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Ren M, Yao S, Chen T, Luo H, Tao X, Jiang H, Yang X, Zhang H, Yu S, Wang Y, Lu A, Zhang G. Connective Tissue Growth Factor: Regulation, Diseases, and Drug Discovery. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4692. [PMID: 38731911 PMCID: PMC11083620 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
In drug discovery, selecting targeted molecules is crucial as the target could directly affect drug efficacy and the treatment outcomes. As a member of the CCN family, CTGF (also known as CCN2) is an essential regulator in the progression of various diseases, including fibrosis, cancer, neurological disorders, and eye diseases. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms of CTGF in different diseases may contribute to the discovery of novel drug candidates. Summarizing the CTGF-targeting and -inhibitory drugs is also beneficial for the analysis of the efficacy, applications, and limitations of these drugs in different disease models. Therefore, we reviewed the CTGF structure, the regulatory mechanisms in various diseases, and drug development in order to provide more references for future drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meishen Ren
- Key Laboratory of Animal Diseases and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases (TMBJ), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Shanshan Yao
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tienan Chen
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases (TMBJ), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hang Luo
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiaohui Tao
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases (TMBJ), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hewen Jiang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases (TMBJ), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Huarui Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sifan Yu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Diseases and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Aiping Lu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases (TMBJ), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ge Zhang
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases (TMBJ), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Krokidis MG, Vrahatis AG, Lazaros K, Skolariki K, Exarchos TP, Vlamos P. Machine Learning Analysis of Alzheimer's Disease Single-Cell RNA-Sequencing Data across Cortex and Hippocampus Regions. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:8652-8669. [PMID: 37998721 PMCID: PMC10670182 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45110544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Advancements in molecular biology have revolutionized our understanding of complex diseases, with Alzheimer's disease being a prime example. Single-cell sequencing, currently the most suitable technology, facilitates profoundly detailed disease analysis at the cellular level. Prior research has established that the pathology of Alzheimer's disease varies across different brain regions and cell types. In parallel, only machine learning has the capacity to address the myriad challenges presented by such studies, where the integration of large-scale data and numerous experiments is required to extract meaningful knowledge. Our methodology utilizes single-cell RNA sequencing data from healthy and Alzheimer's disease (AD) samples, focused on the cortex and hippocampus regions in mice. We designed three distinct case studies and implemented an ensemble feature selection approach through machine learning, also performing an analysis of distinct age-related datasets to unravel age-specific effects, showing differential gene expression patterns within each condition. Important evidence was reported, such as enrichment in central nervous system development and regulation of oligodendrocyte differentiation between the hippocampus and cortex of 6-month-old AD mice as well as regulation of epinephrine secretion and dendritic spine morphogenesis in 15-month-old AD mice. Our outcomes from all three of our case studies illustrate the capacity of machine learning strategies when applied to single-cell data, revealing critical insights into Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marios G. Krokidis
- Bioinformatics and Human Electrophysiology Laboratory, Department of Informatics, Ionian University, 49100 Corfu, Greece; (A.G.V.); (K.L.); (K.S.); (T.P.E.); (P.V.)
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3
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Walker BL, Nie Q. NeST: nested hierarchical structure identification in spatial transcriptomic data. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6554. [PMID: 37848426 PMCID: PMC10582109 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42343-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Spatial gene expression in tissue is characterized by regions in which particular genes are enriched or depleted. Frequently, these regions contain nested inside them subregions with distinct expression patterns. Segmentation methods in spatial transcriptomic (ST) data extract disjoint regions maximizing similarity over the greatest number of genes, typically on a particular spatial scale, thus lacking the ability to find region-within-region structure. We present NeST, which extracts spatial structure through coexpression hotspots-regions exhibiting localized spatial coexpression of some set of genes. Coexpression hotspots identify structure on any spatial scale, over any possible subset of genes, and are highly explainable. NeST also performs spatial analysis of cell-cell interactions via ligand-receptor, identifying active areas de novo without restriction of cell type or other groupings, in both two and three dimensions. Through application on ST datasets of varying type and resolution, we demonstrate the ability of NeST to reveal a new level of biological structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin L Walker
- The NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92627, USA
- Department of Mathematics, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92627, USA
| | - Qing Nie
- The NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92627, USA.
- Department of Mathematics, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92627, USA.
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92627, USA.
