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Wijayarathna R, Hedger MP. New aspects of activin biology in epididymal function and immunopathology. Andrology 2024; 12:964-972. [PMID: 37644728 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13523] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
The activins (A and B) and their binding protein, follistatin, play crucial roles in development, immunoregulation and inflammation throughout the body. In the male reproductive tract of the mouse, activin A and B production is largely confined to the initial segment and proximal caput of the epididymis and the efferent ducts, under normal conditions, with very low expression in the corpus, cauda and vas deferens. However, activin A protein is present throughout the epididymis and vas deferens and is largely associated with the epithelium and interstitial macrophages. Conversely, the activin-binding protein follistatin is produced in the distal epididymis, with very high expression in the vas deferens. Activin activity in the distal tract is inhibited by follistatin, and the activin-follistatin balance is important for regulating coiling of the duct during epididymal development. In further experiments, as described in this report, in situ hybridisation was used to localise activin A mRNA principally to cells in the periductal zone and interstitium in the efferent ducts and proximal caput. Activin B mRNA, on the other hand, was localised to periductal cells in the efferent ducts and proximal epididymis and, most notably, to epithelial cells in the initial segment. Activin A is implicated in the regulation of mononuclear phagocyte function and immune responses in the caput and stimulates the expression of the key immunoregulatory protein, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase in this region. Activin A production in the corpus and cauda increases dramatically during bacterial epididymitis in mice, promoting inflammation and fibrosis and causing damage to the epithelium and obstruction of the epididymal duct. Consequently, it appears that the activin-follistatin axis is crucial for maintaining normal epididymal structure and function, but disruption of this balance during inflammation has deleterious effects on male fertility. Follistatin has therapeutic potential in ameliorating the proinflammatory and profibrotic effects of activins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rukmali Wijayarathna
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Melbourne, Australia
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Arron HE, Marsh BD, Kell DB, Khan MA, Jaeger BR, Pretorius E. Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: the biology of a neglected disease. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1386607. [PMID: 38887284 PMCID: PMC11180809 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1386607] [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: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a chronic, debilitating disease characterised by a wide range of symptoms that severely impact all aspects of life. Despite its significant prevalence, ME/CFS remains one of the most understudied and misunderstood conditions in modern medicine. ME/CFS lacks standardised diagnostic criteria owing to variations in both inclusion and exclusion criteria across different diagnostic guidelines, and furthermore, there are currently no effective treatments available. Moving beyond the traditional fragmented perspectives that have limited our understanding and management of the disease, our analysis of current information on ME/CFS represents a significant paradigm shift by synthesising the disease's multifactorial origins into a cohesive model. We discuss how ME/CFS emerges from an intricate web of genetic vulnerabilities and environmental triggers, notably viral infections, leading to a complex series of pathological responses including immune dysregulation, chronic inflammation, gut dysbiosis, and metabolic disturbances. This comprehensive model not only advances our understanding of ME/CFS's pathophysiology but also opens new avenues for research and potential therapeutic strategies. By integrating these disparate elements, our work emphasises the necessity of a holistic approach to diagnosing, researching, and treating ME/CFS, urging the scientific community to reconsider the disease's complexity and the multifaceted approach required for its study and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley E. Arron
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Benjamin D. Marsh
- MRCPCH Consultant Paediatric Neurodisability, Exeter, Devon, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas B. Kell
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Centre for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - M. Asad Khan
- Directorate of Respiratory Medicine, Manchester University Hospitals, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Beate R. Jaeger
- Long COVID department, Clinic St Georg, Bad Aibling, Germany
| | - Etheresia Pretorius
