1
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Gonzalez-Sanchez E, Vaquero J, Caballero-Diaz D, Grzelak J, Fusté NP, Bertran E, Amengual J, Garcia-Saez J, Martín-Mur B, Gut M, Esteve-Codina A, Alay A, Coulouarn C, Calero-Perez S, Valdecantos P, Valverde AM, Sánchez A, Herrera B, Fabregat I. The hepatocyte epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway regulates the cellular interactome within the liver fibrotic niche. J Pathol 2024; 263:482-495. [PMID: 38872438 DOI: 10.1002/path.6299] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the consequence of chronic liver injury in the presence of an inflammatory component. Although the main executors of this activation are known, the mechanisms that lead to the inflammatory process that mediates the production of pro-fibrotic factors are not well characterized. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling in hepatocytes is essential for the regenerative processes of the liver; however, its potential role in regulating the fibrotic niche is not yet clear. Our group generated a mouse model that expresses an inactive truncated form of the EGFR specifically in hepatocytes (ΔEGFR mice). Here, we have analyzed the response of WT and ΔEGFR mice to chronic treatment with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), which induces a pro-inflammatory and fibrotic process in the liver. The results indicated that the hallmarks of liver fibrosis were attenuated in CCl4-treated ΔEGFR mice when compared with CCl4-treated WT mice, coinciding with a faster resolution of the fibrotic process and ameliorated damage. The absence of EGFR activity in hepatocytes induced changes in the pattern of immune cells in the liver, with a notable increase in the population of M2 macrophages, more related to fibrosis resolution, as well as in the population of lymphocytes related to eradication of the damage. Transcriptome analysis of hepatocytes, and secretome studies of extracellular media from in vitro experiments, allowed us to elucidate the specific molecular mechanisms regulated by EGFR that mediate hepatocyte production of both pro-fibrotic and pro-inflammatory mediators; these have consequences for the deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, as well as for the immune microenvironment. Overall, our study uncovered novel mechanistic insights regarding EGFR kinase-dependent actions in hepatocytes that reveal its key role in chronic liver damage. © 2024 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Grants
- EHDG1703 CIBEREHD, National Biomedical Research Institute on Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases
- CERCA Programme/Generalitat de Catalunya
- CIVP20A6593 Fundacion Ramon Areces
- PID2019-108651RJ-I00 Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- PID2021-122551OB-100 Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- PID-2021-122766OB-100 Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- RTC2019-007125-1 Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- RTI2018-094052-B-100 Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- RTI2018-094079-B-100 Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- RTI2018-099098-B-100 Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- RYC2021-034121-I Agencia Estatal de Investigación, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Spain
- European Regional Development Fund
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester Gonzalez-Sanchez
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Javier Vaquero
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación del Cancer and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cancer, CSIC-Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Daniel Caballero-Diaz
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jan Grzelak
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Noel P Fusté
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esther Bertran
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Josep Amengual
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Garcia-Saez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Martín-Mur
- CNAG-CRG, Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Gut
- CNAG-CRG, Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Esteve-Codina
- CNAG-CRG, Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ania Alay
- Unit of Bioinformatics for Precision Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Preclinical and Experimental Research in Thoracic Tumors (PReTT), Oncobell Program, IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Cedric Coulouarn
- Inserm, Univ Rennes, OSS (Oncogenesis, Stress, Signaling) UMR_S 1242, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Eugène Marquis, Rennes, France
| | - Silvia Calero-Perez
- Biomedical Research Institute Sols-Morreale, Spanish National Research Council and Autonomous University of Madrid (IIBM, CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM); ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Valdecantos
- Biomedical Research Institute Sols-Morreale, Spanish National Research Council and Autonomous University of Madrid (IIBM, CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM); ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Angela M Valverde
- Biomedical Research Institute Sols-Morreale, Spanish National Research Council and Autonomous University of Madrid (IIBM, CSIC-UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM); ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aránzazu Sánchez
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Blanca Herrera
