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Fernandes-Silva H, Alves MG, Garcez MR, Correia-Pinto J, Oliveira PF, Homem CCF, Moura RS. Retinoic Acid-Mediated Control of Energy Metabolism Is Essential for Lung Branching Morphogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5054. [PMID: 38732272 PMCID: PMC11084425 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25095054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung branching morphogenesis relies on intricate epithelial-mesenchymal interactions and signaling networks. Still, the interplay between signaling and energy metabolism in shaping embryonic lung development remains unexplored. Retinoic acid (RA) signaling influences lung proximal-distal patterning and branching morphogenesis, but its role as a metabolic modulator is unknown. Hence, this study investigates how RA signaling affects the metabolic profile of lung branching. We performed ex vivo lung explant culture of embryonic chicken lungs treated with DMSO, 1 µM RA, or 10 µM BMS493. Extracellular metabolite consumption/production was evaluated by using 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Mitochondrial respiration and biogenesis were also analyzed. Proliferation was assessed using an EdU-based assay. The expression of crucial metabolic/signaling components was examined through Western blot, qPCR, and in situ hybridization. RA signaling stimulation redirects glucose towards pyruvate and succinate production rather than to alanine or lactate. Inhibition of RA signaling reduces lung branching, resulting in a cystic-like phenotype while promoting mitochondrial function. Here, RA signaling emerges as a regulator of tissue proliferation and lactate dehydrogenase expression. Furthermore, RA governs fatty acid metabolism through an AMPK-dependent mechanism. These findings underscore RA's pivotal role in shaping lung metabolism during branching morphogenesis, contributing to our understanding of lung development and cystic-related lung disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Fernandes-Silva
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (H.F.-S.); (J.C.-P.)
- ICVS/3B’s–PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
- PhDOC PhD Program, ICVS/3B’s, School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Marco G. Alves
- Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Marcia R. Garcez
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School/Faculdade de Ciências Médicas (NMS/FCM), Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1449-011 Lisbon, Portugal; (M.R.G.); (C.C.F.H.)
- Graduate Program in Areas of Basic and Applied Biology (GABBA), Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Jorge Correia-Pinto
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (H.F.-S.); (J.C.-P.)
- ICVS/3B’s–PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Hospital of Braga, 4710-243 Braga, Portugal
| | - Pedro F. Oliveira
- LAQV-REQUIMTE & Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Catarina C. F. Homem
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School/Faculdade de Ciências Médicas (NMS/FCM), Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1449-011 Lisbon, Portugal; (M.R.G.); (C.C.F.H.)
| | - Rute S. Moura
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (H.F.-S.); (J.C.-P.)
- ICVS/3B’s–PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
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Friedmacher F, Puri P. Disruptions in retinoic acid signaling pathway contribute to abnormal lung development in congenital diaphragmatic hernia: a therapeutic potential for retinoids to attenuate pulmonary hypoplasia. Pediatr Res 2024; 95:1415-1417. [PMID: 38341488 PMCID: PMC11126381 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03086-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Florian Friedmacher
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Prem Puri
- Beacon Hospital, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Gilbert RM, Gleghorn JP. Connecting clinical, environmental, and genetic factors point to an essential role for vitamin A signaling in the pathogenesis of congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2023; 324:L456-L467. [PMID: 36749917 PMCID: PMC10042603 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00349.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a developmental disorder that results in incomplete diaphragm formation, pulmonary hypoplasia, and pulmonary hypertension. Although a variety of genes have been linked to its etiology, CDH is not a monogenetic disease, and the cause of the condition is still unclear in the vast majority of clinical cases. By comparing human clinical data and experimental rodent data from the literature, we present clear support demonstrating the importance of vitamin A (vitA) during the early window of pregnancy when the diaphragm and lung are forming. Alteration of vitA signaling via dietary and genetic perturbations can create diaphragmatic defects. Unfortunately, vitA deficiency is chronic among people of child-bearing age, and this early window of diaphragm development occurs before many might be aware of pregnancy. Furthermore, there is an increased demand for vitA during this critical period, which exacerbates the likelihood of deficiency. It would be beneficial for the field to further investigate the connections between maternal vitA and CDH incidence, with the goal of determining vitA status as a CDH risk factor. Regular clinical monitoring of vitA levels in child-bearing years is a tractable method by which CDH outcomes could be prevented or improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M Gilbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, United States
