1
|
Sao K, Risbud MV. Sdc4 deletion perturbs intervertebral disc matrix homeostasis and promotes early osteopenia in the aging mouse spine. Matrix Biol 2024; 131:46-61. [PMID: 38806135 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2024.05.006] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Syndecan 4 (SDC4), a cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycan, is known to regulate matrix catabolism by nucleus pulposus cells in an inflammatory milieu. However, the role of SDC4 in the aging spine has never been explored. Here we analyzed the spinal phenotype of Sdc4 global knockout (KO) mice as a function of age. Micro-computed tomography showed that Sdc4 deletion severely reduced vertebral trabecular and cortical bone mass, and biomechanical properties of vertebrae were significantly altered in Sdc4 KO mice. These changes in vertebral bone were likely due to elevated osteoclastic activity. The histological assessment showed subtle phenotypic changes in the intervertebral disc. Imaging-Fourier transform-infrared analyses showed a reduced relative ratio of mature collagen crosslinks in young adult nucleus pulposus (NP) and annulus fibrosus (AF) of KO compared to wildtype discs. Additionally, relative chondroitin sulfate levels increased in the NP compartment of the KO mice. Transcriptomic analysis of NP tissue using CompBio, an AI-based tool showed biological themes associated with prominent dysregulation of heparan sulfate GAG degradation, mitochondria metabolism, autophagy, endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated misfolded protein processes and ER to Golgi protein processing. Overall, this study highlights the important role of SDC4 in fine-tuning vertebral bone homeostasis and extracellular matrix homeostasis in the mouse intervertebral disc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimheak Sao
- Graduate Program in Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Jefferson College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, United States; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, 1025 Walnut Street, Suite 501 College Bldg., Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
| | - Makarand V Risbud
- Graduate Program in Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Jefferson College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, United States; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, 1025 Walnut Street, Suite 501 College Bldg., Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lorenzetti WR, Ibelli AMG, Peixoto JDO, Savoldi IR, Mores MAZ, de Souza Romano G, do Carmo KB, Ledur MC. The downregulation of genes encoding muscle proteins have a potential role in the development of scrotal hernia in pigs. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:822. [PMID: 39023774 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09766-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testicular descent is a physiological process regulated by many factors. Eventually, disturbances in the embryological/fetal development path facilitate the occurrence of scrotal hernia, a congenital malformation characterized by the presence of intestinal portions within the scrotal sac due to the abnormal expansion of the inguinal ring. In pigs, some genes have been related to this anomaly, but the genetic mechanisms involved remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the expression profile of a set of genes potentially involved with the manifestation of scrotal hernia in the inguinal ring tissue. METHODS AND RESULTS Tissue samples from the inguinal ring/canal of normal and scrotal hernia-affected male pigs with approximately 30 days of age were used. Relative expression analysis was performed using qPCR to confirm the expression profile of 17 candidate genes previously identified in an RNA-Seq study. Among them, the Myosin heavy chain 1 (MYH1), Desmin (DES), and Troponin 1 (TNNI1) genes were differentially expressed between groups and had reduced levels of expression in the affected animals. These genes encode proteins involved in the formation of muscle tissue, which seems to be important for increasing the resistance of the inguinal ring to the abdominal pressure, which is essential to avoid the occurrence of scrotal hernia. CONCLUSIONS The downregulation of muscular candidate genes in the inguinal tissue clarifies the genetic mechanisms involved with this anomaly in its primary site, providing useful information for developing strategies to control this malformation in pigs and other mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William Raphael Lorenzetti
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Zootecnia, Centro de Educação Superior do Oeste (CEO), Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, UDESC, Rua Beloni Trombeta Zanin 680E, Chapecó, Santa Catarina, 89815-630, Brazil
| | - Adriana Mércia Guaratini Ibelli
- Embrapa Suínos e Aves, Rodovia BR153, km 110, Distrito de Tamanduá, Caixa Postal: 321, Concórdia, Santa Catarina, 89715-899, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual do Centro-Oeste, Alameda Élio Antonio Dalla Vecchia, 838, Guarapuava, Paraná, 85040-167, Brazil
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234, São Carlos, São Paulo, 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Jane de Oliveira Peixoto
- Embrapa Suínos e Aves, Rodovia BR153, km 110, Distrito de Tamanduá, Caixa Postal: 321, Concórdia, Santa Catarina, 89715-899, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual do Centro-Oeste, Alameda Élio Antonio Dalla Vecchia, 838, Guarapuava, Paraná, 85040-167, Brazil
| | - Igor Ricardo Savoldi
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Zootecnia, Centro de Educação Superior do Oeste (CEO), Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, UDESC, Rua Beloni Trombeta Zanin 680E, Chapecó, Santa Catarina, 89815-630, Brazil
- Laudo laboratório Avícola, Rodovia BR-365, Morumbi, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, 38407180, Brazil
| | - Marcos Antônio Zanella Mores
- Embrapa Suínos e Aves, Rodovia BR153, km 110, Distrito de Tamanduá, Caixa Postal: 321, Concórdia, Santa Catarina, 89715-899, Brazil
| | | | - Kamilla Bleil do Carmo
- Universidade do Contestado, Concórdia, Santa Catarina, Brazil
- Instituto Federal Catarinense, Rodovia SC 283, km 17, Concórdia, Santa Catarina, 89703-720, Brazil
| | - Mônica Corrêa Ledur
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Zootecnia, Centro de Educação Superior do Oeste (CEO), Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, UDESC, Rua Beloni Trombeta Zanin 680E, Chapecó, Santa Catarina, 89815-630, Brazil.
- Embrapa Suínos e Aves, Rodovia BR153, km 110, Distrito de Tamanduá, Caixa Postal: 321, Concórdia, Santa Catarina, 89715-899, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Swahn H, Mertens J, Olmer M, Myers K, Mondala TS, Natarajan P, Head SR, Alvarez‐Garcia O, Lotz MK. Shared and Compartment-Specific Processes in Nucleus Pulposus and Annulus Fibrosus During Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2309032. [PMID: 38403470 PMCID: PMC11077672 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202309032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Elucidating how cell populations promote onset and progression of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) has the potential to enable more precise therapeutic targeting of cells and mechanisms. Single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) is performed on surgically separated annulus fibrosus (AF) (19,978; 26,983 cells) and nucleus pulposus (NP) (20,884; 24,489 cells) from healthy and diseased human intervertebral discs (IVD). In both tissue types, depletion of cell subsets involved in maintenance of healthy IVD is observed, specifically the immature cell subsets - fibroblast progenitors and stem cells - indicative of an impairment of normal tissue self-renewal. Tissue-specific changes are also identified. In NP, several fibrotic populations are increased in degenerated IVD, indicating tissue-remodeling. In degenerated AF, a novel disease-associated subset is identified, which expresses disease-promoting genes. It is associated with pathogenic biological processes and the main gene regulatory networks include thrombospondin signaling and FOXO1 transcription factor. In NP and AF cells thrombospondin protein promoted expression of genes associated with TGFβ/fibrosis signaling, angiogenesis, and nervous system development. The data reveal new insights of both shared and tissue-specific changes in specific cell populations in AF and NP during IVD degeneration. These identified mechanisms and molecules are novel and more precise targets for IDD prevention and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Swahn
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology & Department of Molecular MedicineScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Jasmin Mertens
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology & Department of Molecular MedicineScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Merissa Olmer
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology & Department of Molecular MedicineScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Kevin Myers
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology & Department of Molecular MedicineScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Tony S. Mondala
- Center for Computational Biology & Bioinformatics and Genomics CoreScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Padmaja Natarajan
- Center for Computational Biology & Bioinformatics and Genomics CoreScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Steven R. Head
- Center for Computational Biology & Bioinformatics and Genomics CoreScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Oscar Alvarez‐Garcia
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology & Department of Molecular MedicineScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| | - Martin K. Lotz
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology & Department of Molecular MedicineScripps ResearchLa JollaCA92037USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tang W, Wu K, Zhou Q, Tang Y, Fu J, Dong G, Zou C. Genotype and phenotype in patients with ACAN gene variants: Three cases and literature review. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2024; 12:e2439. [PMID: 38613222 PMCID: PMC11015147 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.2439] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize the phenotype spectrum, diagnosis, and response to growth-promoting therapy in patients with ACAN variants causing familial short stature. METHODS Three families with ACAN variants causing short stature were reported. Similar cases in the literature were summarized, and the genotype and phenotype were analyzed. RESULTS Three novel heterozygous variants, c.757+1G>A, (splicing), c.6229delG, p.(Asp2078Tfs*1), and c.6679C>T, p.(Gln2227*) in the ACAN gene were identified. A total of 314 individuals with heterozygous variants from 105 families and 8 individuals with homozygous variants from 4 families were confirmed to have ACAN variants from literature and our 3 cases. Including our 3 cases, the variants reported comprised 33 frameshift, 39 missense, 23 nonsense, 5 splicing, 4 deletion, and 1 translocation variants. Variation points are scattered throughout the gene, while exons 12, 15, and 10 were most common (25/105, 11/105, and 10/105, respectively). Some identical variants existing in different families could be hot variants, c.532A>T, p.(Asn178Tyr), c.1411C>T, p.(Gln471*), c.1608C>A, p.(Tyr536*), c.2026+1G>A, (splicing), and c.7276G>T, p.(Glu2426*). Short stature, early-onset osteoarthritis, brachydactyly, midfacial hypoplasia, and early growth cessation were the common phenotypic features. The 48 children who received rhGH (and GnRHa) treatment had a significant height improvement compared with before (-2.18 ± 1.06 SD vs. -2.69 ± 0.95 SD, p < 0.001). The heights of children who received rhGH (and GnRHa) treatment were significantly improved compared with those of untreated adults (-2.20 ± 1.10 SD vs. -3.24 ± 1.14 SD, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Our study achieves a new understanding of the phenotypic spectrum, diagnosis, and management of individuals with ACAN variants. No clear genotype-phenotype relationship of patients with ACAN variants was found. Gene sequencing is necessary to diagnose ACAN variants that cause short stature. In general, appropriate rhGH and/or GnRHa therapy can improve the adult height of affected pediatric patients caused by ACAN variants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Tang
- Department of PulmonaryChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Ke‐Mi Wu
- Department of PulmonaryChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Qiong Zhou
- Department of PulmonaryChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Department of PediatricsHangzhou Children's HospitalHangzhouChina
| | - Yan‐Fei Tang
- Department of PulmonaryChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Department of PediatricsJiaxing Second people's HospitalJiaxingChina
| | - Jun‐Fen Fu
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Guan‐Ping Dong
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Chao‐Chun Zou
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Li L, Zhang G, Yang Z, Kang X. Stress-Activated Protein Kinases in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration: Unraveling the Impact of JNK and p38 MAPK. Biomolecules 2024; 14:393. [PMID: 38672411 PMCID: PMC11047866 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a major cause of lower back pain. The pathophysiological development of IDD is closely related to the stimulation of various stressors, including proinflammatory cytokines, abnormal mechanical stress, oxidative stress, metabolic abnormalities, and DNA damage, among others. These factors prevent normal intervertebral disc (IVD) development, reduce the number of IVD cells, and induce senescence and apoptosis. Stress-activated protein kinases (SAPKs), particularly, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), control cell signaling in response to cellular stress. Previous studies have shown that these proteins are highly expressed in degenerated IVD tissues and are involved in complex biological signal-regulated processes. Therefore, we summarize the research reports on IDD related to JNK and p38 MAPK. Their structure, function, and signal regulation mechanisms are comprehensively and systematically described and potential therapeutic targets are proposed. This work could provide a reference for future research and help improve molecular therapeutic strategies for IDD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China; (L.L.); (G.Z.); (Z.Y.)