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4
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Zoico E, Saatchi T, Nori N, Mazzali G, Rizzatti V, Pizzi E, Fantin F, Giani A, Urbani S, Zamboni M. Senescent adipocytes as potential effectors of muscle cells dysfunction: An in vitro model. Exp Gerontol 2023; 179:112233. [PMID: 37321332 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2023.112233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Recently, there has been a growing body of evidence showing a negative effect of the white adipose tissue (WAT) dysfunction on the skeletal muscle function and quality. However, little is known about the effects of senescent adipocytes on muscle cells. Therefore, to explore potential mechanisms involved in age-related loss of muscle mass and function, we performed an in vitro experiment using conditioned medium obtained from cultures of mature and aged 3 T3-L1 adipocytes, as well as from cultures of dysfunctional adipocytes exposed to oxidative stress or high insulin doses, to treat C2C12 myocytes. The results from morphological measures indicated a significant decrease in diameter and fusion index of myotubes after treatment with medium of aged or stressed adipocytes. Aged and stressed adipocytes presented different morphological characteristics as well as a different gene expression profile of proinflammatory cytokines and ROS production. In myocytes treated with different adipocytes' conditioned media, we demonstrated a significant reduction of gene expression of myogenic differentiation markers as well as a significant increase of genes involved in atrophy. Finally, a significant reduction in protein synthesis as well as a significant increase of myostatin was found in muscle cells treated with medium of aged or stressed adipocytes compared to controls. In conclusion, these preliminary results suggest that aged adipocytes could influence negatively trophism, function and regenerative capacity of myocytes by a paracrine network of signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Zoico
- Department of Medicine, Geriatric Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Tanaz Saatchi
- Department of Medicine, Geriatric Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
| | - Nicole Nori
- Department of Medicine, Geriatric Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Gloria Mazzali
- Department of Medicine, Geriatric Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Vanni Rizzatti
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Pediatrics and Gynecology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Eleonora Pizzi
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Pediatrics and Gynecology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesco Fantin
- Department of Medicine, Geriatric Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Anna Giani
- Department of Medicine, Geriatric Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Silvia Urbani
- Department of Medicine, Geriatric Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mauro Zamboni
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Pediatrics and Gynecology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Alkon N, Assen FP, Arnoldner T, Bauer WM, Medjimorec MA, Shaw LE, Rindler K, Holzer G, Weber P, Weninger W, Freystätter C, Chennareddy S, Kinaciyan T, Farlik M, Jonak C, Griss J, Bangert C, Brunner PM. Single-cell RNA sequencing defines disease-specific differences between chronic nodular prurigo and atopic dermatitis. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2023; 152:420-435. [PMID: 37210042 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2023.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic nodular prurigo (CNPG) is an inflammatory skin disease that is maintained by a chronic itch-scratch cycle likely rooted in neuroimmunological dysregulation. This condition may be associated with atopy in some patients, and there are now promising therapeutic results from blocking type 2 cytokines such as IL-4, IL-13, and IL-31. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to improve the understanding of pathomechanisms underlying CNPG as well as molecular relationships between CNPG and atopic dermatitis (AD). METHODS We profiled skin lesions from patients with CNPG in comparison with AD and healthy control individuals using single-cell RNA sequencing combined with T-cell receptor sequencing. RESULTS We found type 2 immune skewing in both CNPG and AD, as evidenced by CD4+ helper T cells expressing IL13. However, only AD harbored an additional, oligoclonally expanded CD8A+IL9R+IL13+ cytotoxic T-cell population, and immune activation pathways were highly upregulated in AD, but less so in CNPG. Conversely, CNPG showed signatures of extracellular matrix organization, collagen synthesis, and fibrosis, including a unique population of CXCL14-IL24+ secretory papillary fibroblasts. Besides known itch mediators such as IL31 and oncostatin M, we also detected increased levels of neuromedin B in fibroblasts of CNPG lesions compared with AD and HC, with neuromedin B receptors detectable on some nerve endings. CONCLUSIONS These data show that CNPG does not harbor the strong disease-specific immune activation pathways that are typically found in AD but is rather characterized by upregulated stromal remodeling mechanisms that might have a direct impact on itch fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Alkon
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Frank P Assen
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Tamara Arnoldner
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang M Bauer
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marco A Medjimorec
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lisa E Shaw
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katharina Rindler
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gregor Holzer
- Department of Dermatology, Klinik Donaustadt, Vienna, Austria
| | - Philipp Weber
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Weninger
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian Freystätter
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sumanth Chennareddy
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Tamar Kinaciyan
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Matthias Farlik
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Constanze Jonak
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Griss
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christine Bangert
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Patrick M Brunner
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY.
