1
|
Yadav JP, Verma A, Pathak P, Dwivedi AR, Singh AK, Kumar P, Khalilullah H, Jaremko M, Emwas AH, Patel DK. Phytoconstituents as modulators of NF-κB signalling: Investigating therapeutic potential for diabetic wound healing. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 177:117058. [PMID: 38968797 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117058] [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: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The NF-κB pathway plays a pivotal role in impeding the diabetic wound healing process, contributing to prolonged inflammation, diminished angiogenesis, and reduced proliferation. In contrast to modern synthetic therapies, naturally occurring phytoconstituents are well-studied inhibitors of the NF-κB pathway that are now attracting increased attention in the context of diabetic wound healing because of lower toxicity, better safety and efficacy, and cost-effectiveness. This study explores recent research on phytoconstituent-based therapies and delve into their action mechanisms targeting the NF-κB pathway and potential for assisting effective healing of diabetic wounds. For this purpose, we have carried out surveys of recent literature and analyzed studies from prominent databases such as Science Direct, Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, and Web of Science. The classification of phytoconstituents into various categorie such as: alkaloids, triterpenoids, phenolics, polyphenols, flavonoids, monoterpene glycosides, naphthoquinones and tocopherols. Noteworthy phytoconstituents, including Neferine, Plumbagin, Boswellic acid, Genistein, Luteolin, Kirenol, Rutin, Vicenin-2, Gamma-tocopherol, Icariin, Resveratrol, Mangiferin, Betulinic acid, Berberine, Syringic acid, Gallocatechin, Curcumin, Loureirin-A, Loureirin-B, Lupeol, Paeoniflorin, and Puerarin emerge from these studies as promising agents for diabetic wound healing through the inhibition of the NF-κB pathway. Extensive research on various phytoconstituents has revealed how they modulate signalling pathways, including NF-κB, studies that demonstrate the potential for development of therapeutic phytoconstituents to assist healing of chronic diabetic wounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jagat Pal Yadav
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj 211007, India; Pharmacology Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rama University, Kanpur 209217, India; Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj 211007, India.
| | - Amita Verma
- Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj 211007, India
| | - Prateek Pathak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Quality Assurance and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, GITAM School of Pharmacy, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Hyderabad Campus, 502329, India
| | - Ashish R Dwivedi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Quality Assurance and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, GITAM School of Pharmacy, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Hyderabad Campus, 502329, India
| | - Ankit Kumar Singh
- Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj 211007, India; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Habibullah Khalilullah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Unayzah 51911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mariusz Jaremko
- Smart-Health Initiative (SHI) and Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdul-Hamid Emwas
- Core Labs, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dinesh Kumar Patel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj 211007, India.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
He J, Wang C, Lin G, Xia X, Chen H, Feng Z, Huang Z, Pan X, Zhang X, Wu C, Huang Y. Guard against internal and external: An antibacterial, anti-inflammation and healing-promoting spray gel based on lyotropic liquid crystals for the treatment of diabetic wound. Int J Pharm 2023; 646:123442. [PMID: 37774758 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
The diabetic wound is a prevalent and serious complication of diabetes, which easily deteriorates due to susceptibility to infection and difficulty in healing, causing a high risk of amputation and economic burden to patients. Bacterial infection, persistent excessive inflammation, and cellular and angiogenesis disorders are the main reasons for the difficulty of diabetic wound healing. In this study, glycerol monooleate (GMO) was used to prepare lyotropic liquid crystal hydrogel (LLC) containing the natural antimicrobial peptide LL37 and carbenoxolone (CBX) to achieve antibacterial, anti-inflammation, and healing promotion for the treatment of diabetic wounds. The shear-thinning properties of the LLC precursor solution allowed it to be administered in the form of a spray, which perfectly fitted the shape of the wound and transformed into a gel after absorbing wound exudate to act as a wound protective barrier. The faster release of LL37 realized rapid sterilization of wounds, controlled the source of inflammation, and accelerated wound healing. The inflammatory signaling pathway was blocked by the subsequently released CBX, and the spread of the inflammatory response was inhibited and then further weakened. In addition, CBX down-regulated connexin (Cx43) to assist LL37 to promote cell migration and proliferation better. Combined with the pro-angiogenic effect of LL37, the healing of diabetic wounds was significantly accelerated. All these advantages made LL37-CBX-LLC a promising approach for the treatment of chronic diabetic wounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingyu He
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Chen Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Gan Lin
- School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Xiao Xia
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Hangping Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Zhiyuan Feng
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Zhengwei Huang
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, PR China.
| | - Xin Pan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Xuejuan Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, PR China.
| | - Chuanbin Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Ying Huang
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Fang WC, Lan CCE. The Epidermal Keratinocyte as a Therapeutic Target for Management of Diabetic Wounds. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054290. [PMID: 36901720 PMCID: PMC10002069 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an important cause of chronic wounds and non-traumatic amputation. The prevalence and number of cases of diabetic mellitus are increasing worldwide. Keratinocytes, the outermost layer of the epidermis, play an important role in wound healing. A high glucose environment may disrupt the physiologic functions of keratinocytes, resulting in prolonged inflammation, impaired proliferation, and the migration of keratinocytes and impaired angiogenesis. This review provides an overview of keratinocyte dysfunctions in a high glucose environment. Effective and safe therapeutic approaches for promoting diabetic wound healing can be developed if molecular mechanisms responsible for keratinocyte dysfunction in high glucose environments are elucidated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Cheng Fang
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Che E. Lan
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-7-320-8223
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Epidermal-cell-based therapy as an adjunct to healing second degree burns—A randomized controlled pilot study. Burns 2022:S0305-4179(22)00239-X. [DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
5
|
Cx43 mediates changes in myofibroblast contraction and collagen release in human amniotic membrane defects after trauma. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16975. [PMID: 34408164 PMCID: PMC8373966 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-94767-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The wound healing capacity of the fetal membranes after spontaneous or iatrogenic membrane rupture is unclear. We examined the healing mechanisms in amniotic membrane (AM) defects after trauma. Traumatised human AM defects were cultured for 4 days. Markers for nuclear (DAPI), cell type (vimentin, αSMA) and healing (Cx43, TGFβ1, collagen) were examined by immunofluorescence (IMF) confocal microscopy, Second Harmonic Generation (SHG) imaging and RT-qPCR. After trauma, AMCs and myofibroblasts migrated to the AM wound edge. Within four days, αSMA expressing myofibroblasts showed abundant Cx43 localized in the cytoplasmic processes. The highly contractile spindle-shaped myofibroblasts were present in the defect site and released collagen. In contrast, AMCs expressed vimentin and formed Cx43 plaques between cells found in the outer edges of the wound. Whilst AMCs were absent in the defect site, αSMA expressing myofibroblasts continued to elongate and polarize the collagen fibres. Both TGFβ1 and Cx43 gene expression were significantly increased after trauma. Cx43 has differential effects on AM cell populations that increase cellularity, contraction and potentially migration to the wound edge resulting in collagen polarisation in the AM defect site. Establishing how Cx43 regulates AM cell function could be an approach to repair defects in the membranes after trauma.
Collapse
|
6
|
Kanapathy M, Hachach-Haram N, Bystrzonowski N, Becker DL, Mosahebi A, Richards T. Epidermal graft encourages wound healing by down-regulation of gap junctional protein and activation of wound bed without graft integration as opposed to split-thickness skin graft. Int Wound J 2021; 18:332-341. [PMID: 33751815 PMCID: PMC8244016 DOI: 10.1111/iwj.13536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Wound coverage by split-thickness skin graft (SSG) and epidermal graft (EG) shortens healing time, with comparable outcomes. However, the healing mechanism of EG is not as well understood as SSG. The difference in the healing mechanisms of EG and SSG was investigated using gap junctional proteins, proliferative marker, and cytokeratin markers. Paired punch biopsies were taken from the wound edge and wound bed from patients undergoing EG and SSG at weeks 0 and 1 to investigate wound edge keratinocyte migratory activities (connexins 43, 30, and 26), wound bed activation (Ki67), and the presence of graft integration to the wound bed (cytokeratins 14 and 6). Twenty-four paired biopsies were taken at weeks 0 and 1 (EG, n = 12; SSG, n = 12). Wound edge biopsies demonstrated down-regulation of connexins 43 (P = .023) and 30 (P = .027) after EG, indicating accelerated healing from the wound edge. At week 1, increased expression of Ki67 (P < .05) was seen after EG, indicating activation of cells within the wound bed. Keratinocytes expressing cytokeratins 6 and 14 were observed on all wounds treated with SSG but were absent at week 1 after EG, indicating the absence of graft integration following EG. Despite EG and SSG both being autologous skin grafts, they demonstrate different mechanisms of wound healing. EG accelerates wound healing from the wound edges and activates the wound bed despite not integrating into the wound bed at week 1 post-grafting as opposed to SSG, hence demonstrating properties comparable with a bioactive dressing instead of a skin substitute.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muholan Kanapathy
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK.,Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, London, UK
| | - Nadine Hachach-Haram
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, London, UK
| | - Nicola Bystrzonowski
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, London, UK
| | - David L Becker
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.,Institute of Medical Biology, A*Star, Immunos, Biomedical Grove, Singapore
| | - Afshin Mosahebi
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK.,Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, London, UK
| | - Toby Richards
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK.,Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Xu W, Dielubanza E, Maisel A, Leung K, Mustoe T, Hong S, Galiano R. Staphylococcus aureus impairs cutaneous wound healing by activating the expression of a gap junction protein, connexin-43 in keratinocytes. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:935-947. [PMID: 32409862 PMCID: PMC11072219 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03545-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Chronic wounds have been considered as major medical problems that may result in expensive healthcare. One of the common causes of chronic wounds is bacterial contamination that leads to persistent inflammation and unbalanced host cell immune responses. Among the bacterial strains that have been identified from chronic wounds, Staphylococcus aureus is the most common strain. We previously observed that S. aureus impaired mouse cutaneous wound healing by delaying re-epithelialization. Here, we investigated the mechanism of delayed re-epithelialization caused by S. aureus infection. With the presence of S. aureus exudate, the migration of in vitro cultured human keratinocytes was significantly inhibited and connexin-43 (Cx43) was upregulated. Inhibition of keratinocyte migration by S. aureus exudate disappeared in keratinocytes where the expression of Cx43 knocked down. Protein kinase phosphorylation array showed that phosphorylation of Akt-S473 was upregulated by S. aureus exudate. In vivo study of Cx43 in S. aureus-infected murine splinted cutaneous wound model showed upregulation of Cx43 in the migrating epithelial edge by S. aureus infection. Treatment with a PI3K/Akt inhibitor reduced Cx43 expression and overcame the wound closure impairment by S. aureus infection in the mouse model. This may contribute to the development of treatment to bacterium-infected wounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xu
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Science and Engineering, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, Corpus Christi, TX, 78412, USA.