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
- Key Laboratory of Orthopedics Disease of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China
- The International Cooperation Base of Gansu Province for the Pain Research in Spinal Disorders, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Guangzhi Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China; (L.L.); (G.Z.); (Z.Y.)
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
- Key Laboratory of Orthopedics Disease of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China
- The International Cooperation Base of Gansu Province for the Pain Research in Spinal Disorders, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Zhili Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China; (L.L.); (G.Z.); (Z.Y.)
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
- Key Laboratory of Orthopedics Disease of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China
- The International Cooperation Base of Gansu Province for the Pain Research in Spinal Disorders, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Xuewen Kang
- Department of Orthopedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China; (L.L.); (G.Z.); (Z.Y.)
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China
- Key Laboratory of Orthopedics Disease of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China
- The International Cooperation Base of Gansu Province for the Pain Research in Spinal Disorders, Lanzhou 730030, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hao Y, Zhu G, Yu L, Ren Z, Zhou W, Zhang P, Lian X. FOXO3-Activated HOTTIP Sequesters miR-615-3p away from COL2A1 to Mitigate Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2024; 194:280-295. [PMID: 37981220 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
In this study, knockout of FOXO3 was found to impair intervertebral disc maturation and homeostasis in postnatal mice as well as facilitating extracellular matrix degradation. RNA sequencing can uncover disease-related gene expression and investigate disease pathophysiology. High-throughput transcriptome sequencing and experimental validations were used to identify the essential gene and mechanism involved in intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). Nucleus pulposus (NP) tissue samples were collected from the mice with conditional knockout of FOXO3 (FOXO3 KO) for high-throughput sequencing, followed by screening of differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs. The mRNAs were subjected to GO and KEGG enrichment analyses. Interactions among FOXO3, HOTTIP, miR-615-3p, and COL2A1 were analyzed. NP cells were subjected to a series of mimics, inhibitors, overexpression plasmids, and shRNAs to validate the mechanisms of FOXO3 in controlling HOTTIP/miR-615-3p/COL2A1 in IDD. Mechanistically, FOXO3 transcriptionally activated HOTTIP, facilitated the competitive HOTTIP binding to miR-615-3p, and increased the expression of the miR-615-3p target gene COL2A1. Thus, NP cell proliferation was induced, cell apoptosis was diminished, resulting in delayed development of IDD. Based on these data, the transcription factor FOXO3 may decrease miR-615-3p binding to COL2A1 and up-regulate COL2A1 expression by activating HOTTIP transcription, which in turn inhibits NP cell apoptosis and promotes its proliferation, to prevent the degradation of intervertebral disc matrix and maintain the normal physiological function of intervertebral disc, thereby preventing the occurrence and development of IDD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingjie Hao
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Guangduo Zhu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lei Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhinan Ren
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Weiwei Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Panke Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xu Lian
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Schmitz TC, van Genabeek B, Pouderoijen MJ, Janssen HM, van Doeselaar M, Crispim JF, Tryfonidou MA, Ito K. Semi-synthetic degradable notochordal cell-derived matrix hydrogel for use in degenerated intervertebral discs: Initial in vitro characterization. J Biomed Mater Res A 2023; 111:1903-1915. [PMID: 37539663 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, but current therapeutic interventions are palliative or surgical in nature. Loss of notochordal cells (NCs) and degradation of the healthy matrix in the nucleus pulposus (NP), the central tissue of intervertebral discs (IVDs), has been associated with onset of degenerative disc changes. Recently, we established a protocol for decellularization of notochordal cell derived matrix (NCM) and found that it can provide regenerative cues to nucleus pulposus cells of the IVD. Here, we combined the biologically regenerative properties of decellularized NCM with the mechanical tunability of a poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogel to additionally address biomechanics in the degenerate IVD. We further introduced a hydrolysable PEG-diurethane crosslinker for slow degradation of the gels in vivo. The resulting hydrogels were tunable over a broad range of stiffness's (0.2 to 4.5 kPa), matching that of NC-rich and -poor NP tissues, respectively. Gels formed within 30 min, giving ample time for handling, and remained shear-thinning post-polymerization. Gels also slowly released dNCM over 28 days as measured by GAG effusion. Viability of encapsulated bone marrow stromal cells after extrusion through a needle remained high. Although encapsulated NCs stayed viable over two weeks, their metabolic activity decreased, and their phenotype was lost in physiological medium conditions in vitro. Overall, the obtained gels hold promise for application in degenerated IVDs but require further tuning for combined use with NCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tara C Schmitz
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Marina van Doeselaar
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - João F Crispim
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Marianna A Tryfonidou
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Keita Ito
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hutchinson JL, Veras MA, Serjeant ME, McCann MR, Kelly AL, Quinonez D, Beier F, Séguin CA. Comparative histopathological analysis of age-associated intervertebral disc degeneration in CD-1 and C57BL/6 mice: Anatomical and sex-based differences. JOR Spine 2023; 6:e1298. [PMID: 38156059 PMCID: PMC10751972 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a major contributor to back pain and disability. The cause of IVD degeneration is multifactorial, with no disease-modifying treatments. Mouse models are commonly used to study IVD degeneration; however, the effects of anatomical location, strain, and sex on the progression of age-associated degeneration are poorly understood. Methods A longitudinal study was conducted to characterize age-, anatomical-, and sex-specific differences in IVD degeneration in two commonly used strains of mice, C57BL/6 and CD-1. Histopathological evaluation of the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and caudal regions of mice at 6, 12, 20, and 24 months of age was conducted by two blinded observers at each IVD for the nucleus pulposus (NP), annulus fibrosus (AF), and the NP/AF boundary compartments, enabling analysis of scores by tissue compartment, summed scores for each IVD, or averaged scores for each anatomical region. Results C57BL/6 mice displayed mild IVD degeneration until 24 months of age; at this point, the lumbar spine demonstrated the most degeneration compared to other regions. Degeneration was detected earlier in the CD-1 mice (20 months of age) in both the thoracic and lumbar spine. In CD-1 mice, moderate to severe degeneration was noted in the cervical spine at all time points assessed. In both strains, age-associated IVD degeneration in the thoracic and lumbar spine was associated with increased histopathological scores in all IVD compartments. In both strains, minimal degeneration was detected in caudal IVDs out to 24 months of age. Both C57BL/6 and CD-1 mice displayed sex-specific differences in the presentation and progression of age-associated IVD degeneration. Conclusions These results showed that the progression and severity of age-associated degeneration in mouse models is associated with marked differences based on anatomical region, sex, and strain. This information provides a fundamental baseline characterization for users of mouse models to enable effective and appropriate experimental design, interpretation, and comparison between studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey L. Hutchinson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and DentistryThe Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
| | - Matthew A. Veras
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and DentistryThe Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
| | - Meghan E. Serjeant
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and DentistryThe Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
| | - Matthew R. McCann
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and DentistryThe Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
| | - Ashley L. Kelly
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and DentistryThe Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
| | - Diana Quinonez
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and DentistryThe Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
| | - Frank Beier
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and DentistryThe Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
| | - Cheryle A. Séguin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and DentistryThe Bone and Joint Institute, The University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zou X, Zhang X, Han S, Wei L, Zheng Z, Wang Y, Xin J, Zhang S. Pathogenesis and therapeutic implications of matrix metalloproteinases in intervertebral disc degeneration: A comprehensive review. Biochimie 2023; 214:27-48. [PMID: 37268183 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IDD) is a common disorder that affects the spine and is a major cause of lower back pain (LBP). The extracellular matrix (ECM) is the structural foundation of the biomechanical properties of IVD, and its degradation is the main pathological characteristic of IDD. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a group of endopeptidases that play an important role in the degradation and remodeling of the ECM. Several recent studies have shown that the expression and activity of many MMP subgroups are significantly upregulated in degenerated IVD tissue. This upregulation of MMPs results in an imbalance of ECM anabolism and catabolism, leading to the degradation of the ECM and the development of IDD. Therefore, the regulation of MMP expression is a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of IDD. Recent research has focused on identifying the mechanisms by which MMPs cause ECM degradation and promote IDD, as well as on developing therapies that target MMPs. In summary, MMP dysregulation is a crucial factor in the development of IDD, and a deeper understanding of the mechanisms involved is needed to develop effective biological therapies that target MMPs to treat IDD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaosong Zou
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Xingmin Zhang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Song Han
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Lin Wei
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Zhi Zheng
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Yongjie Wang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Jingguo Xin
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Shaokun Zhang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China; Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Changchun, 130021, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zhou Z, Qin W, Zhang P, He J, Cheng Z, Gong Y, Zhu G, Liang D, Ren H, Jiang X, Sun Y. Potential molecular targets and drugs for basement membranes-related intervertebral disk degeneration through bioinformatics analysis and molecular docking. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2023; 24:772. [PMID: 37784117 PMCID: PMC10544312 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-023-06891-z] [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: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Through bioinformatics analysis to identify the hub genes of Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) associated with basement membranes (BMs) and find out the potential molecular targets and drugs for BMs-related annulus fibrosus (AF) degeneration based on bioinformatic analysis and molecular approach. METHODS Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) related targets were obtained from GeneCards, DisGenet and OMIM databases. BMs related genes were obtained from Basement membraneBASE database. The intersection targets were identified and subjected to protein-to-protein interaction (PPI) construction via STRING. Hub genes were identified and conducted Gene ontology (GO) and pathway enrichment analysis through MCODE and Clue GO in Cytospace respectively. DSigDB database was retrieved to predict therapeutic drugs and molecular docking was performed through PyMOL, AutoDock 1.5.6 to verify the binding energy between the drug and the different expressed hub genes. Finally, GSE70362 from GEO database was obtained to verify the different expression and correlation of each hub gene for AF degeneration. RESULTS We identified 41 intersection genes between 3 disease targets databases and Basement membraneBASE database. PPI network revealed 25 hub genes and they were mainly enriched in GO terms relating to glycosaminoglycan catabolic process, the TGF-β signaling pathway. 4 core targets were found to be significant via comparison of microarray samples and they showed strong correlation. The molecular docking results showed that the core targets have strong binding energy with predicting drugs including chitosamine and retinoic acid. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we identified hub genes, pathways, potential targets, and drugs for treatment in BMs-related AF degeneration and IVDD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zelin Zhou
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Weicheng Qin
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Peng Zhang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Jiahui He
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Zhaojun Cheng
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Yan Gong
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Guangye Zhu
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - De Liang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Hui Ren
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Xiaobing Jiang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Yuping Sun
- Pingshan General Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China.
- Pingshan District People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China.