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in CIBER in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
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2
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Mucciolo G, Araos Henríquez J, Jihad M, Pinto Teles S, Manansala JS, Li W, Ashworth S, Lloyd EG, Cheng PSW, Luo W, Anand A, Sawle A, Piskorz A, Biffi G. EGFR-activated myofibroblasts promote metastasis of pancreatic cancer. Cancer Cell 2024; 42:101-118.e11. [PMID: 38157863 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a dismal prognosis. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are recognized potential therapeutic targets, but poor understanding of these heterogeneous cell populations has limited the development of effective treatment strategies. We previously identified transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) as a main driver of myofibroblastic CAFs (myCAFs). Here, we show that epidermal growth factor receptor/Erb-B2 receptor (EGFR/ERBB2) signaling is induced by TGF-β in myCAFs through an autocrine process mediated by amphiregulin. Inhibition of this EGFR/ERBB2-signaling network in PDAC organoid-derived cultures and mouse models differentially impacts distinct CAF subtypes, providing insights into mechanisms underpinning their heterogeneity. Remarkably, EGFR-activated myCAFs promote PDAC metastasis in mice, unmasking functional significance in myCAF heterogeneity. Finally, analyses of other cancer datasets suggest that these processes might operate in other malignancies. These data provide functional relevance to myCAF heterogeneity and identify a candidate target for preventing tumor invasion in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Mucciolo
- University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Joaquín Araos Henríquez
- University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Muntadher Jihad
- University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Sara Pinto Teles
- University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Judhell S Manansala
- University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Wenlong Li
- University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Sally Ashworth
- University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Eloise G Lloyd
- University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Priscilla S W Cheng
- University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Weike Luo
- University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Akanksha Anand
- University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Ashley Sawle
- University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Anna Piskorz
- University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Giulia Biffi
- University of Cambridge, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson way, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK.
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3
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Caven L, Carabeo R. Chlamydial YAP activation in host endocervical epithelial cells mediates pro-fibrotic paracrine stimulation of fibroblasts. mSystems 2023; 8:e0090423. [PMID: 37874141 PMCID: PMC10734534 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00904-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Chronic or repeated infection of the female upper genital tract by C. trachomatis can lead to severe fibrotic sequelae, including tubal factor infertility and ectopic pregnancy. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this effect are unclear. In this report, we define a transcriptional program specific to C. trachomatis infection of the upper genital tract, identifying tissue-specific induction of host YAP-a pro-fibrotic transcriptional cofactor-as a potential driver of infection-mediated fibrotic gene expression. Furthermore, we show that infected endocervical epithelial cells stimulate collagen production by fibroblasts and implicate chlamydial induction of YAP in this effect. Our results define a mechanism by which infection mediates tissue-level fibrotic pathology via paracrine signaling and identify YAP as a potential therapeutic target for the prevention of Chlamydia-associated scarring of the female genital tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam Caven
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Rey Carabeo
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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4
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Cuesta ÁM, Palao N, Bragado P, Gutierrez-Uzquiza A, Herrera B, Sánchez A, Porras A. New and Old Key Players in Liver Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17152. [PMID: 38138981 PMCID: PMC10742790 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417152] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer represents a major health problem worldwide with growing incidence and high mortality, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) being the most frequent. Hepatocytes are likely the cellular origin of most HCCs through the accumulation of genetic alterations, although hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) might also be candidates in specific cases, as discussed here. HCC usually develops in a context of chronic inflammation, fibrosis, and cirrhosis, although the role of fibrosis is controversial. The interplay between hepatocytes, immune cells and hepatic stellate cells is a key issue. This review summarizes critical aspects of the liver tumor microenvironment paying special attention to platelets as new key players, which exert both pro- and anti-tumor effects, determined by specific contexts and a tight regulation of platelet signaling. Additionally, the relevance of specific signaling pathways, mainly HGF/MET, EGFR and TGF-β is discussed. HGF and TGF-β are produced by different liver cells and platelets and regulate not only tumor cell fate but also HPCs, inflammation and fibrosis, these being key players in these processes. The role of C3G/RAPGEF1, required for the proper function of HGF/MET signaling in HCC and HPCs, is highlighted, due to its ability to promote HCC growth and, regulate HPC fate and platelet-mediated actions on liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángel M. Cuesta