| | - Elodi Dielubanza
- Laboratory for Wound Repair and Regenerative Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Amanda Maisel
- Laboratory for Wound Repair and Regenerative Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Kai Leung
- Division of Combat Wound Repair, US Army Institute of Surgical Research, JB Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, TX, 78234, USA
| | - Thomas Mustoe
- Laboratory for Wound Repair and Regenerative Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Seok Hong
- Laboratory for Wound Repair and Regenerative Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| | - Robert Galiano
- Laboratory for Wound Repair and Regenerative Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wan L, Jiang D, Correa-Gallegos D, Ramesh P, Zhao J, Ye H, Zhu S, Wannemacher J, Volz T, Rinkevich Y. Connexin43 gap junction drives fascia mobilization and repair of deep skin wounds. Matrix Biol 2021; 97:58-71. [PMID: 33508427 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Deep and voluminous skin wounds are repaired with scars, by mobilization of fibroblasts and extracellular matrix from fascia, deep below the skin. The molecular trigger of this novel repair mechanism is incompletely understood. Here we reveal that the gap junction alpha-1 protein (Connexin43, Cx43) is the key to patch repair of deep wounds. By combining full-thickness wound models with fibroblast lineage specific transgenic lines, we show Cx43 expression is substantially upregulated in specialized fibroblasts of the fascia deep beneath the skin that are responsible for scar formation. Using live imaging of fascia fibroblasts and fate tracing of the fascia extracellular matrix we show that Cx43 inhibition disrupts calcium oscillations in cultured fibroblasts and that this inhibits collective migration of fascia EPFs necessary to mobilize fascia matrix into open wounds. Cell-cell communication through Cx43 thus mediates matrix movement and scar formation, and is necessary for patch repair of voluminous wounds. These mechanistic findings have broad clinical implications toward treating fibrosis, aggravated scarring and impaired wound healing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Wan
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Lung Biology and Disease, Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Dongsheng Jiang
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Lung Biology and Disease, Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Donovan Correa-Gallegos
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Lung Biology and Disease, Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Pushkar Ramesh
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Lung Biology and Disease, Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Jiakuan Zhao
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Lung Biology and Disease, Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Haifeng Ye
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Lung Biology and Disease, Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Shaohua Zhu
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Lung Biology and Disease, Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Juliane Wannemacher
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Lung Biology and Disease, Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Volz
- Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Munich, Germany
| | - Yuval Rinkevich
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Lung Biology and Disease, Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Munich, Germany; Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Regenerative Biology and Medicine, Munich, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Garcia-Vega L, O’Shaughnessy EM, Albuloushi A, Martin PE. Connexins and the Epithelial Tissue Barrier: A Focus on Connexin 26. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10010059. [PMID: 33466954 PMCID: PMC7829877 DOI: 10.3390/biology10010059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Tissues that face the external environment are known as ‘epithelial tissue’ and form barriers between different body compartments. This includes the outer layer of the skin, linings of the intestine and airways that project into the lumen connecting with the external environment, and the cornea of the eye. These tissues do not have a direct blood supply and are dependent on exchange of regulatory molecules between cells to ensure co-ordination of tissue events. Proteins known as connexins form channels linking cells directly and permit exchange of small regulatory signals. A range of environmental stimuli can dysregulate the level of connexin proteins and or protein function within the epithelia, leading to pathologies including non-healing wounds. Mutations in these proteins are linked with hearing loss, skin and eye disorders of differing severity. As such, connexins emerge as prime therapeutic targets with several agents currently in clinical trials. This review outlines the role of connexins in epithelial tissue and how their dysregulation contributes to pathological pathways. Abstract Epithelial tissue responds rapidly to environmental triggers and is constantly renewed. This tissue is also highly accessible for therapeutic targeting. This review highlights the role of connexin mediated communication in avascular epithelial tissue. These proteins form communication conduits with the extracellular space (hemichannels) and between neighboring cells (gap junctions). Regulated exchange of small metabolites less than 1kDa aide the co-ordination of cellular activities and in spatial communication compartments segregating tissue networks. Dysregulation of connexin expression and function has profound impact on physiological processes in epithelial tissue including wound healing. Connexin 26, one of the smallest connexins, is expressed in diverse epithelial tissue and mutations in this protein are associated with hearing loss, skin and eye conditions of differing severity. The functional consequences of dysregulated connexin activity is discussed and the development of connexin targeted therapeutic strategies highlighted.
Collapse
|
10
|
Nugent L, Ofori-Frimpong B, Martin PE, Green CR, Wright CS. Cx31.1 expression is modulated in HaCaT cells exposed to UV-induced damage and scrape-wounding. J Cell Physiol 2020; 236:911-920. [PMID: 32592185 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Connexin31.1 (Cx31.1) is a gap junction protein associated with apoptosis. In the skin, apoptosis is modulated by diabetes. A HaCaT skin model investigated whether normal (NGI) and high glucose and insulin (HGI; diabetic) conditions altered Cx31.1 expression, and if these were apoptosis linked. Cx31.1 was found in HaCaT and HeLa Ohio cells, with HaCaT Cx31.1 protein increased in HGI conditions, and around apoptotic cells. HeLa Cx31.1 channels were noncommunicative. Post scrape-wounding, Cx31.1 increased at wound edges. Caspase 3/7 in scrape-wounds media (containing cells) elevated in HGI. UV exposure raised Cx31.1, and caspase 3/7, in NGI and HGI. UV reduced cell viability in NGI cells, although not significantly in HGI. Cx31.1 is modulated during HaCaT cell wound closure, and associated with 'diabetic' conditions. Cx31.1 expression matched apoptosis levels, higher in HGI cultures. Cx31.1 is noncommunicating, modulated after wounding, linked to apoptosis, and may be associated with tissue turn-over around diabetic wounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louise Nugent
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Boatemaa Ofori-Frimpong
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Patricia E Martin
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Colin R Green
- Department of Opthamology, School of Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Catherine S Wright
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Price GW, Chadjichristos CE, Kavvadas P, Tang SCW, Yiu WH, Green CR, Potter JA, Siamantouras E, Squires PE, Hills CE. Blocking Connexin-43 mediated hemichannel activity protects against early tubular injury in experimental chronic kidney disease. Cell Commun Signal 2020; 18:79. [PMID: 32450899 PMCID: PMC7249671 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-020-00558-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tubulointerstitial fibrosis represents the key underlying pathology of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), yet treatment options remain limited. In this study, we investigated the role of connexin43 (Cx43) hemichannel-mediated adenosine triphosphate (ATP) release in purinergic-mediated disassembly of adherens and tight junction complexes in early tubular injury. METHODS Human primary proximal tubule epithelial cells (hPTECs) and clonal tubular epithelial cells (HK2) were treated with Transforming Growth Factor Beta1 (TGF-β1) ± apyrase, or ATPγS for 48 h. For inhibitor studies, cells were co-incubated with Cx43 mimetic Peptide 5, or purinergic receptor antagonists Suramin, A438079 or A804598. Immunoblotting, single-cell force spectroscopy and trans-epithelial electrical resistance assessed protein expression, cell-cell adhesion and paracellular permeability. Carboxyfluorescein uptake and biosensing measured hemichannel activity and real-time ATP release, whilst a heterozygous Cx43+/- mouse model with unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) assessed the role of Cx43 in vivo. RESULTS Immunohistochemistry of biopsy material from patients with diabetic nephropathy confirmed increased expression of purinergic receptor P2X7. TGF-β1 increased Cx43 mediated hemichannel activity and ATP release in hPTECs and HK2 cells. The cytokine reduced maximum unbinding forces and reduced cell-cell adhesion, which translated to increased paracellular permeability. Changes were reversed when cells were co-incubated with either Peptide 5 or P2-purinoceptor inhibitors. Cx43+/- mice did not exhibit protein changes associated with early tubular injury in a UUO model of fibrosis. CONCLUSION Data suggest that Cx43 mediated ATP release represents an initial trigger in early tubular injury via its actions on the adherens and tight junction complex. Since Cx43 is highly expressed in nephropathy, it represents a novel target for intervention of tubulointerstitial fibrosis in CKD. Video Abstract In proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTECs), tight junction proteins, including zona occuludens-1 (ZO-1), contribute to epithelial integrity, whilst the adherens junction protein epithelial (E)-cadherin (ECAD) maintains cell-cell coupling, facilitating connexin 43 (Cx43) gap junction-mediated intercellular communication (GJIC) and the direct transfer of small molecules and ions between cells. In disease, such as diabetic nephropathy, the pro-fibrotic cytokine transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-β1) binds to its receptor and recruits SMAD2/3 signalling ahead of changes in gene transcription and up-regulation of Cx43-mediated hemichannels (HC). Uncoupled hemichannels permit the release of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in to the extracellular space (↑[ATP]e), where ATP binds to the P2X7 purinoreceptor and activates the nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat containing (NLR) protein-3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. Inflammation results in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), fibrosis and tubular injury. A major consequence is further loss of ECAD and reduced stickiness between cells, which can be functionally measured as a decrease in the maximum unbinding force needed to uncouple two adherent cells (Fmax). Loss of ECAD feeds forward to further lessen cell-cell coupling exacerbating the switch from GJIC to HC-mediated release of ATP. Reduction in ZO-1 impedes tight junction effectiveness and decreases trans-epithelial resistance (↓TER), resulting in increased paracellular permeability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gareth W. Price
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Green Lane, Lincoln, UK
| | - Christos E. Chadjichristos
- National Institutes for Health and Medical Research Unite Mixte de Recherche S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, 4 rue de la Chine, 75020 Paris, France
| | - Panagiotis Kavvadas
- National Institutes for Health and Medical Research Unite Mixte de Recherche S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, 4 rue de la Chine, 75020 Paris, France
| | - Sydney C. W. Tang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Wai Han Yiu
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Colin R. Green
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Joe A. Potter
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Green Lane, Lincoln, UK
| | - Eleftherios Siamantouras
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Green Lane, Lincoln, UK
| | - Paul E. Squires
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Green Lane, Lincoln, UK
| | - Claire E. Hills
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Green Lane, Lincoln, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Feng J, Thangaveloo M, Ong YS, Chong SJ, Joethy JV, Becker DL. Connexin 43 upregulation in burns promotes burn conversion through spread of apoptotic death signals. Burns 2020; 46:1389-1397. [PMID: 32362363 DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2020.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Burn wounds continue to worsen after initial injury in a process known as burn conversion, which lasts about 3-5 days. It causes burn wounds to enlarge and deepen, leading to greater morbidity. Apoptosis is one of the factors contributing to the conversion of the zone of stasis into the zone of coagulation. Suppression of apoptosis has been associated with reducing burn conversion. Connexin 43 (Cx43) gap junctions facilitate the spread of apoptotic signals from dying cells to healthy neighbouring cells in injured tissues through the bystander effect. OBJECTIVES The study is to understand the role of Cx43 in burn conversion. METHODS In our study, 15 burn tissue samples were arranged into three groups as early (beginning of burn conversion), intermediate (extensive burn conversion) and late (established burn conversion) burns. RESULTS We found a striking increase in the amount of Cx43 protein expressed in the dermal fibroblasts (identified with heat shock protein 47 (HSP47) staining) in the zone of stasis in early and intermediate burns. These dermal fibroblasts also express high levels of cleaved-Caspase 3 indicating on-going apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that elevation of Cx43 may play an active role in burn conversion spreading apoptosis in the early and intermediate burn wound.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiajun Feng
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore.
