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Varadaraj K, Gao J, Mathias RT, Kumari S. Effect of hydrogen peroxide on lens transparency, intracellular pH, gap junction coupling, hydrostatic pressure and membrane water permeability. Exp Eye Res 2024; 245:109957. [PMID: 38843983 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109957] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Clouding of the eye lens or cataract is an age-related anomaly that affects middle-aged humans. Exploration of the etiology points to a great extent to oxidative stress due to different forms of reactive oxygen species/metabolites such as Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) that are generated due to intracellular metabolism and environmental factors like radiation. If accumulated and left unchecked, the imbalance between the production and degradation of H2O2 in the lens could lead to cataracts. Our objective was to explore ex vivo the effects of H2O2 on lens physiology. We investigated transparency, intracellular pH (pHi), intercellular gap junction coupling (GJC), hydrostatic pressure (HP) and membrane water permeability after subjecting two-month-old C57 wild-type (WT) mouse lenses for 3 h or 8 h in lens saline containing 50 μM H2O2; the results were compared with control lenses incubated in the saline without H2O2. There was a significant decrease in lens transparency in H2O2-treated lenses. In control lenses, pHi decreases from ∼7.34 in the surface fiber cells to 6.64 in the center. Experimental lenses exposed to H2O2 for 8 h showed a significant decrease in surface pH (from 7.34 to 6.86) and central pH (from 6.64 to 6.56), compared to the controls. There was a significant increase in GJC resistance in the differentiating (12-fold) and mature (1.4-fold) fiber cells compared to the control. Experimental lenses also showed a significant increase in HP which was ∼2-fold higher at the junction between the differentiating and mature fiber cells and ∼1.5-fold higher at the center compared to these locations in control lenses; HP at the surface was 0 mm Hg in either type lens. Fiber cell membrane water permeability significantly increased in H2O2-exposed lenses compared to controls. Our data demonstrate that elevated levels of lens intracellular H2O2 caused a decrease in intracellular pH and led to acidosis which most likely uncoupled GJs, and increased AQP0-dependent membrane water permeability causing a consequent rise in HP. We infer that an abnormal increase in intracellular H2O2 could induce acidosis, cause oxidative stress, alter lens microcirculation, and lead to the development of accelerated lens opacity and age-related cataracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kulandaiappan Varadaraj
- Physiology and Biophysics, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.
| | - Junyuan Gao
- Physiology and Biophysics, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Richard T Mathias
- Physiology and Biophysics, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Sindhu Kumari
- Physiology and Biophysics, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
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Talaverón R, Morado-Díaz CJ, Herrera A, Gálvez V, Pastor AM, Matarredona ER. The Gap Junction Inhibitor Octanol Decreases Proliferation and Increases Glial Differentiation of Postnatal Neural Progenitor Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6288. [PMID: 38927995 PMCID: PMC11203596 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Neural precursor cells (NPCs) that persist in the postnatal/adult subventricular zone (SVZ) express connexins that form hemichannels and gap junctions. Gap junctional communication plays a role in NPC proliferation and differentiation during development, but its relevance on postnatal age remains to be elucidated. In this work we aimed to evaluate the effect of the blockade of gap junctional communication on proliferation and cell fate of NPCs obtained from the SVZ of postnatal rats. NPCs were isolated and expanded in culture as neurospheres. Electron microscopy revealed the existence of gap junctions among neurosphere cells. Treatment of cultures with octanol, a broad-spectrum gap junction blocker, or with Gap27, a specific blocker for gap junctions formed by connexin43, produced a significant decrease in bromodeoxyuridine incorporation. Octanol treatment also exerted a dose-dependent antiproliferative effect on glioblastoma cells. To analyze possible actions on NPC fate, cells were seeded in the absence of mitogens. Treatment with octanol led to an increase in the percentage of astrocytes and oligodendrocyte precursors, whereas the percentage of neurons remained unchanged. Gap27 treatment, in contrast, did not modify the differentiation pattern of SVZ NPCs. Our results indicate that general blockade of gap junctions with octanol induces significant effects on the behavior of postnatal SVZ NPCs, by reducing proliferation and promoting glial differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocío Talaverón
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Seville, Spain;
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Seville, Spain; (C.J.M.-D.); (A.M.P.)
| | - Camilo J. Morado-Díaz
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Seville, Spain; (C.J.M.-D.); (A.M.P.)
| | - Alejandro Herrera
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Seville, Spain; (C.J.M.-D.); (A.M.P.)
| | - Victoria Gálvez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Seville, Spain; (C.J.M.-D.); (A.M.P.)
| | - Angel M. Pastor
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Seville, Spain; (C.J.M.-D.); (A.M.P.)
| | - Esperanza R. Matarredona
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Seville, Spain; (C.J.M.-D.); (A.M.P.)
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Papadakos SP, Chatzikalil E, Arvanitakis K, Vakadaris G, Stergiou IE, Koutsompina ML, Argyrou A, Lekakis V, Konstantinidis I, Germanidis G, Theocharis S. Understanding the Role of Connexins in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Molecular and Prognostic Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1533. [PMID: 38672615 PMCID: PMC11048329 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081533] [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: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Connexins, a family of tetraspan membrane proteins forming intercellular channels localized in gap junctions, play a pivotal role at the different stages of tumor progression presenting both pro- and anti-tumorigenic effects. Considering the potential role of connexins as tumor suppressors through multiple channel-independent mechanisms, their loss of expression may be associated with tumorigenic activity, while it is hypothesized that connexins favor the clonal expansion of tumor cells and promote cell migration, invasion, and proliferation, affecting metastasis and chemoresistance in some cases. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), characterized by unfavorable prognosis and limited responsiveness to current therapeutic strategies, has been linked to gap junction proteins as tumorigenic factors with prognostic value. Notably, several members of connexins have emerged as promising markers for assessing the progression and aggressiveness of HCC, as well as the chemosensitivity and radiosensitivity of hepatocellular tumor cells. Our review sheds light on the multifaceted role of connexins in HCC pathogenesis, offering valuable insights on recent advances in determining their prognostic and therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P. Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Elena Chatzikalil
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.V.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Vakadaris
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.V.)
| | - Ioanna E. Stergiou
- Pathophysiology Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (I.E.S.); (M.-L.K.)
| | - Maria-Loukia Koutsompina
- Pathophysiology Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (I.E.S.); (M.-L.K.)
| | - Alexandra Argyrou
- Academic Department of Gastroenterology, Laikon General Hospital, Athens University Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (V.L.)
| | - Vasileios Lekakis
- Academic Department of Gastroenterology, Laikon General Hospital, Athens University Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (V.L.)
| | | | - Georgios Germanidis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.V.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (E.C.)
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Hazen P, Trossi-Torres G, Timsina R, Khadka NK, Mainali L. Association of Alpha-Crystallin with Human Cortical and Nuclear Lens Lipid Membrane Increases with the Grade of Cortical and Nuclear Cataract. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1936. [PMID: 38339214 PMCID: PMC10855980 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031936] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Eye lens α-crystallin has been shown to become increasingly membrane-bound with age and cataract formation; however, to our knowledge, no studies have investigated the membrane interactions of α-crystallin throughout the development of cataracts in separated cortical membrane (CM) and nuclear membrane (NM) from single human lenses. In this study, four pairs of human lenses from age-matched male and female donors and one pair of male lenses ranging in age from 64 to 73 years old (yo) were obtained to investigate the interactions of α-crystallin with the NM and CM throughout the progression of cortical cataract (CC) and nuclear cataract (NC) using the electron paramagnetic resonance spin-labeling method. Donor health history information (diabetes, smoker, hypertension, radiation treatment), sex, and race were included in the data analysis. The right eye lenses CM and NM investigated were 64 yo male (CC: 0), 68 yo male (CC: 3, NC: 2), 73 yo male (CC: 1, NC: 2), 68 yo female (CC: 3, NC: 2), and 73 yo female (CC: 1, NC: 3). Similarly, left eye lenses CM and NM investigated were 64 yo male (CC: 0), 68 yo male (CC: 3, NC: 2), 73 yo male (CC: 2, NC: 3), 68 yo female (CC: 3, NC: 2), and 73 yo female (CC: 1, NC: 3). Analysis of α-crystallin binding to male and female eye lens CM and NM revealed that the percentage of membrane surface occupied (MSO) by α-crystallin increases with increasing grade of CC and NC. The binding of α-crystallin resulted in decreased mobility, increased order, and increased hydrophobicity on the membrane surface in male and female eye lens CM and NM. CM mobility decreased with an increase in cataracts for both males and females, whereas the male lens NM mobility showed no significant change, while female lens NM showed increased mobility with an increase in cataract grade. Our data shows that a 68 yo female donor (long-term smoker, pre-diabetic, and hypertension; grade 3 CC) showed the largest MSO by α-crystallin in CM from both the left and right lens and had the most pronounced mobility changes relative to all other analyzed samples. The variation in cholesterol (Chol) content, size and amount of cholesterol bilayer domains (CBDs), and lipid composition in the CM and NM with age and cataract might result in a variation of membrane surface mobility, membrane surface hydrophobicity, and the interactions of α-crystallin at the surface of each CM and NM. These findings provide insight into the effect of decreased Chol content and the reduced size and amount of CBDs in the cataractous CM and NM with an increased binding of α-crystallin with increased CC and NC grade, which suggests that Chol and CBDs might be a key component in maintaining lens transparency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preston Hazen
- Biomolecular Sciences Graduate Programs, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA; (P.H.); (G.T.-T.)
| | - Geraline Trossi-Torres
- Biomolecular Sciences Graduate Programs, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA; (P.H.); (G.T.-T.)
- Department of Physics, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA; (R.T.); (N.K.K.)
| | - Raju Timsina
- Department of Physics, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA; (R.T.); (N.K.K.)
| | - Nawal K. Khadka
- Department of Physics, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA; (R.T.); (N.K.K.)
| | - Laxman Mainali
- Biomolecular Sciences Graduate Programs, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA; (P.H.); (G.T.-T.)
- Department of Physics, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA; (R.T.); (N.K.K.)
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Yan Q, Feng Z, Jiang B, Yao J. Biological functions of connexins in the development of inflammatory bowel disease. Scand J Gastroenterol 2024; 59:142-149. [PMID: 37837320 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2023.2267713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic intestinal inflammatory diseases with unknown etiology. Gap junctions composed of connexins (Cxs) have been recently validated as an important factor in the development of IBD. Under IBD-induced inflammatory response in the gut, gap junctions connect multiple signaling pathways involved in the interaction between inflammatory cells with other intestinal cells, which altogether mediate the development of IBD. This paper is a narrative review aiming to comprehensively elucidate the biological function of connexins, especially the ubiquitously and predominantly expressed Cx43, in the pathogenesis of IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaojing Yan
- Colorectal Surgery Center, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
- Jiangsu Province Traditional Chinese Medicine Innovation Center for Anorectal Disease, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhiling Feng
- Colorectal Surgery Center, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Bin Jiang
- Colorectal Surgery Center, Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
- Jiangsu Province Traditional Chinese Medicine Innovation Center for Anorectal Disease, Nanjing, China
| | - Jian Yao
- Division of Molecular Signaling, Department of the Advanced Biomedical Research, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Japan
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Kwek MSY, Thangaveloo M, Madden LE, Phillips ARJ, Becker DL. Targeting Cx43 to Reduce the Severity of Pressure Ulcer Progression. Cells 2023; 12:2856. [PMID: 38132176 PMCID: PMC10741864 DOI: 10.3390/cells12242856] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In the skin, repeated incidents of ischemia followed by reperfusion can result in the breakdown of the skin and the formation of a pressure ulcer. Here we gently applied paired magnets to the backs of mice to cause ischemia for 1.5 h and then removed them to allow reperfusion. The sterile inflammatory response generated within 4 h causes a stage 1 pressure ulcer with an elevation of the gap junction protein Cx43 in the epidermis. If this process is repeated the insult will result in a more severe stage 2 pressure ulcer with a breakdown of the epidermis 2-3 days later. After a single pinch, the elevation of Cx43 in the epidermis is associated with the inflammatory response with an increased number of neutrophils, HMGB1 (marker of necrosis) and RIP3 (responsible for necroptosis). Delivering Cx43 specific antisense oligonucleotides sub-dermally after a single insult, was able to significantly reduce the elevation of epidermal Cx43 protein expression and reduce the number of neutrophils and prevent the elevation of HMGB1 and RIP3. In a double pinch model, the Cx43 antisense treatment was able to reduce the level of inflammation, necroptosis, and the extent of tissue damage and progression to an open wound. This approach may be useful in reducing the progression of stage 1 pressure ulcers to stage 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milton Sheng Yi Kwek
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Clinical Sciences Building, 11, Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232, Singapore (M.T.); (L.E.M.)
