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Zhang D, Li L, Ma F. Integrative analyses identified gap junction beta-2 as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for breast cancer. CANCER INNOVATION 2024; 3:e128. [PMID: 38948248 PMCID: PMC11212300 DOI: 10.1002/cai2.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Background Increasing evidence has shown that connexins are involved in the regulation of tumor development, immune escape, and drug resistance. This study investigated the gene expression patterns, prognostic values, and potential mechanisms of connexins in breast cancer. Methods We conducted a comprehensive analysis of connexins using public gene and protein expression databases and clinical samples from our institution. Connexin mRNA expressions in breast cancer and matched normal tissues were compared, and multiomics studies were performed. Results Gap junction beta-2 mRNA was overexpressed in breast cancers of different pathological types and molecular subtypes, and its high expression was associated with poor prognosis. The tumor membrane of the gap junction beta-2 mutated group was positive, and the corresponding protein was expressed. Somatic mutation and copy number variation of gap junction beta-2 are rare in breast cancer. The gap junction beta-2 transcription level in the p110α subunit of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase mutant subgroup was higher than that in the wild-type subgroup. Gap junction beta-2 was associated with the phosphoinositide 3-kinase-Akt signaling pathway, extracellular matrix-receptor interaction, focal adhesion, and proteoglycans in cancer. Furthermore, gap junction beta-2 overexpression may be associated with phosphoinositide 3-kinase and histone deacetylase inhibitor resistance, and its expression level correlated with infiltrating CD8+ T cells, macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells. Conclusions Gap junction beta-2 may be a promising therapeutic target for targeted therapy and immunotherapy and may be used to predict breast cancer prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Zhang
- Department of Medical OncologyQilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityJinanChina
- Department of Medical OncologyQilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
- Department of Medical OncologyNational Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Lixi Li
- Department of Medical OncologyNational Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Fei Ma
- Department of Medical OncologyNational Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
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2
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Salgado M, Márquez-Miranda V, Ferrada L, Rojas M, Poblete-Flores G, González-Nilo FD, Ardiles ÁO, Sáez JC. Ca 2+ permeation through C-terminal cleaved, but not full-length human Pannexin1 hemichannels, mediates cell death. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2405468121. [PMID: 38861601 PMCID: PMC11194574 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2405468121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Pannexin1 hemichannels (Panx1 HCs) are found in the membrane of most mammalian cells and communicate the intracellular and extracellular spaces, enabling the passive transfer of ions and small molecules. They are involved in physiological and pathophysiological conditions. During apoptosis, the C-terminal tail of Panx1 is proteolytically cleaved, but the permeability features of hemichannels and their role in cell death remain elusive. To address these topics, HeLa cells transfected with full-length human Panx1 (fl-hPanx1) or C-terminal truncated hPanx1 (Δ371hPanx1) were exposed to alkaline extracellular saline solution, increasing the activity of Panx1 HCs. The Δ371hPanx1 HC was permeable to DAPI and Etd+, but not to propidium iodide, whereas fl-hPanx1 HC was only permeable to DAPI. Furthermore, the cytoplasmic Ca2+ signal increased only in Δ371hPanx1 cells, which was supported by bioinformatics approaches. The influx of Ca2+ through Δ371hPanx1 HCs was necessary to promote cell death up to about 95% of cells, whereas the exposure to alkaline saline solution without Ca2+ failed to induce cell death, and the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 promoted more than 80% cell death even in fl-hPanx1 transfectants. Moreover, cell death was prevented with carbenoxolone or 10Panx1 in Δ371hPanx1 cells, whereas it was undetectable in HeLa Panx1-/- cells. Pretreatment with Ferrostatin-1 and necrostatin-1 did not prevent cell death, suggesting that ferroptosis or necroptosis was not involved. In comparison, zVAD-FMK, a pancaspase inhibitor, reduced death by ~60%, suggesting the involvement of apoptosis. Therefore, alkaline pH increases the activity of Δ371hPanx1HCs, leading to a critical intracellular free-Ca2+ overload that promotes cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdiel Salgado
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso2381850, Chile
| | - Valeria Márquez-Miranda
- Center for Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago8370146, Chile
| | - Luciano Ferrada
- Centro de Microscopía Avanzada-Biobío, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción4070386, Chile
| | - Maximiliano Rojas
- Center for Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago8370146, Chile
| | - Gonzalo Poblete-Flores
- Escuela de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso2341386, Chile
| | - Fernando D. González-Nilo
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso2381850, Chile
- Center for Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago8370146, Chile
| | - Álvaro O. Ardiles
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso2381850, Chile
- Escuela de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso2341386, Chile
| | - Juan C. Sáez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso2381850, Chile
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Han Z, Zhang J, Su Y, Zhou Z, Wang Y, Xu S, Zhao Y, He S, Wang R. Identification of oxidative phosphorylation-related genes in moyamoya disease by combining bulk RNA-sequencing analysis and machine learning. Front Genet 2024; 15:1417329. [PMID: 38919950 PMCID: PMC11197386 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1417329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a chronic cerebrovascular disease that can lead to ischemia and hemorrhagic stroke. The relationship between oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and MMD pathogenesis remains unknown. Methods: The gene expression data of 60 participants were acquired from three Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets, including 36 and 24 in the MMD and control groups. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between MMD patients MMD and control groups were identified. Machine learning was used to select the key OXPHOS-related genes associated with MMD from the intersection of DEGs and OXPHOS-related gene sets. Gene ontology (GO), Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG), gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), Immune infiltration and microenvironments analysis were used to analyze the function of key genes. Machine learning selected four key OXPHOS-related genes associated with MMD: CSK, NARS2, PTPN6 and SMAD2 (PTPN6 was upregulated and the other three were downregulated). Results: Functional enrichment analysis showed that these genes were mainly enriched in the Notch signaling pathway, GAP junction, and RNA degradation, which are related to several biological processes, including angiogenesis, proliferation of vascular smooth muscle and endothelial cells, and cytoskeleton regulation. Immune analysis revealed immune infiltration and microenvironment in these MMD samples and their relationships with four key OXPHOS-related genes. APC co-inhibition (p = 0.032), HLA (p = 0.001), MHC I (p = 0.013), T cellco- inhibition (p = 0.032) and Type I IFN responses (p < 0.001) were significantly higher in the MMD groups than those in the control groups. The CSK positively correlated with APC co-inhibition and T cell-co-inhibition. The NARS2 negatively correlated with Type I IFN response. The SMAD2 negatively correlated with APC co-inhibition and Type I IFN response. The PTPN6 positively correlated with HLA, MHC I and Type I IFN responses. Discussion: This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the role of OXPHOS in MMD and will contribute to the development of new treatment methods and exploration of MMD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiguang Han
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Junze Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yutao Su
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, The 82nd Group Army Hospital, Baoding, China
| | - Zhenyu Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanru Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shaoqi Xu
- Suzhou Vocational Health College, Suzhou, China
| | - Yuanli Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shihao He
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Rong Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Wang L, Song Y, Xu M, Zhang C, Zhang L, Xia L, Wei Z. Proteomics analysis of PK-15 cells infected with porcine parvovirus and the effect of PCBP1 on PPV replication. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0391423. [PMID: 38742903 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03914-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Porcine parvovirus (PPV) is one of the most important pathogens that cause reproductive failure in pigs. However, the pathogenesis of PPV infection remains unclear. Proteomics is a powerful tool to understand the interaction between virus and host cells. In the present study, we analyzed the proteomics of PPV-infected PK-15 cells. A total of 32 and 345 proteins were differentially expressed at the early and replication stages, respectively. Subsequent gene ontology annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis showed these differentially expressed proteins were significantly enriched in pathways including toll-like receptor signaling pathway, tumor necrosis factor signaling pathway, and viral carcinogenesis. The expression of poly (rC) binding protein 1 (PCBP1) was observed to decrease after PPV infection. Overexpressed or silenced PCBP1 expression inhibited or promoted PPV infection. Our studies established a foundation for further exploration of the multiplication mechanism of PPV. IMPORTANCE Porcine parvovirus (PPV) is a cause of reproductive failure in the swine industry. Our knowledge of PPV remains limited, and there is no effective treatment for PPV infection. Proteomics of PPV-infected PK-15 cells was conducted to identify differentially expressed proteins at 6 hours post-infection (hpi) and 36 hpi. Gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis showed that various pathways participate in PPV infection. Poly (rC) binding protein 1 was confirmed to inhibit PPV replication, which provided potential targets for anti-PPV infection. Our findings improve the understanding of PPV infection and pave the way for future research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linqing Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Molecule Biology Laboratory of Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yue Song
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Molecule Biology Laboratory of Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Menglong Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Limeng Zhang
- Molecule Biology Laboratory of Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Lu Xia
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zhanyong Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Yao ZJ, Jiang YP, Yuan D, Hong P, He MJ, Li FX, Xu SY, Lin HB, Zhang HF. Decreased connexin 40 expression of the sinoatrial node mediates ischemic stroke-induced arrhythmia in mice. Exp Neurol 2024; 376:114773. [PMID: 38599368 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114773] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Arrhythmia is the most common cardiac complication after ischemic stroke. Connexin 40 is the staple component of gap junctions, which influences the propagation of cardiac electrical signals in the sinoatrial node. However, the role of connexin 40 in post-stroke arrhythmia remains unclear. METHODS In this study, a permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion model was used to simulate the occurrence of an ischemic stroke. Subsequently, an electrocardiogram was utilized to record and assess variations in electrocardiogram measures. In addition, optical tissue clearing and whole-mount immunofluorescence staining were used to confirm the anatomical localization of the sinoatrial node, and the sinoatrial node tissue was collected for RNA sequencing to screen for potential pathological mechanisms. Lastly, the rAAV9-Gja5 virus was injected with ultrasound guidance into the heart to increase Cx40 expression in the sinoatrial node. RESULTS We demonstrated that the mice suffering from a permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion displayed significant arrhythmia, including atrial fibrillation, premature ventricular contractions, atrioventricular block, and abnormal electrocardiogram parameters. Of note, we observed a decrease in connexin 40 expression within the sinoatrial node after the ischemic stroke via RNA sequencing and western blot. Furthermore, rAAV9-Gja5 treatment ameliorated the occurrence of arrhythmia following stroke. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, decreased connexin 40 expression in the sinoatrial node contributed to the ischemic stroke-induced cardiac arrhythmia. Therefore, enhancing connexin 40 expression holds promise as a potential therapeutic approach for ischemic stroke-induced arrhythmia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Jun Yao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - Yan-Pin Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China; Department of Anesthesiology, The First Hospital Affiliated to the Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Dan Yuan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - Pu Hong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - Meng-Jiao He
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - Feng-Xian Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - Shi-Yuan Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China
| | - Hong-Bin Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China.
| | - Hong-Fei Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510282, China.