| | - Moogaambikai Thangaveloo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Clinical Sciences Building, Nanyang Technological University 11, Mandalay Road, 308232 Singapore
| | - Yee Siang Ong
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Si Jack Chong
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Janna-Vale Joethy
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - David L Becker
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Clinical Sciences Building, Nanyang Technological University 11, Mandalay Road, 308232 Singapore; Skin Research Institute Singapore, Clinical Sciences Building, 11, Mandalay Road, 308232 Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Epifantseva I, Xiao S, Baum RE, Kléber AG, Hong T, Shaw RM. An Alternatively Translated Connexin 43 Isoform, GJA1-11k, Localizes to the Nucleus and Can Inhibit Cell Cycle Progression. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10030473. [PMID: 32244859 PMCID: PMC7175147 DOI: 10.3390/biom10030473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin 43 (Cx43) is a gap junction protein that assembles at the cell border to form intercellular gap junction (GJ) channels which allow for cell-cell communication by facilitating the rapid transmission of ions and other small molecules between adjacent cells. Non-canonical roles of Cx43, and specifically its C-terminal domain, have been identified in the regulation of Cx43 trafficking, mitochondrial preconditioning, cell proliferation, and tumor formation, yet the mechanisms are still being explored. It was recently identified that up to six truncated isoforms of Cx43 are endogenously produced via alternative translation from internal start codons in addition to full length Cx43, all from the same mRNA produced by the gene GJA1. GJA1-11k, the 11kDa alternatively translated isoform of Cx43, does not have a known role in the formation of gap junction channels, and little is known about its function. Here, we report that over expressed GJA1-11k, unlike the other five truncated isoforms, preferentially localizes to the nucleus in HEK293FT cells and suppresses cell growth by limiting cell cycle progression from the G0/G1 phase to the S phase. Furthermore, these functions are independent of the channel-forming full-length Cx43 isoform. Understanding the apparently unique role of GJA1-11k and its generation in cell cycle regulation may uncover a new target for affecting cell growth in multiple disease models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina Epifantseva
- Smidt Heart Institute, Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (I.E.); (S.X.); (R.E.B.); (T.H.)
| | - Shaohua Xiao
- Smidt Heart Institute, Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (I.E.); (S.X.); (R.E.B.); (T.H.)
| | - Rachel E. Baum
- Smidt Heart Institute, Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (I.E.); (S.X.); (R.E.B.); (T.H.)
- Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - André G. Kléber
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel & Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - TingTing Hong
- Smidt Heart Institute, Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; (I.E.); (S.X.); (R.E.B.); (T.H.)
- Department of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Robin M. Shaw
- Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +(801)-587-5845
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Jiang D, Rinkevich Y. Scars or Regeneration?-Dermal Fibroblasts as Drivers of Diverse Skin Wound Responses. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E617. [PMID: 31963533 PMCID: PMC7014275 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Scarring and regeneration are two physiologically opposite endpoints to skin injuries, with mammals, including humans, typically healing wounds with fibrotic scars. We aim to provide an updated review on fibroblast heterogeneity as determinants of the scarring-regeneration continuum. We discuss fibroblast-centric mechanisms that dictate scarring-regeneration continua with a focus on intercellular and cell-matrix adhesion. Improved understanding of fibroblast lineage-specific mechanisms and how they determine scar severity will ultimately allow for the development of antiscarring therapies and the promotion of tissue regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuval Rinkevich
- Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Institute of Lung Biology and Disease, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Max-Lebsche-Platz 31, 81377 Munich, Germany;
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Cocozzelli AG, White TW. Connexin 43 Mutations Lead to Increased Hemichannel Functionality in Skin Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20246186. [PMID: 31817921 PMCID: PMC6940829 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20246186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctional channels are specialized components of the cellular membrane that allow the intercellular passage of small metabolites, ions, and second messengers to maintain homeostasis. They are comprised of members of the connexin gene family that encode a wide array of proteins that are expressed in nearly every tissue type. Cx43 is perceived to be the most broadly expressed connexin in humans, with several genetic skin diseases being linked to Cx43 mutations specifically. These mutations, in large, produce a gain of functional hemichannels that contribute to the phenotypes of Erythrokeratoderma Variabilis et Progressiva (EKVP), Palmoplantar Keratodemra Congenital Alopecia-1 (PPKCA1), and others that produce large conductance and increased permselectivity in otherwise quiescent structures. Gaining functional hemichannels can have adverse effects in the skin, inducing apoptosis via Ca2+ overload or increased ATP permeability. Here, we review the link between Cx43 and skin disease. We aim to provide insight into the mechanisms regulating the normal and pathophysiological gating of these essential proteins, as well as address current therapeutic strategies. We also demonstrate that transient transfection of neuro-2a (N2a) cells with mutant Cx43 cDNA resulted in increased hemichannel activity compared to wild-type Cx43 and untransfected cells, which is consistent with other studies in the current literature.
Collapse
|
16
|
Lee MY, Wang HZ, White TW, Brooks T, Pittman A, Halai H, Petrova A, Xu D, Hart SL, Kinsler VA, Di WL. Allele-Specific Small Interfering RNA Corrects Aberrant Cellular Phenotype in Keratitis-Ichthyosis-Deafness Syndrome Keratinocytes. J Invest Dermatol 2019; 140:1035-1044.e7. [PMID: 31705875 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2019.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Keratitis-ichthyosis-deafness (KID) syndrome is a severe, untreatable condition characterized by ocular, auditory, and cutaneous abnormalities, with major complications of infection and skin cancer. Most cases of KID syndrome (86%) are caused by a heterozygous missense mutation (c.148G>A, p.D50N) in the GJB2 gene, encoding gap junction protein Cx26, which alters gating properties of Cx26 channels in a dominant manner. We hypothesized that a mutant allele-specific small interfering RNA could rescue the cellular phenotype in patient keratinocytes (KCs). A KID syndrome cell line (KID-KC) was established from primary patient KCs with a heterozygous p.D50N mutation. This cell line displayed impaired gap junction communication and hyperactive hemichannels, confirmed by dye transfer, patch clamp, and neurobiotin uptake assays. A human-murine chimeric skin graft model constructed with KID-KCs mimicked patient skin in vivo, further confirming the validity of these cells as a model. In vitro treatment with allele-specific small interfering RNA led to robust inhibition of the mutant GJB2 allele without altering expression of the wild-type allele. This corrected both gap junction and hemichannel activity. Notably, allele-specific small interfering RNA treatment caused only low-level off-target effects in KID-KCs, as detected by genome-wide RNA sequencing. Our data provide an important proof-of-concept and model system for the potential use of allele-specific small interfering RNA in treating KID syndrome and other dominant genetic conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yang Lee
- Infection, Immunity and Inflammation Programme/Immunobiology Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hong-Zhan Wang
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York
| | - Thomas W White
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York
| | - Tony Brooks
- UCL Genomics, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alan Pittman
- Molecular Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom; Genetics Research Centre, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Heerni Halai
- Infection, Immunity and Inflammation Programme/Immunobiology Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anastasia Petrova
- Infection, Immunity and Inflammation Programme/Immunobiology Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Diane Xu
- Infection, Immunity and Inflammation Programme/Immunobiology Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen L Hart
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Veronica A Kinsler
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom; Paediatric Dermatology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Wei-Li Di
- Infection, Immunity and Inflammation Programme/Immunobiology Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Lastwika KJ, Dunn CA, Solan JL, Lampe PD. Phosphorylation of connexin 43 at MAPK, PKC or CK1 sites each distinctly alter the kinetics of epidermal wound repair. J Cell Sci 2019; 132:jcs.234633. [PMID: 31427427 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.234633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The gap junction protein connexin 43 (Cx43) is a key player in wound healing, and inhibitors of Cx43, which speed epidermal wound healing, are currently in clinical trials. Here, we provide direct in vivo evidence that specific phosphorylation events on Cx43 change the physiological response during wound healing. Blocking phosphorylation, through mutation of serine residues in Cx43 at the protein kinase C (PKC) or casein kinase 1 (CK1) sites, significantly slowed the rate of wound closure in vivo and in vitro and resulted in a thicker epidermal layer after reepithelialization. Conversely, preventing Cx43 phosphorylation by mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) through mutation significantly increased the rate of wound closure in vivo Defects in migration, but not proliferation, in all mutants were partially rescued in vitro by changing serine residues to aspartic or glutamic acid. These data prove that specific Cx43 phosphorylation events play an important role at different stages of wound healing. Thus, a clear physiological understanding of the spatiotemporal regulation of kinase activation and consequent effects on gap junctions could lead to a more targeted approach to modulating Cx43 expression during wound healing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristin J Lastwika
- Translational Research Program, Public Health Sciences and Human Biology Divisions, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Clarence A Dunn
- Translational Research Program, Public Health Sciences and Human Biology Divisions, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Joell L Solan
- Translational Research Program, Public Health Sciences and Human Biology Divisions, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Paul D Lampe
- Translational Research Program, Public Health Sciences and Human Biology Divisions, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Hou X, Khan MRA, Turmaine M, Thrasivoulou C, Becker DL, Ahmed A. Wnt signaling regulates cytosolic translocation of connexin 43. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2019; 317:R248-R261. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00268.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The availability of intracellular, stabilized β-catenin, a transcription factor coactivator, is tightly regulated; β-catenin is translocated into the nucleus in response to Wnt ligand binding to its cell membrane receptors. Here we show that Wnt signal activation in mammalian cells activates intracellular mobilization of connexin 43 (Cx43), which belongs to a gap junction protein family, a new target protein in response to extracellular Wnt signal activation. Transmission electron microscopy showed that the nuclear localization of Cx43 was increased by 8- to 10-fold in Wnt5A- and 9B-treated cells compared with controls; this Wnt-induced increase was negated in the cells where Cx43 and β-catenin were knocked down using shRNA. There was a significant ( P < 0.001) and concomitant depletion of the cell membrane and cytosolic signal of Cx43 in Wnt-treated cells with an increase in the nuclear signal for Cx43; this was more obvious in cells where β-catenin was knocked down using shRNA. Conversely, Cx43 knockdown resulted in increased β-catenin in the nucleus in the absence of Wnt activation. Coimmunoprecipitation of Cx43 and β-catenin proteins with a casein kinase (CKIδ) antibody showed that Cx43 interacts with β-catenin and may form part of the so-called destruction complex. Functionally, Wnt activation increased the rate of wound reepithelization in rat skin in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Hou