- Skin Research Institute Singapore, Clinical Sciences Building, 11, Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232, Singapore
| | - Moogaambikai Thangaveloo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Clinical Sciences Building, 11, Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232, Singapore (M.T.); (L.E.M.)
- Skin Research Institute Singapore, Clinical Sciences Building, 11, Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232, Singapore
| | - Leigh E. Madden
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Clinical Sciences Building, 11, Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232, Singapore (M.T.); (L.E.M.)
- Skin Research Institute Singapore, Clinical Sciences Building, 11, Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232, Singapore
| | | | - David L. Becker
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Clinical Sciences Building, 11, Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232, Singapore (M.T.); (L.E.M.)
- Skin Research Institute Singapore, Clinical Sciences Building, 11, Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232, Singapore
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Zhao Z, Wang W, Wang G, Huang Z, Zhou L, Lin L, Ou Y, Huang W, Zhang X, Wu C, Tao L, Wang Q. Dual peptides-modified cationic liposomes for enhanced Lung cancer gene therapy by a gap junction regulating strategy. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:473. [PMID: 38066528 PMCID: PMC10709977 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02242-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gene therapy for lung cancer has emerged as a novel tumor-combating strategy for its superior tumor specificity, low systematical toxicity and huge clinical translation potential. Especially, the applications of microRNA shed led on effective tumor ablation by directly interfering with the crucial gene expression, making it one of the most promising gene therapy agents. However, for lung cancer therapy, the microRNA treatment confronted three bottlenecks, the poor tumor tissue penetration effect, the insufficient lung drug accumulation and unsatisfied gene transfection efficiency. To address these issues, an inhalable RGD-TAT dual peptides-modified cationic liposomes loaded with microRNA miR-34a and gap junction (GJ) regulation agent all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) was proposed, which was further engineered into dry powder inhalers (DPIs). RESULTS Equipped with a rough particle surface and appropriate aerodynamic size, the proposed RGD-TAT-CLPs/ARTA@miR-34a DPIs were expected to deposit into the deep lung and reach lung tumor lesions guided by targeting peptide RGD. Assisted by cellular transmembrane peptides TAT, the RGD-TAT-CLPs/ARTA@miR-34a was proven to be effectively internalized by cancer cells, enhancing gene transfection efficiency. Then, the GJ between tumor cells was upregulated by ARTA, facilitating the intercellular transport of miR-34a and boosting the gene expression in the deep tumor. CONCLUSION Overall, the proposed RGD-TAT-CLPs/ARTA@miR-34a DPIs could enhance tumor tissue penetration, elevate lung drug accumulation and boost gene transfection efficiency, breaking the three bottlenecks to enhancing tumor elimination in vitro and in vivo. We believe that the proposed RGD-TAT-CLPs/ARTA@miR-34a DPIs could serve as a promising pulmonary gene delivery platform for multiple lung local disease treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyu Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, PR China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, PR China
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, PR China
| | - Wenhao Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, PR China
| | - Guanlin Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, PR China
| | - Zhengwei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, PR China
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, PR China
| | - Liping Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, PR China
| | - Li Lin
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, PR China
| | - Yueling Ou
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, PR China
| | - Wanzhen Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, PR China
| | - Xuejuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, PR China.
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, PR China.
| | - Chuanbin Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, PR China
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, PR China
| | - Liang Tao
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, PR China.
- Nanchang Research Institute, Sun Yat-Sen University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330096, PR China.
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, PR China.
- Nanchang Research Institute, Sun Yat-Sen University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330096, PR China.
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Posukh OL, Maslova EA, Danilchenko VY, Zytsar MV, Orishchenko KE. Functional Consequences of Pathogenic Variants of the GJB2 Gene (Cx26) Localized in Different Cx26 Domains. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1521. [PMID: 37892203 PMCID: PMC10604905 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101521] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most common forms of genetic deafness has been predominantly associated with pathogenic variants in the GJB2 gene, encoding transmembrane protein connexin 26 (Cx26). The Cx26 molecule consists of an N-terminal domain (NT), four transmembrane domains (TM1-TM4), two extracellular loops (EL1 and EL2), a cytoplasmic loop, and a C-terminus (CT). Pathogenic variants in the GJB2 gene, resulting in amino acid substitutions scattered across the Cx26 domains, lead to a variety of clinical outcomes, including the most common non-syndromic autosomal recessive deafness (DFNB1A), autosomal dominant deafness (DFNA3A), as well as syndromic forms combining hearing loss and skin disorders. However, for rare and poorly documented variants, information on the mode of inheritance is often lacking. Numerous in vitro studies have been conducted to elucidate the functional consequences of pathogenic GJB2 variants leading to amino acid substitutions in different domains of Cx26 protein. In this work, we summarized all available data on a mode of inheritance of pathogenic GJB2 variants leading to amino acid substitutions and reviewed published information on their functional effects, with an emphasis on their localization in certain Cx26 domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga L. Posukh
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.A.M.); (V.Y.D.); (M.V.Z.); (K.E.O.)
- Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Ekaterina A. Maslova
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.A.M.); (V.Y.D.); (M.V.Z.); (K.E.O.)
- Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Valeriia Yu. Danilchenko
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.A.M.); (V.Y.D.); (M.V.Z.); (K.E.O.)
- Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Marina V. Zytsar
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.A.M.); (V.Y.D.); (M.V.Z.); (K.E.O.)
| | - Konstantin E. Orishchenko
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.A.M.); (V.Y.D.); (M.V.Z.); (K.E.O.)
- Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
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Lai Y, Wu W, Liang X, Zhong F, An L, Chang Z, Cai C, He Z, Wu W. Connexin43 is associated with the progression of clear cell renal carcinoma and is regulated by tangeretin to sygergize with tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Transl Oncol 2023; 35:101712. [PMID: 37354638 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101712] [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: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The roles of Connexin43 (Cx43) in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) microenviroment remains to be poorly defined. METHODS The expression profile, prognosis and immune analysis of Cx43 in various cancers, particularly in ccRCC were performed using TCGA database, and various biological function assays were applied to explore the physiological role of Cx43 and tangeretin in ccRCC. Western blot were applied to examine the protein expression and Kunming mice were used to evaluate preliminary safety or anti-tumor activity of tangeretin and sunitinib. RESULTS Compared with the normal group, higher expression levels of Cx43 in ccRCC, and distinct associations between Cx43 expression and ccRCC prognosis or immune infiltration, were found. Notably, the expression of Cx43 was found to be highly correlated with that of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), particularly with VEGFR1, VEGFR2 and VEGFR3. The expression of Cx43 and EGFR was also found to be higher in ccRCC than that in the para-cancerous specimens. Knocking down Cx43 expression decreased RCC cell viability, cell migration, p-EGFR, MMP-9 and survivin expression. Using 14 Chinese medicine monomers, tangeretin was screened and found to inhibit tumor cell viability and Cx43 expression. Tangeretin also enhanced the sensitivity of RCC cells to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) sunitinib and sorafenib. However, the same concentration of tangeretin exerted a less prominent effect on normal renal cell viability. CONCLUSIONS Cx43 is strongly associated with RTK expression and ccRCC progression, while tangeretin can inhibit RCC cell malignancy by inhibiting Cx43 expression and enhance the sensitivity of RCC cells to TKIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongchang Lai
- Department of Urology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518033, P.R. China; Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Urology Research Institute, P.R. China
| | - Weizhou Wu
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Urology Research Institute, P.R. China
| | - Xiongfa Liang
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Urology Research Institute, P.R. China
| | - Fangling Zhong
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Urology Research Institute, P.R. China
| | - Lingyue An
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Urology Research Institute, P.R. China
| | - Zhenglin Chang
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Urology Research Institute, P.R. China
| | - Chao Cai
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Urology Research Institute, P.R. China
| | - Zhaohui He
- Department of Urology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518033, P.R. China.
| | - Wenqi Wu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510260, P.R. China; Department of Urology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Urology Research Institute, P.R. China.
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10
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An X, Li G, Wang S, Xie T, Ren X, Zhao Y. Renoprotection by Inhibiting Connexin 43 Expression in a Mouse Model of Obesity-Related Renal Injury. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2023; 16:1415-1424. [PMID: 37220614 PMCID: PMC10200121 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s412546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Our previous study conducted in an obesity-related renal injury rat model have established a connection between increased connexin 43 (Cx43) expression and renal injury. In this study, we investigated whether inhibiting Cx43 expression could provide renoprotection in a mouse model of obesity-related renal injury. Methods Five-week-old C57BL/6J mice were fed with a high-fat diet for 12 weeks to establish an obesity-related renal injury model, then they were treated with Cx43 antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (AS) or scrambled oligodeoxynucleotide (SCR) by an implanted osmotic pump for 4 weeks. Finally, the glomerular filtration function, the histological change in the glomeruli, and the markers of podocyte injury (WT-1, Nephrin) and inflammatory infiltration of renal tissue (CD68, F4/80 and VCAM-1) were examined respectively. Results The results showed that inhibiting Cx43 expression by AS in this mouse model of obesity-related renal injury can effectively improve glomerular filtration function, alleviate glomerular expansion and podocyte injury, and attenuate the inflammatory infiltration of renal tissue. Conclusion Our results demonstrated that inhibiting Cx43 expression by AS could provide renoprotection for the mouse model of obesity-related renal injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin An
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Nephrology, Xi’an Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, 710003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guohua Li
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shu Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tianrun Xie
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxiao Ren
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongli Zhao
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, People’s Republic of China
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11
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Zhao X, Chen C, Luo Y, Li D, Wang Q, Fang Y, Kang P. Connexin43 overexpression promotes bone regeneration by osteogenesis and angiogenesis in rat glucocorticoid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head. Dev Biol 2023; 496:73-86. [PMID: 36805498 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2023.02.004] [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: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (GIONFH) is a devastating orthopedic disease. Previous studies suggested that connexin43 is involved in the process of osteogenesis and angiogenesis. However, the role of Cx43 potentiates in the osteogenesis and angiogenesis of bone marrow-derived stromal stem cells (BMSCs) in GIONFH is still not investigated. In this study, BMSCs were isolated and transfected with green fluorescent protein or the fusion gene encoding GFP and Cx43. The osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs were detected after transfected with Cx43. In addition, the migration abilities and angiogenesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were been detected after induced by transfected BMSCs supernatants in vitro. Finally, we established GC-ONFH rat model, then, a certain amount of transfected or controlled BMSCs were injected into the tibia of the rats. Immunohistological staining and micro-CT scanning results showed that the transplanted experiment group had significantly promoted more bone regeneration and vessel volume when compared with the effects of the negative or control groups. This study demonstrated for the first time that the Cx43 overexpression in BMSCs could promote bone regeneration as seen in the osteogenesis and angiogenesis process, suggesting that Cx43 may serve as a therapeutic gene target for GIONFH treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250021, People's Republic of China; Department of Orthopaedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Wainan Guoxue Road, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Changjun Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Luo
- Department of Orthopaedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Wainan Guoxue Road, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Donghai Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Wainan Guoxue Road, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiuru Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Wainan Guoxue Road, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuying Fang
- Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Pengde Kang
- Department of Orthopaedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Wainan Guoxue Road, Chengdu, 610041, People's Republic of China.