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Wingrove JS, Wimmer J, Saba Echezarreta VE, Piazza A, Spencer GE. Retinoic acid reduces the formation of, and acutely modulates, invertebrate electrical synapses. J Neurophysiol 2024; 131:965-981. [PMID: 38568843 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00057.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Communication between cells in the nervous system is dependent on both chemical and electrical synapses. Factors that can affect chemical synapses have been well studied, but less is known about factors that influence electrical synapses. Retinoic acid, the vitamin A metabolite, is a known regulator of chemical synapses, but few studies have examined its capacity to regulate electrical synapses. In this study, we determine that retinoic acid is capable of rapidly altering the strength of electrical synapses in an isomer- and cell-dependent manner. Furthermore, we provide evidence that this acute effect might be independent of either the retinoid receptors or the activation of a protein kinase. In addition to the rapid modulatory effects of retinoic acid, we provide data to suggest that retinoic acid is also capable of regulating the formation of electrical synapses. Long-term exposure to both all-trans-retinoic acid or 9-cis-retinoic acid reduced the proportion of cell pairs forming electrical synapses, as well as reduced the strength of electrical synapses that did form. In summary, this study provides insights into the role that retinoids might play in both the formation and modulation of electrical synapses in the central nervous system.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Retinoids are known modulators of chemical synapses and mediate synaptic plasticity in the nervous system, but little is known of their effects on electrical synapses. Here, we show that retinoids selectively reduce electrical synapses in a cell- and isomer-dependent manner. This modulatory action on existing electrical synapses was rapid and nongenomic in nature. We also showed for the first time that longer retinoid exposures inhibit the formation of electrical synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel S Wingrove
- Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Justin Wimmer
- Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Alicia Piazza
- Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gaynor E Spencer
- Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
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Han N, Liu Y, Li X, Du J, Guo L, Liu Y. Reuterin isolated from the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri promotes periodontal tissue regeneration by inhibiting Cx43-mediated the intercellular transmission of endoplasmic reticulum stress. J Periodontal Res 2024; 59:552-564. [PMID: 38193526 DOI: 10.1111/jre.13233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of reuterin, a bioactive isolated from the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) on periodontal tissue regeneration, and provide a new strategy for periodontitis treatment in the future. BACKGROUND Data discussing the present state of the field: Probiotics are essential for maintaining oral microecological balance. Our previous study confirmed that probiotic L. reuteri extracts could rescue the function of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and promote soft tissue wound healing by neutralizing inflammatory Porphyromonas gingivalis-LPS. Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by bacteria seriously leading to tooth loss. In this study, we isolated and purified reuterin from an extract of L. reuteri to characterize from the extracts of L. reuteri to characterize its role in promoting periodontal tissue regeneration and controlling inflammation in periodontitis. METHODS Chromatographic analysis was used to isolate and purify reuterin from an extract of L. reuteri, and HNMR was used to characterize its structure. The inflammatory cytokine TNFα was used to simulate the inflammatory environment. Periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) were treated with TNFα and reuterin after which their effects were characterized using scratch wound cell migration assays to determine the concentration of reuterin, an experimental periodontitis model in rats was used to investigate the function of reuterin in periodontal regeneration and inflammation control in vivo. Real-time PCR, dye transfer experiments, image analysis, alkaline phosphatase activity, Alizarin red staining, cell proliferation, RNA-sequencing and Western Blot assays were used to detect the function of PDLSCs. RESULTS In vivo, local injection of reuterin promoted periodontal tissue regeneration of experimental periodontitis in rats and reduced local inflammatory response. Moreover, we found that TNFα stimulation caused endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in PDLSCs, which resulted in decreased osteogenic differentiation. Treatment with reuterin inhibited the ER stress state of PDLSCs caused by the inflammatory environment and restored the osteogenic differentiation and cell proliferation functions of inflammatory PDLSCs. Mechanistically, we found that reuterin restored the functions of inflammatory PDLSCs by inhibiting the intercellular transmission of ER stress mediated by Cx43 in inflammatory PDLSCs and regulated osteogenic differentiation capacity. CONCLUSION Our findings identified reuterin isolated from extracts of the probiotic L. reuteri, which improves tissue regeneration and controls inflammation, thus providing a new therapeutic method for treating periodontitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nannan Han
- Laboratory of Tissue Regeneration and Immunology and Department of Periodontics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tooth Regeneration and Function Reconstruction, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
- Immunology Research Center for Oral and Systemic Health, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yitong Liu
- Laboratory of Tissue Regeneration and Immunology and Department of Periodontics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tooth Regeneration and Function Reconstruction, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
- Immunology Research Center for Oral and Systemic Health, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyan Li
- Laboratory of Tissue Regeneration and Immunology and Department of Periodontics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tooth Regeneration and Function Reconstruction, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
- Immunology Research Center for Oral and Systemic Health, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Juan Du
- Laboratory of Tissue Regeneration and Immunology and Department of Periodontics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tooth Regeneration and Function Reconstruction, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
- Immunology Research Center for Oral and Systemic Health, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Lijia Guo
- Department of Orthodontics, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yi Liu
- Laboratory of Tissue Regeneration and Immunology and Department of Periodontics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tooth Regeneration and Function Reconstruction, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
- Immunology Research Center for Oral and Systemic Health, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, P. R. China
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Villanelo F, Minogue PJ, Maripillán J, Reyna-Jeldes M, Jensen-Flores J, García IE, Beyer EC, Pérez-Acle T, Berthoud VM, Martínez AD. Connexin channels and hemichannels are modulated differently by charge reversal at residues forming the intracellular pocket. Biol Res 2024; 57:31. [PMID: 38783330 PMCID: PMC11112876 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-024-00501-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Members of the β-subfamily of connexins contain an intracellular pocket surrounded by amino acid residues from the four transmembrane helices. The presence of this pocket has not previously been investigated in members of the α-, γ-, δ-, and ε-subfamilies. We studied connexin50 (Cx50) as a representative of the α-subfamily, because its structure has been determined and mutations of Cx50 are among the most common genetic causes of congenital cataracts. METHODS To investigate the presence and function of the intracellular pocket in Cx50 we used molecular dynamics simulation, site-directed mutagenesis, gap junction tracer intercellular transfer, and hemichannel activity detected by electrophysiology and by permeation of charged molecules. RESULTS Employing molecular dynamics, we determined the presence of the intracellular pocket in Cx50 hemichannels and identified the amino acids participating in its formation. We utilized site-directed mutagenesis to alter a salt-bridge interaction that supports the intracellular pocket and occurs between two residues highly conserved in the connexin family, R33 and E162. Substitution of opposite charges at either position decreased formation of gap junctional plaques and cell-cell communication and modestly reduced hemichannel currents. Simultaneous charge reversal at these positions produced plaque-forming non-functional gap junction channels with highly active hemichannels. CONCLUSIONS These results show that interactions within the intracellular pocket influence both gap junction channel and hemichannel functions. Disruption of these interactions may be responsible for diseases associated with mutations at these positions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Villanelo
- Computational Biology Lab, Centro Basal Ciencia & Vida, Santiago, 8580702, Chile
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Arquitectura y Diseño, Universidad San Sebastián, Bellavista 7, Recoleta, Santiago, Chile
| | - Peter J Minogue
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Jaime Maripillán
- Facultad de Ciencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Mauricio Reyna-Jeldes
- Facultad de Ciencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Joaquin Jensen-Flores
- Computational Biology Lab, Centro Basal Ciencia & Vida, Santiago, 8580702, Chile
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Arquitectura y Diseño, Universidad San Sebastián, Bellavista 7, Recoleta, Santiago, Chile
| | - Isaac E García
- Facultad de Ciencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
- Laboratorio de Fisiología Molecular y Biofísica, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias Odontológicas y Médicas, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Eric C Beyer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Tomás Pérez-Acle
- Computational Biology Lab, Centro Basal Ciencia & Vida, Santiago, 8580702, Chile
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Arquitectura y Diseño, Universidad San Sebastián, Bellavista 7, Recoleta, Santiago, Chile
| | - Viviana M Berthoud
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Agustín D Martínez
- Facultad de Ciencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile.
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9
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Nakayama A, Watanabe M, Yamashiro R, Kuroyanagi H, Matsuyama HJ, Oshima A, Mori I, Nakano S. A hyperpolarizing neuron recruits undocked innexin hemichannels to transmit neural information in Caenorhabditis elegans. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2406565121. [PMID: 38753507 PMCID: PMC11127054 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2406565121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
While depolarization of the neuronal membrane is known to evoke the neurotransmitter release from synaptic vesicles, hyperpolarization is regarded as a resting state of chemical neurotransmission. Here, we report that hyperpolarizing neurons can actively signal neural information by employing undocked hemichannels. We show that UNC-7, a member of the innexin family in Caenorhabditis elegans, functions as a hemichannel in thermosensory neurons and transmits temperature information from the thermosensory neurons to their postsynaptic interneurons. By monitoring neural activities in freely behaving animals, we find that hyperpolarizing thermosensory neurons inhibit the activity of the interneurons and that UNC-7 hemichannels regulate this process. UNC-7 is required to control thermotaxis behavior and functions independently of synaptic vesicle exocytosis. Our findings suggest that innexin hemichannels mediate neurotransmission from hyperpolarizing neurons in a manner that is distinct from the synaptic transmission, expanding the way of neural circuitry operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Airi Nakayama
- Department of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi464-8602, Japan
| | - Masakatsu Watanabe
- Laboratory of Pattern Formation, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka565-0871, Japan
| | - Riku Yamashiro
- Department of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi464-8602, Japan
| | - Hiroo Kuroyanagi
- Department of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi464-8602, Japan
| | - Hironori J. Matsuyama
- Group of Molecular Neurobiology, Neuroscience Institute, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi464-8602, Japan
| | - Atsunori Oshima
- Department of Basic Biology, Cellular and Structural Physiology Institute, Nagoya University, Chikusa, Nagoya464-8601, Japan
- Department of Basic Medicinal Sciences, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi464-8601, Japan
- Molecular Physiology Division, Institute for Glyco-core Research, Nagoya University, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya464-8601, Japan
- Division of Innovative Modality Development, Center for One Medicine Innovative Translational Research, Gifu University Institute for Advanced Study, Gifu501-11193, Japan
| | - Ikue Mori
- Group of Molecular Neurobiology, Neuroscience Institute, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi464-8602, Japan
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Changping District, Beijing102206, China
| | - Shunji Nakano
- Department of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi464-8602, Japan
- Group of Molecular Neurobiology, Neuroscience Institute, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi464-8602, Japan
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10
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Meng JH, Huang YB, Long J, Cai QC, Qiao X, Zhang QL, Zhang LD, Yan X, Jing R, Liu XS, Zhou SJ, Yuan YS, Yin-Chen Ma, Zhou LX, Peng NN, Li XC, Cai CH, Tang HM, Martins AF, Jiang JX, Kai-Jun Luo. Innexin hemichannel activation by Microplitis bicoloratus ecSOD monopolymer reduces ROS. iScience 2024; 27:109469. [PMID: 38577101 PMCID: PMC10993139 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The extracellular superoxide dismutases (ecSODs) secreted by Microplitis bicoloratus reduce the reactive oxygen species (ROS) stimulated by the Microplitis bicoloratus bracovirus. Here, we demonstrate that the bacterial transferase hexapeptide (hexapep) motif and bacterial-immunoglobulin-like (BIg-like) domain of ecSODs bind to the cell membrane and transiently open hemichannels, facilitating ROS reductions. RNAi-mediated ecSOD silencing in vivo elevated ROS in host hemocytes, impairing parasitoid larva development. In vitro, the ecSOD-monopolymer needed to be membrane bound to open hemichannels. Furthermore, the hexapep motif in the beta-sandwich of ecSOD49 and ecSOD58, and BIg-like domain in the signal peptides of ecSOD67 were required for cell membrane binding. Hexapep motif and BIg-like domain deletions induced ecSODs loss of adhesion and ROS reduction failure. The hexapep motif and BIg-like domain mediated ecSOD binding via upregulating innexins and stabilizing the opened hemichannels. Our findings reveal a mechanism through which ecSOD reduces ROS, which may aid in developing anti-redox therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang-Hui Meng
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Yong-Biao Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Jin Long
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Qiu-Chen Cai
- Werner Siemens Imaging Center, Department of Preclinical Imaging and Radiopharmacy, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Xin Qiao
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Qiong-Li Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Li-Dan Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Xiang Yan
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Rui Jing
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Xing-Shan Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Sai-Jun Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Yong-Sheng Yuan
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Yin-Chen Ma
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Li-Xiang Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Nan-Nan Peng
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Xing-Cheng Li
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Cheng-Hui Cai
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Mei Tang
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
| | - André F. Martins
- Werner Siemens Imaging Center, Department of Preclinical Imaging and Radiopharmacy, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jean X. Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Kai-Jun Luo
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Yunnan International Joint Laboratory of Virology & Immunology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of the University in Yunnan Province for International Cooperation in Intercellular Communications and Regulations, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, P.R. China
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11
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Chen Y, Sewsurn S, Amand S, Kunz C, Pietrancosta N, Calabro K, Buisson D, Mann S. Metabolic Investigation and Auxiliary Enzyme Modelization of the Pyrrocidine Pathway Allow Rationalization of Paracyclophane-Decahydrofluorene Formation. ACS Chem Biol 2024; 19:886-895. [PMID: 38576157 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.3c00684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Fungal paracyclophane-decahydrofluorene-containing natural products are complex polycyclic metabolites derived from similar hybrid PKS-NRPS pathways. Herein we studied the biosynthesis of pyrrocidines, one representative of this family, by gene inactivation in the producer Sarocladium zeae coupled to thorough metabolic analysis and molecular modeling of key enzymes. We characterized nine pyrrocidines and analogues as well as in mutants a variety of accumulating metabolites with new structures including rare cis-decalin, cytochalasan, and fused 6/15/5 macrocycles. This diversity highlights the extraordinary plasticity of the pyrrocidine biosynthetic gene cluster. From accumulating metabolites, we delineated the scenario of pyrrocidine biosynthesis. The ring A of the decahydrofluorene is installed by PrcB, a membrane-bound cyclizing isomerase, on a PKS-NRPS-derived pyrrolidone precursor. Docking experiments in PrcB allowed us to characterize the active site suggesting a mechanism triggered by arginine-mediated deprotonation at the terminal methyl of the substrate. Next, two integral membrane proteins, PrcD and PrcE, each predicted as a four-helix bundle, perform hydroxylation of the pyrrolidone ring and paracyclophane formation, respectively. Modelization of PrcE highlights a topological homology with vitamin K oxido-reductase and the presence of a disulfide bond. Our results suggest a previously unsuspected coupling mechanism via a transient loss of aromaticity of tyrosine residue to form the strained paracyclophane motif. Finally, the lipocalin-like protein PrcX drives the exo-cycloaddition yielding ring B and C of the decahydrofluorene to afford pyrrocidine A, which is transformed by a reductase PrcI to form pyrrocidine B. These insights will greatly facilitate the microbial production of pyrrocidine analogues by synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youwei Chen