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Zheng Y, Shen P, Tong M, Li H, Ren C, Wu F, Li H, Yang H, Cai B, Du W, Zhao X, Yao S, Quan R. WISP2 downregulation inhibits the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs in congenital scoliosis by regulating Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023:166783. [PMID: 37302424 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166783] [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: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are instrumental in bone development, metabolism, and marrow microenvironment homeostasis. Despite this, the relevant effects and mechanisms of BMSCs on congenital scoliosis (CS) remain undefined. Herein, it becomes our focus to reveal the corresponding effects and mechanisms implicated. METHODS BMSCs from CS patients (hereafter referred as CS-BMSCs) and healthy donors (NC-BMSCs) were observed and identified. Differentially expressed genes in BMSCs were analyzed utilizing scRNA-seq and RNA-seq profiles. The multi-differentiation potential of BMSCs following the transfection or infection was evaluated. The expression levels of factors related to osteogenic differentiation and Wnt/β-catenin pathway were further determined as appropriate. RESULTS A decreased osteogenic differentiation ability was shown in CS-BMSCs. Both the proportion of LEPR+ BMSCs and the expression level of WNT1-inducible-signaling pathway protein 2 (WISP2) were decreased in CS-BMSCs. WISP2 knockdown suppressed the osteogenic differentiation of NC-BMSCs, while WISP2 overexpression facilitated the osteogenesis of CS-BMSCs via acting on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. CONCLUSIONS Our study collectively indicates WISP2 knockdown blocks the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs in CS by regulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling, thus providing new insights into the aetiology of CS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zheng
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China; Department of Orthopedics Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Panyang Shen
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengsha Tong
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hangchao Li
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Conglin Ren
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fengqing Wu
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hanyu Li
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huan Yang
- Department of Biochemistry, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bingbing Cai
- Department of Orthopedics, Xiaoshan Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weibin Du
- Department of Orthopedics, Xiaoshan Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xing Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Shasha Yao
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Renfu Quan
- Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China; Department of Orthopedics, Xiaoshan Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital, Hangzhou, China; Research Institute of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Jiangnan Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
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7
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Shan J, Wu MY, Zhang YC, Lin YJ, Cheng B, Gao YR, Liu ZH, Xu HM. Hsa-miR-379 down-regulates Rac1/MLK3/JNK/AP-1/Collagen I cascade reaction by targeting connective tissue growth factor in human alveolar basal epithelial A549 cells. Cytokine 2023; 166:156191. [PMID: 37002970 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2023.156191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was aimed to screen and identify miRNAs that could regulate human CTGF gene and downstream cascade reaction Rac1/MLK3/JNK/AP-1/Collagen I by bioinformatics and experimental means. METHODS TargetScan and Tarbase were used to predict miRNAs that may have regulatory effects on human CTGF gene. The dual-luciferase reporter gene assay was employed to verify the results obtained in bioinformatics. Human alveolar basal epithelial A549 cells were exposed to silica (SiO2) culture medium for 24 h to establish an in vitro model of pulmonary fibrosis, and bleomycin (BLM) of 100 ng/mL was used as a positive control. The miRNA and mRNA expression levels were determined by RT-qPCR, and the protein levels were measured by western blot in hsa-miR-379-3p overexpression group or not. RESULTS A total of 9 differentially expressed miRNAs that might regulate the human CTGF gene were predicted. Hsa-miR-379-3p and hsa-miR-411-3p were selected for the subsequent experiments. The results of the dual-luciferase reporter assay showed that hsa-miR-379-3p could bind to CTGF, but hsa-miR-411-3p could not. Compared with the control group, SiO2 exposure (25 and 50 μg/mL) could significantly reduce the expression level of hsa-miR-379-3p in A549 cells. SiO2 exposure (50 μg/mL) could significantly increase the mRNA expression levels of CTGF, Collagen I, Rac1, MLK3, JNK, AP1, and VIM in A549 cells, while CDH1 level was significantly decreased. Compared with SiO2 + NC group, the mRNA expression levels of CTGF, Collagen I, Rac1, MLK3, JNK, AP1, and VIM were significantly decreased, and CDH1 level was significantly higher when hsa-miR-379-3p was overexpressed. At the same time, overexpression of hsa-miR-379-3p improved the protein levels of CTGF, Collagen I, c-Jun and phospho-c-Jun, JNK1 and phospho-JNK1 significantly compared with SiO2 + NC group. CONCLUSION Hsa-miR-379-3p was demonstrated for the first time that could directly target and down-regulate human CTGF gene, and further affect the expression levels of key genes and proteins in Rac1/MLK3/JNK/AP-1/Collagen I cascade reaction.