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12
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Du Y, Tong Y, Quan Y, Wang G, Cheng H, Gu S, Jiang JX. Protein kinase A activation alleviates cataract formation via increased gap junction intercellular communication. iScience 2023; 26:106114. [PMID: 36852280 PMCID: PMC9958365 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cataract is the leading cause of blindness worldwide. Here, we reported a potential, effective therapeutic mean for cataract prevention and treatment. Gap junction communication, an important mechanism in maintaining lens transparency, is increased by protein kinase A (PKA). We found that PKA activation reduced cataracts induced by oxidative stress, increased gap junctions/hemichannels in connexin (Cx) 50, Cx46 or Cx50 and Cx46 co-expressing cells, and decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. However, ROS reduction was shown in wild-type, Cx46 and Cx50 knockout, but not in Cx46/Cx50 double KO lens. In addition, PKA activation protects lens fiber cell death induced by oxidative stress via hemichannel-mediated glutathione transport. Connexin deletion increased lens opacity induced by oxidative stress associated with reduction of anti-oxidative stress gene expression. Together, our results suggest that PKA activation through increased connexin channels in lens fiber cell decreases ROS levels and cell death, leading to alleviated cataracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Du
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital; Second Clinical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730000, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, USA
| | - Yuxin Tong
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, USA
| | - Yumeng Quan
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Guangyan Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hongyun Cheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, USA
| | - Sumin Gu
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, USA
| | - Jean X. Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, USA
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13
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Mardešić I, Boban Z, Subczynski WK, Raguz M. Membrane Models and Experiments Suitable for Studies of the Cholesterol Bilayer Domains. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:320. [PMID: 36984707 PMCID: PMC10057498 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13030320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Cholesterol (Chol) is an essential component of animal cell membranes and is most abundant in plasma membranes (PMs) where its concentration typically ranges from 10 to 30 mol%. However, in red blood cells and Schwann cells, PMs Chol content is as high as 50 mol%, and in the PMs of the eye lens fiber cells, it can reach up to 66 mol%. Being amphiphilic, Chol molecules are easily incorporated into the lipid bilayer where they affect the membrane lateral organization and transmembrane physical properties. In the aqueous phase, Chol cannot form free bilayers by itself. However, pure Chol bilayer domains (CBDs) can form in lipid bilayer membranes with the Chol content exceeding 50 mol%. The range of Chol concentrations surpassing 50 mol% is less frequent in biological membranes and is consequently less investigated. Nevertheless, it is significant for the normal functioning of the eye lens and understanding how Chol plaques form in atherosclerosis. The most commonly used membrane models are unilamellar and multilamellar vesicles (MLVs) and supported lipid bilayers (SLBs). CBDs have been observed directly using confocal microscopy, X-ray reflectometry and saturation recovery electron paramagnetic resonance (SR EPR). Indirect evidence of CBDs has also been reported by using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) experiments. The overall goal of this review is to demonstrate the advantages and limitations of the various membrane models and experimental techniques suitable for the detection and investigation of the lateral organization, function and physical properties of CBDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Mardešić
- Department of Medical Physics and Biophysics, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (I.M.); (Z.B.)
- Faculty of Science, University of Split, Doctoral Study of Biophysics, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Zvonimir Boban
- Department of Medical Physics and Biophysics, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (I.M.); (Z.B.)
- Faculty of Science, University of Split, Doctoral Study of Biophysics, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | | | - Marija Raguz
- Department of Medical Physics and Biophysics, University of Split School of Medicine, 21000 Split, Croatia; (I.M.); (Z.B.)
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14
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Kolibabka M, Dannehl M, Oezer K, Murillo K, Huang H, Riemann S, Hoffmann S, Gretz N, Schlotterer A, Feng Y, Hammes HP. Differences in junction-associated gene expression changes in three rat models of diabetic retinopathy with similar neurovascular phenotype. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 176:105961. [PMID: 36526091 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105961] [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: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy, also defined as microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus, affects the entire neurovascular unit with specific aberrations in every compartment. Neurodegeneration, glial activation and vasoregression are observed consistently in models of diabetic retinopathy. However, the order and the severity of these aberrations varies in different models, which is also true in patients. In this study, we analysed rat models of diabetic retinopathy with similar phenotypes to identify key differences in the pathogenesis. For this, we focussed on intercellular junction-associated gene expression, which are important for the communication and homeostasis within the neurovascular unit. Streptozotocin-injected diabetic Wistar rats, methylglyoxal supplemented Wistar rats and polycystin-2 transgenic (PKD) rats were analysed for neuroretinal function, vasoregression and retinal expression of junction-associated proteins. In all three models, neuroretinal impairment and vasoregression were observed, but gene expression profiling of junction-associated proteins demonstrated nearly no overlap between the three models. However, the differently expressed genes were from the main classes of claudins, connexins and integrins in all models. Changes in Rcor1 expression in diabetic rats and Egr1 expression in PKD rats confirmed the differences in upstream transcription factor level between the models. In PKD rats, a possible role for miRNA regulation was observed, indicated by an upregulation of miR-26b-5p, miR-122-5p and miR-300-3p, which was not observed in the other models. In silico allocation of connexins revealed not only differences in regulated subtypes, but also in affected retinal cell types, as well as connexin specific upstream regulators Sox7 and miR-92a-3p. In this study, we demonstrate that, despite their similar phenotype, models for diabetic retinopathy exhibit significant differences in their pathogenic pathways and primarily affected cell types. These results underline the importance for more sensitive diagnostic tools to identify pathogenic clusters in patients as the next step towards a desperately needed personalized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Kolibabka
- 5th Medical Department, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; European Center for Angioscience, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13 - 17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Marcus Dannehl
- 5th Medical Department, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; European Center for Angioscience, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13 - 17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Kübra Oezer
- 5th Medical Department, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Katharina Murillo
- 5th Medical Department, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; European Center for Angioscience, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13 - 17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Hongpeng Huang
- Experimental Pharmacology, European Center for Angioscience, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13 - 17, 68167 Manheim, Germany
| | - Sarah Riemann
- 5th Medical Department, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; European Center for Angioscience, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13 - 17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sigrid Hoffmann
- Medical Research Center, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Norbert Gretz
- Medical Research Center, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Andrea Schlotterer
- 5th Medical Department, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; European Center for Angioscience, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13 - 17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Yuxi Feng
- Experimental Pharmacology, European Center for Angioscience, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13 - 17, 68167 Manheim, Germany
| | - Hans-Peter Hammes
- 5th Medical Department, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; European Center for Angioscience, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13 - 17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
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15
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Hypertensive Nephropathy: Unveiling the Possible Involvement of Hemichannels and Pannexons. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415936. [PMID: 36555574 PMCID: PMC9785367 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertension is one of the most common risk factors for developing chronic cardiovascular diseases, including hypertensive nephropathy. Within the glomerulus, hypertension causes damage and activation of mesangial cells (MCs), eliciting the production of large amounts of vasoactive and proinflammatory agents. Accordingly, the activation of AT1 receptors by the vasoactive molecule angiotensin II (AngII) contributes to the pathogenesis of renal damage, which is mediated mostly by the dysfunction of intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) signaling. Similarly, inflammation entails complex processes, where [Ca2+]i also play crucial roles. Deregulation of this second messenger increases cell damage and promotes fibrosis, reduces renal blood flow, and impairs the glomerular filtration barrier. In vertebrates, [Ca2+]i signaling depends, in part, on the activity of two families of large-pore channels: hemichannels and pannexons. Interestingly, the opening of these channels depends on [Ca2+]i signaling. In this review, we propose that the opening of channels formed by connexins and/or pannexins mediated by AngII induces the ATP release to the extracellular media, with the subsequent activation of purinergic receptors. This process could elicit Ca2+ overload and constitute a feed-forward mechanism, leading to kidney damage.
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16
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Zeng Y, Riquelme MA, Hua R, Zhang J, Acosta FM, Gu S, Jiang JX. Mechanosensitive piezo1 calcium channel activates connexin 43 hemichannels through PI3K signaling pathway in bone. Cell Biosci 2022; 12:191. [PMID: 36457052 PMCID: PMC9716748 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-022-00929-w] [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: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mechanical loading promotes bone formation and osteocytes are a major mechanosensory cell in the bone. Both Piezo1 channels and connexin 43 hemichannels (Cx43 HCs) in osteocytes are important players in mechanotransduction and anabolic function by mechanical loading. However, the mechanism underlying mechanotransduction involving Piezo1 channels and Cx43 HCs in osteocytes and bone remains unknown. RESULTS We showed that, like mechanical loading, Piezo1 specific agonist Yoda1 was able to increase intracellular Ca2+ signaling and activate Cx43 HCs, while Yoda1 antagonist Dooku1 inhibited Ca2+ and Cx43 HC activation induced by both mechanical loading and Yoda1. Moreover, the intracellular Ca2+ signal activated by Yoda1 was reduced by the inhibition of Cx43 HCs and pannexin1 (Panx1) channels, as well as ATP-P2X receptor signaling. Piezo1 and Cx43 HCs were co-localized on the osteocyte cell surface, and Yoda1-activated PI3K-Akt signaling regulated the opening of Cx43 HCs. Furthermore, Cx43 HCs opening by mechanical loading on tibias was ablated by inhibition of Piezo1 activation in vivo. CONCLUSION We demonstrated that upon mechanical stress, increased intracellular Ca2+ activated by Piezo1 regulates the opening of HCs through PI3K-Akt and opened Cx43 HCs, along with Panx1 channels, and ATP-P2X signaling sustain the intracellular Ca2+ signal, leading to bone anabolic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zeng
- grid.267309.90000 0001 0629 5880Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX USA ,grid.452708.c0000 0004 1803 0208The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan China
| | - Manuel A. Riquelme
- grid.267309.90000 0001 0629 5880Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX USA
| | - Rui Hua
- grid.267309.90000 0001 0629 5880Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX USA
| | - Jingruo Zhang
- grid.267309.90000 0001 0629 5880Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX USA
| | - Francisca M. Acosta
- grid.267309.90000 0001 0629 5880Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX USA
| | - Sumin Gu
- grid.267309.90000 0001 0629 5880Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX USA
| | - Jean X. Jiang
- grid.267309.90000 0001 0629 5880Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX USA
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17
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Ogawa Y, Akamatsu R, Fuchizaki A, Yasui K, Saino O, Tanaka M, Kikuchi-Taura A, Kimura T, Taguchi A. Gap Junction-Mediated Transport of Metabolites Between Stem Cells and Vascular Endothelial Cells. Cell Transplant 2022; 31:9636897221136151. [PMID: 36401520 PMCID: PMC9679345 DOI: 10.1177/09636897221136151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously demonstrated that small molecular transfer, such as glucose, between hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) or mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and vascular endothelial cells via gap junctions constitutes an important mechanism of stem cell therapy. Cell metabolites are high-potential small-molecule candidates that can be transferred to small molecules between stem cells and vascular endothelial cells. Here, we investigated the differences in metabolite levels between stem cells (HSCs and MSCs), vascular endothelial cells, and the levels of circulating non-hematopoietic white blood cells (WBCs). The results showed remarkable differences in metabolite concentrations between cells. Significantly higher concentrations of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), guanosine triphosphate (GTP), total adenylate or guanylate levels, glycolytic intermediates, and amino acids were found in HSCs compared with vascular endothelial cells. In contrast, there was no significant difference in the metabolism of MSCs and vascular endothelial cells. From the results of this study, it became clear that HSCs and MSCs differ in their metabolites. That is, metabolites that transfer between stem cells and vascular endothelial cells differ between HSCs and MSCs. HSCs may donate various metabolites, several glycolytic and tricarboxylic acid cycle metabolites, and amino acids to damaged vascular endothelial cells as energy sources and activate the energy metabolism of vascular endothelial cells. In contrast, MSCs and vascular endothelial cells regulate each other under normal conditions. As the existing MSCs cannot ameliorate the dysregulation during insult, exogenous MSCs administered by cell therapy may help restore normal metabolic function in the vascular endothelial cells by taking up excess energy sources from the lumens of blood vessels. Results of this study suggested that the appropriate timing of cell therapy is different between HSCs and MSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Ogawa
- Department of Regenerative Medicine Research, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Kobe, Japan
| | - Rie Akamatsu
- Department of Regenerative Medicine Research, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Kobe, Japan
| | | | - Kazuta Yasui
- Japanese Red Cross Kinki Block Blood Center, Osaka, Japan
| | - Orie Saino
- Department of Regenerative Medicine Research, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Kobe, Japan
| | | | - Akie Kikuchi-Taura
- Department of Regenerative Medicine Research, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Kobe, Japan
| | | | - Akihiko Taguchi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine Research, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Kobe, Japan,Akihiko Taguchi, Department of Regenerative Medicine Research, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, 2-2 Minatojima-Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047, Japan.
