cells that show a linear rate of expansion in our 3-6 days of study.

The salivary hyaluronidase and apyrase of the sand fly Sergentomyia schwetzi (Diptera, Psychodidae)

Current knowledge of sand fly salivary components has been based solely on Lutzomyia and Phlebotomus species which feed mainly on mammals; their hyaluronidases and apyrases were demonstrated to significantly affect blood meal intake and transmission of vector-borne pathogens. Members of the third sand fly genus Sergentomyia preferentially feed on reptiles but some of them are considered as Leishmania and arboviruses vectors; however, nothing is known about their salivary components that might be relevant for pathogens transmission. Here, marked hyaluronidase and apyrase activities were demonstrated in the saliva of a Sergentomyia schwetzi colony maintained on geckos. Hyaluronidase of S. schwetzi cleaved hyaluronan as the prominent substrate, and was active over a broad pH range from 4.0 to 8.0, with a sharp peak at pH 5.0. SDS PAGE zymography demonstrated the monomeric character of the enzyme, which remained active in reducing conditions. The apparent molecular weight of 43 kDa was substantially lower than in any sand fly species tested so far and may indicate relatively low grade of the glycosylation of the enzyme. The apyrase of S. schwetzi was typical strictly Ca2+ dependent Cimex-family apyrase. It was active over a pH range from 6.5 to 9.0, with a peak of activity at pH 8.5, and had an ATPase/ADPase ratio of 0.9. The apyrase activity increased during the first 3 days post-emergence, then reached a plateau and remained relatively constant until day 8. In comparison with a majority of Phlebotomus and Lutzomyia species tested to date, both the hyaluronidase and apyrase activities of S. schwetzi were relatively low, which may reflect an adaptation of this sand fly to blood feeding on non-mammalian hosts.

Phase 1 trials of PEGylated recombinant human hyaluronidase PH20 in patients with advanced solid tumours

Background:

Hyaluronan accumulation in tumour stroma is associated with reduced survival in preclinical cancer models. PEGPH20 degrades hyaluronan to facilitate tumour access for cancer therapies. Our objective was to assess safety and antitumour activity of PEGPH20 in patients with advanced solid tumours.

Methods:

In HALO-109-101 (N=14), PEGPH20 was administered intravenously once or twice weekly (0.5 or 50 μg kg⁻¹) or once every 3 weeks (0.5–1.5 μg kg⁻¹). In HALO-109-102 (N=27), PEGPH20 was administered once or twice weekly (0.5–5.0 μg kg⁻¹), with dexamethasone predose and postdose.

Results:

Dose-limiting toxicities included grade ⩾3 myalgia, arthralgia, and muscle spasms; the maximum tolerated dose was 3.0 μg kg⁻¹ twice weekly. Plasma hyaluronan increased in a dose-dependent manner, achieving steady state by Day 8 in multidose studies. A decrease in tumour hyaluronan level was observed in 5 of the 6 patients with pretreatment and posttreatment tumour biopsies. Exploratory imaging showed changes in tumour perfusion and decreased tumour metabolic activity, consistent with observations in animal models.

Conclusions:

The tumour stroma has emerging importance in the development of cancer therapeutics. PEGPH20 3.0 μg kg⁻¹ administered twice weekly is feasible in patients with advanced cancers; exploratory analyses indicate antitumour activity supporting further evaluation of PEGPH20 in solid tumours.

Breaching the Hyaluronan Barrier with PH20-Fc Facilitates Intratumoral Permeation and Enhances Antitumor Efficiency: A Comparative Investigation of Typical Therapeutic Agents in Different Nanoscales

In contrast to traditional strategies based on external driving forces, an internal path for intratumoral delivery is explored by degrading the tumor microenvironment component hyaluronan. Natural hyaluronidase PH20 and constructed long-acting PH20-Fc have been used to achieve this objective. It has been then evaluated how these agents facilitate the diffusion of the following typical therapeutic agents varying in nanoscales: doxorubicin (≈1.5 × 1.0 × 0.7 nm) chemotherapy, trastuzumab (10-15 nm) biotherapy, and gold nanorod (≈100 × 35 nm) thermotherapy. In traditional 2D cultures, PH20 and PH20-Fc have little influence on cytotoxicity due to lack of a tumor microenvironment. However, the cytotoxicities of the three therapeutic agents in 3D tumor spheroids are all enhanced by PH20 or PH20-Fc because hyaluronan degradation facilitates therapeutic penetration and accumulation. Furthermore, in vivo evaluations reveal that the significantly prolonged circulation time of PH20-Fc leads to accumulation in the tumor and subsequent hyaluronan degradation. Consequently, PH20-Fc coadministration further inhibits tumor growth. The performance of PH20-Fc varies for the three therapeutic agents due to their different nanoscales. Trastuzumab benefits most from combination with PH20-Fc. The results provide here novel insights that can aid in the development of more effective hyaluronidase-based therapeutic systems.

Is low molecular weight hyaluronan an early indicator of disease in avian systemic sclerosis?

AIM OF THE STUDY

To further elucidate the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc) an experimental avian model was used. The University of California at Davis line 200 (UCD-200) chickens spontaneously develop a SSc-like disease that has most features of human SSc with vascular effects, inflammation, autoimmunity, and fibrosis. The first signs of disease in UCD-200 chickens are swelling and ischemic lesions of the comb and the presence of a tissue containing high amounts of glycosaminoglycan hyaluronan (HA). The aim of this study was to evaluate inflammatory and fibrotic processes of the disease with regard to the molecular weight of HA.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Comb biopsies from UCD-200 and healthy White Leghorn (WL) chickens, as controls, at different ages were studied with the histochemical localization of HA, hyaluronidase-1 (Hyal-1), cluster of differentiation 3, immunoglobulin Y, and collagen I and III. The molecular weight distribution of HA was estimated with gas-phase electrophoretic analysis.