- Rehabilitation Department, Pingshan District People's Hospital, Shenzhen, P.R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Mahmoud M, Kokozidou M, Gögele C, Werner C, Auffarth A, Kohl B, Mrosewski I, Schulze-Tanzil GG. Does Vitamin K2 Influence the Interplay between Diabetes Mellitus and Intervertebral Disc Degeneration in a Rat Model? Nutrients 2023; 15:2872. [PMID: 37447201 DOI: 10.3390/nu15132872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a common cause of low back pain in diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM) patients. Its pathogenesis and the vitamin (vit.) K2 influence on this disease remain unclear. Lumbar motion segments of male Zucker Diabetes Fatty (ZDF) rats (non-diabetic [control] and diabetic; fed without or with vit. K2) were used. Femur lengths and vertebral epiphyseal cross-section areas were measured. IVDs were histopathologically examined. Protein synthesis and gene expression of isolated IVD fibrochondrocytes were analyzed. T2DM rats showed histopathological IVD degeneration. Femur lengths and epiphyseal areas were smaller in T2DM rats regardless of vit. K2 feeding. Fibrochondrocytes synthesized interleukin (IL)-24 and IL-10 with no major differences between groups. Alpha smooth muscle actin (αSMA) was strongly expressed, especially in cells of vit. K2-treated animals. Gene expression of aggrecan was low, and that of collagen type 2 was high in IVD cells of diabetic animals, whether treated with vit. K2 or not. Suppressor of cytokine signaling (Socs)3 and heme oxygenase (Hmox)1 gene expression was highest in the cells of diabetic animals treated with vit. K2. Vit. K2 influenced the expression of some stress-associated markers in IVD cells of diabetic rats, but not that of IL-10 and IL-24.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Mahmoud
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg and Salzburg, Prof. Ernst Nathan Str. 1, 90419 Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Maria Kokozidou
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg and Salzburg, Prof. Ernst Nathan Str. 1, 90419 Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Clemens Gögele
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg and Salzburg, Prof. Ernst Nathan Str. 1, 90419 Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Christian Werner
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg and Salzburg, Prof. Ernst Nathan Str. 1, 90419 Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Alexander Auffarth
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Paracelsus Medical University, Müllner-Hauptstraße 48, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Benjamin Kohl
- Department of Traumatology and Reconstructive Surgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ingo Mrosewski
- MVZ MDI Limbach Berlin, Aroser Alle 84, 13407 Berlin, Germany
| | - Gundula Gesine Schulze-Tanzil
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg and Salzburg, Prof. Ernst Nathan Str. 1, 90419 Nuremberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Koulicoff LA, Chun CK, Hammond PA, Jeneske H, Magnin-Bissel G, O'Quinn TG, Zumbaugh MD, Chao MD. Structural changes in collagen and aggrecan during extended aging may improve beef tenderness. Meat Sci 2023; 201:109172. [PMID: 37003165 DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2023.109172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to characterize structural and property modifications of intramuscular connective tissue (IMCT) during extended aging. Longissimus lumborum (LL), Gluteus medius (GM), and Gastrocnemius (GT) muscles were collected from 10 USDA choice carcasses, fabricated and assigned to one of four aging periods: 3, 21, 42, or 63 days (n = 120). As expected, tenderness improved, and IMCT texture weakened after 21 days of postmortem aging (dpm; P < 0.05). In addition, transition temperature of collagen decreased (P < 0.01) after 42 dpm. It is interesting to note the collagen structure was also altered where relative % of γ chain decreased after 42 dpm (P < 0.05), and the α1 chain % increased at 63 days (P < 0.01). Finally, The LL and GT had a decrease in the 75 kDa aggrecan fragments from 3 to 21 to 42 dpm (P < 0.05). This study provided evidence that IMCT weakens during postmortem aging due to the modifications of IMCT components such as collagen and proteoglycan.
Collapse
|
13
|
Gramegna Tota C, Leone A, Rossi A, Paganini C. Analysis of Aggrecan Glycanation by Western Blot in Cell Culture. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2619:141-151. [PMID: 36662468 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2946-8_11] [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] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Several experimental protocols are available to study the synthesis and secretion of proteoglycans in health and diseases, but there are few methods to analyse the intracellular processing of these macromolecules. We report a western blot analysis on medium and cell layer of primary chondrocyte culture to determine the glycanation status of aggrecan. Using a specific antibody against the aggrecan core protein and digesting an aliquot of sample with chondroitinase ABC, it is possible to analyse the whole aggrecan macromolecule and the core protein in order to evaluate defects in aggrecan glycanation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Gramegna Tota
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Biochemistry, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Leone
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Biochemistry, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- University School for Advanced Studies Pavia, IUSS Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Antonio Rossi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Biochemistry, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Chiara Paganini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Biochemistry, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hechavarria ME, Richard SA. Elucidating the Focal Immunomodulatory Clues Influencing Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Milieu of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 18:62-75. [PMID: 35450531 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x17666220420134619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The intervertebral discs (IVDs) are a relatively mobile joint that interconnects vertebrae of the spine. Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is one of the leading causes of low back pain, which is most often related to patient morbidity as well as high medical costs. Patients with chronic IVDD often need surgery that may sometimes lead to biomechanical complications as well as augmented degeneration of the adjacent segments. Moreover, treatment modalities like rigid intervertebral fusion, dynamic instrumentation, as well as other surgical interventions are still controversial. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have exhibited to have immunomodulatory functions and the ability to differentiate into cartilage, making these cells possibly an epitome for IVD regeneration. Transplanted MSCs were able to repair IVDD back to the normal disc milieu via the activation of the generation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins such as aggrecan, proteoglycans and collagen types I and II. IVD milieu clues like, periostin, cluster of differentiation, tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukins, chemokines, transforming growth factor beta, reactive oxygen species, toll-like receptors, tyrosine protein kinase receptor and disialoganglioside, exosomes are capable of influencing the MSCs during treatment of IVDD. ECM microenvironment clues above have potentials as biomarkers as well as accurate molecular targets for therapeutic intervention in IVDD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Seidu A Richard
- Department of Medicine, Princefield University, P. O. Box MA 128, Ho-Volta Region, Ghana, West Africa
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li Z, Yang H, Hai Y, Cheng Y. Regulatory Effect of Inflammatory Mediators in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Mediators Inflamm 2023; 2023:6210885. [PMID: 37101594 PMCID: PMC10125773 DOI: 10.1155/2023/6210885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a major contributor to back, neck, and radicular pain. It is related to changes in tissue structure and function, including the breakdown of the extracellular matrix (ECM), aging, apoptosis of the nucleus pulposus, and biomechanical tissue impairment. Recently, an increasing number of studies have demonstrated that inflammatory mediators play a crucial role in IDD, and they are being explored as potential treatment targets for IDD and associated disorders. For example, interleukins (IL), tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), chemokines, and inflammasomes have all been linked to the pathophysiology of IDD. These inflammatory mediators are found in high concentrations in intervertebral disc (IVD) tissues and cells and are associated with the severity of LBP and IDD. It is feasible to reduce the production of these proinflammatory mediators and develop a novel therapy for IDD, which will be a hotspot of future research. In this review, the effects of inflammatory mediators in IDD were described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhangfu Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Honghao Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Yong Hai
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Yunzhong Cheng
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Aripaka SS, Bech-Azeddine R, Jørgensen LM, Mikkelsen JD. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels mRNA transcripts in the lumbar intervertebral discs: biomarkers for inflammation, pain, disability, and clinical outcome. Mol Cell Biochem 2023; 478:121-130. [PMID: 35737198 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04501-5] [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: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are widely expressed cation channels that play an essential role in mediating Ca2+ homeostasis and are considered potential regulators of inflammatory pain. This study investigates the expression of the TRP channel subtypes TRPV1, TRPV4, TRPC6, TRPM2, TRPM8 in lumbar intervertebral disc (IVD) biopsies from patients with chronic low back pain (LBP). We determined the expression of these TRP channel subtypes in the annulus fibrosus (AF) and the nucleus pulposus (NP) from 46 patients with LBP undergoing 1-2 level lumbar fusion surgery for degenerative disc disease. The mRNA transcripts were analyzed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and the expression levels were compared against visual analog scale (VAS) and oswestry disability index (ODI) scores (0-100) for pain and disability. A significant positive correlation was demonstrated between VAS score and the mRNA expression of TRPV1, TRPC6, TRPM2, TRPM8 in the AF. We also found a significant positive correlation between ODI scores and expression of TRPV1 and TRPM8. Further, there is a significant positive correlation between TNF-α and TRPV1, TRPM2 and TRPM8 expression in the AF, and IL-6 to TRPV1 in the NP. Interestingly, when investigating treatment response via a 12-month postoperative follow-up ODI, we found a significant correlation between only TRPV1 expression at baseline and the follow-up ODI scores, which indicates this marker could predict the effectiveness of surgery. These results strongly suggest an association between pain, inflammatory mediators, and TRP channel expression in lumbar disc biopsies of patients with chronic LBP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay S Aripaka
- Neurobiology Research Unit, University Hospital Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, 4-6, Inge Lehmanns vej, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rachid Bech-Azeddine
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Copenhagen Spine Research Unit, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Louise M Jørgensen
- Neurobiology Research Unit, University Hospital Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, 4-6, Inge Lehmanns vej, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Copenhagen Spine Research Unit, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens D Mikkelsen
- Neurobiology Research Unit, University Hospital Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, 4-6, Inge Lehmanns vej, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Institute of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Li X, An Y, Wang Q, Han X. The new ceRNA crosstalk between mRNAs and miRNAs in intervertebral disc degeneration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1083983. [DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1083983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Degeneration of the intervertebral disc has been linked to lower back pain. To date, pathophysiological mechanisms of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) remain unclear; it is meaningful to find effective diagnostic biomarkers and new therapeutic strategies for IDD. This study aimed to reveal the molecular mechanism of IDD pathogenesis from the multidimensional transcriptomics perspective. Here, we acquired IDD bulk omics datasets (GSE67567 and GSE167199) including mRNA, microRNA expression profiles, and single-cell RNA sequencing (GSE199866) from the public Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Through principal component analysis and Venn analysis, we found different expression patterns in the IDD transcription level and identified 156 common DEGs in both bulk datasets. GO and KEGG functional analyses showed these dysregulators were mostly enriched in the collagen-containing extracellular matrix, cartilage development, chondrocyte differentiation, and immune response pathways. We also constructed a potentially dysregulated competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network between mRNAs and miRNAs related to IDD based on microRNA target information and co-expression analysis of RNA profiles and identified 36 ceRNA axes including ZFP36/miR-155-5p/FOS, BTG2/hsa-miR-185-5p/SOCS3, and COL9A2/hsa-miR-664a-5p/IBA57. Finally, in integrating bulk and single-cell transcriptome data analyses, a total of three marker genes, COL2A1, PAX1, and ZFP36L2, were identified. In conclusion, the key genes and the new ceRNA crosstalk we identified in intervertebral disc degeneration may provide new targets for the treatment of IDD.
Collapse
|
18
|
Role of Pyroptosis in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration and Its Therapeutic Implications. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12121804. [PMID: 36551232 PMCID: PMC9775394 DOI: 10.3390/biom12121804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), a progressive and multifactorial pathological process, is predominantly associated with low back pain and permanent disability. Pyroptosis is a type of lytic programmed cell death triggered by the activation of inflammasomes and caspases. Unlike apoptosis, pyroptosis is characterized by the rupture of the plasma membrane and the release of inflammatory mediators, accelerating the destruction of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Recent studies have shown that pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis in nucleus pulposus (NP) cells is activated in the progression of IDD. Furthermore, targeting pyroptosis in IDD demonstrates the excellent capacity of ECM remodeling and its anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting that pyroptosis is involved in the IDD process. In this review, we briefly summarize the molecular mechanism of pyroptosis and the pathogenesis of IDD. We also focus on the role of pyroptosis in the pathological progress of IDD and its targeted therapeutic application.