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8
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Chaqour B. CCN-Hippo YAP signaling in vision and its role in neuronal, glial and vascular cell function and behavior. J Cell Commun Signal 2023:10.1007/s12079-023-00759-6. [PMID: 37191840 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-023-00759-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The retina is a highly specialized tissue composed of a network of neurons, glia, and vascular and epithelial cells; all working together to coordinate and transduce visual signals to the brain. The retinal extracellular matrix (ECM) shapes the structural environment in the retina but also supplies resident cells with proper chemical and mechanical signals to regulate cell function and behavior and maintain tissue homeostasis. As such, the ECM affects virtually all aspects of retina development, function and pathology. ECM-derived regulatory cues influence intracellular signaling and cell function. Reversibly, changes in intracellular signaling programs result in alteration of the ECM and downstream ECM-mediated signaling network. Our functional studies in vitro, genetic studies in mice, and multi omics analyses have provided evidence that a subset of ECM proteins referred to as cellular communication network (CCN) affects several aspects of retinal neuronal and vascular development and function. Retinal progenitor, glia and vascular cells are major sources of CCN proteins particularly CCN1 and CCN2. We found that expression of the CCN1 and CCN2 genes is dependent on the activity of YAP, the core component of the hippo-YAP signaling pathway. Central to the Hippo pathway is a conserved cascade of inhibitory kinases that regulate the activity of YAP, the final transducer of this pathway. Reversibly, YAP expression and/or activity is dependent on CCN1 and CCN2 downstream signaling, which creates a positive or negative feedforward loop driving developmental processes (e.g., neurogenesis, gliogenesis, angiogenesis, barriergenesis) and, when dysregulated, disease progression in a range of retinal neurovascular disorders. Here we describe mechanistic hints involving the CCN-Hippo-YAP regulatory axis in retina development and function. This regulatory pathway represents an opportunity for targeted therapies in neurovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. The CCN-YAP regulatory loop in development and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brahim Chaqour
- Department of Molecular Ophthalmology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 422 Curie Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Garrett EC, Bielawski AM, Ruchti E, Sherer LM, Waghmare I, Hess-Homeier D, McCabe BD, Stowers RS, Certel SJ. The matricellular protein Drosophila Cellular Communication Network Factor is required for synaptic transmission and female fertility. Genetics 2023; 223:iyac190. [PMID: 36602539 PMCID: PMC9991515 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyac190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Within the extracellular matrix, matricellular proteins are dynamically expressed nonstructural proteins that interact with cell surface receptors, growth factors, and proteases, as well as with structural matrix proteins. The cellular communication network factors family of matricellular proteins serve regulatory roles to regulate cell function and are defined by their conserved multimodular organization. Here, we characterize the expression and neuronal requirement for the Drosophila cellular communication network factor family member. Drosophila cellular communication network factor is expressed in the nervous system throughout development including in subsets of monoamine-expressing neurons. Drosophila cellular communication network factor-expressing abdominal ganglion neurons innervate the ovaries and uterus and the loss of Drosophila cellular communication network factor results in reduced female fertility. In addition, Drosophila cellular communication network factor accumulates at the synaptic cleft and is required for neurotransmission at the larval neuromuscular junction. Analyzing the function of the single Drosophila cellular communication network factor family member will enhance our potential to understand how the microenvironment impacts neurotransmitter release in distinct cellular contexts and in response to activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ashley M Bielawski
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
| | - Evelyne Ruchti
- Brain Mind Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lewis M Sherer
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
| | - Indrayani Waghmare
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Program in Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt-Ingram Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - David Hess-Homeier
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
| | - Brian D McCabe
- Brain Mind Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - R Steven Stowers
- Department of Cell Biology and Microbiology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717, USA
| | - Sarah J Certel
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
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Wang Y, Liu X, Xu Q, Xu W, Zhou X, Lin Z. CCN2 deficiency in smooth muscle cells triggers cell reprogramming and aggravates aneurysm development. JCI Insight 2023; 8:162987. [PMID: 36625347 PMCID: PMC9870081 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.162987] [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: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular smooth muscle cell (SMC) phenotypic switching is widely recognized as a key mechanism responsible for the pathogenesis of several aortic diseases, such as aortic aneurysm. Cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2), often upregulated in human pathologies and animal disease models, exerts myriad context-dependent biological functions. However, current understanding of the role of SMC-CCN2 in SMC phenotypic switching and its function in the pathology of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is lacking. Here, we show that SMC-restricted CCN2 deficiency causes AAA in the infrarenal aorta of angiotensin II-infused (Ang II-infused) hypercholesterolemic mice at a similar anatomic location to human AAA. Notably, the resistance of naive C57BL/6 WT mice to Ang II-induced AAA formation is lost upon silencing of CCN2 in SMC. Furthermore, the pro-AAA phenotype of SMC-CCN2-KO mice is recapitulated in a different model that involves the application of elastase-β-aminopropionitrile. Mechanistically, our findings reveal that CCN2 intersects with TGF-β signaling and regulates SMC marker expression. Deficiency of CCN2 triggers SMC reprograming associated with alterations in Krüppel-like factor 4 and contractile marker expression, and this reprograming likely contributes to the development of AAA in mice. These results identify SMC-CCN2 as potentially a novel regulator of SMC phenotypic switching and AA biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Xuesong Liu
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Qian Xu
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Wei Xu
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Xianming Zhou
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhiyong Lin
- Cardiology Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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11
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Wang H, Tian Y, Zhang Q, Liu W, Meng L, Jiang X, Xin Y. Essential role of Nrf2 in sulforaphane-induced protection against angiotensin II-induced aortic injury. Life Sci 2022; 306:120780. [PMID: 35839861 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide. Inflammation and oxidative stress are the primary factors underlying angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced aortic damage. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is an important antioxidative stress factor. Sulforaphane (SFN), which is naturally found in cruciferous vegetables, is an Nrf2 agonist that is safe for oral administration. Here, we aimed to explore the potential of SFN in protecting against Ang II-induced aortic damage by upregulating Nrf2 expression via the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β)/Fyn pathway. MAIN METHODS AND KEY FINDINGS Wild-type (WT) C57BL/6J and Nrf2-knockout (Nrf2-KO) mice were injected with Ang II to induce aortic inflammation, oxidative stress, and cardiac remodeling (increased fibrosis and wall thickness). SFN treatment prevented aortic damage via Nrf2 activation in the WT mice. However, the protective effect of SFN on Ang II-induced aortic damage and upregulation of genes downstream of Nrf2 were not observed in Nrf2-KO mice. SFN induced the upregulation of aortic Nrf2 and inhibited the accumulation of ERK, GSK-3β, and Fyn in the nuclei. SIGNIFICANCE These results revealed that Nrf2 plays a central role in protecting against Ang II-induced aortic injury. Furthermore, SFN prevented Ang II-induced aortic damage by activating Nrf2 through the ERK/GSK-3β/Fyn pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanhuan Wang
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology & Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Yuan Tian
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; Department of Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China.