RESULTS

At 2 days of age, HA was visualized in UCD-200 chickens at the dermal part of the comb with no simultaneous staining of Hyal-1. In adult UCD-200 chickens, the comb skin was almost totally devoid of HA compared to WL chickens of the same age. An increase of low molecular weight (LMW) HA was detected in comb tissue from UCD-200 at the age of 1 day, 1 week, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks, in contrast to adult animals.

CONCLUSIONS

An early inflammatory process involving LMW HA was confirmed as a possible profibrotic process. This indicates that HA might be an important participant in the early inflammatory events of SSc in UCD-200 chickens and that the disappearance of HA in skin predisposes to fibrosis.

Recombinant human hyaluronidase facilitated subcutaneous immunoglobulin treatment in pediatric patients with primary immunodeficiencies: long-term efficacy, safety and tolerability

AIM

To assess the long-term efficacy, safety and tolerability of recombinant human hyaluronidase-facilitated subcutaneous infusion of immunoglobulin (Ig) (fSCIG; HYQVIA(®); IGHy) in children aged <18 years.

PATIENTS & METHODS

Patients with primary immunodeficiency diseases were included in the studies. IGHy was administered every 3 or 4 weeks.

RESULTS

Validated acute serious bacterial infections were reported at 0.08/patient-year (four pneumonia episodes in three patients). No serious adverse drug reaction (ADR) was reported, and rates of local and systemic ADRs were low (0.09/infusion and 0.1/infusion). Infection rates were low (3.02/patient-year) with sustained Ig trough levels (median: 1009 mg/dl). Of 674 IGHy infusions, 97.2% required no change of administration due to ADR, in most (82.5%) with one infusion site. No patient developed neutralizing anti-rHuPH20 antibodies. Postpivotal study, 100% of patients aged <14 years or their caregivers and 85.7% of patients aged 14 to <18 years expressed preference for IGHy compared with Ig administered intravenously or Ig administered subcutaneously.

CONCLUSION

These studies, with the longest (maximum: 3.3 years) duration of any reported Ig replacement trials in children with primary immunodeficiency diseases, showed low infection, local and systemic reaction rates along with well-tolerated infusions given in a single site.

Hyaluronidase activity in the salivary glands of tabanid flies

Tabanids are haematophagous insects that act as biological and mechanical vectors of various diseases, including viruses, bacteria and parasites. The saliva of these insects contains strong anticoagulant and vasodilatory activities as well as immunoregulatory peptides. Here we demonstrate pronounced hyaluronidase (hyase) activity in ten tabanid species of the genera Chrysops, Haematopota, Hybomitra and Tabanus. Compared to other haematophagous insects, the ability of tabanid hyases to hydrolyze hyaluronic acid (HA) is extremely high, for example the enzyme activity of Hybomitra muehlfeldi was found to be 32-fold higher than the salivary hyase activity of the sand fly Phlebotomus papatasi. Hyases of all ten tabanid species tested also cleaved chondroitin sulfate A, another glycosaminoglycan present in the extracellular matrix of vertebrates. The pH optimum of the enzyme activity was measured in eight tabanid species; the hyase of Haemopota pluvialis was the only one with optimum at pH 4.0, while in the other seven species the activity optimum was at 5.0. SDS PAGE zymography showed the monomeric character of the enzymes in all tabanid species tested. Under non-reducing conditions the activities were visible as single bands with estimated MW between 35 and 52 kDa. The very high hyaluronidase activity in tabanid saliva might be related to their aggressive biting behavior as well as to their high efficiency as mechanical vectors. As they are supposedly involved in the enlargement of feeding hematomas, hyases might contribute to the mechanical transmission of pathogens. Pathogens present in vector mouthparts are co-inoculated into the vertebrate host together with saliva and may benefit from increased tissue permeability and the immunomodulatory activity of the salivary hyase.

A Facile Approach to Functionalize Cell Membrane-Coated Nanoparticles

Convenient strategies to provide cell membrane-coated nanoparticles (CM-NPs) with multi-functionalities beyond the natural function of cell membranes would dramatically expand the application of this emerging class of nanomaterials. We have developed a facile approach to functionalize CM-NPs by chemically modifying live cell membranes prior to CM-NP fabrication using a bifunctional linker, succinimidyl-[(N-maleimidopropionamido)-polyethyleneglycol] ester (NHS-PEG-Maleimide). This method is particularly suitable to conjugate large bioactive molecules such as proteins on cell membranes as it establishes a strong anchorage and enable the control of linker length, a critical parameter for maximizing the function of anchored proteins. As a proof of concept, we show the conjugation of human recombinant hyaluronidase, PH20 (rHuPH20) on red blood cell (RBC) membranes and demonstrate that long linker (MW: 3400) is superior to short linker (MW: 425) for maintaining enzyme activity, while minimizing the changes to cell membranes. When the modified membranes were fabricated into RBC membrane-coated nanoparticles (RBCM-NPs), the conjugated rHuPH20 can assist NP diffusion more efficiently than free rHuPH20 in matrix-mimicking gels and the pericellular hyaluronic acid matrix of PC3 prostate cancer cells. After quenching the unreacted chemical groups with polyethylene glycol, we demonstrated that the rHuPH20 modification does not reduce the ultra-long blood circulation time of RBCM-NPs. Therefore, this surface engineering approach provides a platform to functionlize CM-NPs without sacrificing the natural function of cell membranes.

Hyaluronan in wound healing: rediscovering a major player

Wound healing involves a series of carefully modulated steps, from initial injury and blood clot to the final reconstituted tissue or scar. A dynamic reciprocity exists throughout between the wound, blood elements, extracellular matrix, and cells that participate in healing. Multiple cytokines and signal transduction pathways regulate these reactions. A major component throughout most of the process is hyaluronan, a straight-chain carbohydrate extracellular matrix polymer. Hyaluronan occurs in multiple forms, chain length being the only distinguishing characteristic between them. Levels of hyaluronan in its high-molecular-weight form are prominent in the earliest stages of wound repair. Progressively more fragmented forms occur in a manner not previously appreciated. We outline here steps in the wound healing cascade in which hyaluronan participates, as well as providing a review of its metabolism. Although described by necessity in a series of quantum steps, the healing process is constituted by a smooth continuum of overlapping reactions. The prevalence of hyaluronan in the wound (initially termed "hexosamine-containing mucopolysaccharide"), particularly in its early stages, was pointed out over half a century ago by the Harvard surgeon J. Engelbert Dunphy. It appears we are now returning to where we started.