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Hu Y, Recouvreux MS, Haro M, Taylan E, Taylor-Harding B, Walts AE, Karlan BY, Orsulic S. INHBA(+) cancer-associated fibroblasts generate an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in ovarian cancer. NPJ Precis Oncol 2024; 8:35. [PMID: 38360876 PMCID: PMC10869703 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-024-00523-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Effective targeting of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) is hindered by the lack of specific biomarkers and a poor understanding of the mechanisms by which different populations of CAFs contribute to cancer progression. While the role of TGFβ in CAFs is well-studied, less attention has been focused on a structurally and functionally similar protein, Activin A (encoded by INHBA). Here, we identified INHBA(+) CAFs as key players in tumor promotion and immunosuppression. Spatiotemporal analyses of patient-matched primary, metastatic, and recurrent ovarian carcinomas revealed that aggressive metastatic tumors enriched in INHBA(+) CAFs were also enriched in regulatory T cells (Tregs). In ovarian cancer mouse models, intraperitoneal injection of the Activin A neutralizing antibody attenuated tumor progression and infiltration with pro-tumorigenic subsets of myofibroblasts and macrophages. Downregulation of INHBA in human ovarian CAFs inhibited pro-tumorigenic CAF functions. Co-culture of human ovarian CAFs and T cells revealed the dependence of Treg differentiation on direct contact with INHBA(+) CAFs. Mechanistically, INHBA/recombinant Activin A in CAFs induced the autocrine expression of PD-L1 through SMAD2-dependent signaling, which promoted Treg differentiation. Collectively, our study identified an INHBA(+) subset of immunomodulatory pro-tumoral CAFs as a potential therapeutic target in advanced ovarian cancers which typically show a poor response to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Gastroenterology, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Maria Sol Recouvreux
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Marcela Haro
- Women's Cancer Program, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA
| | - Enes Taylan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Barbie Taylor-Harding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Ann E Walts
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA
| | - Beth Y Karlan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Sandra Orsulic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
- United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, 90073, USA.
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Zeplin PH. Activin A and Follistatin Serum Concentrations in Breast Augmentation Patients. Plast Surg (Oakv) 2023; 31:377-382. [PMID: 37915344 PMCID: PMC10617457 DOI: 10.1177/22925503211051120] [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: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Capsular contracture is caused by an excessive fibrotic reaction similar as observed in other progressive fibrotic disorders. For their pathogenesis, several studies confirmed the importance of activins and follistatin. The aim of this study was to determine and analyze serum levels of Activin A and follistatin in patients with capsular contracture after aesthetic breast augmentation. Methods: The study included 361 female patients who underwent primary aesthetic breast augmentation, came for control examination after breast augmentation or for revision operation because of capsular contracture. Blood samples were taken and using a specific ELISA to determine the serum concentration levels of Activin A and Follistatin. Results: Ninety-six patients (n = 96), who developed a capsular contracture Baker ≥°III and underwent revision surgery were collected (capsular fibrosis group). One-hundred and fourteen patients (n = 114) were asymptomatic for capsular fibrosis Baker ≥°III after primary breast augmentation and 33 (n = 33) of them had developed no capsular fibrosis after more than 10 years (long-term group). For control group, blood samples were taken from 167 patients (n = 167) before primary aesthetic breast augmentation. Serum Activin A levels were significantly higher in the long-term Group compared with those in the capsular fibrosis- and the control groups. Follistatin levels were significantly lower in the capsular fibrosis group compared to the control- and the long-term groups. A small amount of control group patients (n = 16) developed a capsular fibrosis within 2 years after primary breast augmentation with significant lower follistatin levels. Retrospectively, they showed significantly lower serum follistatin levels than the control group even before the onset of capsular contracture. Conclusions: Capsular fibrosis has no effect on Activin A serum levels. In contrast, follistatin serum levels are lower in patients with capsular fibrosis. These results show that besides many other factors, a dysregulation of the Activin-follistatin axis may have importance on the pathogenesis of capsular contracture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip H. Zeplin
- Schlosspark Klinik Ludwigsburg, Privatklinik für Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie, Ludwigsburg, Germany