| | - Qihe Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Wenyun Liu
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Lingbin Meng
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
| | - Xin Jiang
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology & Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Ying Xin
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
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12
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Can Demirdöğen B, Kılıç OO, Karagülle EN, Kalmaz LM, Mungan S. Single nucleotide variants around the connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) gene and their association with multiple sclerosis risk, disability scores, and rate of disease progression. Neurol Sci 2022; 43:3867-3877. [PMID: 35091888 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05852-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to explore the possible association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the upstream (rs9402373) and downstream regions (rs9399005 and rs12526196) of the gene encoding connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) risk and clinical parameters including disability scores and rate of disability progression. MATERIALS AND METHODS In total, 200 patients with RRMS and 305 controls were genotyped using real-time PCR (rs1252696 C/T and rs9402373 G/C) or PCR-RFLP (rs9399005 C/T) methods. Furthermore, the association between these genotypes and clinical parameters including Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score, Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (MSSS), age at onset, duration of disease, duration of treatment, and presence of contrast-enhancing lesions was analyzed. RESULTS rs9399005 genotypes TT and CT in the dominant model were significant predictors of RRMS vs. control status by logistic regression analysis (OR = 1.45, 95% CI = 1.01-2.08, P = .04). Moreover, these genotypes for rs9399005 were associated with a MSSS ≥ 2.4 (OR = 3.54, 95% CI = 1.56-8.05, P = .003). In addition, MSSS was lower in patients who had at least one rs12526196C allele than in the corresponding patients with the TT genotype (P = .02). CONCLUSION To our knowledge, this is the first evidence of the involvement of variants around the CTGF gene in MS risk and disability progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birsen Can Demirdöğen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, TOBB University of Economics and Technology, Söğütözü, 06560, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Osman Oğuzhan Kılıç
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, TOBB University of Economics and Technology, Söğütözü, 06560, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Elif Naz Karagülle
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, TOBB University of Economics and Technology, Söğütözü, 06560, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Latife Mekselina Kalmaz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, TOBB University of Economics and Technology, Söğütözü, 06560, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Semra Mungan
- Neurology Clinic, Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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Fu M, Peng D, Lan T, Wei Y, Wei X. Multifunctional regulatory protein connective tissue growth factor (CTGF): A potential therapeutic target for diverse diseases. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:1740-1760. [PMID: 35847511 PMCID: PMC9279711 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), a multifunctional protein of the CCN family, regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, and a variety of other biological processes. It is involved in the disease-related pathways such as the Hippo pathway, p53 and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) pathways and thus contributes to the developments of inflammation, fibrosis, cancer and other diseases as a downstream effector. Therefore, CTGF might be a potential therapeutic target for treating various diseases. In recent years, the research on the potential of CTGF in the treatment of diseases has also been paid more attention. Several drugs targeting CTGF (monoclonal antibodies FG3149 and FG3019) are being assessed by clinical or preclinical trials and have shown promising outcomes. In this review, the cellular events regulated by CTGF, and the relationships between CTGF and pathogenesis of diseases are systematically summarized. In addition, we highlight the current researches, focusing on the preclinical and clinical trials concerned with CTGF as the therapeutic target.