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18
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Zhang J, Riquelme MA, Hua R, Acosta FM, Gu S, Jiang JX. Connexin 43 hemichannels regulate mitochondrial ATP generation, mobilization, and mitochondrial homeostasis against oxidative stress. eLife 2022; 11:82206. [DOI: 10.7554/elife.82206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress is a major risk factor that causes osteocyte cell death and bone loss. Prior studies primarily focus on the function of cell surface expressed Cx43 channels. Here, we reported a new role of mitochondrial Cx43 (mtCx43) and hemichannels (HCs) in modulating mitochondria homeostasis and function in bone osteocytes under oxidative stress. In murine long bone osteocyte-Y4 cells, the translocation of Cx43 to mitochondria was increased under H2O2-induced oxidative stress. H2O2 increased the mtCx43 level accompanied by elevated mtCx43 HC activity, determined by dye uptake assay. Cx43 knockdown (KD) by the CRISPR-Cas9 lentivirus system resulted in impairment of mitochondrial function, primarily manifested as decreased ATP production. Cx43 KD had reduced intracellular reactive oxidative species levels and mitochondrial membrane potential. Additionally, live-cell imaging results demonstrated that the proton flux was dependent on mtCx43 HCs because its activity was specifically inhibited by an antibody targeting Cx43 C-terminus. The co-localization and interaction of mtCx43 and ATP synthase subunit F (ATP5J2) were confirmed by Förster resonance energy transfer and a protein pull-down assay. Together, our study suggests that mtCx43 HCs regulate mitochondrial ATP generation by mediating K+, H+, and ATP transfer across the mitochondrial inner membrane and the interaction with mitochondrial ATP synthase, contributing to the maintenance of mitochondrial redox levels in response to oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingruo Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center
| | - Manuel A Riquelme
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center
| | - Rui Hua
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center
| | - Francisca M Acosta
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center
| | - Sumin Gu
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center
| | - Jean X Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center
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Timsina R, Wellisch S, Haemmerle D, Mainali L. Binding of Alpha-Crystallin to Cortical and Nuclear Lens Lipid Membranes Derived from a Single Lens. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911295. [PMID: 36232595 PMCID: PMC9570235 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies reported that α-crystallin concentrations in the eye lens cytoplasm decrease with a corresponding increase in membrane-bound α-crystallin with age and cataracts. The influence of the lipid and cholesterol composition difference between cortical membrane (CM) and nuclear membrane (NM) on α-crystallin binding to membranes is still unclear. This study uses the electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spin-labeling method to investigate the α-crystallin binding to bovine CM and NM derived from the total lipids extracted from a single lens. Compared to CMs, NMs have a higher percentage of membrane surface occupied by α-crystallin and binding affinity, correlating with less mobility and more order below and on the surface of NMs. α-Crystallin binding to CM and NM decreases mobility with no significant change in order and hydrophobicity below and on the surface of membranes. Our results suggest that α-crystallin mainly binds on the surface of bovine CM and NM and such surface binding of α-crystallin to membranes in clear and young lenses may play a beneficial role in membrane stability. However, with decreased cholesterol content within the CM, which mimics the decreased cholesterol content in the cataractous lens membrane, α-crystallin binding increases the hydrophobicity below the membrane surface, indicating that α-crystallin binding forms a hydrophobic barrier for the passage of polar molecules, supporting the barrier hypothesis in developing cataracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raju Timsina
- Department of Physics, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA
| | | | - Dieter Haemmerle
- Department of Physics, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA
| | - Laxman Mainali
- Department of Physics, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA
- Biomolecular Sciences Graduate Programs, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(208)-426-4003
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Burboa PC, Puebla M, Gaete PS, Durán WN, Lillo MA. Connexin and Pannexin Large-Pore Channels in Microcirculation and Neurovascular Coupling Function. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137303. [PMID: 35806312 PMCID: PMC9266979 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Microcirculation homeostasis depends on several channels permeable to ions and/or small molecules that facilitate the regulation of the vasomotor tone, hyperpermeability, the blood–brain barrier, and the neurovascular coupling function. Connexin (Cxs) and Pannexin (Panxs) large-pore channel proteins are implicated in several aspects of vascular physiology. The permeation of ions (i.e., Ca2+) and key metabolites (ATP, prostaglandins, D-serine, etc.) through Cxs (i.e., gap junction channels or hemichannels) and Panxs proteins plays a vital role in intercellular communication and maintaining vascular homeostasis. Therefore, dysregulation or genetic pathologies associated with these channels promote deleterious tissue consequences. This review provides an overview of current knowledge concerning the physiological role of these large-pore molecule channels in microcirculation (arterioles, capillaries, venules) and in the neurovascular coupling function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pía C. Burboa
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (P.C.B.); (W.N.D.)
- Departamento de Morfología y Función, Facultad de Salud y Ciencias Sociales, Sede Santiago Centro, Universidad de las Américas, Avenue República 71, Santiago 8370040, Chile;
| | - Mariela Puebla
- Departamento de Morfología y Función, Facultad de Salud y Ciencias Sociales, Sede Santiago Centro, Universidad de las Américas, Avenue República 71, Santiago 8370040, Chile;
| | - Pablo S. Gaete
- Department of Physiology and Membrane Biology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
| | - Walter N. Durán
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (P.C.B.); (W.N.D.)
- Rutgers School of Graduate Studies, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Mauricio A. Lillo
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (P.C.B.); (W.N.D.)
- Correspondence:
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21
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Connexin 43 affects thoracic ossification of ligamentum flavum by regulating the p38 MAPK-RUNX2 signaling pathway. Tissue Cell 2022; 76:101760. [PMID: 35220127 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2022.101760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the role of connexin 43 (CX43) in thoracic ossification of ligamentum flavum (TOLF) based on the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK)-runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) pathway. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect CX43 expression in TOLF and non-TOLF patients, fibroblasts of TOLF were isolated and induced osteogenic differentiation, and CX43 expression was detected by western blot analysis (WB). In addition, si-CX43 was used to intervene CX43, and SB203580 was used to inhibit the p38MAPK. The expressions of bone differentiation marker protein were detected by WB, and the ossification ability was analyzed by alizarin red staining. The interaction between RUNX2 and CX43 was identified by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Results found that CX43 was highly expressed during TOLF, and si-CX43 could inhibit the expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and osteopontin (OPN), as well as inhibit TOLF and the p38MAPK-RUNX2 pathway. In addition, SB203580 showed a synergistic effect with si-CX43 to further inhibit TOLF and the expression of RUNX2. The dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed that RUNX2 could bind to the CX43 promoter. In conclusion, CX43 promotes TOLF, which may be mediated by p38MAPK-RUNX2, and RUNX2 binds to the CX43 promoter to form a positive feedback regulatory loop during TOLF.
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22
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Blocking connexin 43 and its promotion of ATP release from renal tubular epithelial cells ameliorates renal fibrosis. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:511. [PMID: 35641484 PMCID: PMC9156700 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04910-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Whether metabolites derived from injured renal tubular epithelial cells (TECs) participate in renal fibrosis is poorly explored. After TEC injury, various metabolites are released and among the most potent is adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is released via ATP-permeable channels. In these hemichannels, connexin 43 (Cx43) is the most common member. However, its role in renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) has not been fully examined. We analyzed renal samples from patients with obstructive nephropathy and mice with unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). Cx43-KSP mice were generated to deplete Cx43 in TECs. Through transcriptomics, metabolomics, and single-cell sequencing multi-omics analysis, the relationship among tubular Cx43, ATP, and macrophages in renal fibrosis was explored. The expression of Cx43 in TECs was upregulated in both patients and mice with obstructive nephropathy. Knockdown of Cx43 in TECs or using Cx43-specific inhibitors reduced UUO-induced inflammation and fibrosis in mice. Single-cell RNA sequencing showed that ATP specific receptors, including P2rx4 and P2rx7, were distributed mainly on macrophages. We found that P2rx4- or P2rx7-positive macrophages underwent pyroptosis after UUO, and in vitro ATP directly induced pyroptosis by macrophages. The administration of P2 receptor or P2X7 receptor blockers to UUO mice inhibited macrophage pyroptosis and demonstrated a similar degree of renoprotection as Cx43 genetic depletion. Further, we found that GAP 26 (a Cx43 hemichannel inhibitor) and A-839977 (an inhibitor of the pyroptosis receptor) alleviated UUO-induced fibrosis, while BzATP (the agonist of pyroptosis receptor) exacerbated fibrosis. Single-cell sequencing demonstrated that the pyroptotic macrophages upregulated the release of CXCL10, which activated intrarenal fibroblasts. Cx43 mediates the release of ATP from TECs during renal injury, inducing peritubular macrophage pyroptosis, which subsequently leads to the release of CXCL10 and activation of intrarenal fibroblasts and acceleration of renal fibrosis.
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Nunes B, Pópulo H, Lopes JM, Reis M, Nascimento G, Nascimento AG, Fernandes J, Faria M, de Carvalho DP, Soares P, Miranda-Alves L. Connexin Expression in Pituitary Adenomas and the Effects of Overexpression of Connexin 43 in Pituitary Tumor Cell Lines. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13040674. [PMID: 35456480 PMCID: PMC9032236 DOI: 10.3390/genes13040674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) is considered a key mechanism in the regulation of tissue homeostasis. GJIC structures are organized in two transmembrane channels, with each channel formed by connexins (Cxs). GJIC and Cxs expression alterations are related to the process of tumorigenesis in different cell types. Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) represent 15–20% of intracranial neoplasms, and usually display benign behavior. Nevertheless, some may have aggressive behavior, invading adjacent tissues, and featuring a high proliferation rate. We aimed to assess the expression and relevance of GJIC and Cxs proteins in PitNETs. We evaluated the mRNA expression levels of Cx26, 32, and 43, and the protein expression of Cx43 in a series of PitNETs. In addition, we overexpressed Cx43 in pituitary tumor cell lines. At the mRNA level, we observed variable expression of all the connexins in the tumor samples. Cx43 protein expression was absent in most of the pituitary tumor samples that were studied. Moreover, in vitro studies revealed that the overexpression of Cx43 decreases cell growth and induces apoptosis in pituitary tumor cell lines. Our results indicate that the downregulation of Cx43 protein might be involved in the tumorigenesis of most pituitary adenomas and have a potential therapeutic value for pituitary tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Nunes
- Laboratory of Experimental Endocrinology—LEEx, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (B.N.); (D.P.d.C.); (L.M.-A.)
- Postgraduate Program in Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
- Laboratory of Endocrine Physiology, Doris Rosenthal, Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Helena Pópulo
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (H.P.); (J.M.L.); (M.R.)
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP)—Cancer Signalling & Metabolism, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty of the University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - José Manuel Lopes
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (H.P.); (J.M.L.); (M.R.)
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP)—Cancer Signalling & Metabolism, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty of the University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Reis
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (H.P.); (J.M.L.); (M.R.)
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP)—Cancer Signalling & Metabolism, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Gilvan Nascimento
- Centre of Clinical Research (CEPEC), President Dutra Hospital of Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), São Luís 65020-600, Brazil; (G.N.); (M.F.)
- Endocrinology Service, President Dutra Hospital of Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), São Luís 65060-600, Brazil
| | - Ana Giselia Nascimento
- Pathology Service, President Dutra Hospital of Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), São Luís 65020-070, Brazil;
| | - Janaína Fernandes
- NUPEX, Polo Duque de Caxias, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 25240-005, Brazil;
| | - Manuel Faria
- Centre of Clinical Research (CEPEC), President Dutra Hospital of Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), São Luís 65020-600, Brazil; (G.N.); (M.F.)
- Endocrinology Service, President Dutra Hospital of Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), São Luís 65060-600, Brazil
| | - Denise Pires de Carvalho
- Laboratory of Experimental Endocrinology—LEEx, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (B.N.); (D.P.d.C.); (L.M.-A.)
- Postgraduate Program in Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
- Laboratory of Endocrine Physiology, Doris Rosenthal, Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Paula Soares
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (H.P.); (J.M.L.); (M.R.)
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP)—Cancer Signalling & Metabolism, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty of the University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Leandro Miranda-Alves
- Laboratory of Experimental Endocrinology—LEEx, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (B.N.); (D.P.d.C.); (L.M.-A.)