| | - Jason P Gleghorn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, United States
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Silva-Ribeiro T, Coelho E, Genisheva Z, Oliveira JM, Correia-Pinto J, Sampaio P, Moura RS. Comparative study of e-cigarette aerosol and cigarette smoke effect on ex vivo embryonic chick lung explants. Toxicol Lett 2023; 376:13-19. [PMID: 36638931 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2023.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Electronic cigarette usage has significantly expanded among young people and pregnant women in the last decade. Although there are already some data regarding the short- and long-term consequences of e-cigarettes on human health, their effect on embryo and lung development still needs to be fully disclosed. In this sense, this study describes, for the first time, the impact of electronic cigarette aerosol on early lung development. For this purpose, ex vivo chick (Gallus gallus) embryonic lungs were cultured in vitro for 48 h in e-cigarette aerosol exposed-medium or unexposed medium. Chick lung explants were also cultured in a cigarette smoke-exposed medium for comparison purposes. Lung explants were morphologically analyzed to assess the impact on lung growth. Additionally, TNF-α levels were determined in the supernatant as a marker of pro-inflammatory response. The results suggest that electronic cigarette aerosol impairs lung growth and promotes lung inflammation. However, its impact on early lung growth seems less detrimental than conventional cigarette smoke. This work provides significant data regarding the impact of e-cig aerosol, adding to the efforts to fully understand its effect on embryo development. The validation of these effects may eventually lead to new tobacco control recommendations for pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Silva-Ribeiro
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Eduardo Coelho
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Zlatina Genisheva
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - José M Oliveira
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Jorge Correia-Pinto
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal; Department of Pediatric Surgery, Hospital de Braga, Braga, Portugal
| | - Paula Sampaio
- Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA), Department of Biology, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; Institute of Science and Innovation for Bio-Sustainability (IB-S), University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Rute S Moura
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal.
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Molecular insights of Hippo signaling in the chick developing lung. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2023; 1866:194904. [PMID: 36572276 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2022.194904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hippo signaling pathway and its effector YAP have been recognized as an essential growth regulator during embryonic development. Hippo has been studied in different contexts; nevertheless, its role during chick lung branching morphogenesis remains unknown. Therefore, this work aims to determine Hippo role during early pulmonary organogenesis in the avian animal model. The current study describes the spatial distribution of Hippo signaling members in the embryonic chick lung by in situ hybridization. Overall, their expression is comparable to their mammalian counterparts. Moreover, the expression levels of phosphorylated-YAP (pYAP) and total YAP revealed that Hippo signaling is active in the embryonic chick lung. Furthermore, the presence of pYAP in the cytoplasm demonstrated that the Hippo machinery distribution is maintained in this tissue. In vitro studies were performed to assess the role of the Hippo signaling pathway in lung branching. Lung explants treated with a YAP/TEAD complex inhibitor (verteporfin) displayed a significant reduction in lung size and branching and decreased expression of ctgf (Hippo target gene) compared to the control. This approach also revealed that Hippo seems to modulate the expression of key molecular players involved in lung branching morphogenesis (sox2, sox9, axin2, and gli1). Conversely, when treated with dobutamine, an upstream regulator that promotes YAP phosphorylation, explant morphology was not severely affected. Overall, our data indicate that Hippo machinery is present and active in the early stages of avian pulmonary branching and that YAP is likely involved in the regulation of lung growth.