- Laboratoire Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Micro-organismes UMR 7245, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Universités; CP54, 57 rue Cuvier, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Steffi Sewsurn
- Laboratoire Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Micro-organismes UMR 7245, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Universités; CP54, 57 rue Cuvier, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Séverine Amand
- Laboratoire Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Micro-organismes UMR 7245, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Universités; CP54, 57 rue Cuvier, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Caroline Kunz
- Laboratoire Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Micro-organismes UMR 7245, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Universités; CP54, 57 rue Cuvier, 75005 Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, Faculté des Sciences et Ingénierie, UFR 927, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Pietrancosta
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, LBM, Sorbonne Université, École Normale Supérieure, PSL University, CNRS, F-75005 Paris, France
- Neurosciences Paris Seine - Institut de Biologie Paris Seine (NPS - IBPS), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Kevin Calabro
- Laboratoire Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Micro-organismes UMR 7245, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Universités; CP54, 57 rue Cuvier, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Didier Buisson
- Laboratoire Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Micro-organismes UMR 7245, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Universités; CP54, 57 rue Cuvier, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Stéphane Mann
- Laboratoire Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Micro-organismes UMR 7245, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Universités; CP54, 57 rue Cuvier, 75005 Paris, France
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12
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Batissoco AC, Cruz DB, Alegria TGP, Kobayashi G, Oiticica J, Soares LE, Passos-Bueno MR, Haddad LA, Mingroni RC. GJB2 c.35del variant up-regulates GJA1 gene expression and affects differentiation of human stem cells. Genet Mol Biol 2024; 47:e20230170. [PMID: 38626573 PMCID: PMC11021044 DOI: 10.1590/1678-4685-gmb-2023-0170] [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: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic DNA alterations in GJB2 are present in nearly half of non-syndromic hearing loss cases with autosomal recessive inheritance. The most frequent variant in GJB2 causing non-syndromic hearing loss is the frameshifting c.35del. GJB2 encodes Cx26, a protein of the connexin family that assembles hemichannels and gap junctions. The expression of paralogous proteins is believed to compensate for the loss of function of specific connexins. As Cx26 has been involved in cell differentiation in distinct tissues, we employed stem cells derived from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs), homozygous for the c.35del variant, to assess GJB2 roles in stem cell differentiation and the relationship between its loss of function and the expression of paralogous genes. Primary SHED cultures from patients and control individuals were compared. SHEDs from patients had significantly less GJB2 mRNA and increased amount of GJA1 (Cx43), but not GJB6 (Cx30) or GJB3 (Cx31) mRNA. In addition, they presented higher induced differentiation to adipocytes and osteocytes but lower chondrocyte differentiation. Our results suggest that GJA1 increased expression may be involved in functional compensation for GJB2 loss of function in human stem cells, and it may explain changes in differentiation properties observed in SHEDs with and without the c.35del variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carla Batissoco
- Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Faculdade de Medicina (FM), Hospital das Clínicas (HC), Laboratório de Investigação Médica de Otorrinolaringologia (LIM32), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Faculdade de Medicina (FM), Departamento de Otorrinolaringologia, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Dayane Bernardino Cruz
- Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Instituto de Biociências (IB), Centro de Pesquisa Sobre o Genoma Humano e Células-Tronco (HUG-CELL), Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Thiago Geronimo Pires Alegria
- Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Instituto de Biociências (IB), Centro de Pesquisa Sobre o Genoma Humano e Células-Tronco (HUG-CELL), Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Gerson Kobayashi
- Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Instituto de Biociências (IB), Centro de Pesquisa Sobre o Genoma Humano e Células-Tronco (HUG-CELL), Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Jeanne Oiticica
- Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Faculdade de Medicina (FM), Hospital das Clínicas (HC), Laboratório de Investigação Médica de Otorrinolaringologia (LIM32), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Faculdade de Medicina (FM), Departamento de Otorrinolaringologia, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Luis Eduardo Soares
- Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Instituto de Biociências (IB), Centro de Pesquisa Sobre o Genoma Humano e Células-Tronco (HUG-CELL), Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Rita Passos-Bueno
- Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Instituto de Biociências (IB), Centro de Pesquisa Sobre o Genoma Humano e Células-Tronco (HUG-CELL), Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Luciana Amaral Haddad
- Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Instituto de Biociências (IB), Centro de Pesquisa Sobre o Genoma Humano e Células-Tronco (HUG-CELL), Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Regina Célia Mingroni
- Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Instituto de Biociências (IB), Centro de Pesquisa Sobre o Genoma Humano e Células-Tronco (HUG-CELL), Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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13
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He P, Dai M, Li Z, Wang X, Liu H, He Y, Jiang H. Effect of connexin 43 in LPS/IL-4-induced macrophage M1/M2 polarization: An observational study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37811. [PMID: 38608055 PMCID: PMC11018209 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interleukin-4 (IL-4) play important roles in inducing M1 and M2 macrophage polarization. Studies have shown that LPS can promote the polarization of macrophages to M1-type and produce many pro-inflammatory cytokines, while IL-4 can promote the polarization of macrophages to M2-type and produce many anti-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, Connexin 43 (Cx43) is widely expressed in macrophages and has various regulatory functions. However, whether Cx43 is involved in the regulation of macrophage M1/M2 polarization has not been fully studied. This study examined the role of Cx43 and M2 polarization markers using Western blot, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry. Cx43 overexpression was induced using Cx43 overexpressing lentivirus. The statistical software SPSS 20.0 (IBM Corp.) and GraphPad Prism 8.0 (GraphPad Software, La Jolla, CA, United States) were used to analyze the results. P values < .05 were considered to indicate statistically significant differences. Our results showed that LPS promotes the polarization of macrophages to M1-type, which is accompanied by an increase in Cx43 expression from 0 to 24 hours. Moreover, the application of the Cx43-specific blockers Gap19 and Gap26 reduces the expression of macrophage M1-type polarization markers. Thus, the expression of Cx43 increases first, and then, due to the initiation of intracellular autophagy during LPS-induced macrophage M1 polarization. Cx43 is degraded and the expression of Cx43 decreases from 24 hours to 48 hours. IL-4 decreases the expression of Cx43 from 24 hours to 48 hours and promotes the transformation of macrophages to M2-type. The application of Cx43 overexpression lentivirus leads to a reduction in the expression of M2 polarization markers. IL-4-induced M2 polarization of macrophages inhibits cell autophagy, reducing Cx43 degradation and leading to an increase in Cx43 from 24 hours to 48 hours. Thus, Cx43 expression in M2-type polarization experiences a reduction at first and then an increase from 24 hours to 48 hours. The direction of macrophage polarization can be controlled by regulating the expression of Cx43, thus providing a theoretical basis for treating atherosclerosis, tumors, and other diseases associated with macrophage polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengchen He
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mianyang Central Hospital Affiliated to University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Mianyang, China
| | - Mingxing Dai
- Department of Rehabilitation Therapy, Mianyang Central Hospital Affiliated to University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Mianyang, China
| | - Zongpin Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mianyang Central Hospital Affiliated to University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Mianyang, China
| | - Xiaoyi Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mianyang Central Hospital Affiliated to University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Mianyang, China
| | - Hongyuan Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mianyang Central Hospital Affiliated to University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Mianyang, China
| | - Yixiao He
- Department of Pathology, Mianyang Central Hospital Affiliated to University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Mianyang, China
| | - Han Jiang
- Department of Rehabilitation Therapy, Mianyang Central Hospital Affiliated to University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Mianyang, China
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14
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Totland MZ, Knudsen LM, Rasmussen NL, Omori Y, Sørensen V, Elster VCW, Stenersen JM, Larsen M, Jensen CL, Zickfeldt Lade AA, Bruusgaard E, Basing S, Kryeziu K, Brech A, Aasen T, Lothe RA, Leithe E. The E3 ubiquitin ligase ITCH negatively regulates intercellular communication via gap junctions by targeting connexin43 for lysosomal degradation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:171. [PMID: 38597989 PMCID: PMC11006747 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05165-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Intercellular communication via gap junctions has a fundamental role in regulating cell growth and tissue homeostasis, and its dysregulation may be involved in cancer development and radio- and chemotherapy resistance. Connexin43 (Cx43) is the most ubiquitously expressed gap junction channel protein in human tissues. Emerging evidence indicates that dysregulation of the sorting of Cx43 to lysosomes is important in mediating the loss of Cx43-based gap junctions in cancer cells. However, the molecular basis underlying this process is currently poorly understood. Here, we identified the E3 ubiquitin ligase ITCH as a novel regulator of intercellular communication via gap junctions. We demonstrate that ITCH promotes loss of gap junctions in cervical cancer cells, which is associated with increased degradation of Cx43 in lysosomes. The data further indicate that ITCH interacts with and regulates Cx43 ubiquitination and that the ITCH-induced loss of Cx43-based gap junctions requires its catalytic HECT (homologous to E6-AP C-terminus) domain. The data also suggest that the ability of ITCH to efficiently promote loss of Cx43-based gap junctions and degradation of Cx43 depends on a functional PY (PPXY) motif in the C-terminal tail of Cx43. Together, these data provide new insights into the molecular basis underlying the degradation of Cx43 and have implications for the understanding of how intercellular communication via gap junctions is lost during cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Zachrisson Totland
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Lars Mørland Knudsen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Nikoline Lander Rasmussen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, Faculty of Medicine, Oslo, Norway
| | - Yasufumi Omori
- Department of Molecular and Tumour Pathology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Vigdis Sørensen
- Department of Core Facilities, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
- Centre for Cancer Cell Reprogramming, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0379, Norway
| | - Vilde C Wivestad Elster
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Jakob Mørkved Stenersen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Mathias Larsen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Caroline Lunder Jensen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Anna A Zickfeldt Lade
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Emilie Bruusgaard
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Sebastian Basing
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Kushtrim Kryeziu
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
| | - Andreas Brech
- Department of Core Facilities, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, 0379, Norway
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Oslo, 0316, Norway
| | - Trond Aasen
- Patologia Molecular Translacional, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Passeig Vall d'Hebron 119-129, Barcelona, 08035, Spain
| | - Ragnhild A Lothe
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Oslo, 0316, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, 0317, Norway
| | - Edward Leithe
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NO-0424, Norway
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15
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Liu P, Li Z, Zhang Q, Qiao J, Zheng C, Zheng W, Zhang H. Identification of testis development-related genes by combining Iso-Seq and RNA-Seq in Zeugodacus tau. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1356151. [PMID: 38529408 PMCID: PMC10961823 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1356151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Zeugodacus tau (Walker) is an invasive pest. An effective method to control this pest is the sterile insect technique (SIT). To better apply this technique, it is necessary to understand testis development progression. Methods: Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) during testis development were analyzed by PacBio Iso-Seq and RNA-seq. Results: RNA-Seq library of Z. tau testes on day 1, 6, and 11 post eclosion were constructed. We identified 755 and 865 differentially expressed genes in the comparisons of T6 (testes on day 6) vs. T1 and T11 vs. T1, respectively. The KEGG pathway analysis showed that the DEGs were significantly enriched in retinol metabolism, vitamin B6 metabolism, and ascorbate and aldarate metabolism pathways. Knockdown of retinol dehydrogenase 12-like (rdh12-like), pyridoxal kinase (pdxk) and regucalcin (rgn), the representative gene in each of the above 3 pathways, reduced the hatching rate of Z. tau offspring. In addition, we identified 107 Drosophila spermatogenesis-related orthologous genes in Z. tau, of which innexin 2 (inx2) exhibited significantly up-regulated expression throughout testis development, and the knockdown of this gene reduced offspring hatching rate. Discussion: Our data indicated that rdh12-like, pdxk, rgn, and inx2 genes were related to testis development, and they were conserved in tephritid species. These results suggested that this gene might have the same function in tephritid. The findings provide an insight into testis development and spermatogenesis in tephritid species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peipei Liu
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ziniu Li
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qiuyuan Zhang
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jiao Qiao
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Chenjun Zheng
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wenping Zheng
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Hongyu Zhang
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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16
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Li J, Qi H, Chen Y, Zhu X. Epilepsy and demyelination: Towards a bidirectional relationship. Prog Neurobiol 2024; 234:102588. [PMID: 38378072 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2024.102588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Demyelination stands out as a prominent feature in individuals with specific types of epilepsy. Concurrently, individuals with demyelinating diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS) are at a greater risk of developing epilepsy compared to non-MS individuals. These bidirectional connections raise the question of whether both pathological conditions share common pathogenic mechanisms. This review focuses on the reciprocal relationship between epilepsy and demyelination diseases. We commence with an overview of the neurological basis of epilepsy and demyelination diseases, followed by an exploration of how our comprehension of these two disorders has evolved in tandem. Additionally, we discuss the potential pathogenic mechanisms contributing to the interactive relationship between these two diseases. A more nuanced understanding of the interplay between epilepsy and demyelination diseases has the potential to unveiling the molecular intricacies of their pathological relationships, paving the way for innovative directions in future clinical management and treatment strategies for these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, China; Clinical Medicine, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Honggang Qi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuzhou Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, China; Clinical Medicine, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinjian Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, China.