Collapse
|
19
|
Biological variation of human aggrecan ARGS neoepitope in synovial fluid and serum in early-stage knee osteoarthritis and after knee injury. OSTEOARTHRITIS AND CARTILAGE OPEN 2022; 4:100307. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ocarto.2022.100307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
|
20
|
Zhang C, Joseph KM, Khan NM, Diaz-Hernandez ME, Drissi H, Illien-Junger S. PHLPP1 deficiency protects against age-related intervertebral disc degeneration. JOR Spine 2022; 5:e1224. [PMID: 36601379 PMCID: PMC9799085 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1224] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is strongly associated with low back pain and is highly prevalent in the elderly population. Hallmarks of IVD degeneration include cell loss and extracellular matrix degradation. The PH domain leucine-rich-repeats protein phosphatase (PHLPP1) is highly expressed in diseased cartilaginous tissues where it is linked to extracellular matrix degradation. This study explored the ability of PHLPP1 deficiency to protect against age-related spontaneous IVD degeneration. Methods Lumbar IVDs of global Phlpp1 knockout (KO) and wildtype (WT) mice were collected at 5 months (young) and 20 months (aged). Picrosirius red-alcian blue staining (PR-AB) was performed to examine IVD structure and histological score. The expression of aggrecan, ADAMTS5, KRT19, FOXO1 and FOXO3 was analyzed through immunohistochemistry. Cell apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL assay. Human nucleus pulposus (NP) samples were obtained from patients diagnosed with IVD degeneration. PHLPP1 knockdown in human degenerated NP cells was conducted using small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection. The expression of PHLPP1 regulated downstream targets was analyzed via immunoblot and real time quantitative PCR. Results Histological analysis showed that Phlpp1 KO decreased the prevalence and severity of age-related IVD degeneration. The deficiency of PHLPP1 promoted the increased expression of NP phenotypic marker KRT19, aggrecan and FOXO1, and decreased levels of ADMATS5 and cell apoptosis in the NP of aged mice. In degenerated human NP cells, PHLPP1 knockdown induced FOXO1 protein levels while FOXO1 inhibition offset the beneficial effects of PHLPP1 knockdown on KRT19 gene and protein expression. Conclusions Our findings indicate that Phlpp1 deficiency protected against NP phenotypic changes, extracellular matrix degradation, and cell apoptosis in the process of IVD degeneration, probably through FOXO1 activation, making PHLPP1 a promising therapeutic target for treating IVD degeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Changli Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta Georgia USA
| | - Katherine M Joseph
- Department of Orthopaedics Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta Georgia USA
| | - Nazir M Khan
- Department of Orthopaedics Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta Georgia USA
| | | | - Hicham Drissi
- Department of Orthopaedics Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta Georgia USA
| | - Svenja Illien-Junger
- Department of Orthopaedics Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta Georgia USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Fiordalisi MF, Ferreira JR, Pinto ML, Ribeiro-Machado C, Teixeira Pinto M, Oliveira MJ, Barbosa MA, Madeira Gonçalves R, Caldeira J. The impact of matrix age on intervertebral disc regeneration. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2022; 143:213192. [PMID: 36403438 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2022.213192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
With the lack of effective treatments for low back pain, the use of extracellular matrix (ECM)-based biomaterials have emerged with undeniable promise for IVD regeneration. Decellularized scaffolds can recreate an ideal microenvironment inducing tissue remodeling and repair. In particular, fetal tissues have a superior regenerative capacity given their ECM composition. In line with this, we unraveled age-associated alterations of the nucleus pulposus (NP) matrisome. Thus, the aim of the present work was to evaluate the impact of ECM donor age on IVD de/regeneration. Accordingly, we optimized an SDS (0.1 %, 1 h)-based decellularization protocol that preserves ECM cues in bovine NPs from different ages. After repopulation with adult NP cells, younger matrices showed the highest repopulation efficiency. Most importantly, cells seeded on younger scaffolds produced healthy ECM proteins suggesting an increased capacity to restore a functional IVD microenvironment. In vivo, only fetal matrices decreased neovessel formation, showing an anti-angiogenic potential. Our findings demonstrate that ECM donor age has a strong influence on angiogenesis and ECM de novo synthesis, opening new avenues for novel therapeutic strategies for the IVD. Additionally, more appropriate 3D models to study age-associated IVD pathology were unveiled.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morena Francesca Fiordalisi
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4200-135, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Porto 4200-135, Portugal; ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4050-313, Portugal
| | - Joana Rita Ferreira
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4200-135, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Porto 4200-135, Portugal; ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4050-313, Portugal
| | - Marta Laranjeiro Pinto
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Ribeiro-Machado
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4200-135, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Porto 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Marta Teixeira Pinto
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4200-135, Portugal; IPATIMUP - Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, Porto 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Maria José Oliveira
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4200-135, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Porto 4200-135, Portugal; ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4050-313, Portugal; Department of Pathology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto 4200-319, Portugal
| | - Mário Adolfo Barbosa
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4200-135, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Porto 4200-135, Portugal; ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4050-313, Portugal
| | - Raquel Madeira Gonçalves
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4200-135, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Porto 4200-135, Portugal; ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4050-313, Portugal
| | - Joana Caldeira
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto 4200-135, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Porto 4200-135, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Injectable Cell-Laden Nanofibrous Matrix for Treating Annulus Fibrosus Defects in Porcine Model: An Organ Culture Study. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12111866. [PMID: 36431001 PMCID: PMC9694927 DOI: 10.3390/life12111866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Lower back pain commonly arises from intervertebral disc (IVD) failure, often caused by deteriorating annulus fibrosus (AF) and/or nucleus pulposus (NP) tissue. High socioeconomic cost, quality of life issues, and unsatisfactory surgical options motivate the rapid development of non-invasive, regenerative repair strategies for lower back pain. This study aims to evaluate the AF regenerative capacity of injectable matrix repair strategy in ex vivo porcine organ culturing using collagen type-I and polycaprolactone nanofibers (PNCOL) with encapsulated fibroblast cells. Upon 14 days organ culturing, the porcine IVDs were assessed using gross optical imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), histological analysis, and Reverse Transcriptase quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) to determine the regenerative capabilities of the PNCOL matrix at the AF injury. PNCOL-treated AF defects demonstrated a full recovery with increased gene expressions of AF extracellular matrix markers, including Collagen-I, Aggrecan, Scleraxis, and Tenascin, along with anti-inflammatory markers such as CD206 and IL10. The PNCOL treatment effectively regenerates the AF tissue at the injury site contributing to decreased herniation risk and improved surgical outcomes, thus providing effective non-invasive strategies for treating IVD injuries.
Collapse
|
23
|
Reiter MP, Ward SH, Perry B, Mann A, Freeman JW, Tiku ML. Intra-articular injection of epigallocatechin (EGCG) crosslinks and alters biomechanical properties of articular cartilage, a study via nanoindentation. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276626. [PMID: 36282841 PMCID: PMC9595553 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276626] [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: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are debilitating conditions, affecting millions of people. Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis degrade the articular cartilage (AC) at the ends of long bones, resulting in weakened tissue prone to further damage. This degradation impairs the cartilage’s mechanical properties leading to areas of thinned cartilage and exposed bone which compromises the integrity of the joint. No preventative measures exist for joint destruction. Discovering a way to slow the degradation of AC or prevent it would slow the painful progression of the disease, allowing millions to live pain-free. Recently, that the articular injection of the polyphenol epigallocatechin-gallate (EGCG) slows AC damage in an arthritis rat model. It was suggested that EGCG crosslinks AC and makes it resistant to degradation. However, direct evidence that intraarticular injection of EGCG crosslinks cartilage collagen and changes its compressive properties are not known. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of intraarticular injection of EGCG induced biomechanical properties of AC. We hypothesize that in vivo exposure EGCG will bind and crosslink to AC collagen and alter its biomechanical properties. We developed a technique of nano-indentation to investigate articular cartilage properties by measuring cartilage compressive properties and quantifying differences due to EGCG exposure. In this study, the rat knee joint was subjected to a series of intraarticular injections of EGCG and contralateral knee joint was injected with saline. After the injections animals were sacrificed, and the knees were removed and tested in an anatomically relevant model of nanoindentation. All mechanical data was normalized to the measurements in the contralateral knee to better compare data between the animals. The data demonstrated significant increases for reduced elastic modulus (57.5%), hardness (83.2%), and stiffness (17.6%) in cartilage treated with injections of EGCG normalized to those treated with just saline solution when compared to baseline subjects without injections, with a significance level of alpha = 0.05. This data provides evidence that EGCG treated cartilage yields a strengthened cartilage matrix as compared to AC from the saline injected knees. These findings are significant because the increase in cartilage biomechanics will translate into resistance to degradation in arthritis. Furthermore, the data suggest for the first time that it is possible to strengthen the articular cartilage by intraarticular injections of polyphenols. Although this data is preliminary, it suggests that clinical applications of EGCG treated cartilage could yield strengthened tissue with the potential to resist or compensate for matrix degradation caused by arthritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Pat Reiter
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Shawn H. Ward
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Barbara Perry
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Rutgers University Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Adrian Mann
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Joseph W. Freeman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Moti L. Tiku
- Department of Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Chen R, Tan Y, Li Y, Huang J, Kuang L, Ni Z, Lan H, Long R, Xie Y, Chen H, Luo X, Chen L, Tang Y, Zhou S. Exogenous Indian hedgehog antagonist damages intervertebral discs homeostasis in adult mice. J Orthop Translat 2022; 36:164-176. [PMID: 36263384 PMCID: PMC9550854 DOI: 10.1016/j.jot.2022.09.009] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Vismodegib, as an exogenous Indian hedgehog (Ihh) antagonist, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the clinical treatment of patients with basal cell carcinoma, and previous observations implicate the potential therapeutic of vismodegib in osteoarthritis treatment. However, there is no direct evidence for the role of Ihh signaling in intervertebral discs (IVDs) homeostasis of adult mice. The aim of the present study is to assess the effect of systemic administration of Smoothened inhibitor (SMOi) - vismodegib on IVDs homeostasis during the adult stage. Methods The expression of glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 (Gli1), the downstream targeting gene of Ihh signaling, in IVDs of adult mice after receiving systemic administration of SMOi was examined by immunohistochemistry. The pathological changes of vertebral bodies after SMOi treatment were evaluated by X-ray and micro-CT. The effects of SMOi on homeostasis of IVDs including cartilaginous endplates (CEP), growth plates (GP) and annulus fibrous (AF) were evaluated by histological analysis. The expressions of Aggrecan, Matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP13) and Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), in IVDs were also investigated by immunohistochemistry. Changes in chondrocyte apoptosis and proliferation in IVDs were evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay and analyzing the expression of the cell proliferation antigen Ki-67. Results Systemic administration of SMOi significantly decreased the expression of Gli1 in IVDs that indicating effective inhibition of Ihh signaling. Bone mass of vertebral bodies was diminished after SMOi treatment. Moreover, IVDs degeneration (IDD) like defects including CEP sclerosis, degenerative nucleus pulposus (NP) and fissure within AF, as well as narrowed or fused GP and loss bone mass of vertebral bodies was observed in SMOi-treated mice. The severity of IDD was time-dependent with the administration of SMOi treatment after 2-8 weeks. The expressions of Aggrecan, MMP13 and Runx2 in IVDs of mice receiving SMOi treatment were significantly decreased. In addition, chondrocyte apoptosis was significantly enhanced, while chondrocyte proliferation was significantly inhibited. Conclusions Our study propose that systemic administration of vismodegib damages IVDs homeostasis via inhibition of Ihh signaling in adult mice. The clinical application of Ihh signaling antagonists such as vismodegib should be careful considering these side adverse. The Translational Potential of this Article Vismodegib as an exogenous antagonist of Ihh signaling has been approved by the FDA for the clinical treatment of patients with basal cell carcinoma. However, it is still unknown whether vismodegib will has adverse effects on the patient or animal model of IVDs cartilage homeostasis. Based on our study, systemic administration of vismodegib damages IVDs homeostasis via inhibition of Ihh signaling in adult mice and special attention should be paid to the clinical application of vismodegib.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ran Chen
- War Trauma Medical Center, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical Center, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 40038, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya Tan
- Department of Hematology, Southwest Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of the Army Medical University, Chongqing, 40038, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Li
- War Trauma Medical Center, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical Center, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 40038, People's Republic of China
| | - Junlan Huang
- Department of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 40038, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Kuang
- Department of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 40038, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenhong Ni
- Department of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 40038, People's Republic of China
| | - Haiyang Lan
- Department of Orthopedics, Army Medical Center, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 40038, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Long
- Department of Emergence Medicine, Army Medical Center, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 40038, People's Republic of China
| | - Yangli Xie
- Department of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 40038, People's Republic of China
| | - Hangang Chen
- Department of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 40038, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoqing Luo
- Department of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 40038, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Chen
- Department of Wound Repair and Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 40038, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Tang
- War Trauma Medical Center, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical Center, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 40038, People's Republic of China,Department of Emergence Medicine, Army Medical Center, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 40038, People's Republic of China,Corresponding author.