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Nerea Palao
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Paloma Bragado
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alvaro Gutierrez-Uzquiza
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Blanca Herrera
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD-ISCIII), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Aránzazu Sánchez
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD-ISCIII), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Almudena Porras
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
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5
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Zheng Q, Li M, Chen L, Zhang C, Zhao Y, Liu G, Yang F, Zhan J. Potential therapeutic target of EGF on bile duct ligation model and biliary atresia children. Pediatr Res 2023; 94:1297-1307. [PMID: 37138025 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-023-02592-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pathogenesis of liver fibrosis in biliary atresia (BA) is unclear. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) plays a vital role in liver fibrosis. This study aims to investigate the expression of EGF and the mechanisms of its pro-fibrotic effects in BA. METHODS EGF levels in serum and liver samples of BA and non-BA children were detected. Marker proteins of EGF signaling and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in liver sections were evaluated. Effects of EGF on intrahepatic cells and the underlying mechanisms were explored in vitro. Bile duct ligation (BDL) mice with/without EGF antibody injection were used to verify the effects of EGF on liver fibrosis. RESULTS Serum levels and liver expression of EGF elevated in BA. Phosphorylated EGF receptor (p-EGFR) and extracellular regulated kinase 1/2 (p-ERK1/2) increased. In addition, EMT and proliferation of biliary epithelial cells were present in BA liver. In vitro, EGF induced EMT and proliferation of HIBEpic cells and promoted IL-8 expression in L-02 cells by phosphorylating ERK1/2. And EGF activated LX-2 cells. Furthermore, EGF antibody injection reduced p-ERK1/2 levels and alleviated liver fibrosis in BDL mice. CONCLUSION EGF is overexpressed in BA. It aggravates liver fibrosis through EGF/EGFR-ERK1/2 pathway, which may be a therapeutic target for BA. IMPACT The exact pathogenesis of liver fibrosis in BA is unknown, severely limiting the advancement of BA treatment strategies. This study revealed that serum and liver tissue levels of EGF were increased in BA, and its expression in liver tissues was correlated with the degree of liver fibrosis. EGF may promote EMT and proliferation of biliary epithelial cells and induce IL-8 overexpression in hepatocytes through EGF/EGFR-ERK1/2 signaling pathway. EGF can also activate HSCs in vitro. The EGF/EGFR-ERK1/2 pathway may be a potential therapeutic target for BA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qipeng Zheng
- Graduate College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Mengdi Li
- Graduate College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Lingzhi Chen
- Graduate College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Cong Zhang
- Graduate College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Yilin Zhao
- Graduate College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Gengxin Liu
- Graduate College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Graduate College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China
| | - Jianghua Zhan
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Tianjin, 300134, China.
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6
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The uPA/uPAR System Orchestrates the Inflammatory Response, Vascular Homeostasis, and Immune System in Fibrosis Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021796. [PMID: 36675310 PMCID: PMC9866279 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrotic diseases, such as systemic sclerosis (SSc), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, renal fibrosis and liver cirrhosis are characterized by tissue overgrowth due to excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. Fibrosis progression is caused by ECM overproduction and the inhibition of ECM degradation due to several events, including inflammation, vascular endothelial dysfunction, and immune abnormalities. Recently, it has been reported that urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) and its receptor (uPAR), known to be fibrinolytic factors, orchestrate the inflammatory response, vascular homeostasis, and immune homeostasis system. The uPA/uPAR system may show promise as a potential therapeutic target for fibrotic diseases. This review considers the role of the uPA/uPAR system in the progression of fibrotic diseases.