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17
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Zheng XX, Zhang CF, Li LQ, Ye JR, Ren SY, Zhang Z, He X, Chu SF, Chen NH. Improvement of astrocytic gap junction involves the anti-depressive effect of celecoxib through inhibition of NF-κB. Brain Res Bull 2024; 207:110871. [PMID: 38211740 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2024.110871] [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: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Celecoxib, a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor, has been shown to exhibit anti-depressive effects in clinical trials. However, the direct mechanism underlying its effect on neuroinflammation remains unclear. Neuroinflammatory reaction from astrocytes leads to depression, and our previous study found that gap junction disorder between astrocytes aggravated neuroinflammatory reaction in depressed mice. OBJECTIVE To investigate the potential mechanism of celecoxib's effects on astrocytic gap junctions during the central nervous inflammation-induced depression. MATERIALS & METHODS Stereotaxic injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) into the prefrontal cortex (PFC) to establish a model of major depressive disorder (MDD). Celecoxib was administrated into PFC 15 min after LPS injection. The depressive performance was tested by tail suspension test and forced swimming test, and the levels of proinflammation cytokines were determined at mRNA and protein levels. Resting-state functional connection (rsFC) was employed to assess changes in the default mode network (DMN). Additionally, astrocytic gap junctions were also determined by lucifer yellow (LY) diffusion and transmission electron microscope (TEM), and the expression of connexin 43 (Cx43) was measured by western blotting, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and immunofluorescence. RESULTS LPS injection induced significant depressive performance, which was ameliorated by celecoxib treatment. Celecoxib also improved rsFC in the DMN. Furthermore, celecoxib improved astrocytic gap junctions as evidenced by increased LY diffusion, shortened gap junction width, and normalized levels of phosphorylated Cx43. Celecoxib also blocked the phosphorylation of p65, and inhibition of p65 abolished the improvement of Cx43. DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION Anti-depressive effects of celecoxib are mediated, at least in part, by the inhibition of nuclear factor- kappa B (NF-κB) and the subsequent improvement of astrocytic gap junction function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Xi Zheng
- School of traditional Chinese Medicine, GuangDong Pharmaceutical University, GuangZhou 510006, China
| | - Cheng-Feng Zhang
- School of traditional Chinese Medicine, GuangDong Pharmaceutical University, GuangZhou 510006, China
| | - Li-Qing Li
- School of traditional Chinese Medicine, GuangDong Pharmaceutical University, GuangZhou 510006, China
| | - Jun-Rui Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Si-Yu Ren
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xin He
- School of traditional Chinese Medicine, GuangDong Pharmaceutical University, GuangZhou 510006, China
| | - Shi-Feng Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.
| | - Nai-Hong Chen
- School of traditional Chinese Medicine, GuangDong Pharmaceutical University, GuangZhou 510006, China; State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.
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18
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Rabinowitch I, Colón-Ramos DA, Krieg M. Understanding neural circuit function through synaptic engineering. Nat Rev Neurosci 2024; 25:131-139. [PMID: 38172626 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-023-00777-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Synapses are a key component of neural circuits, facilitating rapid and specific signalling between neurons. Synaptic engineering - the synthetic insertion of new synaptic connections into in vivo neural circuits - is an emerging approach for neural circuit interrogation. This approach is especially powerful for establishing causality in neural circuit structure-function relationships, for emulating synaptic plasticity and for exploring novel patterns of circuit connectivity. Contrary to other approaches for neural circuit manipulation, synaptic engineering targets specific connections between neurons and functions autonomously with no user-controlled external activation. Synaptic engineering has been successfully implemented in several systems and in different forms, including electrical synapses constructed from ectopically expressed connexin gap junction proteins, synthetic optical synapses composed of presynaptic photon-emitting luciferase coupled with postsynaptic light-gated channels, and artificial neuropeptide signalling pathways. This Perspective describes these different methods and how they have been applied, and examines how the field may advance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ithai Rabinowitch
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Daniel A Colón-Ramos
- Wu Tsai Institute, Department of Neuroscience and Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Michael Krieg
- ICFO - Institut de Ciencies Fotoniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Castelldefels, Spain
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19
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Asghari K, Niknam Z, Mohammadpour-Asl S, Chodari L. Cellular junction dynamics and Alzheimer's disease: a comprehensive review. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:273. [PMID: 38302794 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09242-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive neuronal damage and cognitive decline. Recent studies have shed light on the involvement of not only the blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction but also significant alterations in cellular junctions in AD pathogenesis. In this review article, we explore the role of the BBB and cellular junctions in AD pathology, with a specific focus on the hippocampus. The BBB acts as a crucial protective barrier between the bloodstream and the brain, maintaining brain homeostasis and regulating molecular transport. Preservation of BBB integrity relies on various junctions, including gap junctions formed by connexins, tight junctions composed of proteins such as claudins, occludin, and ZO-1, as well as adherence junctions involving molecules like vascular endothelial (VE) cadherin, Nectins, and Nectin-like molecules (Necls). Abnormalities in these junctions and junctional components contribute to impaired neuronal signaling and increased cerebrovascular permeability, which are closely associated with AD advancement. By elucidating the underlying molecular mechanisms governing BBB and cellular junction dysfunctions within the context of AD, this review offers valuable insights into the pathogenesis of AD and identifies potential therapeutic targets for intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keyvan Asghari
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Zahra Niknam
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Shadi Mohammadpour-Asl
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Leila Chodari
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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20
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Peracchia C. Gap Junction Channel Regulation: A Tale of Two Gates-Voltage Sensitivity of the Chemical Gate and Chemical Sensitivity of the Fast Voltage Gate. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:982. [PMID: 38256055 PMCID: PMC10815820 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Gap junction channels are regulated by gates sensitive to cytosolic acidification and trans-junctional voltage (Vj). We propose that the chemical gate is a calmodulin (CaM) lobe. The fast-Vj gate is made primarily by the connexin's NH2-terminus domain (NT). The chemical gate closes the channel slowly and completely, while the fast-Vj gate closes the channel rapidly but incompletely. The chemical gate closes with increased cytosolic calcium concentration [Ca2+]i and with Vj gradients at Vj's negative side. In contrast, the fast-Vj gate closes at the positive or negative side of Vj depending on the connexin (Cx) type. Cxs with positively charged NT close at Vj's negative side, while those with negatively charged NT close at Vj's positive side. Cytosolic acidification alters in opposite ways the sensitivity of the fast-Vj gate: it increases the Vj sensitivity of negative gaters and decreases that of positive gaters. While the fast-Vj gate closes and opens instantaneously, the chemical gate often shows fluctuations, likely to reflect the shifting of the gate (CaM's N-lobe) in and out of the channel's pore.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camillo Peracchia
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642-8711, USA
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21
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Mira-Osuna M, Borgne RL. Assembly, dynamics and remodeling of epithelial cell junctions throughout development. Development 2024; 151:dev201086. [PMID: 38205947 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Cell junctions play key roles in epithelial integrity. During development, when epithelia undergo extensive morphogenesis, these junctions must be remodeled in order to maintain mechanochemical barriers and ensure the cohesion of the tissue. In this Review, we present a comprehensive and integrated description of junctional remodeling mechanisms in epithelial cells during development, from embryonic to adult epithelia. We largely focus on Drosophila, as quantitative analyses in this organism have provided a detailed characterization of the molecular mechanisms governing cell topologies, and discuss the conservation of these mechanisms across metazoans. We consider how changes at the molecular level translate to tissue-scale irreversible deformations, exploring the composition and assembly of cellular interfaces to unveil how junctions are remodeled to preserve tissue homeostasis during cell division, intercalation, invagination, ingression and extrusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Mira-Osuna
- Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes (IGDR), Université de Rennes, CNRS UMR 6290, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Roland Le Borgne
- Institut de Génétique et Développement de Rennes (IGDR), Université de Rennes, CNRS UMR 6290, F-35000 Rennes, France
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22
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Li Y, Acosta FM, Jiang JX. Gap Junctions or Hemichannel-Dependent and Independent Roles of Connexins in Fibrosis, Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transitions, and Wound Healing. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1796. [PMID: 38136665 PMCID: PMC10742173 DOI: 10.3390/biom13121796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis initially appears as a normal response to damage, where activated fibroblasts produce large amounts of the extracellular matrix (ECM) during the wound healing process to assist in the repair of injured tissue. However, the excessive accumulation of the ECM, unresolved by remodeling mechanisms, leads to organ dysfunction. Connexins, a family of transmembrane channel proteins, are widely recognized for their major roles in fibrosis, the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and wound healing. Efforts have been made in recent years to identify novel mediators and targets for this regulation. Connexins form gap junctions and hemichannels, mediating communications between neighboring cells and inside and outside of cells, respectively. Recent evidence suggests that connexins, beyond forming channels, possess channel-independent functions in fibrosis, the EMT, and wound healing. One crucial channel-independent function is their role as the primary functional component for cell adhesion. Other channel-independent functions of connexins involve their roles in mitochondria and exosomes. This review summarizes the latest advances in the channel-dependent and independent roles of connexins in fibrosis, the EMT, and wound healing, with a particular focus on eye diseases, emphasizing their potential as novel, promising therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (Y.L.); (F.M.A.)
- Department of Pathology, Basic Medical School, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Francisca M. Acosta
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (Y.L.); (F.M.A.)
| | - Jean X. Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (Y.L.); (F.M.A.)