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14
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Activation of the ATX/LPA/LPARs axis induces a fibrotic response in skeletal muscle. Matrix Biol 2022; 109:121-139. [DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2022.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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15
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Apolloni S, D'Ambrosi N. Fibrosis as a common trait in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis tissues. Neural Regen Res 2022; 17:97-98. [PMID: 34100438 PMCID: PMC8451558 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.314302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Savina Apolloni
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Nadia D'Ambrosi
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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16
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Zhou H, Zheng D, Wang H, Wu Y, Peng X, Li Q, Li T, Liu L. The protective effects of pericyte-derived microvesicles on vascular endothelial functions via CTGF delivery in sepsis. Cell Commun Signal 2021; 19:115. [PMID: 34784912 PMCID: PMC8594111 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-021-00795-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is well known that sepsis is a prevalent severe disease caused by infection and the treatment strategies are limited. Recently pericyte-derived microvesicles (PMVs) were confirmed to be therapeutic in many diseases, whether PMVs can protect vascular endothelial cell (VEC) injury is unknown. METHODS Pericytes were extracted from the retina of newly weaned rats, and PMVs were collected after starvation and characterized by flow-cytometry and transmission electron microscopy. First, the effect of PMVs on pulmonary vascular function in septic rats was measured via intravenous administration with HE staining, immunofluorescence, and Elisa analysis. Then, PMVs were co-incubated with VECs in the presence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and observed the protective effect of PMVs on VECs. Next, the proteomic analysis and further Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis were performed to analyze the therapeutic mechanism of PMVs, and the angiogenesis-related protein CTGF was highly expressed in PMVs. Finally, by CTGF upregulation and downregulation in PMV, the role of PMV-carried CTGF was investigated. RESULTS PMVs restored the proliferation and angiogenesis ability of pulmonary VECs, and alleviated pulmonary vascular leakage in septic rats and LPS-stimulated VECs. Further study showed that PMVs delivered CTGF to VECs, and subsequently activated ERK1/2, and increased the phosphorylation of STAT3, thereby improving the function of VECs. The further study found CD44 mediated the absorption and internalization of PMVs to VECs, the anti-CD44 antibody inhibited the protective effect of PMVs. CONCLUSIONS PMVs may delivery CTGF to VECs, and promote the proliferation and angiogenesis ability by activating the CTGF-ERK1/2-STAT3 axis, thereby protecting pulmonary vascular function in sepsis. The therapeutic effect of PMVs was highly related to CD44-mediated absorption. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Shock and Transfusion Department, Army Medical Center of PLA, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No.10th Daping Changjiang Road, Chongqing, 400038 China
| | - Danyang Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Shock and Transfusion Department, Army Medical Center of PLA, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No.10th Daping Changjiang Road, Chongqing, 400038 China
- Intensive Care Unit, General Hospital of Central Theater Command, Wuhan, 430064 China
| | - Hongchen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Shock and Transfusion Department, Army Medical Center of PLA, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No.10th Daping Changjiang Road, Chongqing, 400038 China
| | - Yue Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Shock and Transfusion Department, Army Medical Center of PLA, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No.10th Daping Changjiang Road, Chongqing, 400038 China
| | - Xiaoyong Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Shock and Transfusion Department, Army Medical Center of PLA, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No.10th Daping Changjiang Road, Chongqing, 400038 China
| | - Qinghui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Shock and Transfusion Department, Army Medical Center of PLA, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No.10th Daping Changjiang Road, Chongqing, 400038 China
| | - Tao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Shock and Transfusion Department, Army Medical Center of PLA, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No.10th Daping Changjiang Road, Chongqing, 400038 China
| | - Liangming Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Shock and Transfusion Department, Army Medical Center of PLA, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, No.10th Daping Changjiang Road, Chongqing, 400038 China
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17
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Rebolledo DL, Lipson KE, Brandan E. Driving fibrosis in neuromuscular diseases: Role and regulation of Connective tissue growth factor (CCN2/CTGF). Matrix Biol Plus 2021; 11:100059. [PMID: 34435178 PMCID: PMC8377001 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbplus.2021.100059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor or cellular communication network 2 (CCN2/CTGF) is a matricellular protein member of the CCN family involved in several crucial biological processes. In skeletal muscle, CCN2/CTGF abundance is elevated in human muscle biopsies and/or animal models for diverse neuromuscular pathologies, including muscular dystrophies, neurodegenerative disorders, muscle denervation, and muscle overuse. In this context, CCN2/CTGF is deeply involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) modulation, acting as a strong pro-fibrotic factor that promotes excessive ECM accumulation. Reducing CCN2/CTGF levels or biological activity in pathological conditions can decrease fibrosis, improve muscle architecture and function. In this work, we summarize information about the role of CCN2/CTGF in fibrosis associated with neuromuscular pathologies and the mechanisms and signaling pathways that regulate their expression in skeletal muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela L Rebolledo
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración, CARE Chile UC, Chile.,Centro de Excelencia en Biomedicina de Magallanes (CEBIMA), Punta Arenas, Chile
| | | | - Enrique Brandan
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración, CARE Chile UC, Chile.,Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile.,Fundación Ciencia y Vida, Santiago, Chile
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18