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7
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Syed MA, Bhat B, Wali A, Saleem A, Ahmad Dar L, Gugjoo MB, Bhat S, Saleem Bhat S. Epithelial to mesenchymal transition in mammary gland tissue fibrosis and insights into drug therapeutics. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15207. [PMID: 37187521 PMCID: PMC10178283 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15207] [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: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a multi-step morphogenetic process in which epithelial cells lose their epithelial properties and gain mesenchymal characteristics. The process of EMT has been shown to mediate mammary gland fibrosis. Understanding how mesenchymal cells emerge from an epithelial default state will aid in unravelling the mechanisms that control fibrosis and, ultimately, in identifying therapeutic targets to alleviate fibrosis. Methods The effects of EGF and high glucose (HG) on EMT in mammary epithelial cells, MCF10A and GMECs, as well as their pathogenic role, were studied. In-silico analysis was used to find interacting partners and protein-chemical/drug molecule interactions. Results On treatment with EGF and/or HG, qPCR analysis showed a significant increase in the gene expression of EMT markers and downstream signalling genes. The expression of these genes was reduced on treatment with EGF+HG combination in both cell lines. The protein expression of COL1A1 increased as compared to the control in cells treated with EGF or HG alone, but when the cells were treated with EGF and HG together, the protein expression of COL1A1 decreased. ROS levels and cell death increased in cells treated with EGF and HG alone, whereas cells treated with EGF and HG together showed a decrease in ROS production and apoptosis. In-silico analysis of protein-protein interactions suggest the possible role of MAPK1, actin alpha 2 (ACTA2), COL1A1, and NFκB1 in regulating TGFβ1, ubiquitin C (UBC), specificity protein 1 (SP1) and E1A binding protein P300 (EP300). Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment suggests advanced glycation end products-receptor for advanced glycation end products (AGE-RAGE) signalling pathway, relaxin signalling pathway and extra cellular matrix (ECM) receptor interactions underlying fibrosis mechanism. Conclusion This study demonstrates that EGF and HG induce EMT in mammary epithelial cells and may also have a role in fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mudasir Ahmad Syed
- Division of Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, India, Srinagar, India
| | - Basharat Bhat
- Division of Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, India, Srinagar, India
| | - Abiza Wali
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Afnan Saleem
- Division of Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, India, Srinagar, India
| | - Lateef Ahmad Dar
- Division of Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, India, Srinagar, India
| | - Mudasir Bashir Gugjoo
- Division of Veterinary Surgery, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Shuhama, SKUAST-K, India, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Shakil Bhat
- Division of Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, India, Srinagar, India
| | - Sahar Saleem Bhat
- Division of Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, India, Srinagar, India
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8
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Lazcanoiturburu N, García‐Sáez J, González‐Corralejo C, Roncero C, Sanz J, Martín‐Rodríguez C, Valdecantos MP, Martínez‐Palacián A, Almalé L, Bragado P, Calero‐Pérez S, Fernández A, García‐Bravo M, Guerra C, Montoliu L, Segovia JC, Valverde ÁM, Fabregat I, Herrera B, Sánchez A. Lack of
EGFR
catalytic activity in hepatocytes improves liver regeneration following
DDC
‐induced cholestatic injury by promoting a pro‐restorative inflammatory response. J Pathol 2022; 258:312-324. [DOI: 10.1002/path.6002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nerea Lazcanoiturburu
- Dept. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) Health Research Institute of the “Hospital Clínico San Carlos” (IdISSC), Madrid Spain
| | - Juan García‐Sáez
- Dept. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) Health Research Institute of the “Hospital Clínico San Carlos” (IdISSC), Madrid Spain
| | - Carlos González‐Corralejo
- Dept. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) Health Research Institute of the “Hospital Clínico San Carlos” (IdISSC), Madrid Spain
| | - Cesáreo Roncero
- Dept. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) Health Research Institute of the “Hospital Clínico San Carlos” (IdISSC), Madrid Spain
| | - Julián Sanz
- Anatomical Pathology Service of the “Clínica Universidad de Navarra”, Madrid, Spain, and UCM Madrid Spain
| | - Carlos Martín‐Rodríguez
- Dept. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) Health Research Institute of the “Hospital Clínico San Carlos” (IdISSC), Madrid Spain
| | - M. Pilar Valdecantos