- Postgraduate Program in Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
- Laboratory of Endocrine Physiology, Doris Rosenthal, Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmacology and Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
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Garland KM, Sheehy TL, Wilson JT. Chemical and Biomolecular Strategies for STING Pathway Activation in Cancer Immunotherapy. Chem Rev 2022; 122:5977-6039. [PMID: 35107989 PMCID: PMC8994686 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) cellular signaling pathway is a promising target for cancer immunotherapy. Activation of the intracellular STING protein triggers the production of a multifaceted array of immunostimulatory molecules, which, in the proper context, can drive dendritic cell maturation, antitumor macrophage polarization, T cell priming and activation, natural killer cell activation, vascular reprogramming, and/or cancer cell death, resulting in immune-mediated tumor elimination and generation of antitumor immune memory. Accordingly, there is a significant amount of ongoing preclinical and clinical research toward further understanding the role of the STING pathway in cancer immune surveillance as well as the development of modulators of the pathway as a strategy to stimulate antitumor immunity. Yet, the efficacy of STING pathway agonists is limited by many drug delivery and pharmacological challenges. Depending on the class of STING agonist and the desired administration route, these may include poor drug stability, immunocellular toxicity, immune-related adverse events, limited tumor or lymph node targeting and/or retention, low cellular uptake and intracellular delivery, and a complex dependence on the magnitude and kinetics of STING signaling. This review provides a concise summary of the STING pathway, highlighting recent biological developments, immunological consequences, and implications for drug delivery. This review also offers a critical analysis of an expanding arsenal of chemical strategies that are being employed to enhance the efficacy, safety, and/or clinical utility of STING pathway agonists and lastly draws attention to several opportunities for therapeutic advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle M Garland
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, 37235 United States
| | - Taylor L Sheehy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, 37235 United States
| | - John T Wilson
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, 37235 United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, 37235 United States
- Vanderbilt Institute for Infection, Immunology, and Inflammation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232 United States
- Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232 United States
- Vanderbilt Center for Immunobiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232 United States
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232 United States
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Glioblastoma Microenvironment and Cellular Interactions. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14041092. [PMID: 35205842 PMCID: PMC8870579 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14041092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This paper summarizes the crosstalk between tumor/non-tumor cells and other elements of the glioblastoma (GB) microenvironment. In tumor pathology, glial cells result in the highest number of cancers, and GB is considered the most lethal tumor of the central nervous system (CNS). The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex peritumoral hallo composed of tumor cells and several non-tumor cells (e.g., nervous cells, stem cells, fibroblasts, vascular and immune cells), which might be a key factor for the ineffective treatment since the microenvironment modulates the biologic status of the tumor with the increase in its evasion capacity. A deeper understanding of cell–cell interactions in the TME and with the tumor cells could be the basis for a more efficient therapy. Abstract The central nervous system (CNS) represents a complex network of different cells, such as neurons, glial cells, and blood vessels. In tumor pathology, glial cells result in the highest number of cancers, and glioblastoma (GB) is considered the most lethal tumor in this region. The development of GB leads to the infiltration of healthy tissue through the interaction between all the elements of the brain network. This results in a GB microenvironment, a complex peritumoral hallo composed of tumor cells and several non-tumor cells (e.g., nervous cells, stem cells, fibroblasts, vascular and immune cells), which might be the principal factor for the ineffective treatment due to the fact that the microenvironment modulates the biologic status of the tumor with the increase in its evasion capacity. Crosstalk between glioma cells and the brain microenvironment finally inhibits the beneficial action of molecular pathways, favoring the development and invasion of the tumor and its increasing resistance to treatment. A deeper understanding of cell–cell interactions in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and with the tumor cells could be the basis for a more efficient therapy.
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DOK5 as a Prognostic Biomarker of Gastric Cancer Immunoinvasion: A Bioinformatics Analysis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:9914778. [PMID: 35036444 PMCID: PMC8754673 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9914778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Docking protein 5 (DOK5) is a member of the docking protein group of membrane proteins and is an adapter protein involved in signal transduction. Nevertheless, the role of DOK5 expression in the prognosis of gastric cancer (GC) remains unclear. Methods In this study, clinical prognostic parameters and survival data related to DOK5, in patients with GC, were analyzed using bioinformatics analysis comprising Oncomine and TIMER, UALCAN database, Kaplan-Meier plotter, GEPIA, GSEA, DAVID, and cBioPortal websites. Results In our study, GC contained various DOK5 expressions, which forecasted poor survival outcomes. Moreover, our research showed that high DOK5 could predict high-level infiltration of several GC immune cells, as evidenced by M1, TAM, M2, B cell, and T cell failure. Hence, DOK5 might become a new gastric cancer biomarker and therapeutic target. In the following analysis, in order to explore the prognostic value of DOK5 in GC, more clinical trials are needed to validate our results. Conclusions Through multiple database verifications, DOK5 was found to be part of the pathogenic genes for GC. Thus, it can change the formation and progression of tumors by acting on human immunity.
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Cheng C, Gao J, Sun X, Mathias RT. Eph-ephrin Signaling Affects Eye Lens Fiber Cell Intracellular Voltage and Membrane Conductance. Front Physiol 2021; 12:772276. [PMID: 34899394 PMCID: PMC8656704 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.772276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The avascular eye lens generates its own microcirculation that is required for maintaining lifelong lens transparency. The microcirculation relies on sodium ion flux, an extensive network of gap junction (GJ) plaques between lens fiber cells and transmembrane water channels. Disruption of connexin proteins, the building blocks of GJs, or aquaporins, which make up water and adhesion channels, lead to lens opacification or cataracts. Recent studies have revealed that disruption of Eph-ephrin signaling, in particular the receptor EphA2 and the ligand ephrin-A5, in humans and mice lead to congenital and age-related cataracts. We investigated whether changes in lens transparency in EphA2 or ephrin-A5 knockout (–/–) mice is related to changes in GJ coupling and lens fluid and ion homeostasis. Immunostaining revealed changes in connexin 50 (Cx50) subcellular localization in EphA2–/– peripheral lens fibers and alteration in aquaporin 0 (Aqp0) staining patterns in ephrin-A5–/– and EphA2–/– inner mature fiber cells. Surprisingly, there was no obvious change in GJ coupling in knockout lenses. However, there were changes in fiber cell membrane conductance and intracellular voltage in knockout lenses from 3-month-old mice. These knockout lenses displayed decreased conductance of mature fiber membranes and were hyperpolarized compared to control lenses. This is the first demonstration that the membrane conductance of lens fibers can be regulated. Together these data suggest that EphA2 may be needed for normal Cx50 localization to the cell membrane and that conductance of lens fiber cells requires normal Eph-ephrin signaling and water channel localization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Cheng
- School of Optometry and Vision Science Program, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Junyuan Gao
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Stony Brook, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Xiurong Sun
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Stony Brook, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Richard T Mathias
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Stony Brook, Stony Brook, NY, United States
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Ho KYL, Khadilkar RJ, Carr RL, Tanentzapf G. A gap-junction-mediated, calcium-signaling network controls blood progenitor fate decisions in hematopoiesis. Curr Biol 2021; 31:4697-4712.e6. [PMID: 34480855 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Stem cell homeostasis requires coordinated fate decisions among stem cells that are often widely distributed within a tissue at varying distances from their stem cell niche. This requires a mechanism to ensure robust fate decisions within a population of stem cells. Here, we show that, in the Drosophila hematopoietic organ, the lymph gland (LG), gap junctions form a network that coordinates fate decisions between blood progenitors. Using live imaging of calcium signaling in intact LGs, we find that blood progenitors are connected through a signaling network. Blocking gap junction function disrupts this network, alters the pattern of encoded calcium signals, and leads to loss of progenitors and precocious blood cell differentiation. Ectopic and uniform activation of the calcium-signaling mediator CaMKII restores progenitor homeostasis when gap junctions are disrupted. Overall, these data show that gap junctions equilibrate cell signals between blood progenitors to coordinate fate decisions and maintain hematopoietic homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Y L Ho
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Rohan J Khadilkar
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer-Tata Memorial Centre (ACTREC-TMC), Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 410210, India
| | - Rosalyn L Carr
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Guy Tanentzapf
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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Wang Q, Duan M, Liao J, Xie J, Zhou C. Are Osteoclasts Mechanosensitive Cells? J Biomed Nanotechnol 2021; 17:1917-1938. [PMID: 34706793 DOI: 10.1166/jbn.2021.3171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Skeleton metabolism is a process in which osteoclasts constantly remove old bone and osteoblasts form new osteoid and induce mineralization; disruption of this balance may cause diseases. Osteoclasts play a key role in bone metabolism, as osteoclastogenesis marks the beginning of each bone remodeling cycle. As the only cell capable of bone resorption, osteoclasts are derived from the monocyte/macrophage hematopoietic precursors that terminally adhere to mineralized extracellular matrix, and they subsequently break down the extracellular compartment. Bone is generally considered the load-burdening tissue, bone homeostasis is critically affected by mechanical conductions, and the bone cells are mechanosensitive. The functions of various bone cells under mechanical forces such as chondrocytes and osteoblasts have been reported; however, the unique bone-resorbing osteoclasts are less studied. The oversuppression of osteoclasts in mechanical studies may be because of its complicated differentiation progress and flexible structure, which increases difficulty in targeting mechanical structures. This paper will focus on recent findings regarding osteoclasts and attempt to uncover proposed candidate mechanosensing structures in osteoclasts including podosome-associated complexes, gap junctions and transient receptor potential family (ion channels). We will additionally describe possible mechanotransduction signaling pathways including GTPase ras homologue family member A (RhoA), Yes-associated protein/transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), Ca2+ signaling and non-canonical Wnt signaling. According to numerous studies, evaluating the possible influence of various physical environments on osteoclastogenesis is conducive to the study of bone homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingxuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
| | - Mengmeng Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
| | - Jingfeng Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
| | - Jing Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
| | - Chenchen Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
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Pal S, Haldar C, Verma R. Photoperiodic modulation of ovarian metabolic, survival, proliferation and gap junction markers in adult golden hamster, Mesocricetus auratus. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2021; 263:111083. [PMID: 34571152 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2021.111083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Female reproductive physiology is greatly dependent on tight regulation of metabolic and survival factors. Photoperiod regulates female reproductive rhythms but very less information exists explaining whether photoperiod could modulate thyroid hormone homeostasis, metabolic/energy parameters along with survival, proliferation and gap junction proteins in the ovary of a long-day breeder, Mesocricetus auratus. Adult female hamsters were exposed to different photoperiodic regimes i.e., critical photoperiod (CP; 12.5L:11.5D), short photoperiod (SP; 8L:16D) and long photoperiod (LP; 16L:8D) for 12 weeks. LP upregulated thyroidal and gonadal activity as apparent by histoarchitecture, thyroid hormone profile [triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxin (T4) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)], luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) levels when compared with SP exposed hamsters. Further, LP increased thyroid hormone receptor-α/deiodinase-2 (TRα/Dio-2), estrogen receptor-α (ERα)/aromatase and insulin receptor/glucose transporter-4 (IR/GLUT-4) expressions in ovary. Interestingly, ovarian sirtuin-1 (SIRT-1) expression was also upregulated under LP condition along with cell proliferation (proliferating cell nuclear antigen or PCNA), survival (B cell lymphoma-2 or Bcl-2) and gap junction (connexin-43) markers when compared to SP exposed hamsters. We also noted elevated levels of circulatory leptin, insulin along with melatonin and its receptor (MT-1) in ovary under SP condition. Thus, we suggest that photoperiod plays a vital role in regulation of thyroid and reproductive hormone homeostasis along with key metabolic and survival markers in the ovary of adult golden hamsters, M. auratus providing further insight into the regulation of female reproductive seasonality in a long-day breeder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sriparna Pal
- Pineal Research Lab, Reproduction Biology Unit, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, U.P., India.
| | - Chandana Haldar
- Pineal Research Lab, Reproduction Biology Unit, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, U.P., India.
| | - Rakesh Verma
- Pineal Research Lab, Reproduction Biology Unit, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, U.P., India.
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Cárcaba L, García-Piqueras J, García-Mesa Y, Cobo R, García-Suárez O, Feito J, Vega JA. Human digital merkel cells display pannexin1 immunoreactivity. Ann Anat 2021; 239:151813. [PMID: 34384856 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2021.151813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Pannexins are channel proteins displaying functional similarities to gap junctions in vertebrates and are regarded as transmembrane ATP-releasing channels. A member of this family, denominate pannexin1, has been detected in the epidermis and cutaneous adnexal structures. Here we used immunohistochemistry to investigate whether human digital Merkel cells express this protein since ATP is postulated as a neurotransmitter in the Merkel cell-axon complexes low-threshold mecahoreceptors. Pannexin1 immunoreactivity was found in cytokeratine 20-, chromogranin A- and synaptophysin-positive cells placed at the basal layer of the epidermis. Cell displaying pannexin1 immunoreactivities were thus identified as Merkel cells and showed close contact with nerve profiles. Light pannexin1 immunoreactivity in dermal blood vessels was also verified. Present results demonstrate for the first time the expression of pannexin1 in human digital Merkel cells supporting the idea that ATP can be involved directly or indirectly in the mechanotransductional process at Merkel-axon complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Cárcaba
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain
| | - Jorge García-Piqueras
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain
| | - Yolanda García-Mesa
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain
| | - Ramón Cobo
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain
| | - Olivia García-Suárez
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain
| | - Jorge Feito
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain; Servicio de Anatomía Patológica, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain; Departamento de Anatomía e Histología Humanas, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - José A Vega
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain; Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile.