| | - Siru Zhou
- War Trauma Medical Center, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical Center, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 40038, People's Republic of China,Corresponding author.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Circ0007042 alleviates intervertebral disc degeneration by adsorbing miR-369 to upregulate BMP2 and activate the PI3K/AKt pathway. Arthritis Res Ther 2022; 24:214. [PMID: 36068615 PMCID: PMC9446735 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-022-02895-7] [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] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To identify regulatory ncRNA molecules that can cause differential expression of CDH2 in intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) and explore whether there are other ways to affect the progression of IDD. Methods A primary culture of human nucleus pulposus (NP) cells was established and identified by immunofluorescence. An in vitro IDD model was constructed by compressing human NP cells, and the MTT assay was used to measure cell viability. Changes in the ncRNA group were analysed by RNA-seq. The expression levels of hsa_circ_7042, CDH2, and miR-369-3p were detected by qPCR. Cell apoptosis, senescence, and extracellular matrix (ECM) metabolism were detected by flow cytometry, β-galactosidase staining, and Western blotting. hsa_circ_7042, miR-369-3p, and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) were verified by luciferase and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) analyses. The PI3K/Akt pathway was validated by transfection of BMP2 siRNA. Furthermore, a mouse model of lumbar spine instability was constructed. circ_7042 adenovirus was packaged and injected into the intervertebral discs of mice, and the influence of circ_7042 overexpression on intervertebral disc degeneration was determined. Results Western blotting, qPCR, and flow cytometry analyses confirmed that overexpression of circ_7042 could downregulate miR-369-3p and upregulate the expression of CDH2 and BMP2 in IDD cell and animal models. Additionally, the levels of apoptotic and senescent cells decreased, and ECM degradation decreased. The PI3K/Akt pathway was significantly activated after circ_7042 was overexpressed. The injection of circ_7042-overexpressing adenovirus effectively reduced ECM degradation and the level of apoptosis in NP tissue. Conclusions circ_7042 could upregulate the expression of CDH2 and BMP2 by absorbing miR-369-3p, and the increased BMP2 activated the PI3K/Akt pathway, thus improving IDD. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13075-022-02895-7.
Collapse
|
26
|
Researches on Stem and Progenitor Cells in Intervertebral Discs: An Analysis of the Scientific Landscape. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:1274580. [PMID: 36093440 PMCID: PMC9458398 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1274580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is a common clinical symptom, and the prevalence is ranged from 60% to 70%. With the deepening of basic research, the development of intervertebral disc regeneration-oriented cell therapy, especially stem and progenitor cells therapy, showed good research prospects and was expected to become new methods of treatment for LBP. Our study is aimed at analyzing the scientific output of stem and progenitor cells in intervertebral discs and at driving future research into new publications. Researches focused on this file were searched from the Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-E) of the Web of Science (WOS) core collection database and were screened according to inclusion criteria. We evaluated and visualized the results, including annual publications, citations, authors, organizations, countries, research directions, funds, and journals by bibliometric website, VOSviewer, and Citespace softwares on May 27, 2022. A total of 450 original articles and reviews were included, and the overall trend of the number of publications rapidly increased. In worldwide, China and the USA were the leading countries for research production. The retrieved 450 publications received 14322 citations, with an average of 31.83 citations and an H-index of 62. The most high-yield author, organization, country, research directions, funds, and journals were Chen QX from Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, China, Cell Biology, National Natural Science Foundation of China, and Spine, respectively. Keywords cluster analysis showed the research hotspots in the future, including “human intervertebral disc”, “adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell”, “intervertebral disc degeneration”, “degenerative disc model”, “nucleus pulposus regeneration”, “human cartilage”, “3d culture”, “shrinkage-free preparation”, and “polylactide disc”. Furthermore, with accumulating evidence demonstrating the role of stem and progenitor cells in intervertebral discs, “microenvironment”, “activation”, “intervertebral disc degeneration”, and “oxidative stress” are becoming the research frontiers and trends.
Collapse
|
27
|
Bahar ME, Hwang JS, Ahmed M, Lai TH, Pham TM, Elashkar O, Akter KM, Kim DH, Yang J, Kim DR. Targeting Autophagy for Developing New Therapeutic Strategy in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11081571. [PMID: 36009290 PMCID: PMC9405341 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11081571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a prevalent cause of low back pain. IVDD is characterized by abnormal expression of extracellular matrix components such as collagen and aggrecan. In addition, it results in dysfunctional growth, senescence, and death of intervertebral cells. The biological pathways involved in the development and progression of IVDD are not fully understood. Therefore, a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying IVDD could aid in the development of strategies for prevention and treatment. Autophagy is a cellular process that removes damaged proteins and dysfunctional organelles, and its dysfunction is linked to a variety of diseases, including IVDD and osteoarthritis. In this review, we describe recent research findings on the role of autophagy in IVDD pathogenesis and highlight autophagy-targeting molecules which can be exploited to treat IVDD. Many studies exhibit that autophagy protects against and postpones disc degeneration. Further research is needed to determine whether autophagy is required for cell integrity in intervertebral discs and to establish autophagy as a viable therapeutic target for IVDD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Entaz Bahar
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Jin Seok Hwang
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Mahmoud Ahmed
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Trang Huyen Lai
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Trang Minh Pham
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Omar Elashkar
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Kazi-Marjahan Akter
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Dong-Hee Kim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Institute of Health Sciences, Gyeongsang National University Hospital and Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Jinsung Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
| | - Deok Ryong Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Convergence Medical Science, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, GyeongNam, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-55-772-8054
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Zhang S, Liu W, Chen S, Wang B, Wang P, Hu B, Lv X, Shao Z. Extracellular matrix in intervertebral disc: basic and translational implications. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 390:1-22. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03662-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
29
|
Ji Z, Guo R, Ma Z, Li H. Arctigenin inhibits apoptosis, extracellular matrix degradation, and inflammation in human nucleus pulposus cells by up-regulating miR-483-3p. J Clin Lab Anal 2022; 36:e24508. [PMID: 35689566 PMCID: PMC9280009 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.24508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Arctigenin (ATG) is the active ingredient of the Chinese herbal medicine Arctium lappa, with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Excessive inflammation and cell apoptosis are important causes of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). Hence, this study probed into the possible role of ATG in IDD. METHODS Interleukin (IL)-1β (10 ng/ml) was adopted to induce human nucleus pulposus cells (HNPCs) as a cell model for IDD. The effects of different concentrations of ATG (0, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 μmol/L) on the viability of HNPCs and effects of ATG (10, 50 μmol/L) on the viability of IL-1β-induced HNPCs were detected by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8). After IL-1β-induced HNPCs were transfected with miR-483-3p inhibitor and/or treated with ATG, cell viability and apoptosis were determined by CCK-8 and flow cytometry; the expressions of miR-483-3p, extracellular matrix (ECM)-related genes, and inflammation-related genes were measured by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and expressions of ECM/apoptosis/NF-κB pathway-related proteins were quantified by Western blot. RESULTS ATG had no significant effect on the viability of HNPCs but could promote the viability of IL-1β-induced HNPCs. ATG inhibited apoptosis, ECM degradation, inflammation, and activation of NF-κB pathway in HNPCs induced by IL-1β, but promoted the expression of miR-483-3p. MiR-483-3p inhibitor reversed the above-mentioned regulatory effects of ATG. CONCLUSION Arctigenin suppresses apoptosis, ECM degradation, inflammation, and NF-κB pathway activation in HNPCs by up-regulating miR-483-3p.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Ji
- Orthopedic Center Spine SurgeryPeople's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous RegionUrumqiChina
| | - Rui Guo
- Orthopedic Center Spine SurgeryPeople's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous RegionUrumqiChina
| | - Zhigang Ma
- Orthopedic Center Spine SurgeryPeople's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous RegionUrumqiChina
| | - Hongwei Li
- Orthopedic Center Spine SurgeryPeople's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous RegionUrumqiChina
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Importance of Matrix Cues on Intervertebral Disc Development, Degeneration, and Regeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23136915. [PMID: 35805921 PMCID: PMC9266338 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23136915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Back pain is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide and is frequently caused by degeneration of the intervertebral discs. The discs’ development, homeostasis, and degeneration are driven by a complex series of biochemical and physical extracellular matrix cues produced by and transmitted to native cells. Thus, understanding the roles of different cues is essential for designing effective cellular and regenerative therapies. Omics technologies have helped identify many new matrix cues; however, comparatively few matrix molecules have thus far been incorporated into tissue engineered models. These include collagen type I and type II, laminins, glycosaminoglycans, and their biomimetic analogues. Modern biofabrication techniques, such as 3D bioprinting, are also enabling the spatial patterning of matrix molecules and growth factors to direct regional effects. These techniques should now be applied to biochemically, physically, and structurally relevant disc models incorporating disc and stem cells to investigate the drivers of healthy cell phenotype and differentiation. Such research will inform the development of efficacious regenerative therapies and improved clinical outcomes.