- “Alberto Sols” Biomedical Research Institute, Spanish National Research Council and Autonomous University of Madrid (IIBM, CSIC‐UAM) Biomedical Research Networking Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders of the Carlos III Health Institute (CIBERDEM‐ISCIII) Madrid Spain
| | - Adoración Martínez‐Palacián
- Dept. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) Health Research Institute of the “Hospital Clínico San Carlos” (IdISSC), Madrid Spain
| | - Laura Almalé
- Dept. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) Health Research Institute of the “Hospital Clínico San Carlos” (IdISSC), Madrid Spain
| | - Paloma Bragado
- Dept. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) Health Research Institute of the “Hospital Clínico San Carlos” (IdISSC), Madrid Spain
| | - Silvia Calero‐Pérez
- “Alberto Sols” Biomedical Research Institute, Spanish National Research Council and Autonomous University of Madrid (IIBM, CSIC‐UAM) Biomedical Research Networking Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders of the Carlos III Health Institute (CIBERDEM‐ISCIII) Madrid Spain
| | - Almudena Fernández
- National Center for Biotechnology (CNB‐CSIC), Biomedical Research Networking Center on Rare Diseases (CIBERER‐ISCIII) Madrid Spain
| | - María García‐Bravo
- Cell Technology Division, Research Center for Energy, Environment and Technology (CIEMAT); Biomedical Research Networking Center on Rare Diseases (CIBERER‐ISCIII); Advanced Therapies Mixed Unit, “Fundación Jiménez Díaz” University Hospital Health Research Institute (CIEMAT/IIS‐FJD) Madrid Spain
| | - Carmen Guerra
- Molecular Oncology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid Spain
| | - Lluis Montoliu
- National Center for Biotechnology (CNB‐CSIC), Biomedical Research Networking Center on Rare Diseases (CIBERER‐ISCIII) Madrid Spain
| | - José Carlos Segovia
- Cell Technology Division, Research Center for Energy, Environment and Technology (CIEMAT); Biomedical Research Networking Center on Rare Diseases (CIBERER‐ISCIII); Advanced Therapies Mixed Unit, “Fundación Jiménez Díaz” University Hospital Health Research Institute (CIEMAT/IIS‐FJD) Madrid Spain
| | - Ángela M. Valverde
- “Alberto Sols” Biomedical Research Institute, Spanish National Research Council and Autonomous University of Madrid (IIBM, CSIC‐UAM) Biomedical Research Networking Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders of the Carlos III Health Institute (CIBERDEM‐ISCIII) Madrid Spain
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- TGF‐β and Cancer Group, Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) , Barcelona, Spain; Oncology Program, Biomedical Research Networking Center in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBEREHD‐ISCIII), Madrid, Spain; Department of Physiological Sciences Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona (UB) Barcelona Spain
| | - Blanca Herrera
- Dept. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) Health Research Institute of the “Hospital Clínico San Carlos” (IdISSC), Madrid Spain
| | - Aránzazu Sánchez
- Dept. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) Health Research Institute of the “Hospital Clínico San Carlos” (IdISSC), Madrid Spain
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9
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Hu D, Jiang J, Lin Z, Zhang C, Moonasar N, Qian S. Identification of key genes and pathways in scleral extracellular matrix remodeling in glaucoma: Potential therapeutic agents discovered using bioinformatics analysis. Int J Med Sci 2021; 18:1554-1565. [PMID: 33746571 PMCID: PMC7976561 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.52846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness. Remodeling of the scleral extracellular matrix (ECM) plays an important role in the development of glaucoma. The aim of this study was to identify the key genes and pathways for the ECM remodeling of sclera in glaucoma by bioinformatics analysis and to explore potential therapeutic agents for glaucoma management. Methods: Genes associated with glaucoma, sclera and ECM remodeling were detected using the text mining tool pubmed2ensembl, and assigned Gene Ontology (GO) biological process terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways using the GeneCodis program. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed by STRING and visualized in Cytoscape, module analysis was performed using the Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) plugin, and GO and KEGG analyses of the gene modules were performed using the Database of Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) platform. The genes that clustered in the significant module were selected as core genes, and functions and pathways of the core genes were visualized using ClueGO and CluePedia. Lastly, the drug-gene interaction database was used to explore drug-gene interactions of the core genes to find drug candidates for glaucoma. Results: We identified 125 genes common to "Glaucoma", "Sclera", and "ECM remodeling" by text mining. Gene functional enrichment analysis yielded 30 enriched GO terms and 20 associated KEGG pathways. A PPI network that included 60 