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Renaud L, Waldrep KM, da Silveira WA, Pilewski JM, Feghali-Bostwick CA. First Characterization of the Transcriptome of Lung Fibroblasts of SSc Patients and Healthy Donors of African Ancestry. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:3645. [PMID: 36835058 PMCID: PMC9966000 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disorder that results in fibrosis of the skin and visceral organs. SSc-associated pulmonary fibrosis (SSc-PF) is the leading cause of death amongst SSc patients. Racial disparity is noted in SSc as African Americans (AA) have a higher frequency and severity of disease than European Americans (EA). Using RNAseq, we determined differentially expressed genes (DEGs; q < 0.1, log2FC > |0.6|) in primary pulmonary fibroblasts from SSc lungs (SScL) and normal lungs (NL) of AA and EA patients to characterize the unique transcriptomic signatures of AA-NL and AA-SScL fibroblasts using systems-level analysis. We identified 69 DEGs in "AA-NL vs. EA-NL" and 384 DEGs in "AA-SScL vs. EA-SScL" analyses, and a comparison of disease mechanisms revealed that only 7.5% of DEGs were commonly deregulated in AA and EA patients. Surprisingly, we also identified an SSc-like signature in AA-NL fibroblasts. Our data highlight differences in disease mechanisms between AA and EA SScL fibroblasts and suggest that AA-NL fibroblasts are in a "pre-fibrosis" state, poised to respond to potential fibrotic triggers. The DEGs and pathways identified in our study provide a wealth of novel targets to better understand disease mechanisms leading to racial disparity in SSc-PF and develop more effective and personalized therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludivine Renaud
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Kristy M. Waldrep
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Willian A. da Silveira
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Education, Staffordshire University, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 2DF, UK
| | - Joseph M. Pilewski
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Carol A. Feghali-Bostwick
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
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Ko HS, Laiman V, Tsao PN, Chen CM, Chuang HC. Alteration in branching morphogenesis via YAP/TAZ in fibroblasts of fetal lungs in an LPS-induced inflammation model. Mol Med 2023; 29:16. [PMID: 36717779 PMCID: PMC9887856 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-023-00613-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chorioamnionitis is a common cause of preterm birth and leads to serious complications in newborns. The objective of this study was to investigate the role of the Hippo signaling pathway in lung branching morphogenesis under a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation model. MATERIALS AND METHODS IMR-90 cells and ex vivo fetal lungs were treated with 0, 10, 30, or 50 μg/ml LPS for 24 and 72 h. Supernatant levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1(CXCL1), branching and the surface area ratio, Yes-associated protein (YAP), transcription coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), fibroblast growth factor 10 (FGF10), fibroblast growth factor receptor II (FGFR2), SRY-box transcription factor 2 (SOX2), SOX9, and sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) levels were examined. Differentially expressed genes in fetal lungs after LPS treatment were identified by RNA-sequencing. RESULTS LPS at 50 μg/ml increased IL-6 and IL-8 in IMR-90 cells and increased IL-6, CXCL1 and LDH in fetal lungs. The branching ratio significantly increased by LPS at 30 μg/ml compared to the control but the increased level had decreased by 50 μg/ml LPS exposure. Exposure to 50 μg/ml LPS increased phosphorylated (p)-YAP, p-YAP/YAP, and p-TAZ/TAZ in IMR-90 cells, whereas 50 μg/ml LPS decreased FGF10 and SOX2. Consistently, p-YAP/YAP and p-TAZ/TAZ were increased in fibronectin+ cells of fetal lungs. Moreover, results of RNA-sequencing in fetal lungs showed that SMAD, FGF, IκB phosphorylation, tissue remodeling and homeostasis was involved in branching morphogenesis following exposure to 50 μg/ml LPS. The p-SIRT1/SIRT1 ratio increased in IMR-90 cells by LPS treatment. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that regulation of the Hippo pathway in fibroblasts of fetal lungs was involved in branching morphogenesis under an inflammatory disease such as chorioamnionitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung-Shuo Ko
- grid.412896.00000 0000 9337 0481School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Vincent Laiman
- grid.412896.00000 0000 9337 0481International Ph.D. Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan ,grid.8570.a0000 0001 2152 4506Department of Anatomical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Dr. Sardjito Hospital, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Po-Nien Tsao