Comparative analysis of salivary gland transcriptomes of Phlebotomus orientalis sand flies from endemic and non-endemic foci of visceral leishmaniasis

Background

In East Africa, Phlebotomus orientalis serves as the main vector of Leishmania donovani, the causative agent of visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Phlebotomus orientalis is present at two distant localities in Ethiopia; Addis Zemen where VL is endemic and Melka Werer where transmission of VL does not occur. To find out whether the difference in epidemiology of VL is due to distant compositions of P. orientalis saliva we established colonies from Addis Zemen and Melka Werer, analyzed and compared the transcriptomes, proteomes and enzymatic activity of the salivary glands.

Methodology/Principal Findings

Two cDNA libraries were constructed from the female salivary glands of P. orientalis from Addis Zemen and Melka Werer. Clones of each P. orientalis library were randomly selected, sequenced and analyzed. In P. orientalis transcriptomes, we identified members of 13 main protein families. Phylogenetic analysis and multiple sequence alignments were performed to evaluate differences between the P. orientalis colonies and to show the relationship with other sand fly species from the subgenus Larroussius. To further compare both colonies, we investigated the humoral antigenicity and cross-reactivity of the salivary proteins and the activity of salivary apyrase and hyaluronidase.

Conclusions

This is the first report of the salivary components of P. orientalis, an important vector sand fly. Our study expanded the knowledge of salivary gland compounds of sand fly species in the subgenus Larroussius. Based on the phylogenetic analysis, we showed that P. orientalis is closely related to Phlebotomus tobbi and Phlebotomus perniciosus, whereas Phlebotomus ariasi is evolutionarily more distinct species. We also demonstrated that there is no significant difference between the transcriptomes, proteomes or enzymatic properties of the salivary components of Addis Zemen (endemic area) and Melka Werer (non-endemic area) P. orientalis colonies. Thus, the different epidemiology of VL in these Ethiopian foci cannot be attributed to the salivary gland composition.

Phlebotomus orientalis is the vector of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by Leishmania donovani in Northeast Africa. Immunization with sand fly saliva or with individual salivary proteins has been shown to protect against leishmaniasis in different hosts, warranting the intensive study of salivary proteins of sand fly vectors. In our study, we characterize the salivary compounds of P. orientalis, thereby broadening the repertoire of salivary proteins of sand fly species belonging to the subgenus Larroussius. In order to find out whether there is any connection between the composition of P. orientalis saliva and the epidemiology of VL in two distinct Ethiopian foci, Addis Zemen and Melka Werer, we studied the transcriptomes, proteomes, enzymatic activities, and the main salivary antigens in two P. orientalis colonies originating from these areas. We did not detect any significant difference between the saliva of female sand flies originating in Addis Zemen (endemic area) and Melka Werer (non-endemic area). Therefore, the different epidemiology of VL in these Ethiopian foci cannot be related to the distant salivary gland protein composition. Identifying the sand fly salivary gland compounds will be useful for future research focused on characterizing suitable salivary proteins as potential anti-Leishmania vaccine candidates.

Direct detection of hyaluronidase in urine using cationic gold nanoparticles: a potential diagnostic test for bladder cancer

Hyaluronidase (HAase) was reported as a urinary marker of bladder cancer. In this study, a simple colorimetric gold nanoparticle (AuNP) assay was developed for rapid and sensitive detection of urinary HAase activity. Charge interaction between polyanionic hyaluronic acid (HA) and cationic AuNPs stabilized with cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) led to formation of gold aggregates and a red to blue color shift. HAase digests HA into small fragments preventing the aggregation of cationic AuNPs. The nonspecific aggregation of AuNPs in urine samples was overcome by pre-treatment of samples with the polycationic chitosan that was able to agglomerate all negatively charged interfering moieties before performing the assay. The developed AuNP assay was compared with zymography for qualitative detection of urinary HAase activity in 40 bladder carcinoma patients, 11 benign bladder lesions patients and 15 normal individuals, the assay sensitivity was 82.5% vs. 65% for zymography, while the specificity for both assays was 96.1%. The absorption ratio, A530/A620 of the reacted AuNP solution was used to quantify the HAase activity. The best cut off value was 93.5 μU/ng protein, at which the sensitivity was 90% and the specificity was 80.8%.The developed colorimetric AuNP HAase assay is simple, inexpensive, and can aid noninvasive diagnosis of bladder cancer.

Immobilized heavy chain-hyaluronic acid polarizes lipopolysaccharide-activated macrophages toward M2 phenotype

Despite the known anti-inflammatory effect of amniotic membrane, its action mechanism remains largely unknown. HC-HA complex (HC-HA) purified from human amniotic membrane consists of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HA) covalently linked to the heavy chain (HC) 1 of inter-α-trypsin inhibitor. In this study, we show that soluble HC-HA also contained pentraxin 3 and induced the apoptosis of both formyl-Met-Leu-Phe or LPS-activated neutrophils and LPS-activated macrophages while not affecting the resting cells. This enhanced apoptosis was caused by the inhibition of cell adhesion, spreading, and proliferation caused by HC-HA binding of LPS-activated macrophages and preventing adhesion to the plastic surface. Preferentially, soluble HC-HA promoted phagocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils in resting macrophages, whereas immobilized HC-HA promoted phagocytosis in LPS-activated macrophages. Upon concomitant LPS stimulation, immobilized HC-HA but not HA polarized macrophages toward the M2 phenotype by down-regulating IRF5 protein and preventing its nuclear localization and by down-regulating IL-12, TNF-α, and NO synthase 2. Additionally, IL-10, TGF-β1, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, LIGHT (TNF superfamily 14), and sphingosine kinase-1 were up-regulated, and such M2 polarization was dependent on TLR ligation. Collectively, these data suggest that HC-HA is a unique matrix component different from HA and uses multiple mechanisms to suppress M1 while promoting M2 phenotype. This anti-inflammatory action of HC-HA is highly desirable to promote wound healing in diseases heightened by unsuccessful transition from M1 to M2 phenotypes.