- Prostate Cancer Research Centre, Division of Surgery, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Research Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, The Centre for Cell and Molecular Dynamics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mohammad R. A. Khan
- Prostate Cancer Research Centre at the Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Turmaine
- Division of Biosciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Thrasivoulou
- Research Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, The Centre for Cell and Molecular Dynamics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David L Becker
- Research Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, The Centre for Cell and Molecular Dynamics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
- Institute of Medical Biology, A*STAR, Singapore
| | - Aamir Ahmed
- Prostate Cancer Research Centre, Division of Surgery, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Prostate Cancer Research Centre at the Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
den Dekker A, Davis FM, Kunkel SL, Gallagher KA. Targeting epigenetic mechanisms in diabetic wound healing. Transl Res 2019; 204:39-50. [PMID: 30392877 PMCID: PMC6331222 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2018.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Impaired wound healing is a major secondary complication of type 2 diabetes that often results in limb loss and disability. Normal tissue repair progresses through discrete phases including hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. In diabetes, normal progression through these phases is impaired resulting in a sustained inflammatory state and dysfunctional epithelialization in the wound. Due to their plasticity, macrophages play a critical role in the transition from the inflammation phase to the proliferation phase. Diabetes disrupts macrophage function by impairing monocyte recruitment to the wound, reducing phagocytosis, and prohibiting the transition of inflammatory macrophages to an anti-inflammatory state. Diabetes also impedes keratinocyte and fibroblast function during the later phases resulting in impaired epithelialization of the wound. Several recent studies suggest that altered epigenetic regulation of both immune and structural cells in wounds may influence cell phenotypes and healing, particularly in pathologic states, such as diabetes. Specifically, it has been shown that macrophage plasticity during wound repair is partly regulated epigenetically and that diabetes alters this epigenetic regulation and contributes to a sustained inflammatory state. Epigenetic regulation is also known to regulate keratinocyte and fibroblast function during wound repair. In this review, we provide an introduction to the epigenetic mechanisms that regulate tissue repair and highlight recent findings that demonstrate, how epigenetic events are altered during the course of diabetic wound healing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aaron den Dekker
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michgan
| | - Frank M Davis
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michgan
| | - Steve L Kunkel
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Simman R, Hermans MHE. Managing Wounds with Exposed Bone and Tendon with an Esterified Hyaluronic Acid Matrix (eHAM): A Literature Review and Personal Experience. J Am Coll Clin Wound Spec 2018; 9:1-9. [PMID: 30591894 DOI: 10.1016/j.jccw.2018.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The loss of extracellular matrix in combination with the exposure of structures such as bone and tendon pose a major challenge; the development of granulation tissue and subsequent reepithelialization over these structures is extremely slow and often may not happen at all. Replacement of the matrix has been shown to significantly increase the chances of healing since, with revascularization of the matrix, a wound bed is created that may either heal by secondary intention or via the application of a skin graft. A literature search on an esterified hyaluronic acid-based matrix (eHAM) returned five articles on the treatment of wounds with tendon and bone loss in which the eHAM was used. The etiologies of the wounds described varied among the articles, as did treatment modalities. However, all of them received proper debridement of necrosis with subsequent (although not always immediately) application of the eHAM. A very high percentage of all wounds reached the different primary endpoints in the studies, which were complete reepithelialization, complete coverage with granulation tissue and/or 10% coverage of the original wound size with epithelium, the latter being a strong indicator of the wound continuing to heal. The individual authors concluded that the esterified hyaluronic acid matrix (eHAM) is a valuable tool to assist in the complete healing of difficult to heal wounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Simman
- Dermatology, Wright State University School of Medicine, Dayton, OH, United States.,Clinical Professor of Surgery, University of Toledo College of Medicine, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Intracellular oligonucleotide delivery using the cell penetrating peptide Xentry. Sci Rep 2018; 8:11256. [PMID: 30050146 PMCID: PMC6062516 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-29556-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study investigated the use of two cationic peptides, Xentry-KALA (XK) and Xentry-Protamine (XP), for intracellular delivery of Connexin43 antisense oligonucleotides (Cx43AsODN). The charge and size of Cx43AsODN:XK and Cx43AsODN:XP complexes was determined by Zetasizer analysis. The earliest positive zeta potential reading was obtained at a 1:2 and 1:1.2 charge ratio of Cx43AsODN:XK and Cx43AsODN:XP respectively, with Cx43AsODN:XK resulting in overall larger complexes than Cx43AsODN:XP. Gel shift mobility assays revealed complete complex formation at a 1:2.5 and 1:2.2 charge ratio of Cx43AsODN:XK and Cx43AsODN:XP, respectively. Cellular uptake studies were carried out in ARPE-19 cells. While both complexes were able to enter the cells, Cx43AsODN:XK uptake appeared punctate and circular indicative of endosomal containment. Cx43AsODN:XP uptake, in contrast, resulted in diffuse appearance inside the cell suggesting endosomal escape of the cargo. Finally, western blot analysis confirmed that Cx43AsODN:XP was able to knockdown Cx43 expression in these cells under normal and hypoxic conditions.
Collapse
|
22
|
Montgomery J, Ghatnekar GS, Grek CL, Moyer KE, Gourdie RG. Connexin 43-Based Therapeutics for Dermal Wound Healing. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19061778. [PMID: 29914066 PMCID: PMC6032231 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19061778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Revised: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The most ubiquitous gap junction protein within the body, connexin 43 (Cx43), is a target of interest for modulating the dermal wound healing response. Observational studies found associations between Cx43 at the wound edge and poor healing response, and subsequent studies utilizing local knockdown of Cx43 found improvements in wound closure rate and final scar appearance. Further preclinical work conducted using Cx43-based peptide therapeutics, including alpha connexin carboxyl terminus 1 (αCT1), a peptide mimetic of the Cx43 carboxyl terminus, reported similar improvements in wound healing and scar formation. Clinical trials and further study into the mode of action have since been conducted on αCT1, and Phase III testing for treatment of diabetic foot ulcers is currently underway. Therapeutics targeting connexin activity show promise in beneficially modulating the human body’s natural healing response for improved patient outcomes across a variety of injuries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jade Montgomery
- Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA.
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Virginia Tech-Wake Forest University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA.
| | | | | | - Kurtis E Moyer
- Department of Surgery, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA.
- Department of Surgery, Carilion Clinic, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA.
| | - Robert G Gourdie
- Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA.
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Virginia Tech-Wake Forest University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA.
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Chanson M, Watanabe M, O'Shaughnessy EM, Zoso A, Martin PE. Connexin Communication Compartments and Wound Repair in Epithelial Tissue. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051354. [PMID: 29751558 PMCID: PMC5983803 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial tissues line the lumen of tracts and ducts connecting to the external environment. They are critical in forming an interface between the internal and external environment and, following assault from environmental factors and pathogens, they must rapidly repair to maintain cellular homeostasis. These tissue networks, that range from a single cell layer, such as in airway epithelium, to highly stratified and differentiated epithelial surfaces, such as the epidermis, are held together by a junctional nexus of proteins including adherens, tight and gap junctions, often forming unique and localised communication compartments activated for localised tissue repair. This review focuses on the dynamic changes that occur in connexins, the constituent proteins of the intercellular gap junction channel, during wound-healing processes and in localised inflammation, with an emphasis on the lung and skin. Current developments in targeting connexins as corrective therapies to improve wound closure and resolve localised inflammation are also discussed. Finally, we consider the emergence of the zebrafish as a concerted whole-animal model to study, visualise and track the events of wound repair and regeneration in real-time living model systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Chanson
- Department of Pediatrics and Cell Physiology & Metabolism, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Masakatsu Watanabe
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Erin M O'Shaughnessy
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK.
| | - Alice Zoso
- Department of Pediatrics and Cell Physiology & Metabolism, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Patricia E Martin
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Aasen T, Johnstone S, Vidal-Brime L, Lynn KS, Koval M. Connexins: Synthesis, Post-Translational Modifications, and Trafficking in Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051296. [PMID: 29701678 PMCID: PMC5983588 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexins are tetraspan transmembrane proteins that form gap junctions and facilitate direct intercellular communication, a critical feature for the development, function, and homeostasis of tissues and organs. In addition, a growing number of gap junction-independent functions are being ascribed to these proteins. The connexin gene family is under extensive regulation at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional level, and undergoes numerous modifications at the protein level, including phosphorylation, which ultimately affects their trafficking, stability, and function. Here, we summarize these key regulatory events, with emphasis on how these affect connexin multifunctionality in health and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Trond Aasen
- Translational Molecular Pathology, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Research (VHIR), Autonomous University of Barcelona, CIBERONC, 08035 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Scott Johnstone
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, P.O. Box 801394, Charlottesville, VI 22908, USA.