- grid.412094.a0000 0004 0572 7815Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Ming Chen
- grid.412897.10000 0004 0639 0994Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan ,grid.412896.00000 0000 9337 0481Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Chi Chuang
- grid.412896.00000 0000 9337 0481School of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei, 11031 Taiwan ,grid.412896.00000 0000 9337 0481Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan ,grid.412896.00000 0000 9337 0481Cell Physiology and Molecular Image Research Center, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan ,grid.412896.00000 0000 9337 0481Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan ,grid.7445.20000 0001 2113 8111National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Channabasappa S, Caldwell S, Kanthan R, Singh B. Retinoid receptors are expressed in mouse and human lungs. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2022; 305:2281-2289. [PMID: 35338615 DOI: 10.1002/ar.24921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Retinoid receptors are members of nuclear receptor superfamily consisting of two distinct families: RARs (retinoic acid receptors) and RXRs (retinoid X receptors). Each family contains three receptor subtypes α, β, and γ. Retinoids transduce their effects through binding to retinoid receptors and inhibit transcription factors such as activator protein-1 and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) both of which regulate the transcription of several inflammatory genes. Considering the role of retinoid receptors in lung physiology, we need a precise understanding of their expression in normal and inflamed lungs. We used light and electron microscopic immunohistochemistry and Western blot to determine the expression of retinoid receptors in a murine model of endotoxin-induced (E. coli; 055:B5, 80 μg intranasal) acute lung inflammation and normal human lungs. Western blot showed expression of all six retinoid receptor subtypes in normal and inflamed mouse lungs. Immunohistology localized differential expression of retinoid receptors in airway epithelium, alveolar/septal macrophages, vascular endothelium and alveolar septum in mouse lungs. Intranasal LPS challenge in mice resulted in increased expression of RXRα in airway epithelium compared to control animals. All six retinoid receptor subtypes were expressed in normal human lungs. Immunoelectron microscopy further confirmed the localization of all the receptors in various lung cells including the nucleus of these cells. The basal and altered expression of retinoid receptors in normal and inflamed lungs, respectively, may suggest their roles in lung pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rani Kanthan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Baljit Singh
- Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Saskatoon, Canada
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The multiciliated cells in Rathke's cleft express CYP26A1 and respond to retinoic acid in the pituitary. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 388:583-594. [PMID: 35316373 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03614-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The adenohypophysis consists of the anterior and intermediate lobes (AL and IL). The marginal cell layer (MCL), including the ventral region of the IL and the dorsal region of the AL lining the Rathke's cleft, acts as the primary stem/progenitor cell niches in adult adenohypophysis. The cells of the MCL on the IL side consisted of cluster of differentiation 9 (CD9)-positive stem/progenitor cells with or without motile cilia. However, any additional cellular properties of multiciliated CD9-positive cells are not known. The present study aimed to identify the character of the multiciliated cells in stem cell niche of the pituitary gland. We observed the fine structure of the multiciliated cells in the MCL of male Wistar rats at an early stage after birth and in adulthood (P60) using scanning electron microscopy. Since the previous study showed that the MCL cells of adult rats synthesize retinoic acid (RA), the present study determined whether the multiciliated cells are involved in RA regulation by the expression of retinal aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (RALDH1) and CYP26A1, an enzyme synthesizing and degrading RA, respectively. Results showed that 96% of multiciliated cells in adult male rats expressed CYP26A1, while 60% expressed RALDH1. Furthermore, the isolated CD9-positive cells from the IL side MCL responded to RA and activated the degradation system of RA by increasing Cyp26a1 expression. These findings indicated that multiciliated cells are involved in RA metabolism in the MCL. Our observations provide novel insights regarding the stem cell niche of the adult pituitary.