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Yao S, Chen Z, Yu Y, Zhang N, Jiang H, Zhang G, Zhang Z, Zhang B. Current Pharmacological Strategies for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:689533. [PMID: 34490244 PMCID: PMC8417245 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.689533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a lethal, X-linked neuromuscular disorder caused by the absence of dystrophin protein, which is essential for muscle fiber integrity. Loss of dystrophin protein leads to recurrent myofiber damage, chronic inflammation, progressive fibrosis, and dysfunction of muscle stem cells. There is still no cure for DMD so far and the standard of care is principally limited to symptom relief through glucocorticoids treatments. Current therapeutic strategies could be divided into two lines. Dystrophin-targeted therapeutic strategies that aim at restoring the expression and/or function of dystrophin, including gene-based, cell-based and protein replacement therapies. The other line of therapeutic strategies aims to improve muscle function and quality by targeting the downstream pathological changes, including inflammation, fibrosis, and muscle atrophy. This review introduces the important developments in these two lines of strategies, especially those that have entered the clinical phase and/or have great potential for clinical translation. The rationale and efficacy of each agent in pre-clinical or clinical studies are presented. Furthermore, a meta-analysis of gene profiling in DMD patients has been performed to understand the molecular mechanisms of DMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Yao
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Zihao Chen
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Yuanyuan Yu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Ning Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Hewen Jiang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Ge Zhang
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Zongkang Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Baoting Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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19
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Rebolledo DL, Acuña MJ, Brandan E. Role of Matricellular CCN Proteins in Skeletal Muscle: Focus on CCN2/CTGF and Its Regulation by Vasoactive Peptides. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5234. [PMID: 34063397 PMCID: PMC8156781 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The Cellular Communication Network (CCN) family of matricellular proteins comprises six proteins that share conserved structural features and play numerous biological roles. These proteins can interact with several receptors or soluble proteins, regulating cell signaling pathways in various tissues under physiological and pathological conditions. In the skeletal muscle of mammals, most of the six CCN family members are expressed during embryonic development or in adulthood. Their roles during the adult stage are related to the regulation of muscle mass and regeneration, maintaining vascularization, and the modulation of skeletal muscle fibrosis. This work reviews the CCNs proteins' role in skeletal muscle physiology and disease, focusing on skeletal muscle fibrosis and its regulation by Connective Tissue Growth factor (CCN2/CTGF). Furthermore, we review evidence on the modulation of fibrosis and CCN2/CTGF by the renin-angiotensin system and the kallikrein-kinin system of vasoactive peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela L. Rebolledo
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración, CARE Chile UC, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile;
- Centro de Excelencia en Biomedicina de Magallanes (CEBIMA), Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas 6213515, Chile
| | - María José Acuña
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración, CARE Chile UC, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile;
- Centro Integrativo de Biología y Química Aplicada (CIBQA), Universidad Bernardo O Higgins, Santiago 8370854, Chile
| | - Enrique Brandan
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración, CARE Chile UC, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile;
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
- Fundación Ciencia & Vida, Santiago 7810000, Chile
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Traiffort E, Morisset-Lopez S, Moussaed M, Zahaf A. Defective Oligodendroglial Lineage and Demyelination in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073426. [PMID: 33810425 PMCID: PMC8036314 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Motor neurons and their axons reaching the skeletal muscle have long been considered as the best characterized targets of the degenerative process observed in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, the involvement of glial cells was also more recently reported. Although oligodendrocytes have been underestimated for a longer time than other cells, they are presently considered as critically involved in axonal injury and also conversely constitute a target for the toxic effects of the degenerative neurons. In the present review, we highlight the recent advances regarding oligodendroglial cell involvement in the pathogenesis of ALS. First, we present the oligodendroglial cells, the process of myelination, and the tight relationship between axons and myelin. The histological abnormalities observed in ALS and animal models of the disease are described, including myelin defects and oligodendroglial accumulation of pathological protein aggregates. Then, we present data that establish the existence of dysfunctional and degenerating oligodendroglial cells, the chain of events resulting in oligodendrocyte degeneration, and the most recent molecular mechanisms supporting oligodendrocyte death and dysfunction. Finally, we review the arguments in support of the primary versus secondary involvement of oligodendrocytes in the disease and discuss the therapeutic perspectives related to oligodendrocyte implication in ALS pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Traiffort
- Diseases and Hormones of the Nervous System U1195 INSERM, Paris Saclay University, 80 Rue du Général Leclerc, 94276 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France;
- Correspondence:
| | - Séverine Morisset-Lopez
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, UPR 4301 CNRS, Orléans University, INSERM, rue Charles Sadron, CEDEX 02, 45071 Orleans, France; (S.M.-L.); (M.M.)
| | - Mireille Moussaed
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire, UPR 4301 CNRS, Orléans University, INSERM, rue Charles Sadron, CEDEX 02, 45071 Orleans, France; (S.M.-L.); (M.M.)
| | - Amina Zahaf
- Diseases and Hormones of the Nervous System U1195 INSERM, Paris Saclay University, 80 Rue du Général Leclerc, 94276 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France;
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Scaricamazza S, Salvatori I, Ferri A, Valle C. Skeletal Muscle in ALS: An Unappreciated Therapeutic Opportunity? Cells 2021; 10:525. [PMID: 33801336 PMCID: PMC8000428 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the selective degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons and by the progressive weakness and paralysis of voluntary muscles. Despite intense research efforts and numerous clinical trials, it is still an incurable disease. ALS had long been considered a pure motor neuron disease; however, recent studies have shown that motor neuron protection is not sufficient to prevent the course of the disease since the dismantlement of neuromuscular junctions occurs before motor neuron degeneration. Skeletal muscle alterations have been described in the early stages of the disease, and they seem to be mainly involved in the "dying back" phenomenon of motor neurons and metabolic dysfunctions. In recent years, skeletal muscles have been considered crucial not only for the etiology of ALS but also for its treatment. Here, we review clinical and preclinical studies that targeted skeletal muscles and discuss the different approaches, including pharmacological interventions, supplements or diets, genetic modifications, and training programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Scaricamazza
- Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, c/o CERC, 00143 Rome, Italy; (S.S.); (I.S.)