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Jin Y, Cai Q, Wang L, Ji J, Sun Y, Jiang J, Wang C, Wu J, Zhang B, Zhao L, Qi F, Yu B, Zhang J. Paracrine activin B-NF-κB signaling shapes an inflammatory tumor microenvironment in gastric cancer via fibroblast reprogramming. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:269. [PMID: 37858201 PMCID: PMC10585924 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02861-4] [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: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Important roles of INHBB in various malignancies are increasingly identified. The underlying mechanisms in gastric cancer (GC) microenvironment are still greatly unexplored. METHODS The clinical significance of INHBB and the correlation between INHBB and p-p65 in GC were assessed through analyzing publicly available databases and human paraffin embedded GC tissues. The biological crosstalk of INHBB between GC cells and fibroblasts was explored both in vitro and in vivo. RNA-seq analyses were performed to determine the mechanisms which regulating fibroblasts reprogramming. Luciferase reporter assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation (CHIP) assay were used to verify the binding relationship of p65 and INHBB in GC cells. RESULTS Our study showed that INHBB level was significantly higher in GC, and that increased INHBB was associated with poor survival. INHBB positively regulates the proliferation, migration, and invasion of GC cells in vitro. Also, activin B promotes the occurrence of GC by reprogramming fibroblasts into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). The high expression of INHBB in GC cells activates the NF-κB pathway of normal gastric fibroblasts by secreting activin B, and promotes fibroblasts proliferation, migration, and invasion. In addition, activin B activates NF-κB pathway by controlling TRAF6 autoubiquitination to induce TAK1 phosphorylation in fibroblasts. Fibroblasts activated by activin B can induce the activation of p65 phosphorylation of GC cells by releasing pro-inflammatory factors IL-1β. p65 can directly bind to the INHBB promoter and increase the INHBB transcription of GC cells, thus establishing a positive regulatory feedback loop to promote the progression of GC. CONCLUSIONS GC cells p65/INHBB/activin B and fibroblasts p65/IL-1β signal loop led to the formation of a whole tumor-promoting inflammatory microenvironment, which might be a promising therapeutic target for GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangbing Jin
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin er Road, 200025, Shanghai, China
| | - Qu Cai
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin er Road, 200025, Shanghai, China
| | - Lingquan Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin er Road, 200025, Shanghai, China
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin er Road, 200025, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Ji
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin er Road, 200025, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Sun
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin er Road, 200025, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinling Jiang
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin er Road, 200025, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin er Road, 200025, Shanghai, China
| | - Junwei Wu
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin er Road, 200025, Shanghai, China
| | - Benyan Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin er Road, 200025, Shanghai, China
| | - Liqin Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin er Road, 200025, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Qi
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin er Road, 200025, Shanghai, China
| | - Beiqin Yu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin er Road, 200025, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197 Ruijin er Road, 200025, Shanghai, China.
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6
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Gluba-Sagr A, Franczyk B, Rysz-Górzyńska M, Ławiński J, Rysz J. The Role of miRNA in Renal Fibrosis Leading to Chronic Kidney Disease. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2358. [PMID: 37760798 PMCID: PMC10525803 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an important health concern that is expected to be the fifth most widespread cause of death worldwide by 2040. The presence of chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, ischemia, etc., stimulates the development and progression of CKD. Tubulointerstitial fibrosis is a common pathomechanism of renal dysfunction, irrespective of the primary origin of renal injury. With time, fibrosis leads to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Many studies have demonstrated that microRNAs (miRNAs, miRs) are involved in the onset and development of fibrosis and CKD. miRNAs are vital regulators of some pathophysiological processes; therefore, their utility as therapeutic agents in various diseases has been suggested. Several miRNAs were demonstrated to participate in the development and progression of kidney disease. Since renal fibrosis is an important problem in chronic kidney disease, many scientists have focused on the determination of miRNAs associated with kidney fibrosis. In this review, we present the role of several miRNAs in renal fibrosis and the potential pathways involved. However, as well as those mentioned above, other miRs have also been suggested to play a role in this process in CKD. The reports concerning the impact of some miRNAs on fibrosis are conflicting, probably because the expression and regulation of miRNAs occur in a tissue- and even cell-dependent manner. Moreover, different assessment modes and populations have been used. There is a need for large studies and clinical trials to confirm the role of miRs in a clinical setting. miRNAs have great potential; thus, their analysis may improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Gluba-Sagr