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TT, UK.
| | - Laia Vidal-Brime
- Translational Molecular Pathology, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Research (VHIR), Autonomous University of Barcelona, CIBERONC, 08035 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - K Sabrina Lynn
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Michael Koval
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Yin X, Feng L, Ma D, Yin P, Wang X, Hou S, Hao Y, Zhang J, Xin M, Feng J. Roles of astrocytic connexin-43, hemichannels, and gap junctions in oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion injury induced neuroinflammation and the possible regulatory mechanisms of salvianolic acid B and carbenoxolone. J Neuroinflammation 2018; 15:97. [PMID: 29587860 PMCID: PMC5872583 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-018-1127-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Glia-mediated neuroinflammation is related to brain injury exacerbation after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Astrocytic hemichannels or gap junctions, which were mainly formed by connexin-43, have been implicated in I/R damage. However, the exact roles of astrocytic hemichannels and gap junction in neuroinflammatory responses induced by I/R injury remain unknown. Methods Primary cultured astrocytes were subjected to OGD/R injury, an in vitro model of I/R injury. Salvianolic acid B (SalB) or carbenoxolone (CBX) were applied for those astrocytes. Besides, Cx43 mimetic peptides Gap19 or Gap26 were also applied during OGD/R injury; Cx43 protein levels were determined by western blot and cytoimmunofluorescene staining, hemichannel activities by Ethidium bromide uptake and ATP concentration detection, and gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) permeability by parachute assay. Further, astrocyte-conditioned medium (ACM) was collected and incubated with microglia. Meanwhile, ATP or apyrase were applied to explore the role of ATP during OGD/R injury. Microglial activation, M1/M2 phenotypes, and M1/M2-related cytokines were detected. Also, microglia-conditioned medium (MEM) was collected and incubated with astrocytes to further investigate its influence on astrocytic hemichannel activity and GJIC permeability. Lastly, effects of ACM and MCM on neuronal viability were detected by flow cytometry. Results We found that OGD/R induced abnormally opened hemichannels with increased ATP release and EtBr uptake but reduced GJIC permeability. WB tests showed decreased astrocytic plasma membrane’s Cx43, while showing an increase in cytoplasma. Treating OGD/R-injured microglia with ATP or OGD/R-ACM induced further microglial activation and secondary pro-inflammatory cytokine release, with the M1 phenotype predominating. Conversely, astrocytes incubated with OGD/R-MCM exhibited increased hemichannel opening but reduced GJIC coupling. Both SalB and CBX inhibited abnormal astrocytic hemichannel opening and ATP release and switched the activated microglial phenotype from M1 to M2, thus providing effective neuroprotection. Application of Gap19 or Gap26 showed similar results with CBX. We also found that OGD/R injury caused both plasma membrane p-Cx43(Ser265) and p-Src(Tyr416) significantly upregulated; application of SalB may be inhibiting Src kinase and attenuating Cx43 internalization. Meanwhile, CBX treatment induced obviously downregulation of p-Cx43(Ser368) and p-PKC(Ser729) protein levels in plasma membrane. Conclusions We propose a vicious cycle exists between astrocytic hemichannel and microglial activation after OGD/R injury, which would aggravate neuroinflammatory responses and neuronal damage. Astrocytic Cx43, hemichannels, and GJIC play critical roles in OGD/R injury-induced neuroinflammatory responses; treatment differentially targeting astrocytic Cx43, hemichannels, and GJIC may provide novel avenues for therapeutics during cerebral I/R injury. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12974-018-1127-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Yin
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Liangshu Feng
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Di Ma
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Yin
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuai Hou
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Yulei Hao
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingdian Zhang
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Meiying Xin
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiachun Feng
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130021, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Faniku C, O'Shaughnessy E, Lorraine C, Johnstone SR, Graham A, Greenhough S, Martin PEM. The Connexin Mimetic Peptide Gap27 and Cx43-Knockdown Reveal Differential Roles for Connexin43 in Wound Closure Events in Skin Model Systems. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19020604. [PMID: 29463027 PMCID: PMC5855826 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19020604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In the epidermis, remodelling of Connexin43 is a key event in wound closure. However, controversy between the role of connexin channel and non-channel functions exist. We compared the impact of SiRNA targeted to Connexin43 and the connexin mimetic peptide Gap27 on scrape wound closure rates and hemichannel signalling in adult keratinocytes (AK) and fibroblasts sourced from juvenile foreskin (JFF), human neonatal fibroblasts (HNDF) and adult dermal tissue (ADF). The impact of these agents, following 24 h exposure, on GJA1 (encoding Connexin43), Ki67 and TGF-β1 gene expression, and Connexin43 and pSmad3 protein expression levels, were examined by qPCR and Western Blot respectively. In all cell types Gap27 (100 nM–100 μM) attenuated hemichannel activity. In AK and JFF cells, Gap27 (100 nM–100 μM) enhanced scrape wound closure rates by ~50% but did not influence movement in HNDF or ADF cells. In both JF and AK cells, exposure to Gap27 for 24 h reduced the level of Cx43 protein expression but did not affect the level in ADF and HNDF cells. Connexin43-SiRNA enhanced scrape wound closure in all the cell types under investigation. In HDNF and ADF, Connexin43-SiRNA enhanced cell proliferation rates, with enhanced proliferation also observed following exposure of HDNF to Gap27. By contrast, in JFF and AK cells no changes in proliferation occurred. In JFF cells, Connexin43-SiRNA enhanced TGF-β1 levels and in JFF and ADF cells both Connexin43-SiRNA and Gap27 enhanced pSmad3 protein expression levels. We conclude that Connexin43 signalling plays an important role in cell migration in keratinocytes and foreskin derived fibroblasts, however, different pathways are evoked and in dermal derived adult and neonatal fibroblasts, inhibition of Connexin43 signalling plays a more significant role in regulating cell proliferation than cell migration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chrysovalantou Faniku
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK.
| | - Erin O'Shaughnessy
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK.
| | - Claire Lorraine
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK.
| | - Scott R Johnstone
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK.
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, P.O. Box 801394, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TT, UK.
| | - Annette Graham
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK.
| | - Sebastian Greenhough
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK.
| | - Patricia E M Martin
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Qin Y, Han L, Yang D, Wei H, Liu Y, Xu J, Autrup H, Deng F, Guo X. Silver nanoparticles increase connexin43-mediated gap junctional intercellular communication in HaCaT cells through activation of reactive oxygen species and mitogen-activated protein kinase signal pathway. J Appl Toxicol 2017; 38:564-574. [PMID: 29235124 DOI: 10.1002/jat.3563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 10/01/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are widely used in health and consumer products that routinely contact skin. However, the biological effects and possible mechanisms of AgNPs on skin remain unclear. Gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) plays a critical role in multicellular organisms to maintain tissue homeostasis. The aim of this study is to examine if non-coated AgNPs affect GJIC in human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells), and to identify the possible molecular mechanisms responsible for the effects. GJIC, connexin (Cx)43 protein and mRNA expression, and the effect of siRNA-mediated knockdown of Cx43 on GJIC were assessed. HaCaT cells exposed to non-coated AgNPs at different doses after a 24 hour exposure. To explore further the underlying mechanism, reactive oxygen species and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway were evaluated after 2, 6, 12 and 24 hours. Our results revealed that non-coated AgNP exposure at subcytotoxic doses increase GJIC partially via Cx43 upregulation. Reactive oxygen species and extracellular signal-regulated kinase and activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase were involved in the AgNP-induced upregulation of Cx43. This study provides new insight into the potential mechanism of AgNP biological activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Qin
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, Peking University School of Public Health, Beijing, China
| | - Limin Han
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Peking University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Di Yang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, Peking University School of Public Health, Beijing, China
| | - Hongying Wei
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, Peking University School of Public Health, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Liu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, Peking University School of Public Health, Beijing, China
| | - Junhui Xu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, Peking University School of Public Health, Beijing, China
| | - Herman Autrup
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Aarhus University Institute of Public Health, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Furong Deng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, Peking University School of Public Health, Beijing, China
| | - Xinbiao Guo
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, Peking University School of Public Health, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Kanapathy M, Simpson R, Madden L, Thrasivoulou C, Mosahebi A, Becker DL, Richards T. Upregulation of epidermal gap junctional proteins in patients with venous disease. Br J Surg 2017; 105:59-67. [DOI: 10.1002/bjs.10653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Leg ulceration is a feared complication of venous insufficiency. It is not known whether varicose veins predispose skin to poor wound healing. The expression pattern of gap junctional protein connexin, a known marker of poor wound healing, was investigated across various stages of venous disease.
Methods
Patients undergoing intervention for varicose veins were assessed according to the Clinical Etiologic Anatomic Pathophysiologic (CEAP) classification of varicose veins. Paired 4-mm punch biopsies were taken from above the ankle (pathological) and above the knee (control). Tissues were stained with haematoxylin and eosin, and for connexin 43, connexin 30 and connexin 26.
Results
Forty-eight paired biopsies were taken (12 each for CEAP class C0, C2, C4 and C6). The pathological skin showed progressive epithelial hyperthickening, an increase in the number and depth of rete ridges, increased inflammation and loss of dermal architecture with disease progression from C4 onwards. The overall absolute connexin expression and mean connexin expression per cell in the pathological skin similarly increased across the CEAP classes from as early as C2. Increasing levels of connexin in control skin were also noted, indicating progression of the disease proximally. Connexin 43 expression showed the strongest positive correlation between pathological and control skin.