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Developmental Pathways Underlying Lung Development and Congenital Lung Disorders. Cells 2021; 10:cells10112987. [PMID: 34831210 PMCID: PMC8616556 DOI: 10.3390/cells10112987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung organogenesis is a highly coordinated process governed by a network of conserved signaling pathways that ultimately control patterning, growth, and differentiation. This rigorously regulated developmental process culminates with the formation of a fully functional organ. Conversely, failure to correctly regulate this intricate series of events results in severe abnormalities that may compromise postnatal survival or affect/disrupt lung function through early life and adulthood. Conditions like congenital pulmonary airway malformation, bronchopulmonary sequestration, bronchogenic cysts, and congenital diaphragmatic hernia display unique forms of lung abnormalities. The etiology of these disorders is not yet completely understood; however, specific developmental pathways have already been reported as deregulated. In this sense, this review focuses on the molecular mechanisms that contribute to normal/abnormal lung growth and development and their impact on postnatal survival.
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Zheng J, Zhu S, Xu H, Li J, Tang H, Zhou Y, Huang Z, Liu G. miR-363-3p inhibits rat lung alveolar type II cell proliferation by downregulating STRA6 expression and induces cell apoptosis via cellular oxidative stress and G1-phase cell cycle arrest. Transl Pediatr 2021; 10:2095-2105. [PMID: 34584880 PMCID: PMC8429880 DOI: 10.21037/tp-21-303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND miR-363-3p, the retinoid signaling pathway (RSP), and its associated membrane receptor, stimulated by retinoic acid 6 (STRA6), participate in lung development. We hypothesize that miR-363-3p is involved in lung cell proliferation and apoptosis by regulating the expression of STRA6, and this study was designed to investigate the effect of changes in the expressions of miR-363-3p and the STRA6 gene on the proliferation and apoptosis of rat alveolar type II cells. METHODS To confirm our hypothesis, we used: a dual-luciferase reporter assay; cell culture and transfection; real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR); Western blotting; a cell proliferation assay and flow cytometry analysis of the cell cycle, cell apoptosis, oxidative stress level, and mitochondrial membrane potential. RESULTS Our results showed that STRA6 is a target gene for miR-363-3p, and when the expression of miR-363-3p increased, the relative messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of STRA6 decreased, which caused a decrease in STRA6 protein synthesis and subsequent inhibition of rat lung alveolar type II cell proliferation. In contrast, inhibiting the expression of miR-363-3p promoted the proliferation of these cells. This study also found that an increased expression of miR-363-3p induced rat lung alveolar type II cell apoptosis led to an increase in the oxidative stress level, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, and an inducement of G1-phase cell cycle arrest. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, miR-363-3p is associated with lung cell proliferation and apoptosis, while miR-363-3p inhibits rat lung alveolar type II cell proliferation by downregulating the expression of STRA6 and induces cell apoptosis by increasing cellular oxidative stress and G1-phase cell cycle arrest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jintao Zheng
- Department of Neonatal and Pediatric Surgery, Foshan Women and Children Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University, Foshan, China
| | - Shibo Zhu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huiyu Xu
- Department of Neonatal and Pediatric Surgery, Foshan Women and Children Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University, Foshan, China
| | - Jiequan Li
- Department of Neonatal and Pediatric Surgery, Foshan Women and Children Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University, Foshan, China
| | - Huajian Tang
- Department of Neonatal and Pediatric Surgery, Foshan Women and Children Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University, Foshan, China
| | - Yanfen Zhou
- Department of Neonatal and Pediatric Surgery, Foshan Women and Children Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University, Foshan, China
| | - Zhaomei Huang
- Department of Neonatal and Pediatric Surgery, Foshan Women and Children Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University, Foshan, China
| | - Guoqing Liu