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23
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Khalili A, Safarian N, van Wijngaarden E, Zoidl GS, Zoidl GR, Rezai P. Loss of Panx1 function in zebrafish alters motor behavior in a lab-on-chip model of Parkinson's disease. J Neurosci Res 2023; 101:1814-1825. [PMID: 37688406 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Pannexin 1 (Panx1) forms ATP-permeable membrane channels that play roles in purinergic signaling in the nervous system. A link between Panx1 activity and neurodegenerative disorders including Parkinson's disease (PD) has been suggested, but experimental evidence is limited. Here, a zebrafish model of PD was produced by exposing panx1a+/+ and panx1a-/- zebrafish larvae to 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). Electrical stimulation in a microfluidic chip and quantitative real-time-qPCR of zebrafish larvae tested the role of Panx1 in both pathological and normal conditions. After 72-h treatment with 6-OHDA, the electric-induced locomotor activity of 5 days post fertilization (5dpf) panx1a+/+ larvae were reduced, while the stimulus did not affect locomotor activity of age-matched panx1a-/- larvae. A RT-qPCR analysis showed an increase in the expression of genes that are functionally related to dopaminergic signaling, like the tyrosine hydroxylase (th2) and the leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (lrrk2). Extending the 6-OHDA treatment duration to 120 h caused a significant reduction in the locomotor response of 7dpf panx1a-/- larvae compared to the untreated panx1a-/- group. The RT-qPCR data showed a reduced expression of dopaminergic signaling genes in both genotypes. It was concluded that the absence of Panx1a channels compromised dopaminergic signaling in 6-OHDA-treated zebrafish larvae and that the increase in the expression of dopaminergic genes was transient, most likely due to a compensatory upregulation. We propose that zebrafish Panx1a models offer opportunities to shed light on PD's physiological and molecular basis. Panx1a might play a role on the progression of PD, and therefore deserves further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arezoo Khalili
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nickie Safarian
- Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Georg S Zoidl
- Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Georg R Zoidl
- Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pouya Rezai
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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24
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Badaoui M, Chanson M. Intercellular Communication in Airway Epithelial Cell Regeneration: Potential Roles of Connexins and Pannexins. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16160. [PMID: 38003349 PMCID: PMC10671439 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexins and pannexins are transmembrane proteins that can form direct (gap junctions) or indirect (connexons, pannexons) intercellular communication channels. By propagating ions, metabolites, sugars, nucleotides, miRNAs, and/or second messengers, they participate in a variety of physiological functions, such as tissue homeostasis and host defense. There is solid evidence supporting a role for intercellular signaling in various pulmonary inflammatory diseases where alteration of connexin/pannexin channel functional expression occurs, thus leading to abnormal intercellular communication pathways and contributing to pathophysiological aspects, such as innate immune defense and remodeling. The integrity of the airway epithelium, which is the first line of defense against invading microbes, is established and maintained by a repair mechanism that involves processes such as proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Here, we briefly summarize current knowledge on the contribution of connexins and pannexins to necessary processes of tissue repair and speculate on their possible involvement in the shaping of the airway epithelium integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marc Chanson
- Department of Cell Physiology & Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland;
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25
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Geng Z, Guan S, Wang S, Yu Z, Liu T, Du S, Zhu C. Intercellular mitochondrial transfer in the brain, a new perspective for targeted treatment of central nervous system diseases. CNS Neurosci Ther 2023; 29:3121-3135. [PMID: 37424172 PMCID: PMC10580346 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM Mitochondria is one of the important organelles involved in cell energy metabolism and regulation and also play a key regulatory role in abnormal cell processes such as cell stress, cell damage, and cell canceration. Recent studies have shown that mitochondria can be transferred between cells in different ways and participate in the occurrence and development of many central nervous system diseases. We aim to review the mechanism of mitochondrial transfer in the progress of central nervous system diseases and the possibility of targeted therapy. METHODS The PubMed databank, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure databank, and Wanfang Data were searched to identify the experiments of intracellular mitochondrial transferrin central nervous system. The focus is on the donors, receptors, transfer pathways, and targeted drugs of mitochondrial transfer. RESULTS In the central nervous system, neurons, glial cells, immune cells, and tumor cells can transfer mitochondria to each other. Meanwhile, there are many types of mitochondrial transfer, including tunneling nanotubes, extracellular vesicles, receptor cell endocytosis, gap junction channels, and intercellular contact. A variety of stress signals, such as the release of damaged mitochondria, mitochondrial DNA, or other mitochondrial products and the elevation of reactive oxygen species, can trigger the transfer of mitochondria from donor cells to recipient cells. Concurrently, a variety of molecular pathways and related inhibitors can affect mitochondrial intercellular transfer. CONCLUSION This study reviews the phenomenon of intercellular mitochondrial transfer in the central nervous system and summarizes the corresponding transfer pathways. Finally, we propose targeted pathways and treatment methods that may be used to regulate mitochondrial transfer for the treatment of related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziang Geng
- Department of NeurosurgeryShengjing Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Shu Guan
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Breast SurgeryThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Siqi Wang
- Department of Radiation OncologyThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Zhongxue Yu
- Department of Cardiovascular UltrasoundThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Tiancong Liu
- Department of OtolaryngologyShengjing Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Shaonan Du
- Department of NeurosurgeryShengjing Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Chen Zhu
- Department of NeurosurgeryThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
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26
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Alarcon-Martinez L, Shiga Y, Villafranca-Baughman D, Cueva Vargas JL, Vidal Paredes IA, Quintero H, Fortune B, Danesh-Meyer H, Di Polo A. Neurovascular dysfunction in glaucoma. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 97:101217. [PMID: 37778617 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2023.101217] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells, the neurons that die in glaucoma, are endowed with a high metabolism requiring optimal provision of oxygen and nutrients to sustain their activity. The timely regulation of blood flow is, therefore, essential to supply firing neurons in active areas with the oxygen and glucose they need for energy. Many glaucoma patients suffer from vascular deficits including reduced blood flow, impaired autoregulation, neurovascular coupling dysfunction, and blood-retina/brain-barrier breakdown. These processes are tightly regulated by a community of cells known as the neurovascular unit comprising neurons, endothelial cells, pericytes, Müller cells, astrocytes, and microglia. In this review, the neurovascular unit takes center stage as we examine the ability of its members to regulate neurovascular interactions and how their function might be altered during glaucomatous stress. Pericytes receive special attention based on recent data demonstrating their key role in the regulation of neurovascular coupling in physiological and pathological conditions. Of particular interest is the discovery and characterization of tunneling nanotubes, thin actin-based conduits that connect distal pericytes, which play essential roles in the complex spatial and temporal distribution of blood within the retinal capillary network. We discuss cellular and molecular mechanisms of neurovascular interactions and their pathophysiological implications, while highlighting opportunities to develop strategies for vascular protection and regeneration to improve functional outcomes in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Alarcon-Martinez
- Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montréal, PO Box 6128, Station centre-ville, Montreal, QC, Canada; Neuroscience Division, Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), 900 Saint Denis Street, Montreal, QC, Canada; Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Yukihiro Shiga
- Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montréal, PO Box 6128, Station centre-ville, Montreal, QC, Canada; Neuroscience Division, Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), 900 Saint Denis Street, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Deborah Villafranca-Baughman
- Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montréal, PO Box 6128, Station centre-ville, Montreal, QC, Canada; Neuroscience Division, Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), 900 Saint Denis Street, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jorge L Cueva Vargas
- Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montréal, PO Box 6128, Station centre-ville, Montreal, QC, Canada; Neuroscience Division, Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), 900 Saint Denis Street, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Isaac A Vidal Paredes
- Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montréal, PO Box 6128, Station centre-ville, Montreal, QC, Canada; Neuroscience Division, Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), 900 Saint Denis Street, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Heberto Quintero
- Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montréal, PO Box 6128, Station centre-ville, Montreal, QC, Canada; Neuroscience Division, Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), 900 Saint Denis Street, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Brad Fortune
- Discoveries in Sight Research Laboratories, Devers Eye Institute and Legacy Research Institute, Legacy Healthy, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Helen Danesh-Meyer
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Adriana Di Polo
- Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montréal, PO Box 6128, Station centre-ville, Montreal, QC, Canada; Neuroscience Division, Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), 900 Saint Denis Street, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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Liu Y, Chen L, Meng F, Zhang T, Luo J, Chen S, Shi H, Liu B, Lv Z. The Effect of Temperature on the Embryo Development of Cephalopod Sepiella japonica Suggests Crosstalk between Autophagy and Apoptosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15365. [PMID: 37895043 PMCID: PMC10607546 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Temperature is a crucial environmental factor that affects embryonic development, particularly for marine organisms with long embryonic development periods. However, the sensitive period of embryonic development and the role of autophagy/apoptosis in temperature regulation in cephalopods remain unclear. In this study, we cultured embryos of Sepiella japonica, a typical species in the local area of the East China Sea, at different incubation temperatures (18 °C, 23 °C, and 28 °C) to investigate various developmental aspects, including morphological and histological characteristics, mortality rates, the duration of embryonic development, and expression patterns of autophagy-related genes (LC3, BECN1, Inx4) and apoptosis marker genes (Cas3, p53) at 25 developmental stages. Our findings indicate that embryos in the high-temperature (28 °C) group had significantly higher mortality and embryonic malformation rates than those in the low-temperature (18 °C) group. Furthermore, high temperature (28 °C) shortened the duration of embryonic development by 7 days compared to the optimal temperature (23 °C), while low temperature (18 °C) caused a delay of 9 days. Therefore, embryos of S. japonica were more intolerant to high temperatures (28 °C), emphasizing the critical importance of maintaining an appropriate incubation temperature (approximately 23 °C). Additionally, our study observed, for the first time, that the Early blastula, Blastopore closure, and Optic vesicle to Caudal end stages were the most sensitive stages. During these periods, abnormalities in the expression of autophagy-related and apoptosis-related genes were associated with higher rates of mortality and malformations, highlighting the strong correlation and potential interaction between autophagy and apoptosis in embryonic development under varying temperature conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Liu
- National Engineering Research Center for Marine Aquaculture, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, China; (Y.L.); (F.M.)
| | - Long Chen
- Marine Science and Technical College, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, China; (L.C.); (J.L.); (S.C.)
| | - Fang Meng
- National Engineering Research Center for Marine Aquaculture, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, China; (Y.L.); (F.M.)
| | - Tao Zhang
- Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Mariculture and Enhancement, Marine Fisheries Research Institute of Zhejiang, Zhoushan 316021, China; (T.Z.); (H.S.)
| | - Jun Luo
- Marine Science and Technical College, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, China; (L.C.); (J.L.); (S.C.)
| | - Shuang Chen
- Marine Science and Technical College, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, China; (L.C.); (J.L.); (S.C.)
| | - Huilai Shi
- Zhejiang Province Key Lab of Mariculture and Enhancement, Marine Fisheries Research Institute of Zhejiang, Zhoushan 316021, China; (T.Z.); (H.S.)
| | - Bingjian Liu
- National Engineering Research Center for Marine Aquaculture, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, China; (Y.L.); (F.M.)
- Marine Science and Technical College, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, China; (L.C.); (J.L.); (S.C.)
| | - Zhenming Lv
- National Engineering Research Center for Marine Aquaculture, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, China; (Y.L.); (F.M.)
- Marine Science and Technical College, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, China; (L.C.); (J.L.); (S.C.)
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28
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Fernandez M, Nigro M, Travagli A, Pasquini S, Vincenzi F, Varani K, Borea PA, Merighi S, Gessi S. Strategies for Drug Delivery into the Brain: A Review on Adenosine Receptors Modulation for Central Nervous System Diseases Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2441. [PMID: 37896201 PMCID: PMC10610137 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102441] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a biological barrier that protects the central nervous system (CNS) by ensuring an appropriate microenvironment. Brain microvascular endothelial cells (ECs) control the passage of molecules from blood to brain tissue and regulate their concentration-versus-time profiles to guarantee proper neuronal activity, angiogenesis and neurogenesis, as well as to prevent the entry of immune cells into the brain. However, the BBB also restricts the penetration of drugs, thus presenting a challenge in the development of therapeutics for CNS diseases. On the other hand, adenosine, an endogenous purine-based nucleoside that is expressed in most body tissues, regulates different body functions by acting through its G-protein-coupled receptors (A1, A2A, A2B and A3). Adenosine receptors (ARs) are thus considered potential drug targets for treating different metabolic, inflammatory and neurological diseases. In the CNS, A1 and A2A are expressed by astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, neurons, immune cells and ECs. Moreover, adenosine, by acting locally through its receptors A1 and/or A2A, may modulate BBB permeability, and this effect is potentiated when both receptors are simultaneously activated. This review showcases in vivo and in vitro evidence supporting AR signaling as a candidate for modifying endothelial barrier permeability in the treatment of CNS disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Fernandez
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.F.); (M.N.); (A.T.); (F.V.); (K.V.)
| | - Manuela Nigro
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.F.); (M.N.); (A.T.); (F.V.); (K.V.)
| | - Alessia Travagli
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.F.); (M.N.); (A.T.); (F.V.); (K.V.)
| | - Silvia Pasquini
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.F.); (M.N.); (A.T.); (F.V.); (K.V.)
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.F.); (M.N.); (A.T.); (F.V.); (K.V.)
| | | | - Stefania Merighi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.F.); (M.N.); (A.T.); (F.V.); (K.V.)
| | - Stefania Gessi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.F.); (M.N.); (A.T.); (F.V.); (K.V.)
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29
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Guo X, Can C, Liu W, Wei Y, Yang X, Liu J, Jia H, Jia W, Wu H, Ma D. Mitochondrial transfer in hematological malignancies. Biomark Res 2023; 11:89. [PMID: 37798791 PMCID: PMC10557299 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-023-00529-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are energy-generated organelles and take an important part in biological metabolism. Mitochondria could be transferred between cells, which serves as a new intercellular communication. Mitochondrial transfer improves mitochondrial defects, restores the biological functions of recipient cells, and maintains the high metabolic requirements of tumor cells as well as drug resistance. In recent years, it has been reported mitochondrial transfer between cells of bone marrow microenvironment and hematological malignant cells play a critical role in the disease progression and resistance during chemotherapy. In this review, we discuss the patterns and mechanisms on mitochondrial transfer and their engagement in different pathophysiological contexts and outline the latest knowledge on intercellular transport of mitochondria in hematological malignancies. Besides, we briefly outline the drug resistance mechanisms caused by mitochondrial transfer in cells during chemotherapy. Our review demonstrates a theoretical basis for mitochondrial transfer as a prospective therapeutic target to increase the treatment efficiency in hematological malignancies and improve the prognosis of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Guo
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Can Can
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Wancheng Liu
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Yihong Wei
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Xinyu Yang
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Jinting Liu
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Hexiao Jia
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Wenbo Jia
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Hanyang Wu
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Daoxin Ma
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, P.R. China.