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Gong XD, Wang Y, Hu XB, Zheng SY, Fu JL, Nie Q, Wang L, Hou M, Xiang JW, Xiao Y, Gao Q, Bai YY, Liu YZ, Li DWC. Aging-dependent loss of GAP junction proteins Cx46 and Cx50 in the fiber cells of human and mouse lenses accounts for the diminished coupling conductance. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:17568-17591. [PMID: 34226295 PMCID: PMC8312418 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The homeostasis of the ocular lens is maintained by a microcirculation system propagated through gap junction channels. It is well established that the intercellular communications of the lens become deteriorative during aging. However, the molecular basis for this change in human lenses has not been well defined. Here, we present evidence to show that over 90% of Cx46 and Cx50 are lost in the fiber cells of normal human lenses aged 50 and above. From transparent to cataractous lenses, while Cx43 was upregulated, both Cx46 and Cx50 were significantly down-regulated in the lens epithelia. During aging of mouse lenses, Cx43 remained unchanged, but both Cx46 and Cx50 were significantly downregulated. Under oxidative stress treatment, mouse lenses develop in vitro cataractogenesis. Associated with this process, Cx43 was significantly upregulated, in contrast, Cx46 and Cx50 were sharply downregulated. Together, our results for the first time reveal that downregulation in Cx46 and Cx50 levels appears to be the major reason for the diminished coupling conductance, and the aging-dependent loss of Cx46 and Cx50 promotes senile cataractogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Dong Gong
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Yan Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Xue-Bin Hu
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Shu-Yu Zheng
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Jia-Ling Fu
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Qian Nie
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Ling Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Min Hou
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Jia-Wen Xiang
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Yuan Xiao
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Qian Gao
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Yue-Yue Bai
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - Yi-Zhi Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
| | - David Wan-Cheng Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510230, China
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Zhi Z, Xiang J, Fu Q, Pei X, Zhou D, Cao Y, Xie L, Zhang S, Chen S, Qu J, Zhou X. The Role of Retinal Connexins Cx36 and Horizontal Cell Coupling in Emmetropization in Guinea Pigs. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 62:27. [PMID: 34283211 PMCID: PMC8300059 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.62.9.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine whether retinal gap junctions (GJs) via connexin 36 (Cx36, mediating coupling of many retinal cell types) and horizontal cell (HC-HC) coupling, are involved in emmetropization. Methods Guinea pigs (3 weeks old) were monocularly form deprived (FD) or raised without FD (in normal visual [NV] environment) for 2 days or 4 weeks; alternatively, they wore a -4 D lens (hyperopic defocus [HD]) or 0 D lens for 2 days or 1 week. FD and NV eyes received daily subconjunctival injections of a nonspecific GJ-uncoupling agent, 18-β-Glycyrrhetinic Acid (18-β-GA). The amounts of total Cx36 and of phosphorylated Cx36 (P-Cx36; activated state that increases cell-cell coupling), in the inner and outer plexiform layers (IPLs and OPLs), were evaluated by quantitative immunofluorescence (IF), and HC-HC coupling was evaluated by cut-loading with neurobiotin. Results FD per se (excluding effect of light-attenuation) increased HC-HC coupling in OPL, whereas HD did not affect it. HD for 2 days or 1 week had no significant effect on retinal content of Cx36 or P-Cx36. FD for 4 weeks decreased the total amounts of Cx36 and P-Cx36, and the P-Cx36/Cx36 ratio, in the IPL. Subconjunctival 18-β-GA induced myopia in NV eyes and increased the myopic shifts in FD eyes, while reducing the amounts of Cx36 and P-Cx36 in both the IPL and OPL. Conclusions These results suggest that cell-cell coupling via GJs containing Cx36 (particularly those in the IPL) plays a role in emmetropization and form deprivation myopia (FDM) in mammals. Although both FD and 18-β-GA induced myopia, they had opposite effects on HC-HC coupling. These findings suggest that HC-HC coupling in the OPL might not play a significant role in emmetropization and myopia development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhina Zhi
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science, Ministry of Health People's Republic of China and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jing Xiang
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science, Ministry of Health People's Republic of China and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qian Fu
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science, Ministry of Health People's Republic of China and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaomeng Pei
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science, Ministry of Health People's Republic of China and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dengke Zhou
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science, Ministry of Health People's Republic of China and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuqing Cao
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science, Ministry of Health People's Republic of China and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liqin Xie
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science, Ministry of Health People's Republic of China and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Sen Zhang
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science, Ministry of Health People's Republic of China and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Si Chen
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science, Ministry of Health People's Republic of China and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jia Qu
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science, Ministry of Health People's Republic of China and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiangtian Zhou
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- State Key Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Vision Science, Ministry of Health People's Republic of China and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Timsina R, Mainali L. Association of Alpha-Crystallin with Fiber Cell Plasma Membrane of the Eye Lens Accompanied by Light Scattering and Cataract Formation. MEMBRANES 2021; 11:447. [PMID: 34203836 PMCID: PMC8232717 DOI: 10.3390/membranes11060447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
α-crystallin is a major protein found in the mammalian eye lens that works as a molecular chaperone by preventing the aggregation of proteins and providing tolerance to stress in the eye lens. These functions of α-crystallin are significant for maintaining lens transparency. However, with age and cataract formation, the concentration of α-crystallin in the eye lens cytoplasm decreases with a corresponding increase in the membrane-bound α-crystallin, accompanied by increased light scattering. The purpose of this review is to summarize previous and recent findings of the role of the: (1) lens membrane components, i.e., the major phospholipids (PLs) and sphingolipids, cholesterol (Chol), cholesterol bilayer domains (CBDs), and the integral membrane proteins aquaporin-0 (AQP0; formally MIP26) and connexins, and (2) α-crystallin mutations and post-translational modifications (PTMs) in the association of α-crystallin to the eye lens's fiber cell plasma membrane, providing thorough insights into a molecular basis of such an association. Furthermore, this review highlights the current knowledge and need for further studies to understand the fundamental molecular processes involved in the association of α-crystallin to the lens membrane, potentially leading to new avenues for preventing cataract formation and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raju Timsina
- Department of Physics, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA;
| | - Laxman Mainali
- Department of Physics, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA;
- Biomolecular Sciences Graduate Program, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA
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Effects of Atypical Antipsychotics, Clozapine, Quetiapine and Brexpiprazole on Astroglial Transmission Associated with Connexin43. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115623. [PMID: 34070699 PMCID: PMC8198373 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, accumulating preclinical findings suggest the possibility that functional abnormalities of tripartite synaptic transmission play important roles in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and affective disorder. Therefore, to explore the novel mechanisms of mood-stabilizing effects associated with tripartite synaptic transmission, the present study determined the effects of mood-stabilizing antipsychotics, clozapine (CLZ), quetiapine (QTP) and brexpiprazole (BPZ), on the astroglial l-glutamate release and expression of connexin43 (Cx43) in the astroglial plasma membrane using cortical primary cultured astrocytes. Neither acute (for 120 min) nor subchronic (for 7 days) administrations of CLZ, QTP and BPZ affected basal astroglial l-glutamate release, whereas both acute and subchronic administration of CLZ, QTP and BPZ concentration-dependently enhanced astroglial l-glutamate release through activated hemichannels. Subchronic administration of therapeutic-relevant concentration of valproate (VPA), a histone deacetylase inhibiting mood-stabilizing antiepileptic drug, enhanced the stimulatory effects of therapeutic-relevant concentration of CLZ, QTP and BPZ on astroglial l-glutamate release through activated hemichannel. Subchronic administration of therapeutic-relevant concentration of CLZ, QTP and BPZ did not affect Cx43 protein expression in the plasma membrane during resting stage. After subchronic administration of VPA, acute and subchronic administration of therapeutic-relevant concentrations of CLZ increased Cx43 protein expression in the plasma membrane. Both acute administrations of therapeutic-relevant concentrations of QTP and BPZ did not affect, but subchronic administrations enhanced Cx43 protein expression in the astroglial plasma membrane. Furthermore, protein kinase B (Akt) inhibitor suppressed the stimulatory effects of CLZ and QTP, but did not affect Cx43 protein expression in the astroglial plasma membrane. These results suggest that three mood-stabilizing atypical antipsychotics, CLZ, QTP and BPZ enhance tripartite synaptic glutamatergic transmission due to enhancement of astroglial Cx43 containing hemichannel activities; however, the Cx43 activating mechanisms of these three mood-stabilizing antipsychotics were not identical. The enhanced astroglial glutamatergic transmission induced by CLZ, QTP and BPZ is, at least partially, involved in the actions of these three mood-stabilizing antipsychotics.
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Zefferino R, Piccoli C, Di Gioia S, Capitanio N, Conese M. How Cells Communicate with Each Other in the Tumor Microenvironment: Suggestions to Design Novel Therapeutic Strategies in Cancer Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052550. [PMID: 33806300 PMCID: PMC7961918 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexin- and pannexin (Panx)-formed hemichannels (HCs) and gap junctions (GJs) operate an interaction with the extracellular matrix and GJ intercellular communication (GJIC), and on account of this they are involved in cancer onset and progression towards invasiveness and metastatization. When we deal with cancer, it is not correct to omit the immune system, as well as neglecting its role in resisting or succumbing to formation and progression of incipient neoplasia until the formation of micrometastasis, nevertheless what really occurs in the tumor microenvironment (TME), which are the main players and which are the tumor or body allies, is still unclear. The goal of this article is to discuss how the pivotal players act, which can enhance or contrast cancer progression during two important process: "Activating Invasion and Metastasis" and the "Avoiding Immune Destruction", with a particular emphasis on the interplay among GJIC, Panx-HCs, and the purinergic system in the TME without disregarding the inflammasome and cytokines thereof derived. In particular, the complex and contrasting roles of Panx1/P2X7R signalosome in tumor facilitation and/or inhibition is discussed in regard to the early/late phases of the carcinogenesis. Finally, considering this complex interplay in the TME between cancer cells, stromal cells, immune cells, and focusing on their means of communication, we should be capable of revealing harmful messages that help the cancer growth and transform them in body allies, thus designing novel therapeutic strategies to fight cancer in a personalized manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Zefferino
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (S.D.G.); (M.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0881-884673
| | - Claudia Piccoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (C.P.); (N.C.)
| | - Sante Di Gioia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (S.D.G.); (M.C.)
| | - Nazzareno Capitanio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (C.P.); (N.C.)
| | - Massimo Conese
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy; (S.D.G.); (M.C.)
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Differential Action of Connexin Hemichannel and Pannexin Channel Therapeutics for Potential Treatment of Retinal Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041755. [PMID: 33578721 PMCID: PMC7916454 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of retinal function in the early stages of light-induced retinal degeneration involves pannexins and connexins. These two types of proteins may contribute to channels that release ATP, leading to activation of the inflammasome pathway, spread of inflammation and retinal dysfunction. However, the effect of pannexin channel block alone or block of both pannexin channels and connexin hemichannels in parallel on retinal activity in vivo is unknown. In this study, the pannexin channel blocker probenecid and the connexin hemichannel blocker tonabersat were used in the light-damaged rat retina. Retinal function was evaluated using electroretinography (ERG), retinal structure was analyzed using optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging and the tissue response to light-induced injury was assessed immunohistochemically with antibodies against glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), Ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba-1) and Connexin43 (Cx43). Probenecid did not further enhance the therapeutic effect of connexin hemichannel block in this model, but on its own improved activity of certain inner retina neurons. The therapeutic benefit of blocking connexin hemichannels was further evaluated by comparing these data against results from our previously published studies that also used the light-damaged rat retina model. The analysis showed that treatment with tonabersat alone was better than probenecid alone at restoring retinal function in the light-damaged retina model. The results assist in the interpretation of the differential action of connexin hemichannel and pannexin channel therapeutics for potential treatment of retinal diseases.