Collapse
|
31
|
Ottone OK, Kim C, Collins JA, Risbud MV. The cGAS-STING Pathway Affects Vertebral Bone but Does Not Promote Intervertebral Disc Cell Senescence or Degeneration. Front Immunol 2022; 13:882407. [PMID: 35769461 PMCID: PMC9235924 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.882407] [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: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The DNA-sensing cGAS-STING pathway promotes the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and mediates type-I interferon inflammatory responses to foreign viral and bacterial DNA as well as self-DNA. Studies of the intervertebral disc in humans and mice demonstrate associations between aging, increased cell senescence, and disc degeneration. Herein we assessed the role of STING in SASP promotion in STING gain- (N153S) and loss-of-function mouse models. N153S mice evidenced elevated circulating levels of proinflammatory markers including IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, showed elevated monocyte and macrophage abundance in the vertebral marrow, and exhibited a mild trabecular and cortical bone phenotype in caudal vertebrae. Interestingly, despite systemic inflammation, the structural integrity of the disc and knee articular joint remained intact, and cells did not show a loss of their phenotype or elevated SASP. Transcriptomic analysis of N153S tissues demonstrated an upregulated immune response by disc cells, which did not closely resemble inflammatory changes in human tissues. Interestingly, STING-/- mice also showed a mild vertebral bone phenotype, but the absence of STING did not reduce the abundance of SASP markers or improve the age-associated disc phenotype. Overall, the analyses of N153S and STING-/- mice suggest that the cGAS-STING pathway is not a major contributor to SASP induction and consequent disc aging and degeneration but may play a minor role in the maintenance of trabecular bone in the vertebrae. This work contributes to a growing body of work demonstrating that systemic inflammation is not a key driver of disc degeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivia K. Ottone
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Graduate Program in Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Jefferson College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Cheeho Kim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - John A. Collins
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Makarand V. Risbud
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Graduate Program in Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Jefferson College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- *Correspondence: Makarand V. Risbud,
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
Aggrecan (Acan) and versican (Vcan) are large chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans of the extracellular matrix. They share the same structural domains at both N and C-termini. The N-terminal G1 domain binds hyaluronan (HA), forms an HA-rich matrix, and regulates HA-mediated signaling. The C-terminal G3 domain binds other extracellular matrix molecules and forms a supramolecular structure that stores TGFb and BMPs and regulates their signaling. EGF-like motifs in the G3 domain may directly act like an EGF ligand. Both Acan and Vcan are present in cartilage, intervertebral disc, brain, heart, and aorta. Their localizations are essentially reciprocal. This review describes their structural domains, expression patterns and functions, and regulation of their expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hideto Watanabe
- Institute for Molecular Science of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Fan N, Yuan S, Hai Y, Du P, Li J, Kong X, Zhu W, Liu Y, Zang L. Identifying the potential role of IL-1β in the molecular mechanisms of disc degeneration using gene expression profiling and bioinformatics analysis. J Orthop Surg (Hong Kong) 2022; 30:23094990211068203. [PMID: 35042389 DOI: 10.1177/23094990211068203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We performed a bioinformatics analysis to identify the key genes that were differentially expressed between degenerative intervertebral disc (IVD) cells with and without exposure to interleukin-1β and explore the related signaling pathways and interaction networks. METHODS The microarray data were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (27,494). Then, analyses of the gene ontology, signaling pathways, and interaction networks for the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were conducted using tools including the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery, Metascape, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis, Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes, Cytoscape, Venn method, and packages of the R computing language. RESULTS A total of 260 DEGs were identified, including 161 upregulated and 99 downregulated genes. Gene Ontology annotation analysis showed that these DEGs were mainly associated with the extracellular region, chemotaxis, taxis, cytokine activity, and cytokine receptor binding. A Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes signaling pathway analysis showed that these DEGs were mainly involved in the of cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, rheumatoid arthritis, tumor necrosis factor signaling pathway, Salmonella infection, and chemokine signaling pathway. The interaction network analysis indicated that 10 hub genes, including CXCL8, CXCL1, CCL20, CXCL2, CXCL5, CXCL3, CXCL6, C3, PF4, and GPER1 may play key roles in IVD degeneration. CONCLUSIONS Bioinformatic analysis showed that CXCL8 and other nine key genes may play a role in the development of disc degeneration induced by inflammatory reactions and can be used to identify potential target genes for therapeutic applications in IVD degeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ning Fan
- Department of Orthopedics, 74639Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuo Yuan
- Department of Orthopedics, 74639Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Hai
- Department of Orthopedics, 74639Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Du
- Department of Orthopedics, 74639Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Orthopedics, 74639Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaochuan Kong
- Department of Orthopedics, 74639Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenyi Zhu
- Department of Orthopedics, 74639Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuzeng Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, 74639Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Zang
- Department of Orthopedics, 74639Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Depleted Long Noncoding RNA GAS5 Relieves Intervertebral Disc Degeneration via microRNA-17-3p/Ang-2. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:1792412. [PMID: 35340210 PMCID: PMC8941580 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1792412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) remains a clinical challenge and requires more effective therapeutic targets. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as critical modulators of multiple biological processes, such as cell proliferation and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. Accordingly, the current study sets out to explore the influence of the lncRNA growth arrest-specific 5 (GAS5) on IVDD and investigate the possible involvement of microRNA-17-3p (miR-17-3p)/Angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) axis. Firstly, the expression patterns of GAS5, miR-17-3p, and Ang-2 were characterized by RNA quantification from the isolated human degenerative nucleus pulposus (NP) tissues. miR-17-3p was found to express at an abnormal low level while GAS5 and Ang-2 expressed at aberrant high level in the human degenerative NP tissues. Utilizing dual-luciferase reporter, RNA immunoprecipitation, and pull-down assays, GAS5 was found to competitively bound to miR-17-3p and further upregulate the expression of Ang-2, a target gene of miR-17-3p. Employing gain- and loss-of-function approaches, their expressions were altered in human degenerative nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs), followed by IL-1β treatment, in order to identify their roles in NP cell proliferation, apoptosis, and ECM metabolism. Silencing of GAS5 expression restrained the levels of cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-7, cleaved caspase-9, MMP3, MMP13, ADAMTS4, and ADAMTS5 and increased collagen II and aggrecan levels. In vitro experiments also revealed that GAS5 depletion inhibited apoptosis and ECM degradation in HDNPCs, while elevating the proliferation through downregulation of Ang-2 by increasing miR-17-3p. Furthermore, in vivo data further validated that either GAS5 silencing or miR-17-3p reexpression alleviated IVDD degree with the help of IVDD mouse models. Altogether, our findings substantiated that downregulation of GAS5 reduced NPC apoptosis and promoted ECM remodeling, ultimately ameliorating the IVDD via miR-17-3p-dependent inhibition of Ang-2. We hope our discoveries offer a fresh molecular insight that can aid the development of novel therapies against IVDD.
Collapse
|
35
|
Hickman TT, Rathan-Kumar S, Peck SH. Development, Pathogenesis, and Regeneration of the Intervertebral Disc: Current and Future Insights Spanning Traditional to Omics Methods. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:841831. [PMID: 35359439 PMCID: PMC8963184 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.841831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The intervertebral disc (IVD) is the fibrocartilaginous joint located between each vertebral body that confers flexibility and weight bearing capabilities to the spine. The IVD plays an important role in absorbing shock and stress applied to the spine, which helps to protect not only the vertebral bones, but also the brain and the rest of the central nervous system. Degeneration of the IVD is correlated with back pain, which can be debilitating and severely affects quality of life. Indeed, back pain results in substantial socioeconomic losses and healthcare costs globally each year, with about 85% of the world population experiencing back pain at some point in their lifetimes. Currently, therapeutic strategies for treating IVD degeneration are limited, and as such, there is great interest in advancing treatments for back pain. Ideally, treatments for back pain would restore native structure and thereby function to the degenerated IVD. However, the complex developmental origin and tissue composition of the IVD along with the avascular nature of the mature disc makes regeneration of the IVD a uniquely challenging task. Investigators across the field of IVD research have been working to elucidate the mechanisms behind the formation of this multifaceted structure, which may identify new therapeutic targets and inform development of novel regenerative strategies. This review summarizes current knowledge base on IVD development, degeneration, and regenerative strategies taken from traditional genetic approaches and omics studies and discusses the future landscape of investigations in IVD research and advancement of clinical therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tara T. Hickman
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Center for Bone Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Sudiksha Rathan-Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Center for Bone Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Sun H. Peck
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Center for Bone Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- *Correspondence: Sun H. Peck,
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
McDonnell EE, Buckley CT. Consolidating and re-evaluating the human disc nutrient microenvironment. JOR Spine 2022; 5:e1192. [PMID: 35386756 PMCID: PMC8966889 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite exciting advances in regenerative medicine, cell‐based strategies for treating degenerative disc disease remain in their infancy. To maximize the potential for successful clinical translation, a more thorough understanding of the in vivo microenvironment is needed to better determine and predict how cell therapies will respond when administered in vivo. Aims This work aims to reflect on the in vivo nutrient microenvironment of the degenerating IVD through consolidating what has already been measured together with investigative in silico models. Materials and Methods This work uses in silico modeling, underpinned by more recent experimentally determined parameters of degeneration and nutrient transport from the literature, to re‐evaluate the current knowledge in terms of grade‐specific stages of degeneration. Results Through modeling only the metabolically active cell population, this work predicts slightly higher glucose concentrations compared to previous in silico models, while the predicted results show good agreement with previous intradiscal pH and oxygen measurements. Increasing calcification with degeneration limits nutrient transport into the IVD and initiates a build‐up of acidity; however, its effect is compensated somewhat by a reduction in diffusional distance due to decreasing disc height. Discussion This work advances in silico modeling through a strong foundation of experimentally determined grade‐specific input parameters. Taken together, pre‐existing measurements and predicted results suggest that metabolite concentrations may not be as critically low as commonly believed, with calcification not appearing to have a detrimental effect at stages of degeneration when cell therapies are an appropriate intervention. Conclusion Overall, our initiative is to provoke greater deliberation and consideration of the nutrient microenvironment when performing in vitro cell culture and cell therapy development. This work highlights urgency for robust experimental glucose measurements in healthy and degenerating IVDs, not only to validate in silico models but to significantly advance the field in fully elucidating the nutrient microenvironment and refining in vitro techniques to accelerate clinical translation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily E McDonnell
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin Dublin Ireland.,Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin Dublin Ireland
| | - Conor T Buckley
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin Dublin Ireland.,Discipline of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin Dublin Ireland.,Advanced Materials and Bioengineering Research (AMBER) Centre, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland & Trinity College Dublin The University of Dublin Dublin Ireland.,Tissue Engineering Research Group, Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Medicine Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Dublin Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Lin H, Tian S, Peng Y, Wu L, Xiao Y, Qing X, Shao Z. IGF Signaling in Intervertebral Disc Health and Disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:817099. [PMID: 35178405 PMCID: PMC8843937 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.817099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is a common musculoskeletal symptom, which brings a lot of pain and economic loss to patients. One of the most common causes of LBP is intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). However, pathogenesis is still debated, and therapeutic options are limited. Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling pathways play an important role in regulating different cell processes, including proliferation, differentiation, migration, or cell death, which are critical to the homeostasis of tissues and organs. The IGF signaling is crucial in the occurrence and progression of IVDD. The activation of IGF signaling retards IVDD by increasing cell proliferation, promoting extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis, inhibiting ECM decomposition, and preventing apoptosis and senescence of disc cells. However, abnormal activation of IGF signaling may promote the process of IVDD. IGF signaling is currently considered to have a promising treatment prospect for IVDD. An in-depth understanding of the role of IGF signaling in IVDD may help find a novel approach for IVDD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Lin
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuo Tian
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yizhong Peng
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ling Wu
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Xiao
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiangcheng Qing
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zengwu Shao