Hypotheses on the evolution of hyaluronan: a highly ironic acid

Hyaluronan is a high-molecular-weight glycosaminoglycan (GAG) prominent in the extracellular matrix. Emerging relatively late in evolution, it may have evolved to evade immune recognition. Chondroitin is a more ancient GAG and a possible hyaluronan precursor. Epimerization of a 4-hydroxyl in N-acetylgalactosamine in chondroitin to N-acetylglucosamine of hyaluronan is the only structural difference other than chain length between these two polymers. The axial 4-hydroxyl group extends out perpendicular from the equatorial plane of N-acetylgalactosamine in chondroitin. We suspect that this hydroxyl is a prime target for immune recognition. Conversion of a thumbs-up hydroxyl group into a thumbs-down position in the plane of the sugar endows hyaluronan with the ability to avoid immune recognition. Chitin is another potential precursor to hyaluronan. But regardless whether of chondroitin or of chitin origin, an ancient chondroitinase enzyme sequence seems to have been commandeered to catalyze the cleavage of the new hyaluronan substrate. The evolution of six hyaluronidase-like sequences in the human genome from a single chondroitinase as found in Caenorhabditis elegans can now be traced. Confirming our previous predictions, two duplication events occurred, with three hyaluronidase-like sequences occurring in the genome of Ciona intestinalis (sea squirt), the earliest known chordate. This was probably followed by en masse duplication, with six such genes present in the genome of zebra fish onwards. These events occurred, however, much earlier than predicted. It is also apparent on an evolutionary time scale that in several species, this gene family is continuing to evolve.

Cleavage of hyaluronan is impaired in aged dermal wounds

Changes in extracellular matrix (ECM) are one of many components that contribute to impaired wound healing in aging. This study examined the effect of age on the glycosaminoglycan hyaluronan (HA) in normal and wounded dermis from young (4-6 month-old) and aged (22-24 month-old) mice. HA content and size were similar in the normal dermis of young and aged mice. Dermal explants labeled with [(3)H]-glucosamine showed decreased generation of smaller forms of HA in aged explants relative to young explants. Aged mice exhibited delayed wound repair compared with young mice with the greatest differential at 5 days. Expression of hyaluronan synthase (HAS) 2 and 3, and hyaluronidase (HYAL) 1-3 mRNA in wounds of young and aged mice was similar. There was a trend toward a decreased HYAL protein expression in aged wound dermis, which was accompanied by changes in detectable HYAL activity. Total HA content was similar in young and aged wound dermis. There was significantly less HA in the lower MW range (~250 kDa and smaller) in 5-day wound dermis, but not in 9-day wound dermis, from aged mice relative to young mice. We propose that decreased cleavage of HA is an additional component of impaired dermal wound healing in aging.

Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging

SKIN AGING IS A MULTIFACTORIAL PROCESS CONSISTING OF TWO DISTINCT AND INDEPENDENT MECHANISMS: intrinsic and extrinsic aging. Youthful skin retains its turgor, resilience and pliability, among others, due to its high content of water. Daily external injury, in addition to the normal process of aging, causes loss of moisture. The key molecule involved in skin moisture is hyaluronic acid (HA) that has unique capacity in retaining water. There are multiple sites for the control of HA synthesis, deposition, cell and protein association and degradation, reflecting the complexity of HA metabolism. The enzymes that synthesize or catabolize HA and HA receptors responsible for many of the functions of HA are all multigene families with distinct patterns of tissue expression. Understanding the metabolism of HA in the different layers of the skin and the interactions of HA with other skin components will facilitate the ability to modulate skin moisture in a rational manner.

Salivary gland transcriptomes and proteomes of Phlebotomus tobbi and Phlebotomus sergenti, vectors of leishmaniasis

Background

Phlebotomus tobbi is a vector of Leishmania infantum, and P. sergenti is a vector of Leishmania tropica. Le. infantum and Le. tropica typically cause visceral or cutaneous leishmaniasis, respectively, but Le. infantum strains transmitted by P. tobbi can cause cutaneous disease. To better understand the components and possible implications of sand fly saliva in leishmaniasis, the transcriptomes of the salivary glands (SGs) of these two sand fly species were sequenced, characterized and compared.

Methodology/Principal Findings

cDNA libraries of P. tobbi and P. sergenti female SGs were constructed, sequenced, and analyzed. Clones (1,152) were randomly picked from each library, producing 1,142 high-quality sequences from P. tobbi and 1,090 from P. sergenti. The most abundant, secreted putative proteins were categorized as antigen 5-related proteins, apyrases, hyaluronidases, D7-related and PpSP15-like proteins, ParSP25-like proteins, PpSP32-like proteins, yellow-related proteins, the 33-kDa salivary proteins, and the 41.9-kDa superfamily of proteins. Phylogenetic analyses and multiple sequence alignments of putative proteins were used to elucidate molecular evolution and describe conserved domains, active sites, and catalytic residues. Proteomic analyses of P. tobbi and P. sergenti SGs were used to confirm the identification of 35 full-length sequences (18 in P. tobbi and 17 in P. sergenti). To bridge transcriptomics with biology P. tobbi antigens, glycoproteins, and hyaluronidase activity was characterized.

Conclusions

This analysis of P. sergenti is the first description of the subgenus Paraphlebotomus salivary components. The investigation of the subgenus Larroussius sand fly P. tobbi expands the repertoire of salivary proteins in vectors of Le. infantum. Although P. tobbi transmits a cutaneous form of leishmaniasis, its salivary proteins are most similar to other Larroussius subgenus species transmitting visceral leishmaniasis. These transcriptomic and proteomic analyses provide a better understanding of sand fly salivary proteins across species and subgenera that will be vital in vector-pathogen and vector-host research.