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Illari Salvatori
- Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, c/o CERC, 00143 Rome, Italy; (S.S.); (I.S.)
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Ferri
- Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, c/o CERC, 00143 Rome, Italy; (S.S.); (I.S.)
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Cristiana Valle
- Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, c/o CERC, 00143 Rome, Italy; (S.S.); (I.S.)
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council, 00133 Rome, Italy
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22
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D'Ambrosi N, Apolloni S. Fibrotic Scar in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1394. [PMID: 32922384 PMCID: PMC7456854 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The process of uncontrolled internal scarring, called fibrosis, is now emerging as a pathological feature shared by both peripheral and central nervous system diseases. In the CNS, damaged neurons are not replaced by tissue regeneration, and scar-forming cells such as endothelial cells, inflammatory immune cells, stromal fibroblasts, and astrocytes can persist chronically in brain and spinal cord lesions. Although this process was extensively described in acute CNS damages, novel evidence indicates the involvement of a fibrotic reaction in chronic CNS injuries as those occurring during neurodegenerative diseases, where inflammation and fibrosis fuel degeneration. In this mini review, we discuss recent advances around the role of fibrotic scar formation and function in different neurodegenerative conditions, particularly focusing on the rising role of scarring in the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease and highlighting the therapeutic relevance of targeting fibrotic scarring to slow and reverse neurodegeneration.
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A novel peptide binding to the C-terminal domain of connective tissue growth factor for the treatment of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 156:1464-1473. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.11.192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Mice Lacking Connective Tissue Growth Factor in the Forebrain Exhibit Delayed Seizure Response, Reduced C-Fos Expression and Different Microglial Phenotype Following Acute PTZ Injection. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21144921. [PMID: 32664674 PMCID: PMC7404259 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21144921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) plays important roles in the development and regeneration of the connective tissue, yet its function in the nervous system is still not clear. CTGF is expressed in some distinct regions of the brain, including the dorsal endopiriform nucleus (DEPN) which has been recognized as an epileptogenic zone. We generated a forebrain-specific Ctgf knockout (FbCtgf KO) mouse line in which the expression of Ctgf in the DEPN is eliminated. In this study, we adopted a pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizure model and found similar severity and latencies to death between FbCtgf KO and WT mice. Interestingly, there was a delay in the seizure reactions in the mutant mice. We further observed reduced c-fos expression subsequent to PTZ treatment in the KO mice, especially in the hippocampus. While the densities of astrocytes and microglia in the hippocampus were kept constant after acute PTZ treatment, microglial morphology was different between genotypes. Our present study demonstrated that in the FbCtgf KO mice, PTZ failed to increase neuronal activity and microglial response in the hippocampus. Our results suggested that inhibition of Ctgf function may have a therapeutic potential in preventing the pathophysiology of epilepsy.
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Ohkawara B, Kobayakawa A, Kanbara S, Hattori T, Kubota S, Ito M, Masuda A, Takigawa M, Lyons KM, Ishiguro N, Ohno K. CTGF/CCN2 facilitates LRP4-mediated formation of the embryonic neuromuscular junction. EMBO Rep 2020; 21:e48462. [PMID: 32558157 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201948462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
At the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), lipoprotein-related receptor 4 (LRP4) mediates agrin-induced MuSK phosphorylation that leads to clustering of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) in the postsynaptic region of the skeletal muscle. Additionally, the ectodomain of LRP4 is necessary for differentiation of the presynaptic nerve terminal. However, the molecules regulating LRP4 have not been fully elucidated yet. Here, we show that the CT domain of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) directly binds to the third beta-propeller domain of LRP4. CTGF/CCN2 enhances the binding of LRP4 to MuSK and facilitates the localization of LRP4 on the plasma membrane. CTGF/CCN2 enhances agrin-induced MuSK phosphorylation and AChR clustering in cultured myotubes. Ctgf-deficient mouse embryos (Ctgf-/- ) have small AChR clusters and abnormal dispersion of synaptic vesicles along the motor axon. Ultrastructurally, the presynaptic nerve terminals have reduced numbers of active zones and mitochondria. Functionally, Ctgf-/- embryos exhibit impaired NMJ signal transmission. These results indicate that CTGF/CCN2 interacts with LRP4 to facilitate clustering of AChRs at the motor endplate and the maturation of the nerve terminal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bisei Ohkawara
- Division of Neurogenetics, Center for Neurological Diseases and Cancer, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Akinori Kobayakawa
- Division of Neurogenetics, Center for Neurological Diseases and Cancer, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Kanbara
- Division of Neurogenetics, Center for Neurological Diseases and Cancer, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Takako Hattori
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kubota
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Mikako Ito
- Division of Neurogenetics, Center for Neurological Diseases and Cancer, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Akio Masuda
- Division of Neurogenetics, Center for Neurological Diseases and Cancer, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Masaharu Takigawa
- Advanced Research Center for Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, Okayama University Dental School, Okayama, Japan
| | - Karen M Lyons
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Naoki Ishiguro
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kinji Ohno
- Division of Neurogenetics, Center for Neurological Diseases and Cancer, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
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