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Ilyaskin AV, Korbmacher C, Diakov A. Inhibition of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) by connexin 30 involves stimulation of clathrin-mediated endocytosis. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100404. [PMID: 33577799 PMCID: PMC7973139 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Mice lacking connexin 30 (Cx30) display increased epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) activity in the distal nephron and develop salt-sensitive hypertension. This indicates a functional link between Cx30 and ENaC, which remains incompletely understood. Here, we explore the effect of Cx30 on ENaC function using the Xenopus laevis oocyte expression system. Coexpression of human Cx30 with human αβγENaC significantly reduced ENaC-mediated whole-cell currents. The size of the inhibitory effect on ENaC depended on the expression level of Cx30 and required Cx30 ion channel activity. ENaC inhibition by Cx30 was mainly due to reduced cell surface ENaC expression resulting from enhanced ENaC retrieval without discernible effects on proteolytic channel activation and single-channel properties. ENaC retrieval from the cell surface involves the interaction of the ubiquitin ligase Nedd4-2 with PPPxY-motifs in the C-termini of ENaC. Truncating the C- termini of β- or γENaC significantly reduced the inhibitory effect of Cx30 on ENaC. In contrast, mutating the prolines belonging to the PPPxY-motif in γENaC or coexpressing a dominant-negative Xenopus Nedd4 (xNedd4-CS) did not significantly alter ENaC inhibition by Cx30. Importantly, the inhibitory effect of Cx30 on ENaC was significantly reduced by Pitstop-2, an inhibitor of clathrin-mediated endocytosis, or by mutating putative clathrin adaptor protein 2 (AP-2) recognition motifs (YxxФ) in the C termini of β- or γ-ENaC. In conclusion, our findings suggest that Cx30 inhibits ENaC by promoting channel retrieval from the plasma membrane via clathrin-dependent endocytosis. Lack of this inhibition may contribute to increased ENaC activity and salt-sensitive hypertension in mice with Cx30 deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandr V Ilyaskin
- Institut für Zelluläre und Molekulare Physiologie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christoph Korbmacher
- Institut für Zelluläre und Molekulare Physiologie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Alexei Diakov
- Institut für Zelluläre und Molekulare Physiologie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
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Dufeys C, Daskalopoulos EP, Castanares-Zapatero D, Conway SJ, Ginion A, Bouzin C, Ambroise J, Bearzatto B, Gala JL, Heymans S, Papageorgiou AP, Vinckier S, Cumps J, Balligand JL, Vanhaverbeke M, Sinnaeve P, Janssens S, Bertrand L, Beauloye C, Horman S. AMPKα1 deletion in myofibroblasts exacerbates post-myocardial infarction fibrosis by a connexin 43 mechanism. Basic Res Cardiol 2021; 116:10. [PMID: 33564961 PMCID: PMC7873123 DOI: 10.1007/s00395-021-00846-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We have previously demonstrated that systemic AMP-activated protein kinase α1 (AMPKα1) invalidation enhanced adverse LV remodelling by increasing fibroblast proliferation, while myodifferentiation and scar maturation were impaired. We thus hypothesised that fibroblastic AMPKα1 was a key signalling element in regulating fibrosis in the infarcted myocardium and an attractive target for therapeutic intervention. The present study investigates the effects of myofibroblast (MF)-specific deletion of AMPKα1 on left ventricular (LV) adaptation following myocardial infarction (MI), and the underlying molecular mechanisms. MF-restricted AMPKα1 conditional knockout (cKO) mice were subjected to permanent ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. cKO hearts exhibit exacerbated post-MI adverse LV remodelling and are characterised by exaggerated fibrotic response, compared to wild-type (WT) hearts. Cardiac fibroblast proliferation and MF content significantly increase in cKO infarcted hearts, coincident with a significant reduction of connexin 43 (Cx43) expression in MFs. Mechanistically, AMPKα1 influences Cx43 expression by both a transcriptional and a post-transcriptional mechanism involving miR-125b-5p. Collectively, our data demonstrate that MF-AMPKα1 functions as a master regulator of cardiac fibrosis and remodelling and might constitute a novel potential target for pharmacological anti-fibrotic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Dufeys
- Pôle de Recherche Cardiovasculaire (CARD), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 55, Avenue Hippocrate, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Evangelos-Panagiotis Daskalopoulos
- Pôle de Recherche Cardiovasculaire (CARD), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 55, Avenue Hippocrate, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Diego Castanares-Zapatero
- Pôle de Recherche Cardiovasculaire (CARD), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 55, Avenue Hippocrate, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Simon J Conway
- HB Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Audrey Ginion
- Pôle de Recherche Cardiovasculaire (CARD), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 55, Avenue Hippocrate, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Caroline Bouzin
- IREC Imaging Platform, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jérôme Ambroise
- Centre de Technologies Moléculaires Appliquées, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, UCL, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bertrand Bearzatto
- Centre de Technologies Moléculaires Appliquées, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, UCL, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Luc Gala
- Centre de Technologies Moléculaires Appliquées, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, UCL, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Stephane Heymans
- Center for Heart Failure Research, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Anna-Pia Papageorgiou
- Center for Heart Failure Research, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Stefan Vinckier
- Center for Cancer Biology, University of Leuven and VIB, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Julien Cumps
- Pôle de Recherche Cardiovasculaire (CARD), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 55, Avenue Hippocrate, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Luc Balligand
- Pôle de Pharmacologie et de Thérapeutique (FATH), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maarten Vanhaverbeke
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Leuven University Hospitals, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Peter Sinnaeve
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Leuven University Hospitals, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Stefan Janssens
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Leuven University Hospitals, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Luc Bertrand
- Pôle de Recherche Cardiovasculaire (CARD), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 55, Avenue Hippocrate, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christophe Beauloye
- Pôle de Recherche Cardiovasculaire (CARD), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 55, Avenue Hippocrate, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
- Division of Cardiology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sandrine Horman
- Pôle de Recherche Cardiovasculaire (CARD), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 55, Avenue Hippocrate, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.
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Urothelium-Specific Deletion of Connexin43 in the Mouse Urinary Bladder Alters Distension-Induced ATP Release and Voiding Behavior. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041594. [PMID: 33562445 PMCID: PMC7914662 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin43 (Cx43), the main gap junction and hemichannel forming protein in the urinary bladder, participates in the regulation of bladder motor and sensory functions and has been reported as an important modulator of day-night variations in functional bladder capacity. However, because Cx43 is expressed throughout the bladder, the actual role played by the detrusor and the urothelial Cx43 is still unknown. For this purpose, we generated urothelium-specific Cx43 knockout (uCx43KO) mice using Cre-LoxP system. We evaluated the day-night micturition pattern and the urothelial Cx43 hemichannel function of the uCx43KO mice by measuring luminal ATP release after bladder distention. In wild-type (WT) mice, distention-induced ATP release was elevated, and functional bladder capacity was decreased in the animals' active phase (nighttime) when Cx43 expression was also high compared to levels measured in the sleep phase (daytime). These day-night differences in urothelial ATP release and functional bladder capacity were attenuated in uCx43KO mice that, in the active phase, displayed lower ATP release and higher functional bladder capacity than WT mice. These findings indicate that urothelial Cx43 mediated ATP signaling and coordination of urothelial activity are essential for proper perception and regulation of responses to bladder distension in the animals' awake, active phase.
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Giuliani AL, Sarti AC, Di Virgilio F. Ectonucleotidases in Acute and Chronic Inflammation. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:619458. [PMID: 33613285 PMCID: PMC7887318 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.619458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ectonucleotidases are extracellular enzymes with a pivotal role in inflammation that hydrolyse extracellular purine and pyrimidine nucleotides, e.g., ATP, UTP, ADP, UDP, AMP and NAD+. Ectonucleotidases, expressed by virtually all cell types, immune cells included, either as plasma membrane-associated or secreted enzymes, are classified into four main families: 1) nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolases (NTPDases), 2) nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide glycohydrolase (NAD glycohydrolase/ADP-ribosyl cyclase/cyclic ADP-ribose hydrolase 1), 3) ecto-5′-nucleotidase (NT5E), and 4) ecto-nucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterases (NPPs). Concentration of ATP, UTP and NAD+ can be increased in the extracellular space thanks to un-regulated, e.g., cell damage or cell death, or regulated processes. Regulated processes include secretory exocytosis, connexin or pannexin hemichannels, ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporters, calcium homeostasis modulator (CALMH) channels, the ATP-gated P2X7 receptor, maxi-anion channels (MACs) and volume regulated ion channels (VRACs). Hydrolysis of extracellular purine nucleotides generates adenosine, an important immunosuppressant. Extracellular nucleotides and nucleosides initiate or dampen inflammation via P2 and P1 receptors, respectively. All these agents, depending on their level of expression or activation and on the agonist concentration, are potent modulators of inflammation and key promoters of host defences, immune cells activation, pathogen clearance, tissue repair and regeneration. Thus, their knowledge is of great importance for a full understanding of the pathophysiology of acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. A selection of these pathologies will be briefly discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Lisa Giuliani
- Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alba Clara Sarti
- Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesco Di Virgilio
- Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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A Cellular Assay for the Identification and Characterization of Connexin Gap Junction Modulators. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031417. [PMID: 33572565 PMCID: PMC7866863 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin gap junctions (Cx GJs) enable the passage of small molecules and ions between cells and are therefore important for cell-to-cell communication. Their dysfunction is associated with diseases, and small molecules acting as modulators of GJs may therefore be useful as therapeutic drugs. To identify GJ modulators, suitable assays are needed that allow compound screening. In the present study, we established a novel assay utilizing HeLa cells recombinantly expressing Cx43. Donor cells additionally expressing the Gs protein-coupled adenosine A2A receptor, and biosensor cells expressing a cAMP-sensitive GloSensor luciferase were established. Adenosine A2A receptor activation in the donor cells using a selective agonist results in intracellular cAMP production. The negatively charged cAMP migrates via the Cx43 gap junctions to the biosensor cells and can there be measured by the cAMP-dependent luminescence signal. Cx43 GJ modulators can be expected to impact the transfer of cAMP from the donor to the biosensor cells, since cAMP transit is only possible via GJs. The new assay was validated by testing the standard GJ inhibitor carbenoxolon, which showed a concentration-dependent inhibition of the signal and an IC50 value that was consistent with previously reported values. The assay was demonstrated to be suitable for high-throughput screening.
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Van Campenhout R, Muyldermans S, Vinken M, Devoogdt N, De Groof TW. Therapeutic Nanobodies Targeting Cell Plasma Membrane Transport Proteins: A High-Risk/High-Gain Endeavor. Biomolecules 2021; 11:63. [PMID: 33418902 PMCID: PMC7825061 DOI: 10.3390/biom11010063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell plasma membrane proteins are considered as gatekeepers of the cell and play a major role in regulating various processes. Transport proteins constitute a subclass of cell plasma membrane proteins enabling the exchange of molecules and ions between the extracellular environment and the cytosol. A plethora of human pathologies are associated with the altered expression or dysfunction of cell plasma membrane transport proteins, making them interesting therapeutic drug targets. However, the search for therapeutics is challenging, since many drug candidates targeting cell plasma membrane proteins fail in (pre)clinical testing due to inadequate selectivity, specificity, potency or stability. These latter characteristics are met by nanobodies, which potentially renders them eligible therapeutics targeting cell plasma membrane proteins. Therefore, a therapeutic nanobody-based strategy seems a valid approach to target and modulate the activity of cell plasma membrane transport proteins. This review paper focuses on methodologies to generate cell plasma membrane transport protein-targeting nanobodies, and the advantages and pitfalls while generating these small antibody-derivatives, and discusses several therapeutic nanobodies directed towards transmembrane proteins, including channels and pores, adenosine triphosphate-powered pumps and porters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raf Van Campenhout
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (R.V.C.); (M.V.)
| | - Serge Muyldermans
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (R.V.C.); (M.V.)