Phlebotomine female sand flies require a blood meal for egg development, and it is during the blood feeding that pathogens can be transmitted to a host. Leishmania parasites are among these pathogens and can cause disfiguring cutaneous or even possibly fatal visceral disease. The Leishmania parasites are deposited into the bite wound along with the sand fly saliva. The components of the saliva have many pharmacologic and immune functions important in blood feeding and disease establishment. In this article, the authors identify and investigate the protein components of saliva of two important vectors of leishmaniasis, Phlebotomus tobbi and P. sergenti, by sequencing the transcriptomes of the salivary glands. We then compared the predicted protein sequences of these salivary proteins to those of other bloodsucking insects to elucidate the similarity in composition, structure, and enzymatic activity. Finally, this descriptive analysis of P. tobbi and P. sergenti transcriptomes can aid future research in identifying molecules for epidemiologic assays and in investigating sand fly-host interactions.

Identification, characterization, and molecular cloning of a novel hyaluronidase, a member of glycosyl hydrolase family 16, from Penicillium spp

Hyaluronidase (HAase) activity was detected in the culture supernatants of Penicillium purpurogenum and Penicillium funiculosum. The HAase from Penicillium spp. (HAase-P) was a hyaluronate 4-glycanohydrolase, which catalyzed the endolytic hydrolysis of the β-1,4 glycosidic linkage, as do vertebrate HAases. The gene encoding HAase-P was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. According to homology analyses of the deduced amino acid sequences, HAase-P is not classified into any of the known HAase groups, but belongs to glycoside hydrolase family 16, which includes endo-β-1,3(4)-glucanase. Regarding the substrate specificities, no chondroitinase and glucanase activities were detected. Judging from homology analyses and enzymatic properties, HAase-P seems to be a new type of HAase.

Enzymatic depletion of tumor hyaluronan induces antitumor responses in preclinical animal models

Hyaluronan (HA) is a glycosaminoglycan polymer that often accumulates in malignancy. Megadalton complexes of HA with proteoglycans create a hydrated connective tissue matrix, which may play an important role in tumor stroma formation. Through its colloid osmotic effects, HA complexes contribute to tumor interstitial fluid pressure, limiting the effect of therapeutic molecules on malignant cells. The therapeutic potential of enzymatic remodeling of the tumor microenvironment through HA depletion was initially investigated using a recombinant human HA-degrading enzyme, rHuPH20, which removed HA-dependent tumor cell extracellular matrices in vitro. However, rHuPH20 showed a short serum half-life (t(1/2) < 3 minutes), making depletion of tumor HA in vivo impractical. A pegylated variant of rHuPH20, PEGPH20, was therefore evaluated. Pegylation improved serum half-life (t(1/2) = 10.3 hours), making it feasible to probe the effects of sustained HA depletion on tumor physiology. In high-HA prostate PC3 tumors, i.v. administration of PEGPH20 depleted tumor HA, decreased tumor interstitial fluid pressure by 84%, decreased water content by 7%, decompressed tumor vessels, and increased tumor vascular area >3-fold. Following repeat PEGPH20 administration, tumor growth was significantly inhibited (tumor growth inhibition, 70%). Furthermore, PEGPH20 enhanced both docetaxel and liposomal doxorubicin activity in PC3 tumors (P < 0.05) but did not significantly improve the activity of docetaxel in low-HA prostate DU145 tumors. The ability of PEGPH20 to enhance chemotherapy efficacy is likely due to increased drug perfusion combined with other tumor structural changes. These results support enzymatic remodeling of the tumor stroma with PEGPH20 to treat tumors characterized by the accumulation of HA.

Hyaluronic acid hydrogels with controlled degradation properties for oriented bone regeneration

Non-healing fractures can result from trauma, disease, or age-related bone loss. While many treatments focus on restoring bone volume, few try to recapitulate bone organization. However, the native architecture of bone is optimized to provide its necessary mechanical properties. Hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel scaffold systems with tunable degradation properties were developed for the controlled delivery of osteoinductive and angiogenic growth factors, thus affecting the quantity and quality of regenerated tissue. HA hydrogels were designed to degrade at fast, intermediate, and slow rates due to hydrolysis and further provided controlled release of cationic proteins due to electrostatic interactions. Scaffolds delivering bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) were evaluated in a rat calvarial bone critical size defect model. BMP-2 delivery from the HA hydrogels had a clear osteoinductive effect in vivo and, for all hydrogel types, BMP-2 delivery resulted in significant mineralization compared to control hydrogels. The temporal progression of this effect could be modulated by altering the degradation rate of the scaffold. All three degradation rates tested resulted in similar amounts of mineral formation at the latest (six week) time point examined. Interestingly, however, the fastest and slowest degrading scaffolds seemed to result in more organized bone than the intermediate degrading scaffold, which was designed to degrade in 6-8 weeks to match the healing time. Additionally, healing could be enhanced by co-delivery of vascular endothelial growth factor along with BMP-2.

Modulation of hyaluronan catabolism in chondrocytes by mechanical stimuli

Hyaluronan (HA) is a component of the extracellular matrices of cartilage contributing to the structural and functional integrity. HA metabolism is regulated by both anabolic and catabolic processes; however, a great deal more of the detail has been unknown yet. The purpose of this study was to clarify the effect of excessive mechanical load on the expression and activity of hyaluronidase (HYAL) in chondrocytes with a special reference to the expressions of IL-1beta and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha. A cyclic tensile load of 22.8% cell elongation, regarded as an excessive mechanical stimulus, was applied to cultured rabbit knee articular chondrocytes. HYAL1, HYAL2, IL-1beta, and TNF-alpha mRNA levels were examined by quantitative real-time PCR analysis. The HYAL activity in culture medium was examined by HA zymography. Both HYAL1 and HYAL2 mRNA levels were upregulated significantly by the loading in cultured chondrocytes. HYAL activity was also enhanced as compared with unloaded controls. The IL-1beta mRNA level was upregulated significantly by the loading, and TNF-alpha mRNA level was slightly upregulated. HYAL1 and HYAL2 mRNA levels were upregulated significantly by IL-1beta treatment, resulting in a slight increase in HYAL activity. These results show that the expression of HYAL1 and HYAL2 in articular chondrocytes is enhanced by excessive mechanical stimuli and affected in part by induction of IL-1beta, leading to HA catabolism in articular cartilage.