Conclusion
Connexins were overexpressed in patients with simple varicose veins, with a stepwise increased expression through venous eczema to ulceration. Connexin 43 is a potential biomarker for venous disease. This finding suggests that varicose veins predispose skin to poor wound healing. Surgical relevanceThe overexpression of connexins, a family of gap junctional proteins, is known to cause poor healing in venous leg ulceration. It is not known whether there is any association with superficial venous disease. Here, connexin proteins were overexpressed in patients with uncomplicated varicose veins, before histological skin changes. Connexin could be a biomarker of venous disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Kanapathy
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, London, UK
- Tissue Repair and Regeneration Laboratory, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - R Simpson
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - L Madden
- Tissue Repair and Regeneration Laboratory, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - C Thrasivoulou
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK
| | - A Mosahebi
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, London, UK
| | - D L Becker
- Tissue Repair and Regeneration Laboratory, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
- Institute of Medical Biology, A*Star, Immunos, Biomedical Grove, Singapore
| | - T Richards
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Liu S, Yeo DC, Wiraja C, Tey HL, Mrksich M, Xu C. Peptide delivery with poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate microneedles through swelling effect. Bioeng Transl Med 2017; 2:258-267. [PMID: 29313035 PMCID: PMC5689501 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Revised: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Transdermal delivery of therapeutic biomolecules (including peptides) can avoid enzymatic digestion that occurs in the oral route. (Polyethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA)-based microneedles, with good biocompatibility, are easily fabricated through photo-polymerization with a precisely controlled structure. It has successfully been used for the transdermal delivery of small molecule drugs such as 5-fluorouracil. However, the delivery of peptide-based therapeutics using this platform is seldom reported. This is because of the potential damage to the peptide during the photo-polymerization process of PEGDA. Herein, we introduce a method to load PEGDA microneedles with peptides without compromising peptide potency. Using gap junction inhibitor (Gap 26) as an example, the peptide was loaded into PEGDA microneedles through the swelling effect of PEGDA in the aqueous solution. The peptide-loaded microneedles were applied to a keloid scar model and exhibited inhibition expression of collagen I, a predominant marker of keloid scar, demonstrating its potential therapeutic effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiying Liu
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Nanyang Technological University 70 Nanyang Drive, 637457, Singapore
| | - David C Yeo
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Nanyang Technological University 70 Nanyang Drive, 637457, Singapore
| | - Christian Wiraja
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Nanyang Technological University 70 Nanyang Drive, 637457, Singapore
| | - Hong Liang Tey
- National Skin Centre 1 Mandalay Road, 308205, Singapore.,Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine Nanyang Technological University 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798, Singapore
| | - Milan Mrksich
- Dept. of Chemistry Northwestern University 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, 60208 IL.,NTU-Northwestern Institute for Nanomedicine Nanyang Technological University 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798, Singapore
| | - Chenjie Xu
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Nanyang Technological University 70 Nanyang Drive, 637457, Singapore.,NTU-Northwestern Institute for Nanomedicine Nanyang Technological University 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Valdebenito S, Barreto A, Eugenin EA. The role of connexin and pannexin containing channels in the innate and acquired immune response. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2017; 1860:154-165. [PMID: 28559189 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Connexin (Cx) and pannexin (Panx) containing channels - gap junctions (GJs) and hemichannels (HCs) - are present in virtually all cells and tissues. Currently, the role of these channels under physiological conditions is well defined. However, their role in the immune response and pathological conditions has only recently been explored. Data from several laboratories demonstrates that infectious agents, including HIV, have evolved to take advantage of GJs and HCs to improve viral/bacterial replication, enhance inflammation, and help spread toxicity into neighboring areas. In the current review, we discuss the role of Cx and Panx containing channels in immune activation and the pathogenesis of several infectious diseases. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Gap Junction Proteins edited by Jean Claude Herve.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Valdebenito
- Public Health Research Institute (PHRI), Newark, NJ, USA; Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers the State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Andrea Barreto
- Public Health Research Institute (PHRI), Newark, NJ, USA; Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers the State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Eliseo A Eugenin
- Public Health Research Institute (PHRI), Newark, NJ, USA; Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers the State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
To maximize the effectiveness of any complementary therapy in treating chronic wounds, the clinician must fully appreciate the scientific basis in which this treatment modality influences wound healing. The biological changes influenced by phytochemical compounds can have a positive effect on wound healing, which often depends on extract selection and clinical application. A sound understanding of the physiological changes that are associated with phytochemical compounds will help the clinician to make an appropriate extract selection and guide treatment decisions.Tissue adhesion has long been considered a key step in determining a bacterium's pathogenicity. The process of preventing infections by decreasing bacterial-tissue adhesion has been reported in the literature, with particular focus on the antibacterial effects of ingested cranberry juice. Cranberry juice has been studied primarily as a "home remedy" in the treatment of urinary tract infection with its antiadhesion and/or antibacterial effects in a chronic wound needing further investigation.
Collapse
|
32
|
Wong P, Laxton V, Srivastava S, Chan YWF, Tse G. The role of gap junctions in inflammatory and neoplastic disorders (Review). Int J Mol Med 2017; 39:498-506. [PMID: 28098880 PMCID: PMC5360388 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2017.2859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2016] [Accepted: 12/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions are intercellular channels made of connexin proteins, mediating both electrical and biochemical signals between cells. The ability of gap junction proteins to regulate immune responses, cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis and carcinogenesis makes them attractive therapeutic targets for treating inflammatory and neoplastic disorders in different organ systems. Alterations in gap junction profile and expression levels are observed in hyperproliferative skin disorders, lymphatic vessel diseases, inflammatory lung diseases, liver injury and neoplastic disorders. It is now recognized that the therapeutic effects mediated by traditional pharmacological agents are dependent upon gap junction communication and may even act by influencing gap junction expression or function. Novel strategies for modulating the function or expression of connexins, such as the use of synthetic mimetic peptides and siRNA technology are considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pui Wong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, P.R. China
| | - Victoria Laxton
- Intensive Care Department, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6NP
| | | | - Yin Wah Fiona Chan
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1AG, UK
| | - Gary Tse
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Kanapathy M, Hachach‐Haram N, Bystrzonowski N, Connelly JT, O'Toole EA, Becker DL, Mosahebi A, Richards T. Epidermal grafting for wound healing: a review on the harvesting systems, the ultrastructure of the graft and the mechanism of wound healing. Int Wound J 2017; 14:16-23. [PMID: 27785878 PMCID: PMC7950150 DOI: 10.1111/iwj.12686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidermal grafting for wound healing involves the transfer of the epidermis from a healthy location to cover a wound. The structural difference of the epidermal graft in comparison to the split-thickness skin graft and full-thickness skin graft contributes to the mechanism of effect. While skin grafting is an epidermal transfer, little is known about the precise mechanism of wound healing by epidermal graft. This paper aims to explore the evolution of the epidermal graft harvesting system over the last five decades, the structural advantages of epidermal graft for wound healing and the current hypotheses on the mechanism of wound healing by epidermal graft. Three mechanisms are proposed: keratinocyte activation, growth factor secretion and reepithelialisation from the wound edge. We evaluate and explain how these processes work and integrate to promote wound healing based on the current in vivo and in vitro evidence. We also review the ongoing clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of epidermal graft for wound healing. The epidermal graft is a promising alternative to the more invasive conventional surgical techniques as it is simple, less expensive and reduces the surgical burden for patients in need of wound coverage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muholan Kanapathy
- Division of Surgery & Interventional ScienceUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- London Wound Healing Group, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryRoyal Free NHS Foundation Trust HospitalLondonUK
| | - Nadine Hachach‐Haram
- London Wound Healing Group, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryRoyal Free NHS Foundation Trust HospitalLondonUK
| | - Nicola Bystrzonowski
- London Wound Healing Group, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryRoyal Free NHS Foundation Trust HospitalLondonUK
| | - John T Connelly
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, The Blizard InstituteBarts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Edel A O'Toole
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, The Blizard InstituteBarts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - David L Becker
- Lee Kong Chian School of MedicineNanyang Technological UniversitySingaporeSingapore
- Institute of Medical BiologyA*Star, Immunos, Biomedical GroveSingaporeSingapore
| | - Afshin Mosahebi
- Division of Surgery & Interventional ScienceUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- London Wound Healing Group, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryRoyal Free NHS Foundation Trust HospitalLondonUK
| | - Toby Richards
- Division of Surgery & Interventional ScienceUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- London Wound Healing Group, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryRoyal Free NHS Foundation Trust HospitalLondonUK
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Wong P, Tan T, Chan C, Laxton V, Chan YWF, Liu T, Wong WT, Tse G. The Role of Connexins in Wound Healing and Repair: Novel Therapeutic Approaches. Front Physiol 2016; 7:596. [PMID: 27999549 PMCID: PMC5138227 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2016.00596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions are intercellular proteins responsible for mediating both electrical and biochemical coupling through the exchange of ions, second messengers and small metabolites. They consist of two connexons, with (one) connexon supplied by each cell. A connexon is a hexamer of connexins and currently more than 20 connexin isoforms have been described in the literature thus far. Connexins have a short half-life, and therefore gap junction remodeling constantly occurs with a high turnover rate. Post-translational modification, such as phosphorylation, can modify their channel activities. In this article, the roles of connexins in wound healing and repair are reviewed. Novel strategies for modulating the function or expression of connexins, such as the use of antisense technology, synthetic mimetic peptides and bioactive materials for the treatment of skin wounds, diabetic and pressure ulcers as well as cornea wounds, are considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pui Wong
- Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Hong Kong Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Teresa Tan
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Catherine Chan
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Victoria Laxton
- Intensive Care Department, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust London, UK
| | - Yin Wah Fiona Chan
- Department of Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Cambridge Cambridge, UK
| | - Tong Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic-Molecular Function of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Institute of Cardiology, Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University Tianjin, China
| | - Wing Tak Wong
- School of Life Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Gary Tse
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong, Hong Kong; Faculty of Medicine, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Martin PE. Connexins help fill the Gap: markers and therapeutic targets for chronic nonhealing wounds. Br J Dermatol 2016; 173:1123-4. [PMID: 26769640 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.14193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- P E Martin