- Department of Nephrology, Hypertension and Family Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
| | - Beata Franczyk
- Department of Nephrology, Hypertension and Family Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
| | - Magdalena Rysz-Górzyńska
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Rehabilitation, Medical University of Lodz, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
| | - Janusz Ławiński
- Department of Urology, Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Rzeszow, 35-055 Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Jacek Rysz
- Department of Nephrology, Hypertension and Family Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, 90-549 Lodz, Poland
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Manohar-Sindhu S, Merfeld-Clauss S, Goddard Y, March KL, Traktuev DO. Diminished vasculogenesis under inflammatory conditions is mediated by Activin A. Angiogenesis 2023; 26:423-436. [PMID: 36977946 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-023-09873-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: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Severe inflammatory stress often leads to vessel rarefaction and fibrosis, resulting in limited tissue recovery. However, signaling pathways mediating these processes are not completely understood. Patients with ischemic and inflammatory conditions have increased systemic Activin A level, which frequently correlates with the severity of pathology. Yet, Activin A's contribution to disease progression, specifically to vascular homeostasis and remodeling, is not well defined. This study investigated vasculogenesis in an inflammatory environment with an emphasis on Activin A's role. Exposure of endothelial cells (EC) and perivascular cells (adipose stromal cells, ASC) to inflammatory stimuli (represented by blood mononuclear cells from healthy donors activated with lipopolysaccharide, aPBMC) dramatically decreased EC tubulogenesis or caused vessel rarefaction compared to control co-cultures, concurrent with increased Activin A secretion. Both EC and ASC upregulated Inhibin Ba mRNA and Activin A secretion in response to aPBMC or their secretome. We identified TNFα (in EC) and IL-1β (in EC and ASC) as the exclusive inflammatory factors, present in aPBMC secretome, responsible for induction of Activin A. Similar to ASC, brain and placental pericytes upregulated Activin A in response to aPBMC and IL-1β, but not TNFα. Both these cytokines individually diminished EC tubulogenesis. Blocking Activin A with neutralizing IgG mitigated detrimental effects of aPBMC or TNFα/IL-1β on tubulogenesis in vitro and vessel formation in vivo. This study delineates the signaling pathway through which inflammatory cells have a detrimental effect on vessel formation and homeostasis, and highlights the central role of Activin A in this process. Transitory interference with Activin A during early phases of inflammatory or ischemic insult, with neutralizing antibodies or scavengers, may benefit vasculature preservation and overall tissue recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahana Manohar-Sindhu
- UF Center for Regenerative Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, UF College of Medicine, University of Florida, 1600 SW Archer Road, PO Box 100277, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Stephanie Merfeld-Clauss
- UF Center for Regenerative Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, UF College of Medicine, University of Florida, 1600 SW Archer Road, PO Box 100277, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Yana Goddard
- UF Center for Regenerative Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, UF College of Medicine, University of Florida, 1600 SW Archer Road, PO Box 100277, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Keith L March
- UF Center for Regenerative Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, UF College of Medicine, University of Florida, 1600 SW Archer Road, PO Box 100277, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Dmitry O Traktuev
- UF Center for Regenerative Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, UF College of Medicine, University of Florida, 1600 SW Archer Road, PO Box 100277, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