- Department of Neonatal and Pediatric Surgery, Foshan Women and Children Hospital Affiliated to Southern Medical University, Foshan, China.,Women and Children Medical Research Center Affiliated to Foshan Institute of Fetal Medicine, Foshan, China
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Fernandes-Silva H, Alves MG, Araújo-Silva H, Silva AM, Correia-Pinto J, Oliveira PF, Moura RS. Lung branching morphogenesis is accompanied by temporal metabolic changes towards a glycolytic preference. Cell Biosci 2021; 11:134. [PMID: 34274010 PMCID: PMC8285861 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-021-00654-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lung branching morphogenesis is characterized by epithelial-mesenchymal interactions that ultimately define the airway conducting system. Throughout this process, energy and structural macromolecules are necessary to sustain the high proliferative rates. The extensive knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying pulmonary development contrasts with the lack of data regarding the embryonic lung metabolic requirements. Here, we studied the metabolic profile associated with the early stages of chicken pulmonary branching. Methods In this study, we used an ex vivo lung explant culture system and analyzed the consumption/production of extracellular metabolic intermediates associated with glucose catabolism (alanine, lactate, and acetate) by 1H-NMR spectroscopy in the culture medium. Then, we characterized the transcript levels of metabolite membrane transporters (glut1, glut3, glut8, mct1, mct3, mct4, and mct8) and glycolytic enzymes (hk1, hk2, pfk1, ldha, ldhb, pdha, and pdhb) by qPCR. ldha and ldhb mRNA spatial localization was determined by in situ hybridization. Proliferation was analyzed by directly assessing DNA synthesis using an EdU-based assay. Additionally, we performed western blot to analyze LDHA and LDHT protein levels. Finally, we used a Clark-Type Electrode to assess the lung explant's respiratory capacity. Results Glucose consumption decreases, whereas alanine, lactate, and acetate production progressively increase as branching morphogenesis proceeds. mRNA analysis revealed variations in the expression levels of key enzymes and transporters from the glycolytic pathway. ldha and ldhb displayed a compartment-specific expression pattern that resembles proximal–distal markers. In addition, high proliferation levels were detected at active branching sites. LDH protein expression levels suggest that LDHB may account for the progressive rise in lactate. Concurrently, there is a stable oxygen consumption rate throughout branching morphogenesis. Conclusions This report describes the temporal metabolic changes that accompany the early stages of chicken lung branching morphogenesis. Overall, the embryonic chicken lung seems to shift to a glycolytic lactate-based metabolism as pulmonary branching occurs. Moreover, this metabolic rewiring might play a crucial role during lung development. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13578-021-00654-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Fernandes-Silva
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.,PhDOC PhD Program, ICVS/3B's, School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Henrique Araújo-Silva
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Ana M Silva
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Jorge Correia-Pinto
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.,Department of Pediatric Surgery, Hospital of Braga, 4710-243, Braga, Portugal
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- QOPNA &, LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Rute S Moura
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal. .,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
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Retinoic Acid as a Modulator of Proximal-Distal Patterning and Branching Morphogenesis of the Avian Lung. Methods Mol Biol 2020; 2019:209-224. [PMID: 31359399 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-9585-1_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Retinoic acid modulates numerous cellular events, namely, proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and patterning, hence influencing both embryo development and adult homeostasis. In vitro explant culture is a valuable technique for studying the impact of growth factors and signaling molecules, such as retinoic acid, in organ development since tissue architecture is maintained. This technique allows controlled supplementation of culture medium and straightforward analysis of its effect on morphogenesis. This chapter describes the detailed protocol for culturing embryonic chick lung explants and testing the impact of retinoic acid in branching and patterning, based on morphometric and molecular analysis.