Biochemical characterization and function of complexes formed by hyaluronan and the heavy chains of inter-alpha-inhibitor (HC*HA) purified from extracts of human amniotic membrane

Clinically, amniotic membrane (AM) suppresses inflammation, scarring, and angiogenesis. AM contains abundant hyaluronan (HA) but its function in exerting these therapeutic actions remains unclear. Herein, AM was extracted sequentially with buffers A, B, and C, or separately by phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) alone. Agarose gel electrophoresis showed that high molecular weight (HMW) HA (an average of approximately 3000 kDa) was predominantly extracted in isotonic Extract A (70.1 +/- 6.0%) and PBS (37.7 +/- 3.2%). Western blot analysis of these extracts with hyaluronidase digestion or NaOH treatment revealed that HMW HA was covalently linked with the heavy chains (HCs) of inter-alpha-inhibitor (IalphaI) via a NaOH-sensitive bond, likely transferred by the tumor necrosis factor-alpha stimulated gene-6 protein (TSG-6). This HC.HA complex (nHC*HA) could be purified from Extract PBS by two rounds of CsCl/guanidine HCl ultracentrifugation as well as in vitro reconstituted (rcHC*HA) by mixing HMW HA, serum IalphaI, and recombinant TSG-6. Consistent with previous reports, Extract PBS suppressed transforming growth factor-beta1 promoter activation in corneal fibroblasts and induced mac ro phage apoptosis. However, these effects were abolished by hyaluronidase digestion or heat treatment. More importantly, the effects were retained in the nHC*HA or rcHC*HA. These data collectively suggest that the HC*HA complex is the active component in AM responsible in part for clinically observed anti-inflammatory and anti-scarring actions.

Platelet-derived hyaluronidase 2 cleaves hyaluronan into fragments that trigger monocyte-mediated production of proinflammatory cytokines

Hyaluronan (HA) occurs in the body as a large, hydrating, space-filling, carbohydrate polymer in the extracellular matrix; it has both anti-angiogenic and immunosuppressive properties. Cleavage of HA results in the generation of variably sized fragments that stimulate multiple angiogenic and inflammatory responses in a size-specific manner. In this study, we report that platelets, as well as their megakaryocyte precursors, are unusual among somatic cells in that they contain only hyaluronidase 2 (HYAL2) but not HYAL1. Platelet HYAL2 is sufficient to cleave HA into fragments that are specific for inflammatory and angiogenic signaling; this process occurs in the absence of HYAL1, which is necessary in all other tissues to perform further HA degradation. Platelets can bind to HA, some of which derives from the stressed microvessel endothelial cell surface. Platelet-derived HYAL2 cleaves HA into fragments that stimulate mononuclear leukocytes in the immediate microenvironment to produce proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-6 and interleukin-8. Platelets, thus, are not only involved in hemostasis, the earliest step in wound healing, but are also important in the signaling of subsequent inflammatory and angiogenic steps. We hypothesize that aberrations in these sequential steps can promote chronic inflammation, as found in inflammatory bowel disease. The platelet may thus provide an interface between acute and chronic inflammation, wound healing, and their subsequent fibrotic responses.

Hyaluronidase activity of human Hyal1 requires active site acidic and tyrosine residues

Hyaluronidases are a family of endolytic glycoside hydrolases that cleave the beta1-4 linkage between N-acetylglucosamine and glucuronic acid in hyaluronan polymers via a substrate-assisted mechanism. In humans, turnover of hyaluronan by this enzyme family is critical for normal extracellular matrix remodeling. However, elevated expression of the Hyal1 isozyme accelerates tumor growth and metastatic progression. In this study, we used structural information, site-directed mutagenesis, and steady state enzyme kinetics to probe molecular determinants of human Hyal1 function. Mutagenesis of active site residues Glu(131) and Tyr(247) to Gln and Phe, respectively, eliminated activity at all hyaluronan concentrations (to 125 microm or 2.5 mg/ml). Conservative mutagenesis of Asp(129) and Tyr(202) significantly impaired catalysis by increases of 5- and 10-fold in apparent K(m) and reductions in V(max) of 95 and 50%, respectively. Tyr(247) and Asp(129) are required for stabilization of the catalytic nucleophile, which arises as a resonance intermediate of N-acetylglucosamine on the substrate. Glu(131) is a likely proton donor for the hydroxyl leaving group. Tyr(202) is a substrate binding determinant. General disulfide reduction had no effect on activity in solution, but enzymatic deglycosylation reduced Hyal1 activity in a time-dependent fashion. Mutagenesis identified Asn(350) glycosylation as the requisite modification. Deletion of the C-terminal epidermal growth factor-like domain, in which Asn(350) is located, also eliminated activity, irrespective of glycosylation. Collectively, these studies define key components of Hyal1 active site catalysis, and structural factors critical for stability. Such detailed understanding will allow rational design of enzyme modulators.

A simple assay for hyaluronidase activity using fluorescence polarization

Hyaluronan is a large glycosaminoglycan and is a major constituent of the extracellular matrix, interacting with cell surface receptors such as CD44. We previously reported that fragmented hyaluronan, with the size frequently detected in cancer patients, induces CD44 cleavage and concomitantly enhances tumor cell migration. Although hyaluronan degradation to smaller fragments has been revealed to be a key reaction in regulating cancer progression, simple methods for continuously detecting hyaluronidase activity have not been established. Here, we show that fluorescently-labeled hyaluronan serves as a substrate for continuous assay of hyaluronidase activity. A very simple assay was established to measure degradation of hyaluronan based on fluorescence polarization. The developed assay method would provide a way for continuous measurement of cellular hyaluronidase activity and also for measurement of binding of hyaluronan to its receptors, and thus should be useful for investigation of the function of hyaluronan in cancer progression.