nodes with 249 edges was constructed, and three gene modules were obtained using the MCODE. We selected 13 genes that clustered in module 1 as core candidate genes that were associated mainly with ECM degradation and cell proliferation and division. The HIF-1 signaling pathway, FOXO signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and TGFB signaling pathway were found to be enriched. We found that 11 of the 13 selected genes could be targeted by 26 existing drugs. Conclusions: The results showed that VEGFA, TGFB1, TGFB2, TGFB3, IGF2, IGF1, EGF, FN1, KNG1, TIMP1, SERPINE1, THBS1, and VWF were potential key genes involved to scleral ECM remodeling. Furthermore, 26 drugs were identified as potential therapeutic agents for glaucoma treatment and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye and ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Junhong Jiang
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhong Lin
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Cong Zhang
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | | | - Shaohong Qian
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye and ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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10
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Kyritsi K, Francis H, Zhou T, Ceci L, Wu N, Yang Z, Meng F, Chen L, Baiocchi L, Kundu D, Kennedy L, Liangpunsakul S, Wu C, Glaser S, Alpini G. Downregulation of p16 Decreases Biliary Damage and Liver Fibrosis in the Mdr2 / Mouse Model of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis. Gene Expr 2020; 20:89-103. [PMID: 32393417 PMCID: PMC7650011 DOI: 10.3727/105221620x15889714507961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Biliary senescence and hepatic fibrosis are hallmarks of cholangiopathies including primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Senescent cholangiocytes display senescence-associated secretory phenotypes [SASPs, e.g., transforming growth factor-1 (TGF-1)] that further increase biliary senescence (by an autocrine loop) and trigger liver fibrosis by paracrine mechanisms. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of p16 inhibition and role of the TGF-1/microRNA (miR)-34a/sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) axis in biliary damage and liver fibrosis in the Mdr2/ mouse model of PSC. We treated (i) in vivo male wild-type (WT) and Mdr2/ mice with p16 Vivo-Morpholino or controls before measuring biliary mass [intrahepatic bile duct mass (IBDM)] and senescence, biliary SASP levels, and liver fibrosis, and (ii) in vitro intrahepatic murine cholangiocyte lines (IMCLs) with small interfering RNA against p16 before measuring the mRNA expression of proliferation, senescence, and fibrosis markers. p16 and miR-34a increased but SIRT1 decreased in Mdr2/ mice and PSC human liver samples compared to controls. p16 immunoreactivity and biliary senescence and SASP levels increased in Mdr2/ mice but decreased in Mdr2/ mice treated with p16 Vivo-Morpholino. The increase in IBDM and hepatic fibrosis (observed in Mdr2/ mice) returned to normal values in Mdr2/ mice treated with p16 Vivo-Morpholino. TGF-1 immunoreactivity and biliary SASPs levels were higher in Mdr2/ compared to those of WT mice but returned to normal values in Mdr2/ mice treated with p16 Vivo-Morpholino. The expression of fibrosis/senescence markers decreased in cholangiocytes from Mdr2/ mice treated with p16 Vivo-Morpholino (compared to Mdr2/ mice) and in IMCLs (after p16 silencing) compared to controls. Modulation of the TGF-1/miR-34a/SIRT1 axis may be important in the management of PSC phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Heather Francis
- *Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- †Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Tianhao Zhou
- ‡Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University College of Medicine, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Ludovica Ceci
- *Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Nan Wu
- *Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Zhihong Yang
- †Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Fanyin Meng
- *Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- †Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Lixian Chen
- *Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Leonardo Baiocchi
- §Liver Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata,”Rome, Italy
| | - Debjyoti Kundu
- †Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Lindsey Kennedy
- †Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Suthat Liangpunsakul
- *Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- †Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Chaodong Wu
- ¶Department of Nutrition, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Shannon Glaser
- ‡Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University College of Medicine, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Gianfranco Alpini
- *Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- †Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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