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Fernandes-Silva H, Araújo-Silva H, Correia-Pinto J, Moura RS. Retinoic Acid: A Key Regulator of Lung Development. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10010152. [PMID: 31963453 PMCID: PMC7022928 DOI: 10.3390/biom10010152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinoic acid (RA) is a key molecular player in embryogenesis and adult tissue homeostasis. In embryo development, RA plays a crucial role in the formation of different organ systems, namely, the respiratory system. During lung development, there is a spatiotemporal regulation of RA levels that assures the formation of a fully functional organ. RA signaling influences lung specification, branching morphogenesis, and alveolarization by regulating the expression of particular target genes. Moreover, cooperation with other developmental pathways is essential to shape lung organogenesis. This review focuses on the events regulated by retinoic acid during lung developmental phases and pulmonary vascular development; also, it aims to provide a snapshot of RA interplay with other well-known regulators of lung development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Fernandes-Silva
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (H.F.-S.); (H.A.-S.); (J.C.-P.)
- ICVS/3B’s-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
- PhDOC PhD Program, ICVS/3B’s, School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Henrique Araújo-Silva
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (H.F.-S.); (H.A.-S.); (J.C.-P.)
- ICVS/3B’s-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Jorge Correia-Pinto
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (H.F.-S.); (H.A.-S.); (J.C.-P.)
- ICVS/3B’s-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Hospital of Braga, 4710-243 Braga, Portugal
| | - Rute S Moura
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (H.F.-S.); (H.A.-S.); (J.C.-P.)
- ICVS/3B’s-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +35-12-5360-4911
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15
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Abstract
Retinoic acid (RA), the bioactive metabolite of vitamin A (VA), has long been recognized as a critical regulator of the development of the respiratory system. During embryogenesis, RA signaling is involved in the development of the trachea, airways, lung, and diaphragm. During postnatal life, RA continues to impact respiratory health. Disruption of RA activity during embryonic development produces dramatic phenotypes in animal models and human diseases, including tracheoesophageal fistula, tracheomalacia, congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), and lung agenesis or hypoplasia. Several experimental methods have been used to target RA pathways during the formation of the embryonic lung. These have been performed in different animal models using gain- and loss-of-function strategies and dietary, pharmacologic, and genetic approaches that deplete retinoid stores or disrupt retinoid signaling. Experiments utilizing these methods have led to a deeper understanding of RA's role as an important signaling molecule that influences all stages of lung development. Current research is uncovering RA cross talk interactions with other embryonic signaling factors, such as fibroblast growth factors, WNT, and transforming growth factor-beta.
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Retinoic acid signaling maintains epithelial and mesenchymal progenitors in the developing mouse ureter. Sci Rep 2017; 7:14803. [PMID: 29093497 PMCID: PMC5665985 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-14790-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The differentiated cell types of the mature ureter arise from the distal ureteric bud epithelium and its surrounding mesenchyme. Uncommitted epithelial cells first become intermediate cells from which both basal and superficial cells develop. Mesenchymal progenitors give rise to separated layers of adventitial fibrocytes, smooth muscle cells and lamina propria fibrocytes. How progenitor expansion and differentiation are balanced is poorly understood. Here, we addressed the role of retinoic acid (RA) signaling in these programs. Using expression analysis of components and target genes, we show that pathway activity is restricted to the mesenchymal and epithelial progenitor pools. Inhibition of RA signaling in ureter explant cultures resulted in tissue hypoplasia with a relative expansion of smooth muscle cells at the expense of lamina propria fibroblasts in the mesenchyme, and of superficial cells at the expense of intermediate cells in the ureteric epithelium. Administration of RA led to a slight reduction of smooth muscle cells, and almost completely prevented differentiation of intermediate cells into basal and superficial cells. We identified cellular programs and transcriptional targets of RA signaling that may account for this activity. We conclude that RA signaling is required and sufficient to maintain mesenchymal and epithelial progenitors in early ureter development.
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