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30
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Fisher CG, Falk MM. Endocytosis and Endocytic Motifs across the Connexin Gene Family. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12851. [PMID: 37629031 PMCID: PMC10454166 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteins fated to be internalized by clathrin-mediated endocytosis require an endocytic motif, where AP-2 or another adaptor protein can bind and recruit clathrin. Tyrosine and di-leucine-based sorting signals are such canonical motifs. Connexin 43 (Cx43) has three canonical tyrosine-based endocytic motifs, two of which have been previously shown to recruit clathrin and mediate its endocytosis. In addition, di-leucine-based motifs have been characterized in the Cx32 C-terminal domain and shown to mediate its endocytosis. Here, we examined the amino acid sequences of all 21 human connexins to identify endocytic motifs across the connexin gene family. We find that although there is limited conservation of endocytic motifs between connexins, 14 of the 21 human connexins contain one or more canonical tyrosine or di-leucine-based endocytic motif in their C-terminal or intracellular loop domain. Three connexins contain non-canonical (modified) di-leucine motifs. However, four connexins (Cx25, Cx26, Cx31, and Cx40.1) do not harbor any recognizable endocytic motif. Interestingly, live cell time-lapse imaging of different GFP-tagged connexins that either contain or do not contain recognizable endocytic motifs readily undergo endocytosis, forming clearly identifiable annular gap junctions when expressed in HeLa cells. How connexins without defined endocytic motifs are endocytosed is currently not known. Our results demonstrate that an array of endocytic motifs exists in the connexin gene family. Further analysis will establish whether the sites we identified in this in silico analysis are legitimate endocytic motifs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthias M. Falk
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, 111 Research Drive, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
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31
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Güiza J, Solís F, Valenzuela B, Arancibia D, Zamorano P, González J, Saavedra J, Neely A, Salgado M, Martínez AD, Sáez JC, Vega JL. Unnexin is a protein subunit of a large-pore channel expressed by unicellular organisms. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2307898120. [PMID: 37487087 PMCID: PMC10400985 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2307898120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cells of vertebrate and invertebrate organisms express proteins specialized in membrane channel-based cell-cell communication that are absent in unicellular organisms. We recently described the prediction of some members of the large-pore channel family in kinetoplastids, consisting of proteins called unnexins, which share several structural features with innexin and pannexin proteins. Here, we demonstrated that the unnexin1 protein (Unx1) is delivered to the cell membrane, displaying a topology consisting of four transmembrane domains with C and N termini on the cytoplasmic side and form large-pore channels that are permeable to small molecules. Low extracellular Ca2+/Mg2+ levels or extracellular alkalinization, but not mechanical stretching, increases channel activity. The Unx1 channel mediates the influx of Ca2+ and does not form intercellular dye coupling between HeLa Unx1 transfected cells. Unx1 channel function was further evidenced by its ability to mediate ionic currents when expressed in Xenopus oocytes. Downregulation of Unx1 mRNA with morpholine contains Trypanosoma cruzi invasion. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the presence of Unx1 homologs in other protozoan parasites, suggesting a conserved function for these channel parasites in other protists. Our data demonstrate that Unx1 forms large-pore membrane channels, which may serve as a diffusional pathway for ions and small molecules that are likely to be metabolic substrates or waste products, and signaling autocrine and paracrine molecules that could be involved in cell invasion. As morpholinos-induced downregulation of Unx1 reduces the infectivity of trypomastigotes, the Unx1 channels might be an attractive target for developing trypanocide drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Güiza
- Laboratory of Gap Junction Proteins and Parasitic Diseases (GaPaL), Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta1240000, Chile
| | - Francisco Solís
- Laboratorio de Microorganismos Extremófilos, Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta1240000, Chile
| | - Bernardita Valenzuela
- Laboratorio de Microorganismos Extremófilos, Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta1240000, Chile
| | - Duxan Arancibia
- Laboratorio de Microorganismos Extremófilos, Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta1240000, Chile
| | - Pedro Zamorano
- Laboratorio de Microorganismos Extremófilos, Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta1240000, Chile
| | - Jorge González
- Departamento de Tecnología Médica, Unidad de Parasitología Molecular, Facultad Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta1240000, Chile
| | - Jonathan Saavedra
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso2381850, Chile
| | - Alan Neely
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso2381850, Chile
| | - Magdiel Salgado
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso2381850, Chile
| | - Agustín D. Martínez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso2381850, Chile
| | - Juan C. Sáez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso2381850, Chile
| | - José L. Vega
- Laboratory of Gap Junction Proteins and Parasitic Diseases (GaPaL), Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta1240000, Chile
- Departamento Biomédico, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta1240000, Chile
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Juin SK, Ouseph R, Gondim DD, Jala VR, Sen U. Diabetic Nephropathy and Gaseous Modulators. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12051088. [PMID: 37237955 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12051088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) remains the leading cause of vascular morbidity and mortality in diabetes patients. Despite the progress in understanding the diabetic disease process and advanced management of nephropathy, a number of patients still progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The underlying mechanism still needs to be clarified. Gaseous signaling molecules, so-called gasotransmitters, such as nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), have been shown to play an essential role in the development, progression, and ramification of DN depending on their availability and physiological actions. Although the studies on gasotransmitter regulations of DN are still emerging, the evidence revealed an aberrant level of gasotransmitters in patients with diabetes. In studies, different gasotransmitter donors have been implicated in ameliorating diabetic renal dysfunction. In this perspective, we summarized an overview of the recent advances in the physiological relevance of the gaseous molecules and their multifaceted interaction with other potential factors, such as extracellular matrix (ECM), in the severity modulation of DN. Moreover, the perspective of the present review highlights the possible therapeutic interventions of gasotransmitters in ameliorating this dreaded disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subir Kumar Juin
- Department of Physiology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Brown Cancer Center, Center for Microbiomics, Inflammation and Pathogenicity, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Rosemary Ouseph
- Division of Nephrology & Hypertension, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Dibson Dibe Gondim
- Department of Pathology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Venkatakrishna Rao Jala
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Brown Cancer Center, Center for Microbiomics, Inflammation and Pathogenicity, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Utpal Sen
- Department of Physiology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
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Li H, Zhang Y, Xie J, Wang C, Yi D, Wu T, Wang L, Zhao D, Hou Y. Dietary Supplementation with Mono-Lactate Glyceride Enhances Intestinal Function of Weaned Piglets. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13081303. [PMID: 37106866 PMCID: PMC10135088 DOI: 10.3390/ani13081303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Mono-lactate glyceride (LG) is a short-chain fatty acid ester. It has been shown that short-chain fatty acid esters play an important role in maintaining intestinal structure and function. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of mono-lactate glyceride on growth performance and intestinal morphology and function in weaned piglets. Sixteen 21-day-old weaned piglets of similar weight were distributed arbitrarily to two treatments: The control group (basal diet) and the LG group (basal diet + 0.6% mono-lactate glyceride). The experiment lasted for 21 days. On day 21 of the trial, piglets were weighed, and blood and intestinal samples were collected for further analysis. Results showed that dietary supplementation with 0.6% mono-lactate glyceride decreased (p < 0.05) the diarrhea rate and the contents of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide in the ileum and jejunum and increased (p < 0.05) the expression of intestinal tight junction protein (Occludin) and the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase in the ileum and colon. In addition, mono-lactate glyceride supplementation could enhance intestinal mucosal growth by increasing (p < 0.05) the mRNA levels of extracellular regulated protein kinases, promote intestinal mucosal water and nutrient transport and lipid metabolism by increasing (p < 0.05) the mRNA levels of b0,+ amino acid transporter, aquaporin 3, aquaporin 10, gap junction protein alpha 1, intestinal fatty acid-binding protein, and lipoprotein lipase, enhance antiviral and immune function by increasing (p < 0.05) the mRNA levels of nuclear factor kappa-B, interferon-β, mucovirus resistance protein II, 2'-5'-oligoadenylate synthetase-like, interferon-γ, C-C motif chemokine ligand 2, and toll-like receptor 4, and enhance antioxidant capacity by increasing (p < 0.05) the mRNA levels of NF-E2-related factor 2 and glutathione S-transferase omega 2 and decreasing (p < 0.05) the mRNA level of NADPH oxidase 2. These results suggested that dietary supplementation with mono-lactate glyceride could decrease the diarrhea rate by improving intestinal antioxidant capacity, intestinal mucosal barrier, intestinal immune defense function, and intestinal mucosal water and nutrient transport. Collectively, dietary supplementation with 0.6% mono-lactate glyceride improved the intestinal function of weaned piglets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanbo Li
- Engineering Research Center of Feed Protein Resources on Agricultural By-Products, Ministry of Education, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Yanyan Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Feed Protein Resources on Agricultural By-Products, Ministry of Education, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Jiaqian Xie
- Engineering Research Center of Feed Protein Resources on Agricultural By-Products, Ministry of Education, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Feed Protein Resources on Agricultural By-Products, Ministry of Education, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Dan Yi
- Engineering Research Center of Feed Protein Resources on Agricultural By-Products, Ministry of Education, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Tao Wu
- Engineering Research Center of Feed Protein Resources on Agricultural By-Products, Ministry of Education, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Feed Protein Resources on Agricultural By-Products, Ministry of Education, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Di Zhao
- Engineering Research Center of Feed Protein Resources on Agricultural By-Products, Ministry of Education, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Yongqing Hou
- Engineering Research Center of Feed Protein Resources on Agricultural By-Products, Ministry of Education, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
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The Impact of Plasma Membrane Ion Channels on Bone Remodeling in Response to Mechanical Stress, Oxidative Imbalance, and Acidosis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12030689. [PMID: 36978936 PMCID: PMC10045377 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12030689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The extracellular milieu is a rich source of different stimuli and stressors. Some of them depend on the chemical–physical features of the matrix, while others may come from the ‘outer’ environment, as in the case of mechanical loading applied on the bones. In addition to these forces, a plethora of chemical signals drives cell physiology and fate, possibly leading to dysfunctions when the homeostasis is disrupted. This variety of stimuli triggers different responses among the tissues: bones represent a particular milieu in which a fragile balance between mechanical and metabolic demands should be tuned and maintained by the concerted activity of cell biomolecules located at the interface between external and internal environments. Plasma membrane ion channels can be viewed as multifunctional protein machines that act as rapid and selective dual-nature hubs, sensors, and transducers. Here we focus on some multisensory ion channels (belonging to Piezo, TRP, ASIC/EnaC, P2XR, Connexin, and Pannexin families) actually or potentially playing a significant role in bone adaptation to three main stressors, mechanical forces, oxidative stress, and acidosis, through their effects on bone cells including mesenchymal stem cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes. Ion channel-mediated bone remodeling occurs in physiological processes, aging, and human diseases such as osteoporosis, cancer, and traumatic events.