Skeletal and hematological anomalies in HYAL2-deficient mice: a second type of mucopolysaccharidosis IX?

The metabolism of hyaluronan (HA) relies on HA synthases and hyaluronidases, among which hyaluronidase-1 (HYAL1) and -2 (HYAL2) have been proposed as key actors. Congenital HYAL1 deficiency leads to mucopolysaccharidosis IX (MPS IX), a rare lysosomal storage disorder characterized by joint abnormalities. Knowledge of HYAL2 is limited. This protein displays weak in vitro hyaluronidase activity and acts as a receptor for oncogenic ovine retroviruses. We have generated HYAL2-deficient mice through a conditional Cre-lox system. Hyal2(-/-) mice are viable and fertile. They exhibit localized congenital defects in frontonasal and vertebral bone formation and suffer from mild thrombocytopenia and chronic, possibly intravascular, hemolysis. In addition, Hyal2(-/-) mice display 10-fold increases in plasma levels of HA and 2-fold increases in plasma hyaluronidase activity. Globally, there is no HA accumulation in tissues, including bones, but liver sinusoidal cells seem overloaded with undigested HA. Taken together, these elements demonstrate for the first time that murine HYAL2 has a physiological activity in vivo that is relevant for craniovertebral bone formation, maintenance of plasma HA concentrations, and erythrocyte and platelet homeostasis. In addition, the viability of HYAL2-deficient mice raises the possibility that a similar defect, defining a new MPS disorder, exists in humans.

Hyaluronidase expression and activity is regulated by pro-inflammatory cytokines in human airway epithelial cells

Hyaluronan (HA) is present at the apical surface of airway epithelium as a high-molecular-weight polymer. Since HA depolymerization initiates a cascade of events that results in kinin generation and growth factor processing, in the present work we used primary cultures of human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells grown at the air-liquid interface (ALI) to assess hyaluronidase (Hyal) activity by HA zymography, gene expression by quantitative real-time PCR, and localization by confocal microscopy. Because TNF-alpha and IL-1beta induce Hyals in other cells, we tested their effects on Hyals expression and activity. We found that Hyal-like activity is present in the apical and basolateral secretions from HBE cells where Hyals 1, 2, and 3 are expressed, and that IL-1beta acts synergistically with TNF-alpha to increase gene expression and activity. Confocal microscopy showed that Hyals 1, 2, and 3 were localized intracellularly, while Hyal2 was also expressed at the apical pole associated with the plasma membrane, and in a soluble form on the apical secretions. Tissue sections from normal individuals and from individuals with asthma showed a Hyal distribution pattern similar to that observed on nontreated HBE cells or exposed to cytokines, respectively. In addition, increased expression and activity were observed in tracheal sections and in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) obtained from subjects with asthma when compared with normal lung donors and healthy volunteers. Our observations indicate that Hyal 1, 2, and 3 are expressed in airway epithelium and may operate in a coordinated fashion to depolymerize HA during inflammation associated with up-regulation of TNF-alpha and IL-1beta, such as allergen-induced asthmatic responses.

New potent indole derivatives as hyaluronidase inhibitors

Because of the physiologic importance of hyaluronidases, the identification of potent and selective inhibitors of hyaluronidases has become increasingly important. A variety of assay methods have been used for such a purpose, i.e. classical turbidimetric, viscometric and colorimetric. In this study, a modified enzymatic assay has been used to obtain a microtiter plate-based sensitive activity screening. All inhibitors were tested in a stains-all assay at pH 7 and in a Morgan-Elson assay at pH 3.5. Among the tested compounds, 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 16, 17 and 18 showed good inhibition of more than 50%, so the IC(50) values of these derivatives were determined in the range of 25-41 microm. The IC(50) value of the most active hyaluronidase inhibitor Vcpal (6-palmitoyl-L-ascorbic acid) was measured as 8.36 microm. All inhibitors including Vcpal showed twofold less activity at pH 3.5 in a Morgan-Elson assay. Examination of substituent effects on the activity showed that para-positions of benzamide needs to be chlorinated or fluorinated to obtain good inhibitory effect. It was found that the introduction of a p-fluoro benzyl ring in the indole nitrogen has a positive effect for the inhibitory effects of both indole-2- and 3-carboxamide derivatives.

Recombinant human hyaluronidase (rHuPH20): an enabling platform for subcutaneous drug and fluid administration

The extracellular matrix is a significant barrier to the effective subcutaneous delivery of many drugs, limiting both pharmacokinetic parameters and injection volumes. The space outside adipocytes in the hypodermis is not a fluid, but rather a solid extracellular matrix of collageneous fibrils embedded within a glycosaminoglycan-rich viscoelastic gel that buffers convective forces. The extracellular matrix limits the volume of drug that can be injected at a single site, as well as the rate and amount that reach the vascular compartment. A fully human recombinant DNA-derived hyaluronidase enzyme (rHuPH20) has been developed to leverage the historical efficacy of animal testes extract-derived spreading factors to reversibly modify the hypodermis, in light of discovery of the human hyaluronidase gene family. The application of this technology to increase both injection volumes and bioavailability from subcutaneous injection may overcome some key limitations of this route of administration in multiple settings of care.