- Department of Orthopedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Smith MM, Hayes AJ, Melrose J. Pentosan Polysulphate (PPS), a Semi-Synthetic Heparinoid DMOAD With Roles in Intervertebral Disc Repair Biology emulating The Stem Cell Instructive and Tissue Reparative Properties of Heparan Sulphate. Stem Cells Dev 2022; 31:406-430. [PMID: 35102748 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2022.0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This review highlights the attributes of pentosan polysulphate (PPS) in the promotion of intervertebral disc (IVD) repair processes. PPS has been classified as a disease modifying osteoarthritic drug (DMOAD) and many studies have demonstrated its positive attributes in the countering of degenerative changes occurring in cartilaginous tissues during the development of osteoarthritis (OA). Degenerative changes in the IVD also involve inflammatory cytokines, degradative proteases and cell signalling pathways similar to those operative in the development of OA in articular cartilage. PPS acts as a heparan sulphate (HS) mimetic to effect its beneficial effects in cartilage. The IVD contains small cell membrane HS-proteoglycans (HSPGs) such as syndecan, and glypican and a large multifunctional HS/chondroitin sulphate (CS) hybrid proteoglycan (HSPG2/perlecan) that have important matrix stabilising properties and sequester, control and present growth factors from the FGF, VEGF, PDGF and BMP families to cellular receptors to promote cell proliferation, differentiation and matrix synthesis. HSPG2 also has chondrogenic properties and stimulates the synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, expansion of cartilaginous rudiments and has roles in matrix stabilisation and repair. Perlecan is a perinuclear and nuclear proteoglycan in IVD cells with roles in chromatin organisation and control of transcription factor activity, immunolocalises to stem cell niches in cartilage, promotes escape of stem cells from quiescent recycling, differentiation and attainment of pluripotency and migratory properties. These participate in tissue development and morphogenesis, ECM remodelling and repair. PPS also localises in the nucleus of stromal stem cells, promotes development of chondroprogenitor cell lineages, ECM synthesis and repair and discal repair by resident disc cells. The availability of recombinant perlecan and PPS offer new opportunities in repair biology. These multifunctional agents offer welcome new developments in repair strategies for the IVD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret M Smith
- The University of Sydney Raymond Purves Bone and Joint Research Laboratories, 247198, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia;
| | - Anthony J Hayes
- Cardiff School of Biosciences, University of Cardiff, UK, Bioimaging Unit, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland;
| | - James Melrose
- Kolling Institute, University of Sydney, Royal North Shore Hospital, Raymond Purves Lab, Sydney Medical School Northern, Level 10, Kolling Institute B6, Royal North Shore Hospital, St. Leonards, New South Wales, Australia, 2065.,University of New South Wales, 7800, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, 2052;
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Tan J, Li Z, Liu L, Liu H, Xue J. IL‐17 in intervertebral disc degeneration: mechanistic insights and therapeutic implications. Cell Biol Int 2022; 46:535-547. [PMID: 35066966 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jing‐Hua Tan
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Spine Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South ChinaHengyangHunan421001China
| | - Ze‐Peng Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Spine Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South ChinaHengyangHunan421001China
| | - Lu‐Lu Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Spine Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South ChinaHengyangHunan421001China
| | - Hao Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Spine Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South ChinaHengyangHunan421001China
| | - Jing‐Bo Xue
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Spine Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South ChinaHengyangHunan421001China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
The expression of metalloproteinases in the lumbar disc correlates strongly with Pfirrmann MRI grades in lumbar spinal fusion patients. BRAIN AND SPINE 2022; 2:100872. [PMID: 36248158 PMCID: PMC9560696 DOI: 10.1016/j.bas.2022.100872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Increased catabolism of the extracellular matrix is observed under degenerative disc disease (DDD). The cleavage of extracellular matrix proteins in the nucleus pulposus (NP) by either matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) or a disintegrin and metalloproteinases with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTSs) is believed to be involved in the degeneration, but the mechanisms are not known. Research question Here, we examine the correlation between expression of several MMPs and ADAMTSs subtypes in lumbar discs from 34 patients with low back pain (LBP) undergoing 1-2 level lumbar fusion surgery (L4/L5 and/or L5/S1) for DDD with or without spondylolisthesis. Materials and Methods The mRNA levels of MMPs (subtypes 1, 2, 3, 10, and 13) and ADAMTSs (subtypes 1, 4, and 5) were analyzed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and correlated to the Pfirrmann magnetic resonance imaging classification system (grade I-V) of lumbar DDD. Results We find a highly significant positive correlation between Pfirrmann grades and the gene expression of MMP1 (r=0.67, p=0.0001), MMP3 (r=0.61, p=0.0002), MMP10 (r=0.6701, p=0.0001), MMP13 (r=0.48, p=0.004), ADAMTS1 (r=0.67, p=0.0001), and ADAMTS5 (r=0.53, p=0.0017). The similar regulation of these transcript suggests their involvement in disc degeneration. Interestingly, a post hoc analysis (uncorrected p-values) also demonstrated a positive correlation between expression of TNF-α, IL-6 and both ADAMTSs/MMPs and the Pfirrmann grades. Discussion and Conclusion These findings show that disc degradation in DDD is strongly associated with the expression of some metalloproteinases. An imbalance between catabolism and anabolism of IVD matrix components. MMPs and ADAMTSs are expressed in the NP, and their expression levels increase with degeneration grade. Our results suggest that inflammatory cytokines participate in the regulation of MMPs and ADAMTSs.
Collapse
|
41
|
Culbert MP, Warren JP, Dixon AR, Fermor HL, Beales PA, Wilcox RK. Evaluation of injectable nucleus augmentation materials for the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration. Biomater Sci 2021; 10:874-891. [PMID: 34951410 DOI: 10.1039/d1bm01589c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Back pain affects a person's health and mobility as well as being associated with large health and social costs. Lower back pain is frequently caused by degeneration of the intervertebral disc. Current operative and non-operative treatments are often ineffective and expensive. Nucleus augmentation is designed to be a minimally invasive method of restoring the disc to its native healthy state by restoring the disc height, and mechanical and/or biological properties. The majority of the candidate materials for nucleus augmentation are injectable hydrogels. In this review, we examine the materials that are currently under investigation for nucleus augmentation, and compare their ability to meet the design requirements for this application. Specifically, the delivery of the material into the disc, the mechanical properties of the material and the biological compatibility are examined. Recommendations for future testing are also made.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew P Culbert
- Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Leeds, UK, LS2 9JT.
| | - James P Warren
- Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Leeds, UK, LS2 9JT.
| | - Andrew R Dixon
- Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Leeds, UK, LS2 9JT.
| | - Hazel L Fermor
- Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Leeds, UK, LS2 9JT.
| | - Paul A Beales
- School of Chemistry, Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology and Bragg Centre for Materials Research, University of Leeds, UK, LS2 9JT
| | - Ruth K Wilcox
- Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Leeds, UK, LS2 9JT.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Tran DT, Juang YC, Tsai L. Contrary response of porcine articular cartilage below and over 1000 s -1. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2021; 90:105506. [PMID: 34610506 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2021.105506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knee joints experience excessive loads quite frequently during sports activities, and these shocks could accelerate progressive degeneration in articular cartilage. METHODS Quasi-static and dynamic response of porcine knee articular cartilages were investigated in this research. Split Hopkinson Pressure Bars (SHPB) were utilized to examine the articular cartilage properties at strain rates between 0.01-2000 s-1. FINDINGS The results showed that strain rate is an important factor for articular cartilages, distinctively divided into above and below 1000 s-1. The articular cartilages exhibit a strain hardening phenomenon when shock loaded at strain rates under 1000 s-1. When loaded at strain rates over 1000 s-1, their ultimate strength and elastic modulus decreased with increasing strain rates. INTERPRETATION The biphasic structure of the cartilage explained the change of modulus. At the lower strain rates, fibers realigned and solidified the structure, while at higher strain rates, there is not enough time for the tissue fluid to move inside the cartilage, leading to a reduction in the deformability of the specimen and raising of Young's modulus. The results can be utilized to provide some useful data for biomaterial and computational works in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D T Tran
- National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, No. 415, Jiangong rd., Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Y C Juang
- National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, No. 415, Jiangong rd., Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - L Tsai
- National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, No. 415, Jiangong rd., Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Tavakoli J, Geargeflia S, Tipper JL, Diwan AD. Magnetic resonance elastography: A non-invasive biomarker for low back pain studies. BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING ADVANCES 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bea.2021.100014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
|
44
|
Wang H, Li F, Ban W, Zhang J, Zhang G. Human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Promote Proliferation of Degenerated Nucleus Pulposus Cells and the Synthesis of Extracellular Matrix Through the SOX4/Wnt/β-Catenin Axis. Front Physiol 2021; 12:723220. [PMID: 34777000 PMCID: PMC8581610 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.723220] [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: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Intervertebral disk degeneration (IDD) is a major cause of pain in the back, neck, and radiculus. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are therapeutic in musculoskeletal degenerative diseases such as IDD. This study explored the effect and functional mechanism of human bone MSCs (hBMSCs)-derived EVs in proliferation and apoptosis of degenerated nucleus pulposus cells (DNPCs) and extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis. Methods: Extracellular vesicles were isolated from hBMSCs and identified. DNPCs were induced by TNF-α. EVs were incubated with DNPCs for 24h. Internalization of EVs by DNPCs, DNPCs proliferation, apoptosis, and expressions of ECM synthetic genes, degrading genes and miR-129-5p were assessed. Downstream target genes of miR-129-5p were predicted. Target relation between miR-129-5p and SRY-box transcription factor 4 (SOX4) was verified. DNPCs proliferation, apoptosis, and ECM synthesis were measured after treatment with EVs and miR-129-5p inhibitor or SOX4 overexpression. Expressions of SOX4 and Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related proteins were determined. Results: hBMSC-EVs promoted DNPCs proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, increased expressions of ECM synthetic genes, and reduced expressions of ECM degrading genes. hBMSC-EVs carried miR-129-5p into DNPCs. Silencing miR-129-5p in EVs partially inverted the effect of EVs on DNPCs proliferation and ECM synthesis. miR-129-5p targeted SOX4. SOX4 overexpression annulled the effect of EVs on DNPCs proliferation and ECM synthesis. Expressions of Wnt1 and β-catenin were decreased in EVs-treated DNPCs, while silencing miR-129-5p in EVs promoted expressions of Wnt1 and β-catenin. Conclusion: hBMSC-EVs promoted DNPCs proliferation and ECM synthesis by carrying miR-129-5p into DNPCs to target SOX4 and deactivating the Wnt/β-catenin axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haoyu Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wenrui Ban
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Guiqi Zhang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, Dalian, China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Zaykov V, Chaqour B. The CCN2/CTGF interactome: an approach to understanding the versatility of CCN2/CTGF molecular activities. J Cell Commun Signal 2021; 15:567-580. [PMID: 34613590 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-021-00650-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular communication network 2 (CCN2), also known as connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) regulates diverse cellular processes, some at odds with others, including adhesion, proliferation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix (ECM) protein synthesis. Although a cause-and-effect relationship between CCN2/CTGF expression and local fibrotic reactions has initially been established, CCN2/CTGF manifests cell-, tissue-, and context-specific functions and differentially affects developmental and pathological processes ranging from progenitor cell fate decisions and angiogenesis to inflammation and tumorigenesis. CCN2/CTGF multimodular structure, binding to and activation or inhibition of multiple cell surface receptors, growth factors and ECM proteins, and susceptibility for proteolytic cleavage highlight the complexity to CCN2/CTGF biochemical attributes. CCN2/CTGF expression and dosage in the local environment affects a defined community of its interacting partners, and this results in sequestration of growth factors, interference with or potentiation of ligand-receptor binding, cellular internalization of CCN2/CTGF, inhibition or activation of proteases, and generation of CCN2/CTGF degradome products that add molecular diversity and expand the repertoire of functional modules in the cells and their microenvironment. Through these interactions, different intracellular signals and cellular responses are elicited culminating into physiological or pathological reactions. Thus, the CCN2/CTGF interactome is a defining factor of its tissue- and context-specific effects. Mapping of new CCN2/CTGF binding partners might shed light on yet unknown roles of CCN2/CTGF and provide a solid basis for tissue-specific targeting this molecule or its interacting partners in a therapeutic context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viktor Zaykov
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Health Science University, 450 Clarkson Avenue, MSC 5, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Brahim Chaqour
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Health Science University, 450 Clarkson Avenue, MSC 5, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA. .,Department of Ophthalmology, State University of New York (SUNY), Downstate Health Science University, 450 Clarkson Avenue, MSC 5, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Eckersley A, Ozols M, Chen P, Tam V, Hoyland JA, Trafford A, Chan D, Sherratt MJ. Peptide Location Fingerprinting Reveals Tissue Region-Specific Differences in Protein Structures in an Ageing Human Organ. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10408. [PMID: 34638745 PMCID: PMC8509034 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In ageing tissues, long-lived extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins are susceptible to the accumulation of structural damage due to diverse mechanisms including glycation, oxidation and protease cleavage. Peptide location fingerprinting (PLF) is a new mass spectrometry (MS) analysis technique capable of identifying proteins exhibiting structural differences in complex proteomes. PLF applied to published young and aged intervertebral disc (IVD) MS datasets (posterior, lateral and anterior regions of the annulus fibrosus) identified 268 proteins with age-associated structural differences. For several ECM assemblies (collagens I, II and V and aggrecan), these differences were markedly conserved between degeneration-prone (posterior and lateral) and -resistant (anterior) regions. Significant differences in peptide yields, observed within collagen I α2, collagen II α1 and collagen V α1, were located within their triple-helical regions and/or cleaved C-terminal propeptides, indicating potential accumulation of damage and impaired maintenance. Several proteins (collagen V α1, collagen II α1 and aggrecan) also exhibited tissue region (lateral)-specific differences in structure between aged and young samples, suggesting that some ageing mechanisms may act locally within tissues. This study not only reveals possible age-associated differences in ECM protein structures which are tissue-region specific, but also highlights the ability of PLF as a proteomic tool to aid in biomarker discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Eckersley
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (M.O.); (J.A.H.)