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Dong W, Zhang W, Yuan L, Xie Y, Li Y, Li K, Zhu W. Rescuers from the Other Shore: Intercellular Mitochondrial Transfer and Its Implications in Central Nervous System Injury and Diseases. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023. [PMID: 36867301 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-023-01331-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
As the powerhouse and core of cellular metabolism and survival, mitochondria are the essential organelle in mammalian cells and maintain cellular homeostasis by changing their content and morphology to meet demands through mitochondrial quality control. It has been observed that mitochondria can move between cells under physiological and pathophysiological conditions, which provides a novel strategy for preserving mitochondrial homeostasis and also a therapeutic target for applications in clinical settings. Therefore, in this review, we will summarize currently known mechanisms of intercellular mitochondrial transfer, including modes, triggers, and functions. Due to the highly demanded energy and indispensable intercellular linkages of the central nervous system (CNS), we highlight the mitochondrial transfer in CNS. We also discuss future application possibilities and difficulties that need to be addressed in the treatment of CNS injury and diseases. This clarification should shed light on its potential clinical applications as a promising therapeutic target in neurological diseases. Intercellular mitochondrial transfer maintains the homeostasis of central nervous system (CNS), and its alteration is related to several neurological diseases. Supplementing exogenous mitochondrial donor cells and mitochondria, or utilizing some medications to regulate the process of transfer might mitigate the disease and injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weichen Dong
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School, Nanjing University, 305 East Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu Province, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, 210093, Jiangsu Province, China
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Iron Metabolism and Mitochondrial Function, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, 210093, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wenxin Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, 210093, Jiangsu Province, China
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Iron Metabolism and Mitochondrial Function, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, 210093, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Linying Yuan
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School, Nanjing University, 305 East Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yi Xie
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School, Nanjing University, 305 East Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yunzi Li
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School, Nanjing University, 305 East Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Kuanyu Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, 210093, Jiangsu Province, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Division of Iron Metabolism and Mitochondrial Function, Medical School, Nanjing University, 22 Hankou Road, Nanjing, 210093, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Wusheng Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School, Nanjing University, 305 East Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Zappalà A, Romano IR, D’Angeli F, Musumeci G, Lo Furno D, Giuffrida R, Mannino G. Functional Roles of Connexins and Gap Junctions in Osteo-Chondral Cellular Components. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044156. [PMID: 36835567 PMCID: PMC9967557 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJs) formed by connexins (Cxs) play an important role in the intercellular communication within most body tissues. In this paper, we focus on GJs and Cxs present in skeletal tissues. Cx43 is the most expressed connexin, participating in the formation of both GJs for intercellular communication and hemichannels (HCs) for communication with the external environment. Through GJs in long dendritic-like cytoplasmic processes, osteocytes embedded in deep lacunae are able to form a functional syncytium not only with neighboring osteocytes but also with bone cells located at the bone surface, despite the surrounding mineralized matrix. The functional syncytium allows a coordinated cell activity through the wide propagation of calcium waves, nutrients and anabolic and/or catabolic factors. Acting as mechanosensors, osteocytes are able to transduce mechanical stimuli into biological signals that spread through the syncytium to orchestrate bone remodeling. The fundamental role of Cxs and GJs is confirmed by a plethora of investigations that have highlighted how up- and downregulation of Cxs and GJs critically influence skeletal development and cartilage functions. A better knowledge of GJ and Cx mechanisms in physiological and pathological conditions might help in developing therapeutic approaches aimed at the treatment of human skeletal system disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Zappalà
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Ivana Roberta Romano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Floriana D’Angeli
- Department of Human Sciences and Quality of Life Promotion, San Raffaele Roma Open University, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Musumeci
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Debora Lo Furno
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Correspondence: (D.L.F.); (R.G.)
| | - Rosario Giuffrida
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Correspondence: (D.L.F.); (R.G.)
| | - Giuliana Mannino
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
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Increased serum pannexin-1 concentrations reflect illness severity and predict a poor prognosis after acute supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage: A prospective longitudinal cohort study. Clin Chim Acta 2023; 540:117218. [PMID: 36610467 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2023.117218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pannexin-1 is a nonselective, large pore and voltage gated channel protein, whose activation may aggravate acute brain injury. We ascertained the clinical significance of serum pannexin-1 as a prognostic biomarker of acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). METHODS In this prospective, observational study of 124 acute supratentorial ICH patients and 124 healthy controls, serum pannexin-1 concentrations were determined. Admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score and hematoma volume were used for assessment of hemorrhagic severity, post-stroke 6-month modified Rankin scale (mRS) score was registered to reflect clinical outcome and early neurologic deterioration (END) and 6-month poor outcome (mRS score of 3-6) were regarded as the 2 prognostic parameters. Their associations with serum pannexin-1 concentrations were investigated using multivariate analysis. The predictive performance was evaluated in terms of area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). RESULTS In comparison to controls, significantly increased serum pannexin-1 concentrations after ICH (median, 6.8 vs. 2.7 mg/ml) were independently correlative with NIHSS score (β, 0.193; 95% CI: 0.086-0.300), hematoma volume (β, 0.641; 95% CI: 0.423-0.859) and mRS score (β, 0.199; 95% CI: 0.065-0.174), were independently predictive of END (OR, 1.176; 95% CI: 1.081-1.280) and poor outcome (odds ratio, 1.218; 95% CI: 1.059-1.400), as well as were efficiently discriminative of END (AUC, 0.764; 95% CI: 0.663-0.864) and poor 6-month outcome (AUC, 0.790; 95% CI: 0.711-0.870). Serum pannexin-1 combined with NIHSS score and hematoma volume (AUC, 0.908; 95% CI: 0.857-0.960) displayed significantly higher predictive ability for poor 6-month outcome than NIHSS score and hematoma volume alone (both P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Rising serum pannexin-1 concentrations following ICH, in strong correlation with hemorrhagic severity, independently distinguish the risk of END and 90-day poor outcome. Assumably, serum pannexin-1 may represent a valuable prognostic biomarker of ICH.
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Kiełbowski K, Bakinowska E, Pawlik A. The Potential Role of Connexins in the Pathogenesis of Atherosclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032600. [PMID: 36768920 PMCID: PMC9916887 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cx) are members of a protein family which enable extracellular and intercellular communication through hemichannels and gap junctions (GJ), respectively. Cx take part in transporting important cell-cell messengers such as 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3), among others. Therefore, they play a significant role in regulating cell homeostasis, proliferation, and differentiation. Alterations in Cx distribution, degradation, and post-translational modifications have been correlated with cancers, as well as cardiovascular and neurological diseases. Depending on the isoform, Cx have been shown either to promote or suppress the development of atherosclerosis, a progressive inflammatory disease affecting large and medium-sized arteries. Cx might contribute to the progression of the disease by enhancing endothelial dysfunction, monocyte recruitment, vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) activation, or by inhibiting VSMC autophagy. Inhibition or modulation of the expression of specific isoforms could suppress atherosclerotic plaque formation and diminish pro-inflammatory conditions. A better understanding of the complexity of atherosclerosis pathophysiology linked with Cx could result in developing novel therapeutic strategies. This review aims to present the role of Cx in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and discusses whether they can become novel therapeutic targets.
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Xie J, Xu X, Liu S. Intercellular communication in the cumulus-oocyte complex during folliculogenesis: A review. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1087612. [PMID: 36743407 PMCID: PMC9893509 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1087612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
During folliculogenesis, the oocyte and surrounding cumulus cells form an ensemble called the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC). Due to their interdependence, research on the COC has been a hot issue in the past few decades. A growing body of literature has revealed that intercellular communication is critical in determining oocyte quality and ovulation. This review provides an update on the current knowledge of COC intercellular communication, morphology, and functions. Transzonal projections (TZPs) and gap junctions are the most described structures of the COC. They provide basic metabolic and nutrient support, and abundant molecules for signaling pathways and regulations. Oocyte-secreted factors (OSFs) such as growth differentiation factor 9 and bone morphogenetic protein 15 have been linked with follicular homeostasis, suggesting that the communications are bidirectional. Using advanced techniques, new evidence has highlighted the existence of other structures that participate in intercellular communication. Extracellular vesicles can carry transcripts and signaling molecules. Microvilli on the oocyte can induce the formation of TZPs and secrete OSFs. Cell membrane fusion between the oocyte and cumulus cells can lead to sharing of cytoplasm, in a way making the COC a true whole. These findings give us new insights into related reproductive diseases like polycystic ovary syndrome and primary ovarian insufficiency and how to improve the outcomes of assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Xie
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Suying Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Suying Liu,
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Xing J, Wang Η, Chen L, Wang H, Huang H, Huang J, Xu C. Blocking Cx43 alleviates neuropathic pain in rats with chronic constriction injury via the P2X4 and P38/ERK-P65 pathways. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 114:109506. [PMID: 36442284 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109506] [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: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a growing concern in the medical community, and studies on new analgesic targets for neuropathic pain have become a new hot spot. Whether Connexin43 (Cx43) has a key role in neuropathic pain mediated by the purinergic 2X4 (P2X4) receptor in rats with chronic constriction injury (CCI) was explored in this study. Our experimental results show that blockade of Cx43 could attenuate neuropathic pain in rats suffering from CCI via the P2X4, p38, ERK, and NF-kB signalling pathways. These results suggest that Cx43 may be a promising therapeutic target for the development of novel pharmacological agents in the management of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juping Xing
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Ηongji Wang
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Lisha Chen
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Hanxi Wang
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Huan Huang
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Jiabao Huang
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Changshui Xu
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, PR China; The Clinical Medical School, Jiangxi Medical College, Shangrao 334000, Jiangxi, PR China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Shangrao 334000, Jiangxi, PR China.
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Iyer AR, Sheeba V. A new player in circadian networks: Role of electrical synapses in regulating functions of the circadian clock. Front Physiol 2022; 13:968574. [PMID: 36406999 PMCID: PMC9669436 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.968574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have indicated that coherent circadian rhythms in behaviour can be manifested only when the underlying circadian oscillators function as a well-coupled network. The current literature suggests that circadian pacemaker neuronal networks rely heavily on communication mediated by chemical synapses comprising neuropeptides and neurotransmitters to regulate several behaviours and physiological processes. It has become increasingly clear that chemical synapses closely interact with electrical synapses and function together in the neuronal networks of most organisms. However, there are only a few studies which have examined the role of electrical synapses in circadian networks and here, we review our current understanding of gap junction proteins in circadian networks of various model systems. We describe the general mechanisms by which electrical synapses function in neural networks, their interactions with chemical neuromodulators and their contributions to the regulation of circadian rhythms. We also discuss the various methods available to characterize functional electrical synapses in these networks and the potential directions that remain to be explored to understand the roles of this relatively understudied mechanism of communication in modulating circadian behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Ramakrishnan Iyer
- Chronobiology and Behavioural Neurogenetics Laboratory, Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Barnard College of Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Vasu Sheeba
- Chronobiology and Behavioural Neurogenetics Laboratory, Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
- *Correspondence: Vasu Sheeba,
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Jaishankar D, Quinn KM, Sanders J, Plumblee L, Morinelli TA, Nadig SN. Connexins in endothelial cells as a therapeutic target for solid organ transplantation. Am J Transplant 2022; 22:2502-2508. [PMID: 35612993 PMCID: PMC9643625 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.17104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Connexins are a class of membrane proteins widely distributed throughout the body and have various functions based on their location and levels of expression. More specifically, connexin proteins expressed in endothelial cells (ECs) have unique roles in maintaining EC barrier integrity and function-a highly regulated process that is critical for pro-inflammatory and pro-coagulant reactions. In this minireview, we discuss the regulatory influence connexin proteins have in maintaining EC barrier integrity and their role in ischemia-reperfusion injury as it relates to organ transplantation. It is evident that certain isoforms of the connexin protein family are uniquely positioned to have far-reaching effects on preserving organ function; however, there is still much to be learned of their roles in transplant immunology and the application of this knowledge to the development of targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Jaishankar
- Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of MedicineNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Kristen M. Quinn
- Department of Surgery, Division of TransplantMedical University of South CarolinaCharlestonSouth CarolinaUSA
| | - Jes Sanders
- Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of MedicineNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Leah Plumblee
- Department of Surgery, Division of TransplantMedical University of South CarolinaCharlestonSouth CarolinaUSA
| | - Thomas A. Morinelli
- Department of Surgery, Division of TransplantMedical University of South CarolinaCharlestonSouth CarolinaUSA
| | - Satish N. Nadig
- Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of MedicineNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA,Department of Surgery, Division of TransplantMedical University of South CarolinaCharlestonSouth CarolinaUSA,Department of Microbiology‐Immunology and Pediatrics, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Feinberg School of MedicineNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA,Simpson Querrey InstituteNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
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Roger E, Boutin L, Chadjichristos CE. The Role of Connexin 43 in Renal Disease: Insights from In Vivo Models of Experimental Nephropathy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113090. [PMID: 36361888 PMCID: PMC9656944 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal disease is a major public health challenge since its prevalence has continuously increased over the last decades. At the end stage, extrarenal replacement therapy and transplantation remain the only treatments currently available. To understand how the disease progresses, further knowledge of its pathophysiology is needed. For this purpose, experimental models, using mainly rodents, have been developed to unravel the mechanisms involved in the initiation and progression of renal disease, as well as to identify potential targets for therapy. The gap junction protein connexin 43 has recently been identified as a novel player in the development of kidney disease. Its expression has been found to be altered in many types of human renal pathologies, as well as in different animal models, contributing to the activation of inflammatory and fibrotic processes that lead to renal damage. Furthermore, Cx43 genetic, pharmacogenetic, or pharmacological inhibition preserved renal function and structure. This review summarizes the existing advances on the role of this protein in renal diseases, based mainly on different in vivo animal models of acute and chronic renal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Roger
- INSERM, UMR-S1155, Bâtiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, 75020 Paris, France
- Faculty of Medicine, Sorbonne University, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Louis Boutin
- INSERM, UMR-S1155, Bâtiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, 75020 Paris, France
- Faculty of Medicine, Sorbonne University, 75013 Paris, France
- INSERM, UMR-942, MASCOT, Cardiovascular Markers in Stress Condition, Université de Paris, 75010 Paris, France
- FHU PROMICE AP-HP, Saint Louis and DMU Parabol, Critical Care Medicine and Burn Unit, AP-HP, Department of Anesthesiology, Université Paris Cité, 75010 Paris, France
| | - Christos E. Chadjichristos
- INSERM, UMR-S1155, Bâtiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, 75020 Paris, France
- Faculty of Medicine, Sorbonne University, 75013 Paris, France
- Correspondence:
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El-Harakeh M, Saliba J, Sharaf Aldeen K, Haidar M, El Hajjar L, Awad MK, Hashash JG, Shirinian M, El-Sabban M. Expression of the methylcytosine dioxygenase ten-eleven translocation-2 and connexin 43 in inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:5845-5864. [PMID: 36353202 PMCID: PMC9639657 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i40.5845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) constitutes a substantial risk factor for colorectal cancer. Connexin 43 (Cx43) is a protein that forms gap junction (GJ) complexes involved in intercellular communication, and its expression is altered under pathological conditions, such as IBD and cancer. Recent studies have implicated epigenetic processes modulating DNA methylation in the pathogenesis of diverse inflammatory and malignant diseases. The ten-eleven translocation-2 (TET-2) enzyme catalyzes the demethylation, hence, regulating the activity of various cancer-promoting and tumor-suppressor genes.