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, G4 0BA, U.K.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Hu SCS, Lan CCE. High-glucose environment disturbs the physiologic functions of keratinocytes: Focusing on diabetic wound healing. J Dermatol Sci 2016; 84:121-127. [PMID: 27461757 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2016.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Impaired wound healing is a common and potentially serious complication in patients with diabetes. In recent years, disturbed physiologic functions of epidermal keratinocytes have been found to play a central role in the poor healing ability of diabetic wounds. Factors involving keratinocytes that may contribute to the dysfunctional wound healing process in diabetes include impaired keratinocyte migration and proliferation, gap junction abnormalities, chronic inflammation, chronic infections associated with defective innate immunity, impaired angiogenesis, increased oxidative stress, and abnormal expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). In this review article, we provide evidence from the scientific literature for the molecular mechanisms of delayed wound healing in diabetes, with particular emphasis on keratinocytes. Elucidating the spectrum of molecular and functional abnormalities in keratinocytes induced by high-glucose environment may lead to more effective and individualized therapeutic strategies for the prevention and management of chronic diabetic wounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Chu-Sung Hu
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Che E Lan
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Steuer A, Schmidt A, Labohá P, Babica P, Kolb JF. Transient suppression of gap junctional intercellular communication after exposure to 100-nanosecond pulsed electric fields. Bioelectrochemistry 2016; 112:33-46. [PMID: 27439151 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2016.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Revised: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) is an important mechanism that is involved and affected in many diseases and injuries. So far, the effect of nanosecond pulsed electric fields (nsPEFs) on the communication between cells was not investigated. An in vitro approach is presented with rat liver epithelial WB-F344 cells grown and exposed in a monolayer. In order to observe sub-lethal effects, cells were exposed to pulsed electric fields with a duration of 100ns and amplitudes between 10 and 20kV/cm. GJIC strongly decreased within 15min after treatment but recovered within 24h. Gene expression of Cx43 was significantly decreased and associated with a reduced total amount of Cx43 protein. In addition, MAP kinases p38 and Erk1/2, involved in Cx43 phosphorylation, were activated and Cx43 became hyperphosphorylated. Immunofluorescent staining of Cx43 displayed the disassembly of gap junctions. Further, a reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton was observed whereas tight junction protein ZO-1 was not significantly affected. All effects were field- and time-dependent and most pronounced within 30 to 60min after treatment. A better understanding of a possible manipulation of GJIC by nsPEFs might eventually offer a possibility to develop and improve treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Steuer
- Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Anke Schmidt
- Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Petra Labohá
- Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology, Greifswald, Germany; Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment (RECETOX), Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Babica
- Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment (RECETOX), Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Juergen F Kolb
- Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology, Greifswald, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Kanapathy M, Hachach-Haram N, Bystrzonowski N, Harding K, Mosahebi A, Richards T. Epidermal grafting versus split-thickness skin grafting for wound healing (EPIGRAAFT): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. Trials 2016; 17:245. [PMID: 27185033 PMCID: PMC4869340 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-016-1352-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2016] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Split-thickness skin grafting (SSG) is an important modality for wound closure. However, the donor site becomes a second, often painful wound, which may take more time to heal than the graft site itself and holds the risk of infection and scarring. Epidermal grafting (EG) is an alternative method of autologous skin grafting that harvests only the epidermal layer of the skin by applying continuous negative pressure on the normal skin to raise blisters. This procedure has minimal donor site morbidity and is relatively pain-free, allowing autologous skin grafting in an outpatient setting. We plan to compare EG to SSG and to further investigate the cellular mechanism by which each technique achieves wound healing. Methods/design EPIGRAAFT is a multicentre, randomised, controlled trial that compares the efficacy and wound-healing mechanism of EG with SSG for wound healing. The primary outcome measures are the proportion of wounds healed in 6 weeks and the donor site healing time. The secondary outcome measures include the mean time for complete wound healing, pain score, patient satisfaction, health care utilisation, cost analysis, and incidence of adverse events. Discussion This study is expected to define the efficacy of EG and promote further understanding of the mechanism of wound healing by EG compared to SSG. The results of this study can be used to inform the current best practise for wound care. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov identifier, NCT02535481. Registered on 11 August 2015. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13063-016-1352-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muholan Kanapathy
- Division of Surgery & Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK.,Royal Free Hospital Wound Healing Group, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Nadine Hachach-Haram
- Royal Free Hospital Wound Healing Group, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Nicola Bystrzonowski
- Royal Free Hospital Wound Healing Group, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Keith Harding
- Cardiff University, Wound Healing Research Unit, School of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK
| | - Afshin Mosahebi
- Division of Surgery & Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK. .,Royal Free Hospital Wound Healing Group, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Royal Free Hospital, London, UK.
| | - Toby Richards
- Division of Surgery & Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK.,Royal Free Hospital Wound Healing Group, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Bioglass promotes wound healing by affecting gap junction connexin 43 mediated endothelial cell behavior. Biomaterials 2016; 84:64-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2016.01.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2015] [Revised: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/15/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
|
40
|
Connexin43 in retinal injury and disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2016; 51:41-68. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2015.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Revised: 09/25/2015] [Accepted: 09/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
|
41
|
Kim R, Chang G, Hu R, Phillips A, Douglas R. Connexin gap junction channels and chronic rhinosinusitis. Int Forum Allergy Rhinol 2016; 6:611-7. [PMID: 26919292 DOI: 10.1002/alr.21717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Revised: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gap junction channels are formed by connexin (Cx) proteins. These channels facilitate communication between adjacent cells, and some have been implicated in acute and chronic inflammation. We investigated whether altered connexin expression could be associated with the inflammatory changes of the sinonasal mucosa that characterize chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Our aims were first to screen normal sinus mucosa to determine the expression profile of the connexin family of genes, and second to compare the level of expression of 3 key connexins (Cx26, Cx30, and Cx43) in CRS and normal sinus mucosa. These 3 connexins have been implicated in lower airway epithelial cell repair, as well as chronic and acute cutaneous wounds. METHODS Sinus mucosa biopsies were taken from 11 patients with CRS undergoing sinus surgery and from 7 controls with normal sinuses undergoing transnasal pituitary surgery. Gene expression study of the connexin family was performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Subsequent targeted quantitative analyses were done using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and fluorescent immunohistochemistry (IHC). RESULTS A total of 16 different connexin genes were expressed in the normal mucosa including Cx26, Cx30, and Cx43. The qPCR demonstrated increased abundance of Cx26 (p = 0.005), Cx30 (p = 0.07), and Cx43 (p = 0.04) in CRS compared to control mucosa. IHC confirmed significantly higher levels of Cx43 in CRS (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION The majority of the connexin family is expressed in normal sinus mucosa. Expression of 3 selected connexins was found elevated in CRS mucosa. Connexin gap junction modulation may offer a novel therapeutic target for CRS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raymond Kim
- Department of Surgery, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - George Chang
- Faculty of Medical and Health Science, and School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca Hu
- Faculty of Medical and Health Science, and School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Anthony Phillips
- Department of Surgery, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Faculty of Medical and Health Science, and School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,CoDa Therapeutics Inc, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Richard Douglas
- Department of Surgery, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Karri VVSR, Kuppusamy G, Talluri SV, Yamjala K, Mannemala SS, Malayandi R. Current and emerging therapies in the management of diabetic foot ulcers. Curr Med Res Opin 2016; 32:519-42. [PMID: 26643047 DOI: 10.1185/03007995.2015.1128888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetic foot ulcers are one of the major causes of mortality in diabetic patients. Very few drugs and therapies have regulatory approval for this indication and several agents from diverse pharmacological classes are currently in various phases of clinical trials for the management of diabetic foot ulcers. SCOPE The purpose of this review is to provide concise information of the drugs and therapies which are approved and present in clinical trials. REVIEW METHODS This review was carried out by systematic searches of relevant guidelines, patents, published articles, reviews and abstracts in PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, clinicaltrials.gov, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Google Scholar of all English language articles up to 1 March 2015. The following search terms were used: diabetes, diabetic foot, diabetic foot ulcer, diabetic wound, diabetic foot infections, wound management, randomized controlled trials, approved treatments, new treatments and clinical trials. CONCLUSIONS The various drugs and therapies for the management of diabetic foot ulcers comprise antibiotics, neuropathic drugs, wound dressings, skin substitutes, growth factors and inflammatory modulators. The majority of these therapies target the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers to address the altered biochemical composition of the diabetic wound. However, no single treatment can be definitively recommended for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Gowthamarajan Kuppusamy
- a a Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, Ootacamund , JSS University , Mysore , India
| | | | - Karthik Yamjala
- b b Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, JSS College of Pharmacy, Ootacamund , JSS University , Mysore , India
| | - Sai Sandeep Mannemala
- b b Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, JSS College of Pharmacy, Ootacamund , JSS University , Mysore , India
- c c Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Engineering and Technology , Annamalai University , Annamalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Rajkumar Malayandi
- d d Pharmacokinetic Research and Development, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd , Baroda , India
- e e JSS College of Pharmacy, Ootacamund , JSS University , Mysore , India
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Kinase programs spatiotemporally regulate gap junction assembly and disassembly: Effects on wound repair. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2015; 50:40-8. [PMID: 26706150 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2015.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctions are highly ordered plasma membrane domains that are constantly assembled, remodeled and turned over due to the short half-life of connexins, the integral membrane proteins that form gap junctions. Connexin 43 (Cx43), by far the most widely expressed connexin, is phosphorylated at multiple serine residues in the cytoplasmic, C-terminal region allowing for exquisite cellular control over gap junctional communication. This is evident during epidermal wounding where spatiotemporal changes in connexin expression occur as cells are instructed whether to die, proliferate or migrate to promote repair. Early gap junctional communication is required for initiation of keratinocyte migration, but accelerated Cx43 turnover is also critical for proper wound healing at later stages. These events are controlled via a "kinase program" where sequential phosphorylation of Cx43 leads to reductions in Cx43's half-life and significant depletion of gap junctions from the plasma membrane within several hours. The complex regulation of gap junction assembly and turnover affords several steps where intervention might speed wound healing.