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Timo W.M. De Groof
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium;
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Andelova K, Egan Benova T, Szeiffova Bacova B, Sykora M, Prado NJ, Diez ER, Hlivak P, Tribulova N. Cardiac Connexin-43 Hemichannels and Pannexin1 Channels: Provocative Antiarrhythmic Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010260. [PMID: 33383853 PMCID: PMC7795512 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac connexin-43 (Cx43) creates gap junction channels (GJCs) at intercellular contacts and hemi-channels (HCs) at the peri-junctional plasma membrane and sarcolemmal caveolae/rafts compartments. GJCs are fundamental for the direct cardiac cell-to-cell transmission of electrical and molecular signals which ensures synchronous myocardial contraction. The HCs and structurally similar pannexin1 (Panx1) channels are active in stressful conditions. These channels are essential for paracrine and autocrine communication through the release of ions and signaling molecules to the extracellular environment, or for uptake from it. The HCs and Panx1 channel-opening profoundly affects intracellular ionic homeostasis and redox status and facilitates via purinergic signaling pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic processes. These conditions promote cardiac arrhythmogenesis due to the impairment of the GJCs and selective ion channel function. Crosstalk between GJCs and HCs/Panx1 channels could be crucial in the development of arrhythmogenic substrates, including fibrosis. Despite the knowledge gap in the regulation of these channels, current evidence indicates that HCs and Panx1 channel activation can enhance the risk of cardiac arrhythmias. It is extremely challenging to target HCs and Panx1 channels by inhibitory agents to hamper development of cardiac rhythm disorders. Progress in this field may contribute to novel therapeutic approaches for patients prone to develop atrial or ventricular fibrillation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Andelova
- Centre of Experimental Medicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Institute for Heart Research, 84104 Bratislava, Slovakia; (K.A.); (T.E.B.); (B.S.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Tamara Egan Benova
- Centre of Experimental Medicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Institute for Heart Research, 84104 Bratislava, Slovakia; (K.A.); (T.E.B.); (B.S.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Barbara Szeiffova Bacova
- Centre of Experimental Medicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Institute for Heart Research, 84104 Bratislava, Slovakia; (K.A.); (T.E.B.); (B.S.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Matus Sykora
- Centre of Experimental Medicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Institute for Heart Research, 84104 Bratislava, Slovakia; (K.A.); (T.E.B.); (B.S.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Natalia Jorgelina Prado
- Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, M5500 Mendoza, Argentina; (N.J.P.); (E.R.D.)
| | - Emiliano Raul Diez
- Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, M5500 Mendoza, Argentina; (N.J.P.); (E.R.D.)
| | - Peter Hlivak
- Department of Arrhythmias and Pacing, National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Pod Krásnou Hôrkou 1, 83348 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Narcis Tribulova
- Centre of Experimental Medicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Institute for Heart Research, 84104 Bratislava, Slovakia; (K.A.); (T.E.B.); (B.S.B.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +421-2-32295-423
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Chen S, Wei Y, Liu H, Gong Y, Zhou Y, Yang H, Tang L. Analysis of Collagen type X alpha 1 (COL10A1) expression and prognostic significance in gastric cancer based on bioinformatics. Bioengineered 2020; 12:127-137. [PMID: 33371777 PMCID: PMC8291830 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2020.1864912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Collagen type X alpha 1 (COL10A1) is a member of the collagen family and the main matrix component. However, COL10A1 expression and prognosis relationship remains unclear in gastric cancer (GC). Through the analysis of database of Oncomine, the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) as well as the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), in contrast to the tissue of normal gastric, COL10A1 in gastric cancer, had been upregulated. The high expression of COL10A1 was obviously related to T stage (P = 0.025) and lymph node metastasis (P = 0.025). It has been illustrated by the analysis of logistic regression that COL10A1's heightened expression in gastric cancer had been essentially linked with pathological stage, tumor differentiation, and T classification. The Kaplan-Meier curve in the Kaplan-Meier plotter database (P = 0.0371) and GSE84437 (P = 0.002) indicate that patients with high COL10A1 expression possess poor prognosis, specifically GC patients with lymph node metastasis have it. TCGA's Multivariate analysis (P = 0.025) and GSE84437 dataset (P = 0.034) show that high expression COL10A1 is a key independent predictor of poor overall survival. Searching KEGG pathway enrichment by GSEA, the results suggested that 29 pathways were enriched. qRT-PCR technique was used for verification of the COL10A1's high expression in gastric cancer in contrast to the normal gastric tissues. In conclusion, COL10A1 is of great importance in predicting the survival rate of GC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Chen
- Center of Gastrointestinal Disease, The Affiliated Changzhou NO.2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University , Changzhou, China
| | - Yi Wei
- Center of Gastrointestinal Disease, The Affiliated Changzhou NO.2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University , Changzhou, China
| | - Hanyang Liu
- Center of Gastrointestinal Disease, The Affiliated Changzhou NO.2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University , Changzhou, China
| | - Yu Gong
- Center of Gastrointestinal Disease, The Affiliated Changzhou NO.2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University , Changzhou, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Center of Gastrointestinal Disease, The Affiliated Changzhou NO.2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University , Changzhou, China
| | - Haojun Yang
- Center of Gastrointestinal Disease, The Affiliated Changzhou NO.2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University , Changzhou, China
| | - Liming Tang
- Center of Gastrointestinal Disease, The Affiliated Changzhou NO.2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University , Changzhou, China
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Connexins-Therapeutic Targets in Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239119. [PMID: 33266154 PMCID: PMC7730856 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cx) are members of a protein family that forms intercellular channels localised in gap junction (GJ) plaques and single transmembrane channels called hemichannels. They participate in intercellular communication or communication between the intracellular and extracellular environments. Connexins affect cell homeostasis, growth and differentiation by enabling the exchange of metabolites or by interfering with various signalling pathways. Alterations in the functionality and the expression of connexins have been linked to the occurrence of many diseases. Connexins have been already linked to cancers, cardiac and brain disorders, chronic lung and kidney conditions and wound healing processes. Connexins have been shown either to suppress cancer tumour growth or to increase tumorigenicity by promoting cancer cell growth, migration and invasiveness. A better understanding of the complexity of cancer biology related to connexins and intercellular communication could result in the design of novel therapeutic strategies. The modulation of connexin expression may be an effective therapeutic approach in some types of cancers. Therefore, one important challenge is the search for mechanisms and new drugs, selectively modulating the expression of various connexin isoforms. We performed a systematic literature search up to February 2020 in the electronic databases PubMed and EMBASE. Our search terms were as follows: connexins, hemichannels, cancer and cancer treatment. This review aims to provide information about the role of connexins and gap junctions in cancer, as well as to discuss possible therapeutic options that are currently being studied.
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Extracellular ATP: A Feasible Target for Cancer Therapy. Cells 2020; 9:cells9112496. [PMID: 33212982 PMCID: PMC7698494 DOI: 10.3390/cells9112496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is one of the main biochemical components of the tumor microenvironment (TME), where it can promote tumor progression or tumor suppression depending on its concentration and on the specific ecto-nucleotidases and receptors expressed by immune and cancer cells. ATP can be released from cells via both specific and nonspecific pathways. A non-regulated release occurs from dying and damaged cells, whereas active release involves exocytotic granules, plasma membrane-derived microvesicles, specific ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters and membrane channels (connexin hemichannels, pannexin 1 (PANX1), calcium homeostasis modulator 1 (CALHM1), volume-regulated anion channels (VRACs) and maxi-anion channels (MACs)). Extracellular ATP acts at P2 purinergic receptors, among which P2X7R is a key mediator of the final ATP-dependent biological effects. Over the years, P2 receptor- or ecto-nucleotidase-targeting for cancer therapy has been proposed and actively investigated, while comparatively fewer studies have explored the suitability of TME ATP as a target. In this review, we briefly summarize the available evidence suggesting that TME ATP has a central role in determining tumor fate and is, therefore, a suitable target for cancer therapy.
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Li S, Wang N, Zhang T, Feng Y, Wang L, Sun J. Characterization of three connexin32 genes and their role in inflammation-induced ATP release in the Japanese flounder Paralichthys olivaceus. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 106:181-189. [PMID: 32768708 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2020.07.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular ATP (eATP) is a potent singling molecule in activation of fish innate immunity while the molecular determinants for eATP release in fish were not completely understood. Connexin32 (Cx32) is a member of gap junction protein family that plays important immunological functions in mammals. However, the immune relevance of Cx32 and its role in ATP release in fish has not been investigated. Here, we identified, characterized three Cx32 isoform genes (Cx32.2, Cx32.2x and Cx32.7) from the Japanese flounder Paralichthys olivaceus, and investigated their role in inflammation-induced ATP release in fish. Expression analysis revealed that even though all the three Cx32 genes are constitutively expressed in all examined Japanese flounder tissues, Cx32.2 and Cx32.2x are dominantly expressed in liver, and Cx32.7 is highly expressed in intestine and head kidney macrophages. In addition, we showed that gene expression of all the three Cx32 isoforms was modulated by cAMP stimulation and inflammatory challenges. Furthermore, we revealed that Cx32 expression was upregulated in TNF-alpha overexpressed Japanese flounder FG-9307 cells. Moreover, overexpression of the three Cx32 isoforms significantly reduced the gene expression level of LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-8 and TNF-alpha, indicating that Cx32 is involved in modulating inflammatory response in fish. Finally, we showed that inflammation-induced ATP release was significantly increased in Cx32-overexpressed Japanese flounder FG-9307 cells, and this increased ATP release could be attenuated by pre-incubation with gap junction protein blocker carbenoxolone. Taken together, we for the first time reported the involvement of Cx32 in fish immunity. Our findings suggested that in addition to Cx43 and pannexin1 channels, Cx32 also plays a role in inflammation-induced ATP release in fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Animal and Plant Resistance, College of Life Sciences, Tianjin Normal University, 393 West Binshui Road, Xiqing District, Tianjin, 300387, China.
| | - Nan Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Animal and Plant Resistance, College of Life Sciences, Tianjin Normal University, 393 West Binshui Road, Xiqing District, Tianjin, 300387, China
| | - Tongtong Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Animal and Plant Resistance, College of Life Sciences, Tianjin Normal University, 393 West Binshui Road, Xiqing District, Tianjin, 300387, China
| | - Yu Feng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Animal and Plant Resistance, College of Life Sciences, Tianjin Normal University, 393 West Binshui Road, Xiqing District, Tianjin, 300387, China
| | - Liyan Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Animal and Plant Resistance, College of Life Sciences, Tianjin Normal University, 393 West Binshui Road, Xiqing District, Tianjin, 300387, China
| | - Jinsheng Sun
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Animal and Plant Resistance, College of Life Sciences, Tianjin Normal University, 393 West Binshui Road, Xiqing District, Tianjin, 300387, China.
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Age-Dependent and Sleep/Seizure-Induced Pathomechanisms of Autosomal Dominant Sleep-Related Hypermotor Epilepsy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218142. [PMID: 33143372 PMCID: PMC7662760 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The loss-of-function S284L-mutant α4 subunit of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) is considered to contribute to the pathomechanism of autosomal dominant sleep-related hypermotor epilepsy (ADSHE); however, the age-dependent and sleep-related pathomechanisms of ADSHE remain to be clarified. To explore the age-dependent and sleep-induced pathomechanism of ADSHE, the present study determined the glutamatergic transmission abnormalities associated with α4β2-nAChR and the astroglial hemichannel in the hyperdirect and corticostriatal pathways of ADSHE model transgenic rats (S286L-TG) bearing the rat S286L-mutant Chrna4 gene corresponding to the human S284L-mutant CHRNA4 gene of ADSHE, using multiprobe microdialysis and capillary immunoblotting analyses. This study could not detect glutamatergic transmission in the corticostriatal pathway from the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) to the striatum. Before ADSHE onset (four weeks of age), functional abnormalities of glutamatergic transmission compared to the wild-type in the cortical hyperdirect pathway, from OFC to the subthalamic nucleus (STN) in S286L-TG, could not be detected. Conversely, after ADSHE onset (eight weeks of age), glutamatergic transmission in the hyperdirect pathway of S286L-TG was enhanced compared to the wild-type. Notably, enhanced glutamatergic transmission of S286L-TG was revealed by hemichannel activation in the OFC. Expression of connexin43 (Cx43) in the OFC of S286L-TG was upregulated after ADSHE onset but was almost equal to the wild-type prior to ADSHE onset. Differences in the expression of phosphorylated protein kinase B (pAkt) before ADSHE onset between the wild-type and S286L-TG were not observed; however, after ADSHE onset, pAkt was upregulated in S286L-TG. Conversely, the expression of phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (pErk) was already upregulated before ADSHE onset compared to the wild-type. Both before and after ADSHE onset, subchronic nicotine administration decreased and did not affect the both expression of Cx43 and pErk of respective wild-type and S286L-TG, whereas the pAkt expression of both the wild-type and S286L-TG was increased by nicotine. Cx43 expression in the plasma membrane of the primary cultured astrocytes of the wild-type was increased by elevation of the extracellular K+ level (higher than 10 mM), and the increase in Cx43 expression in the plasma membrane required pErk functions. These observations indicate that a combination of functional abnormalities, GABAergic disinhibition, and upregulated pErk induced by the loss-of-function S286L-mutant α4β2-nAChR contribute to the age-dependent and sleep-induced pathomechanism of ADSHE via the upregulation/hyperactivation of the Cx43 hemichannels.
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50
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Brink PR, Valiunas V, White TW. Lens Connexin Channels Show Differential Permeability to Signaling Molecules. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186943. [PMID: 32971763 PMCID: PMC7555617 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junction channels mediate the direct intercellular passage of small ions as well as larger solutes such as second messengers. A family of proteins called connexins make up the subunits of gap junction channels in chordate animals. Each individual connexin forms channels that exhibit distinct permeability to molecules that influence cellular signaling, such as calcium ions, cyclic nucleotides, or inositol phosphates. In this review, we examine the permeability of connexin channels containing Cx43, Cx46, and Cx50 to signaling molecules and attempt to relate the observed differences in permeability to possible in vivo consequences that were revealed by studies of transgenic animals where these connexin genes have been manipulated. Taken together, these data suggest that differences in the permeability of individual connexin channels to larger solutes like 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) could play a role in regulating epithelial cell division, differentiation, and homeostasis in organs like the ocular lens.
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