AIM To investigate Cx43 and TET-2 expression levels and presence of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC) marks under inflammatory conditions both in vitro and in vivo.
METHODS TET-2 expression was evaluated in parental HT-29 cells and in HT-29 cells expressing low or high levels of Cx43, a putative tumor-suppressor gene whose expression varies in IBD and colorectal cancer, and which has been implicated in the inflammatory process and in tumor onset. The dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis model was reproduced in BALB/c mice to evaluate the expression of TET-2 and Cx43 under inflammatory conditions in vivo. In addition, archived colon tissue sections from normal, IBD (ulcerative colitis), and sporadic colon adenocarcinoma patients were obtained and evaluated for the expression of TET-2 and Cx43. Expression levels were reported at the transcriptional level by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and at the translational level by Western blotting and immunofluorescence.
RESULTS Under inflammatory conditions, Cx43 and TET-2 expression levels increased compared to non-inflammatory conditions. TET-2 upregulation was more pronounced in Cx43-deficient cells. Moreover, colon tissue sections from normal, ulcerative colitis, and sporadic colon adenocarcinoma patients corroborated that Cx43 expression increased in IBD and decreased in adenocarcinoma, compared to tissues from non-IBD subjects. However, TET-2 expression and 5-hmC mark levels decreased in samples from patients with ulcerative colitis or cancer. Cx43 and TET-2 expression levels were also investigated in an experimental colitis mouse model. Interestingly, mice exposed to carbenoxolone (CBX), a GJ inhibitor, had upregulated TET-2 levels. Collectively, these results show that TET-2 levels and activity increased under inflammatory conditions, in cells downregulating gap junctional protein Cx43, and in colon tissues from mice exposed to CBX.
CONCLUSION These results suggest that TET-2 expression levels, as well as Cx43 expression levels, are modulated in models of intestinal inflammation. We hypothesize that TET-2 may demethylate genes involved in inflammation and tumorigenesis, such as Cx43, potentially contributing to intestinal inflammation and associated carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad El-Harakeh
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
- UR GPF Laboratory of Biodiversity and Functional Genomics, Faculty of Science, Université Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
| | - Jessica Saliba
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut 1533, Lebanon
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, Dekwaneh, Sin el Fil 1552, Lebanon
| | - Kawthar Sharaf Aldeen
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
| | - May Haidar
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
| | - Layal El Hajjar
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
| | - Mireille Kallassy Awad
- UR GPF Laboratory of Biodiversity and Functional Genomics, Faculty of Science, Université Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
| | - Jana G Hashash
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
| | - Margret Shirinian
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
| | - Marwan El-Sabban
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107, Lebanon
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Exploration of Biomarkers of Psoriasis through Combined Multiomics Analysis. Mediators Inflamm 2022; 2022:7731082. [PMID: 36193416 PMCID: PMC9525798 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7731082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Aberrant DNA methylation patterns are of increasing interest in the study of psoriasis mechanisms. This study aims to screen potential diagnostic indicators affected by DNA methylation for psoriasis based on bioinformatics using multiple machine learning algorithms and to preliminarily explore its molecular mechanisms. Methods GSE13355, GSE14905, and GSE73894 were collected from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially methylated region- (DMR-) genes between psoriasis and control samples were combined to obtain differentially expressed methylated genes. Subsequently, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was established to analyze the interaction between differentially expressed methylated genes. Moreover, the hub genes of psoriasis were screened by the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), Random Forest (RF), and Support Vector Machine (SVM), which were further performed single-gene gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) to clarify the pathogenesis of psoriasis. The druggable genes were predicted using DGIdb. Finally, the expressions of hub genes in psoriasis lesions and healthy controls were detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR). Results In this study, a total of 767 DEGs and 896 DMR-genes were obtained. Functional enrichment showed that they were significantly associated with skin development, skin barrier function, immune/inflammatory response, and cell cycle. The combined transcriptomic and DNA methylation data resulted in 33 differentially expressed methylated genes, of which GJB2 was the final identified hub gene for psoriasis, with robust diagnostic power. IHC and RT-qPCR showed that GJB2 was significantly higher in psoriasis samples than those in healthy controls. Additionally, GJB2 may be involved in the development and progression of psoriasis by disrupting the body's immune system, mediating the cell cycle, and destroying the skin barrier, in addition to possibly inducing diseases related to the skeletal aspects of psoriasis. Moreover, OCTANOL and CARBENOXOLONE were identified as promising compounds through the DGIdb database. Conclusion The abnormal expression of GJB2 might play a critical role in psoriasis development and progression. The genes identified in our study might serve as a diagnostic indicator and therapeutic target in psoriasis.
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Zlomuzica A, Plank L, Dere E. A new path to mental disorders: Through gap junction channels and hemichannels. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 142:104877. [PMID: 36116574 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Behavioral disturbances related to emotional regulation, reward processing, cognition, sleep-wake regulation and activity/movement represent core symptoms of most common mental disorders. Increasing empirical and theoretical evidence suggests that normal functioning of these behavioral domains relies on fine graded coordination of neural and glial networks which are maintained and modulated by intercellular gap junction channels and unapposed pannexin or connexin hemichannels. Dysfunctions in these networks might contribute to the development and maintenance of psychopathological and neurobiological features associated with mental disorders. Here we review and discuss the evidence indicating a prominent role of gap junction channel and hemichannel dysfunction in core symptoms of mental disorders. We further discuss how the increasing knowledge on intercellular gap junction channels and unapposed pannexin or connexin hemichannels in the brain might lead to deeper mechanistic insight in common mental disorders and to the development of novel treatment approaches. We further attempt to exemplify what type of future research on this topic could be integrated into multidimensional approaches to understand and cure mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armin Zlomuzica
- Department of Behavioral and Clinical Neuroscience, Ruhr-University Bochum (RUB), Massenbergstraße 9-13, D-44787 Bochum, Germany.
| | - Laurin Plank
- Department of Behavioral and Clinical Neuroscience, Ruhr-University Bochum (RUB), Massenbergstraße 9-13, D-44787 Bochum, Germany
| | - Ekrem Dere
- Department of Behavioral and Clinical Neuroscience, Ruhr-University Bochum (RUB), Massenbergstraße 9-13, D-44787 Bochum, Germany; Sorbonne Université. Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, (IBPS), Département UMR 8256: Adaptation Biologique et Vieillissement, UFR des Sciences de la Vie, Campus Pierre et Marie Curie, Bâtiment B, 9 quai Saint Bernard, F-75005 Paris, France.
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Chen P, Wu W, Zhang J, Chen J, Li Y, Sun L, Hou S, Yang J. Pathological mechanisms of connexin26-related hearing loss: Potassium recycling, ATP-calcium signaling, or energy supply? Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:976388. [PMID: 36187349 PMCID: PMC9520402 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.976388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hereditary deafness is one of the most common human birth defects. GJB2 gene mutation is the most genetic etiology. Gap junction protein 26 (connexin26, Cx26) encoded by the GJB2 gene, which is responsible for intercellular substance transfer and signal communication, plays a critical role in hearing acquisition and maintenance. The auditory character of different Connexin26 transgenic mice models can be classified into two types: profound congenital deafness and late-onset progressive hearing loss. Recent studies demonstrated that there are pathological changes including endocochlear potential reduction, active cochlear amplification impairment, cochlear developmental disorders, and so on, in connexin26 deficiency mice. Here, this review summarizes three main hypotheses to explain pathological mechanisms of connexin26-related hearing loss: potassium recycling disruption, adenosine-triphosphate-calcium signaling propagation disruption, and energy supply dysfunction. Elucidating pathological mechanisms underlying connexin26-related hearing loss can help develop new protective and therapeutic strategies for this common deafness. It is worthy of further study on the detailed cellular and molecular upstream mechanisms to modify connexin (channel) function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penghui Chen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjin Wu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Jifang Zhang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Junmin Chen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Lianhua Sun
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Shule Hou
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Shule Hou,
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Jun Yang,
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Jara O, Minogue PJ, Berthoud VM, Beyer EC. Levels and Modifications of Both Lens Fiber Cell Connexins Are Affected in Connexin Mutant Mice. Cells 2022; 11:cells11182786. [PMID: 36139360 PMCID: PMC9496683 DOI: 10.3390/cells11182786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the lens, cell home ostasis and transparency are supported by intercellular communication facilitated by the channels formed of connexin46 (Cx46) and connexin50 (Cx50). Mutations of these connexins are linked to inherited cataracts. We studied the levels and the variations in electrophoretic mobilities of the immunoreactive Cx46 and Cx50 bands between 1 and 21 days after birth in the lenses of wild-type mice and homozygous animals from two different mouse models of connexin-linked cataracts (Cx46fs380 and Cx50D47A). In Cx50D47A mice, the expression of the mutant Cx50 reduced the normal phosphorylation of the co-expressed wild-type Cx46. In both models, levels of the mutant connexin and the co-expressed wild-type connexin decayed more rapidly than in wild-type mice but with different time courses. In the Cx46fs380 mice, modeling suggested that Cx50 degradation could be explained by the mixing of mutant Cx46 with wild-type Cx50. However, in Cx50D47A mice, similar modeling suggested that mixing alone could not explain the decrease in Cx46 levels. These data highlight the complex influences between two connexin proteins expressed in the same cell, some of which occur through direct mixing, while others occur indirectly, as in Cx50D47A mice, where the expression of the mutant connexin causes endoplasmic reticulum stress and impaired differentiation.
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Progress in mesenchymal stem cell mitochondria transfer for the repair of tissue injury and treatment of disease. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113482. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Fang K, Chen S, Wang Y, Chen F, Cui M, Dong Q. Asymmetric Dimethylarginine Protects Neurons from Oxygen Glucose Deprivation Insult by Modulating Connexin-36 Expression. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:5339361. [PMID: 35847590 PMCID: PMC9279069 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5339361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is a nonselective nitric oxide synthase inhibitor. ADMA is thought to inhibit the production of nitric oxide (NO) by neurons after oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD). The gap junction protein Connexin-36 (cx-36) is involved in the pathophysiology of stroke. We investigated whether ADMA could protect neurons from OGD insults by regulating the expression of cx-36. Methods Cultured rat cortical neuronal cells were used. Neurons were treated with OGD with or without ADMA pretreatment. The lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release rate was used to assess neuronal injury. Intracellular NO levels were determined using 4-amino-5-methylamino-2',7'-difluorofluorescein diacetate. Western blotting was performed to detect cx-36 expression. Results The LDH release rate increased in the supernatant of neurons after the OGD insult, whereas ADMA treatment reduced the LDH release rate. Intracellular NO levels increased following OGD treatment, and this increase was not inhibited by ADMA treatment. Expression of cx-36 was upregulated in neurons under OGD conditions, and treatment with ADMA downregulated the expression of cx-36. Conclusions ADMA protects neurons from OGD insult, and cx-36 downregulation may be a possible pathway involved in ADMA-mediated neuronal protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Fang
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Shufen Chen
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Fangzhe Chen
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Mei Cui
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Qiang Dong
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
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