Collapse
|
44
|
Helicobacter pylori VacA induces apoptosis by accumulation of connexin 43 in autophagic vesicles via a Rac1/ERK-dependent pathway. Cell Death Discov 2015; 1:15035. [PMID: 27551466 PMCID: PMC4979424 DOI: 10.1038/cddiscovery.2015.35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2015] [Revised: 08/16/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) produces vacuolating cytotoxin (VacA), a potent protein toxin, which is associated with gastric inflammation and ulceration. Recent studies demonstrated that connexins (Cxs), which are responsible for intracellular communication at gap junctions (GJs) as well as cell homeostasis, participate in VacA-induced cell death. We now demonstrate in AZ-521 cells that VacA increased cytoplasmic Cx43, accompanied by LC3-II generation in a time- and dose-dependent manner without induction of Cx43 mRNA expression. Inhibition of VacA-induced Rac1 activity prevented ERK phosphorylation and the increase in Cx43. Suppression of ERK activity and addition of N-acetyl-cysteine inhibited VacA-dependent increase in Cx43 and LC3-II. DIDS, an anion-selective inhibitor, suppressed VacA-dependent increase in Cx43, suggesting that VacA channel activity was involved in this pathway. By confocal microscopy, Cx43 increased by VacA was predominately localized in cholesterol-rich, detergent-resistant membranes including GJs, and a fraction of Cx43 was incorporated in endocytotic vesicles and autophagolysosomes. Accumulation of Cx43 was also observed in gastric mucosa from H. pylori-infected patients compared with healthy controls, suggesting that the pathogen caused a similar effect in vivo. Our findings show that VacA-mediated effects on autophagy inhibits turnover of Cx43, resulting in increased levels in the cytoplasm, leading eventually to apoptotic cell death.
Collapse
|
45
|
Faniku C, Wright CS, Martin PE. Connexins and pannexins in the integumentary system: the skin and appendages. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:2937-47. [PMID: 26091749 PMCID: PMC11113313 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-1969-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The integumentary system comprises the skin and its appendages, which includes hair, nails, feathers, sebaceous and eccrine glands. In this review, we focus on the expression profile of connexins and pannexins throughout the integumentary system in mammals, birds and fish. We provide a picture of the complexity of the connexin/pannexin network illustrating functional importance of these proteins in maintaining the integrity of the epidermal barrier. The differential regulation and expression of connexins and pannexins during skin renewal, together with a number of epidermal, hair and nail abnormalities associated with mutations in connexins, emphasize that the correct balance of connexin and pannexin expression is critical for maintenance of the skin and its appendages with both channel and non-channel functions playing profound roles. Changes in connexin expression during both hair and feather regeneration provide suggestions of specialized communication compartments. Finally, we discuss the potential use of zebrafish as a model for connexin skin biology, where evidence mounts that differential connexin expression is involved in skin patterning and pigmentation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chrysovalantou Faniku
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute for Applied Health Research, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, G4 0BA UK
| | - Catherine S. Wright
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute for Applied Health Research, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, G4 0BA UK
| | - Patricia E. Martin
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute for Applied Health Research, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, G4 0BA UK
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Abstract
Connexin mutations underlie numerous human genetic diseases. Several connexin genes have been linked to skin diseases, and mechanistic studies have indicated that a gain of abnormal channel function may be responsible for pathology. The topical accessibility of the epidermal connexins, the existence of several mouse models of human skin disease, and the ongoing identification of pharmacological inhibitors targeting connexins provide an opportunity to test new therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noah A Levit
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, United States
| | - Thomas W White
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Abstract
INTRODUCTION About 2% of the Western world population suffer from chronic wounds, resulting from underlying disorders (e.g., diabetes, excessive pressure, vascular insufficiencies and vasculitis), with a significant adverse effect on Quality of Life. Despite high incidence and economic burden, management of chronic wounds is still far from effective and novel therapies are in urgent need. Wound healing is a dynamic process of transient expression, function and clearance of mediators, enzymes and cell types. Failure to initiate, terminate or regulate leads to pathologic wound healing. AREAS COVERED The present review discusses patents of the seven most promising classes of biological agents, mostly published in 2009 - 2014 (CYP11B1 inhibitors, peptide growth factors, prolyl-4-hydroxylase and matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors, bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells, elastase and connexin43 inhibitors). Relevant information from peer-reviewed journals is also presented. EXPERT OPINION The aforementioned biological agents have different mechanisms of action, and considering the multifactorial pathogenesis of chronic wounds, they hold promise in treating chronic wounds. However, as administration of a certain biological agent may be beneficial in an early phase, it may slow down wound healing in a later phase. Basic and clinical research on chronic wound healing should therefore investigate the efficacy of these agents, alone and in concert, during the consecutive phases of wound healing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chris J van Koppen
- ElexoPharm GmbH , Im Stadtwald, Building A1.2, 66123 Saarbrücken , Germany +49 681 30268320 ; +49 681 9102894 ;
| | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Gago-Fuentes R, Fernández-Puente P, Megias D, Carpintero-Fernández P, Mateos J, Acea B, Fonseca E, Blanco FJ, Mayan MD. Proteomic Analysis of Connexin 43 Reveals Novel Interactors Related to Osteoarthritis. Mol Cell Proteomics 2015; 14:1831-45. [PMID: 25903580 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m115.050211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously reported that articular chondrocytes in tissue contain long cytoplasmic arms that physically connect two distant cells. Cell-to-cell communication occurs through connexin channels termed Gap Junction (GJ) channels, which achieve direct cellular communication by allowing the intercellular exchange of ions, small RNAs, nutrients, and second messengers. The Cx43 protein is overexpressed in several human diseases and inflammation processes and in articular cartilage from patients with osteoarthritis (OA). An increase in the level of Cx43 is known to alter gene expression, cell signaling, growth, and cell proliferation. The interaction of proteins with the C-terminal tail of connexin 43 (Cx43) directly modulates GJ-dependent and -independent functions. Here, we describe the isolation of Cx43 complexes using mild extraction conditions and immunoaffinity purification. Cx43 complexes were extracted from human primary articular chondrocytes isolated from healthy donors and patients with OA. The proteomic content of the native complexes was determined using LC-MS/MS, and protein associations with Cx43 were validated using Western blot and immunolocalization experiments. We identified >100 Cx43-associated proteins including previously uncharacterized proteins related to nucleolar functions, RNA transport, and translation. We also identified several proteins involved in human diseases, cartilage structure, and OA as novel functional Cx43 interactors, which emphasized the importance of Cx43 in the normal physiology and structural and functional integrity of chondrocytes and articular cartilage. Gene Ontology (GO) terms of the proteins identified in the OA samples showed an enrichment of Cx43-interactors related to cell adhesion, calmodulin binding, the nucleolus, and the cytoskeleton in OA samples compared with healthy samples. However, the mitochondrial proteins SOD2 and ATP5J2 were identified only in samples from healthy donors. The identification of Cx43 interactors will provide clues to the functions of Cx43 in human cells and its roles in the development of several diseases, including OA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Gago-Fuentes
- From the ‡CellCOM Research Group. Instituto de Investigación Biomédica A Coruña (INIBIC), XXIAC, University of A Coruña. Xubias de Arriba 84, 15006 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Patricia Fernández-Puente
- §Rheumatology Division, ProteoRed/ISCIII, Proteomics Group, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica A Coruña (INIBIC), XXIAC. University of A Coruña. Xubias de Arriba 84, 15006 A Coruña, Spain; ¶Rheumatology Division, CIBER-BBN/ISCIII, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica A Coruña (INIBIC), XXIAC. University of A Coruña. Xubias de Arriba 84, 15006 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Diego Megias
- ‖Confocal Microscopy Core Unit. Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO), 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paula Carpintero-Fernández
- From the ‡CellCOM Research Group. Instituto de Investigación Biomédica A Coruña (INIBIC), XXIAC, University of A Coruña. Xubias de Arriba 84, 15006 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Jesus Mateos
- §Rheumatology Division, ProteoRed/ISCIII, Proteomics Group, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica A Coruña (INIBIC), XXIAC. University of A Coruña. Xubias de Arriba 84, 15006 A Coruña, Spain; ¶Rheumatology Division, CIBER-BBN/ISCIII, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica A Coruña (INIBIC), XXIAC. University of A Coruña. Xubias de Arriba 84, 15006 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Benigno Acea
- From the ‡CellCOM Research Group. Instituto de Investigación Biomédica A Coruña (INIBIC), XXIAC, University of A Coruña. Xubias de Arriba 84, 15006 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Eduardo Fonseca
- From the ‡CellCOM Research Group. Instituto de Investigación Biomédica A Coruña (INIBIC), XXIAC, University of A Coruña. Xubias de Arriba 84, 15006 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Blanco
- §Rheumatology Division, ProteoRed/ISCIII, Proteomics Group, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica A Coruña (INIBIC), XXIAC. University of A Coruña. Xubias de Arriba 84, 15006 A Coruña, Spain; ¶Rheumatology Division, CIBER-BBN/ISCIII, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica A Coruña (INIBIC), XXIAC. University of A Coruña. Xubias de Arriba 84, 15006 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Maria Dolores Mayan
- From the ‡CellCOM Research Group. Instituto de Investigación Biomédica A Coruña (INIBIC), XXIAC, University of A Coruña. Xubias de Arriba 84, 15006 A Coruña, Spain;
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Cogliati B, Vinken M, Silva TC, Araújo CMM, Aloia TPA, Chaible LM, Mori CMC, Dagli MLZ. Connexin 43 deficiency accelerates skin wound healing and extracellular matrix remodeling in mice. J Dermatol Sci 2015; 79:50-56. [PMID: 25900674 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2015.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Revised: 03/28/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cellular channels composed of connexin 43 are known to act as key players in the life cycle of the skin and consequently to underlie skin repair. OBJECTIVE This study was specifically set up to investigate the suite of molecular mechanisms driven by connexin 43-based channels on wound healing. METHODS To this end, a battery of parameters, including re-epithelialization, neovascularization, collagen deposition and extracellular matrix remodeling, was monitored over time during experimentally induced skin repair in heterozygous connexin 43 knockout mice. RESULTS It was found that connexin 43 deficiency accelerates re-epithelialization and wound closure, increases proliferation and activation of dermal fibroblasts, and enhances the expression of extracellular matrix remodeling mediators. CONCLUSION These data substantiate the notion that connexin 43 may represent an interesting therapeutic target in dermal wound healing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Cogliati
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), Brazil
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Tereza C Silva
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), Brazil
| | - Cintia M M Araújo
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), Brazil
| | - Thiago P A Aloia
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), Brazil
| | - Lucas M Chaible
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), Brazil
| | - Cláudia M C Mori
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), Brazil
| | - Maria L Z Dagli
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (USP), Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Abstract
Maximizing the effectiveness of any wound treatment requires that normal wound-healing dynamics are appreciated. In considering adjuvant wound therapies, the clinical evidence supporting a therapy must be fully understood. The biological changes associated with electroacupuncture can have a positive effect on wound healing, although limited clinical data are available.
Collapse
|