| | - Matiss Ozols
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (M.O.); (J.A.H.)
- Department of Human Genetics, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Genome Campus, Hinxton CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Peikai Chen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (P.C.); (V.T.); (D.C.)
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital (HKU-SZH), Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - Vivian Tam
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (P.C.); (V.T.); (D.C.)
| | - Judith A. Hoyland
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (M.O.); (J.A.H.)
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Central Manchester Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Andrew Trafford
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK;
| | - Danny Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (P.C.); (V.T.); (D.C.)
| | - Michael J. Sherratt
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (M.O.); (J.A.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Zhang QC, Hu SQ, Hu AN, Zhang TW, Jiang LB, Li XL. Autophagy-activated nucleus pulposus cells deliver exosomal miR-27a to prevent extracellular matrix degradation by targeting MMP-13. J Orthop Res 2021; 39:1921-1932. [PMID: 33038032 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Although autophagy may be beneficial for maintaining the metabolic balance of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the nucleus pulposus (NP) and its vitality under inflammation, the underlying mechanism still remains unclear. A previous study found that autophagy activation stimulated the release of exosomes in normal chondrocytes, which are located in a similar avascular environment and share many common features with those of nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs). This study explored the protective effect on matrix degradation in the NP by exosomes derived from autophagy-activated NPCs and exosomal microRNAs. NPCs-derived exosomes (NPCs-Exos) were isolated from culture medium of either normal NPCs or rapamycin-treated NPCs and quantified by nanoparticle tracking analysis. The effect of rapamycin-treated NPC-derived exosomes on NPCs were assessed by coculture with interleukin 1β (IL-1β)-stimulated NPCs. After examination of six major proteinases of the ECM, matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP-13) was chosen for further study. miR-27a, which targets MMP-13, was investigated through previous studies and bioinformatics tool. The levels of miR-27a were upregulated in both rapamycin-treated NPCs and their exosomes, compared to the control. When exosomal miR-27a was transferred into NPCs, it alleviated IL-1β-induced degradation of the NPC ECM by targeting MMP-13. Autophagy activation may promote the release of NPCs-derived exosomes and thereby prevent the NPC matrix from degradation. Autophagy activation also alleviates intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), at least partly via exosomal miR-27a, which restrains MMP-13 expression under IL-1β stimulation. Our work elucidates a new mechanism for how autophagy may participate in preventing IDD, which may be a promising therapeutic strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Chen Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shun-Qi Hu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - An-Nan Hu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tai-Wei Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-Bo Jiang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi-Lei Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Takeoka Y, Paladugu P, Kang JD, Mizuno S. Augmented Chondroitin Sulfate Proteoglycan Has Therapeutic Potential for Intervertebral Disc Degeneration by Stimulating Anabolic Turnover in Bovine Nucleus Pulposus Cells under Changes in Hydrostatic Pressure. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22116015. [PMID: 34199496 PMCID: PMC8199579 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleus pulposus (NP) cells are exposed to changes in hydrostatic pressure (HP) and osmotic pressure within the intervertebral disc. We focused on main disc matrix components, chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG) and hyaluronan (HA) to elucidate the capability of augmented CSPG to enhance the anabolism of bovine NP (bNP) cells under repetitive changes in HP at high osmolality. Aggrecan expression with CSPG in the absence of HP was significantly upregulated compared to the no-material control (phosphate buffer saline) under no HP at 3 days, and aggrecan expression with CSPG under HP was significantly higher than the control with HA under HP at 12 days. Collagen type I expression under no HP was significantly lower with CSPG than in controls at 3 days. Although matrix metalloproteinase 13 expression under HP was downregulated compared to no HP, it was significantly greater with HA than the control and CSPG, even under HP. Immunohistology revealed the involvement of mechanoreceptor of transient receptor potential vanilloid-4 activation under HP, suggesting an HP transduction mechanism. Addition of CSPG had anabolic and anti-fibrotic effects on bNP cells during the early culture period under no HP; furthermore, it showed synergy with dynamic HP to increase bNP-cell anabolism at later time points.
Collapse
|
49
|
Wang X, Gawri R, Lei C, Lee J, Sowa G, Kandel R, Vo N. Inorganic polyphosphates stimulates matrix production in human annulus fibrosus cells. JOR Spine 2021; 4:e1143. [PMID: 34337332 PMCID: PMC8313173 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ubiquitously found in all life forms, inorganic polyphosphates (polyP) are linear polymers of repeated orthophosphate units. Present in intervertebral disc tissue, polyP was previously shown to increase extracellular matrix production in nucleus pulposus (NP) cells. However, the effects of polyP on human annulus fibrosus (hAF) cell metabolism is not known. METHODS AND RESULTS Here, hAF cells cultured in the presence of 0.5 to 1 mM polyP, chain length 22 (polyP-22), showed an increase in glycosaminoglycan content, proteoglycan and collagen synthesis, and aggrecan and collagen type 1 gene expression. Gene expression level of matrix metalloproteinases 1 was reduced while matrix metalloproteinases 3 level was increased in hAF cells treated with 1 mM polyP. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis was also significantly increased in hAF cell culture 72 hours after the exposure to 1 mM polyP-22. CONCLUSIONS PolyP thus has both anabolic and bioenergetic effects in AF cells, similar to that observed in NP cells. Together, these results suggest polyP as a potential energy source and a metabolic regulator of disc cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangjiang Wang
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative MedicineUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryThe Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical UniversityQingyuanChina
- Department of OrthopedicsThe Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Rahul Gawri
- Lunenfeld‐Tanenbaum Research InstituteMount Sinai HospitalTorontoCanada
- Pathology and Laboratory MedicineMount Sinai HospitalTorontoCanada
- Laboratory Medicine and PathobiologyUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Changbin Lei
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryAffiliated Hospital of Xiangnan UniversityChenzhouChina
- Department of Clinical Medical Research CenterAffiliated Hospital of Xiangnan UniversityChenzhouChina
| | - Joon Lee
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative MedicineUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Gwendolyn Sowa
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of Physical Medicine and RehabilitationUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Rita Kandel
- Lunenfeld‐Tanenbaum Research InstituteMount Sinai HospitalTorontoCanada
- Pathology and Laboratory MedicineMount Sinai HospitalTorontoCanada
- Laboratory Medicine and PathobiologyUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Nam Vo
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative MedicineUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of PathologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Nakai T, Sakai D, Nakamura Y, Horikita N, Matsushita E, Naiki M, Watanabe M. Association of NAT2 genetic polymorphism with the efficacy of Neurotropin® for the enhancement of aggrecan gene expression in nucleus pulposus cells: a pilot study. BMC Med Genomics 2021; 14:79. [PMID: 33706752 PMCID: PMC7948325 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-021-00926-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intervertebral disc degeneration, one of the major causes of low-back pain, results from altered biosynthesis/turnover of extracellular matrix in the disc. Previously, we reported that the analgesic drug Neurotropin® (NTP) had an anabolic effect on glycosaminoglycan synthesis in cultured nucleus pulposus (NP) cells via the stimulation of chondroitin sulfate N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 1. However, its effect on the aggrecan core protein was not significantly detected, because of the data variance. A microarray analysis suggested that the effect of NTP on aggrecan was correlated with N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2), a drug-metabolizing enzyme. Specific NAT2 alleles are known to correlate with rapid, intermediate, and slow acetylation activities and side effects of various drugs. We investigated the association between the efficacy of NTP on aggrecan expression and the NAT2 genotype in cell donors. METHODS NP cells were isolated from intervertebral disc tissues donated by 31 Japanese patients (28-68 years) who underwent discectomy. NTP was added to the primary cell cultures and its effect on the aggrecan mRNA was analyzed using real-time quantitative PCR. To assess acetylator status, genotyping was performed based on the inferred NAT2 haplotypes of five common single-nucleotide polymorphisms using allele-specific PCR. RESULTS The phenotype frequencies of NAT2 in the patients were 0%, 42.0%, and 58.0% for slow, intermediate, and rapid acetylators, respectively. The proportions of responders to NTP treatment (aggrecan upregulation, ≥ 1.1-fold) in the intermediate and rapid acetylators were 76.9% and 38.9%, respectively. The odds ratio of the comparison of the intermediate acetylator status between responders and nonresponders was 5.2 (95% CI 1.06-26.0, P = 0.036), and regarding the 19 male patients, this was 14.0 (95% CI 1.54-127.2, P = 0.012). In the 12 females, the effect was not correlated with NAT2 phenotype but seemed to become weaker along with aging. CONCLUSIONS An intermediate acetylator status significantly favored the efficacy of NTP treatment to enhance aggrecan production in NP cells. In males, this tendency was detected with higher significance. This study provides suggestive data of the association between NAT2 variants and the efficacy of NTP treatment. Given the small sample size, results should be further confirmed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Nakai
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, 143 Shimokasuya, Isehara, Kanagawa, 259-1193, Japan
| | - Daisuke Sakai
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, 143 Shimokasuya, Isehara, Kanagawa, 259-1193, Japan.
| | - Yoshihiko Nakamura
- Research Center for Regenerative Medicine and Cancer Stem Cell, Tokai University School of Medicine, 143 Shimokasuya, Isehara, Kanagawa, 259-1193, Japan
| | - Natsumi Horikita
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, 143 Shimokasuya, Isehara, Kanagawa, 259-1193, Japan
| | - Erika Matsushita
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, 143 Shimokasuya, Isehara, Kanagawa, 259-1193, Japan
| | - Mitsuru Naiki
- Institute of Bio-Active Science, Nippon Zoki Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Kinashi, Kato-shi, Hyogo, 673-1461, Japan
| | - Masahiko Watanabe
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Surgical Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, 143 Shimokasuya, Isehara, Kanagawa, 259-1193, Japan
| |
Collapse
|