Inducible Hyaluronan Production Reveals Differential Effects on Prostate Tumor Cell Growth and Tumor Angiogenesis

Prostate cancer progression can be predicted in human tumor biopsies by abundant hyaluronan (HA) and its processing enzyme, the hyaluronidase HYAL1. Accumulation of HA is dictated by the balance between expression levels of HA synthases, the enzymes that produce HA polymers, and hyaluronidases, which process polymers to oligosaccharides. Aggressive prostate tumor cells express 20-fold higher levels of the hyaluronan synthase HAS3, but the mechanistic relevance of this correlation has not been determined. We stably overexpressed HAS3 in prostate tumor cells. Adhesion to extracellular matrix and cellular growth kinetics in vitro were significantly reduced. Slow growth in culture was restored either by exogenous addition of hyaluronidase or by stable HYAL1 coexpression. Coexpression did not improve comparably slow growth in mice, however, suggesting that excess hyaluronan production by HAS3 may alter the balance required for induced tumor growth. To address this, we used a tetracycline-inducible HAS3 expression system in which hyaluronan production could be experimentally controlled. Adjusting temporal parameters of hyaluronan production directly affected growth rate of the cells. Relief from growth suppression in vitro but not in vivo by enzymatic removal of HA effectively uncoupled the respective roles of hyaluronan in growth and angiogenesis, suggesting that growth mediation is less critical to establishment of the tumor than early vascular development. Collectively results also imply that HA processing by elevated HYAL1 expression in invasive prostate cancer is a requirement for progression.

Growth factor regulation of hyaluronan synthesis and degradation in human dermal fibroblasts: importance of hyaluronan for the mitogenic response of PDGF-BB

The glycosaminoglycan hyaluronan is important in many tissuerepair processes. We have investigated the synthesis of hyaluronan in a panel of cell lines of fibroblastic and epithelial origin in response to PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor)-BB and other growth factors. Human dermal fibroblasts exhibited the highest hyaluronan-synthesizing activity in response to PDGF-BB. Analysis of HAS (hyaluronan synthase) and HYAL (hyaluronidase) mRNA expression showed that PDGF-BB treatment induced a 3-fold increase in the already high level of HAS2 mRNA, and increases in HAS1 and HYAL1 mRNA, whereas the levels of HAS3 and HYAL2 mRNA were not affected. Furthermore, PDGF-BB also increased the amount and activity of HAS2 protein, but not of HYAL1 and HYAL2 proteins. Using inhibitors for MEK1/2 [MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase)/ERK (extracellular-signal-regulated kinase) kinase 1/2] (U0126) and for PI3K (phosphoinositide 3-kinase) (LY294002), as well as the SN50 inhibitor, which prevents translocation of the active NF-kappaB (nuclear factor kappaB) to the nucleus, we observed a complete inhibition of both HAS2 transcriptional activity and hyaluronan synthesis, whereas inhibitors of other signalling pathways were without any significant effect. TGF-beta1 (transforming growth factor-beta1) did not increase the activity of hyaluronan synthesis in dermal fibroblasts, but increased the activity of HYALs. Importantly, inhibition of hyaluronan binding to its receptor CD44 by the monoclonal antibody Hermes-1, inhibited PDGF-BB-stimulated [3H]thymidine incorporation of dermal fibroblasts. We conclude that the ERK MAPK and PI3K signalling pathways are necessary for the regulation of hyaluronan synthesis by PDGF-BB, and that prevention of its binding to CD44 inhibits PDGF-BB-induced cell growth.

Perturbation of hyaluronan metabolism predisposes patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus to atherosclerosis

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Cardiovascular disease contributes to mortality in type 1 diabetes mellitus, but the specific pathophysiological mechanisms remain to be established. We recently showed that the endothelial glycocalyx, a protective layer of proteoglycans covering the endothelium, is severely perturbed in type 1 diabetes, with concomitantly increased plasma levels of hyaluronan and hyaluronidase. In the present study, we evaluated the relationship between hyaluronan and hyaluronidase with carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT), an established surrogate marker for cardiovascular disease.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Non-smoking type 1 diabetes patients without micro- or macrovascular complications and matched controls were recruited and cIMT of both carotid arteries was measured. To evaluate the relationship between cIMT and hyaluronan and hyaluronidase as well as other parameters, uni- or multivariate regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

We included 99 type 1 diabetes patients (age 10-72 years) and 99 age- and sex-matched controls. Mean cIMT, HbA(1c), high sensitivity C-reactive protein, hyaluronan and hyaluronidase were significantly increased in type 1 diabetes vs controls. Plasma hyaluronan and hyaluronidase were correlated in type 1 diabetes. In univariate regression analyses, mean IMT was associated with plasma hyaluronan, age and male sex, whereas after multivariate analysis only age and sex remained statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

We conclude that type 1 diabetes patients show structural changes of the arterial wall associated with increased hyaluronan metabolism. These data may lend further support to altered glycosaminoglycan metabolism in type 1 diabetes as a potential mechanism involved in accelerated atherogenesis.

Kinetic analysis of hyaluronidase activity using a bioactive MRI contrast agent

One of the attractions of molecular imaging using 'smart' bioactive contrast agents is the ability to provide non-invasive data on the spatial and temporal changes in the distribution and expression patterns of specific enzymes. The tools developed for that aim could potentially also be developed for functional imaging of enzyme activity itself, through quantitative analysis of the rapid dynamics of enzymatic conversion of these contrast agents. High molecular weight hyaluronan, the natural substrate of hyaluronidase, is a major antiangiogenic constituent of the extracellular matrix. Degradation by hyaluronidase yields low molecular weight fragments, which are proangiogenic. A novel contrast material, HA-GdDTPA-beads, was designed to provide a substrate analog of hyaluronidase in which relaxivity changes are induced by enzymatic degradation. We show here a first-order kinetic analysis of the time-dependent increase in R(2) as a result of hyaluronidase activity. The changes in R(2) and the measured relaxivity of intact HA-GdDTPA-beads (r(2B)) and HA-GdDTPA fragments (r(2D)) were utilized for derivation of the temporal drop in concentration of GdDTPA in HA-GdDTPA-beads as the consequence of the release of HA-GdDTPA fragments. The rate of dissociation of HA-GdDTPA from the beads showed typical bell-shaped temperature dependence between 7 and 36 degrees C with peak activity at 25 degrees C. The tools developed here for quantitative dynamic analysis of hyaluronidase activity by MRI would allow the use of activation of HA-GdDTPA-beads for the determination of the role of hyaluronidase in altering the angiogenic microenvironment of tumor micro metastases.