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Hatamzade Esfahani N, Day AS. The Role of TGF-β, Activin and Follistatin in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS 2023; 5:167-186. [DOI: 10.3390/gidisord5020015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an immune-mediated inflammatory condition predominantly affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. An increasing prevalence of IBD has been observed globally. The pathogenesis of IBD includes a complex interplay between the intestinal microbiome, diet, genetic factors and immune responses. The consequent imbalance of inflammatory mediators ultimately leads to intestinal mucosal damage and defective repair. Growth factors, given their specific roles in maintaining the homeostasis and integrity of the intestinal epithelium, are of particular interest in the setting of IBD. Furthermore, direct targeting of growth factor signalling pathways involved in the regeneration of the damaged epithelium and the regulation of inflammation could be considered as therapeutic options for individuals with IBD. Several members of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β superfamily, particularly TGF-β, activin and follistatin, are key candidates as they exhibit various roles in inflammatory processes and contribute to maintenance and homeostasis in the GI tract. This article aimed firstly to review the events involved in the pathogenesis of IBD with particular emphasis on TGF-β, activin and follistatin and secondly to outline the potential role of therapeutic manipulation of these pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew S. Day
- Paediatric Department, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand
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Barber CV, Yo JH, Rahman RA, Wallace EM, Palmer KR, Marshall SA. Activin A and pathologies of pregnancy: a review. Placenta 2023; 136:35-41. [PMID: 37028223 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Activin A is a two-subunit protein belonging to the transforming growth factor β superfamily. First discovered almost three decades ago, it has since been implicated in diverse physiological roles, ranging from wound repair to reproduction. After 30 years of research, altered activin A levels are now understood to be associated with the development of various diseases, making activin A a potential therapeutic target. In pregnancy, the placenta and fetal membranes are major producers of activin A, with significantly enhanced serum concentrations now recognised as a contributor to numerous gestational disorders. Evidence now suggests that circulating levels of activin A may be clinically relevant in the early detection of pregnancy complications, including miscarriage and preeclampsia. This review aims to summarise our current understanding of activin A as a potential diagnostic marker in common pregnancy pathologies.
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10
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Soomro A, Khajehei M, Li R, O’Neil K, Zhang D, Gao B, MacDonald M, Kakoki M, Krepinsky JC. A therapeutic target for CKD: activin A facilitates TGFβ1 profibrotic signaling. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2023; 28:10. [PMID: 36717814 PMCID: PMC9885651 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-023-00424-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND TGFβ1 is a major profibrotic mediator in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Its direct inhibition, however, is limited by adverse effects. Inhibition of activins, also members of the TGFβ superfamily, blocks TGFβ1 profibrotic effects, but the mechanism underlying this and the specific activin(s) involved are unknown. METHODS Cells were treated with TGFβ1 or activins A/B. Activins were inhibited generally with follistatin, or specifically with neutralizing antibodies or type I receptor downregulation. Cytokine levels, signaling and profibrotic responses were assessed with ELISA, immunofluorescence, immunoblotting and promoter luciferase reporters. Wild-type or TGFβ1-overexpressing mice with unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) were treated with an activin A neutralizing antibody. RESULTS In primary mesangial cells, TGFβ1 induces secretion primarily of activin A, which enables longer-term profibrotic effects by enhancing Smad3 phosphorylation and transcriptional activity. This results from lack of cell refractoriness to activin A, unlike that for TGFβ1, and promotion of TGFβ type II receptor expression. Activin A also supports transcription through regulating non-canonical MRTF-A activation. TGFβ1 additionally induces secretion of activin A, but not B, from tubular cells, and activin A neutralization prevents the TGFβ1 profibrotic response in renal fibroblasts. Fibrosis induced by UUO is inhibited by activin A neutralization in wild-type mice. Worsened fibrosis in TGFβ1-overexpressing mice is associated with increased renal activin A expression and is inhibited to wild-type levels with activin A neutralization. CONCLUSIONS Activin A facilitates TGFβ1 profibrotic effects through regulation of both canonical (Smad3) and non-canonical (MRTF-A) signaling, suggesting it may be a novel therapeutic target for preventing fibrosis in CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asfia Soomro
- grid.25073.330000 0004 1936 8227Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Mohammad Khajehei
- grid.25073.330000 0004 1936 8227Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Renzhong Li
- grid.25073.330000 0004 1936 8227Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Kian O’Neil
- grid.25073.330000 0004 1936 8227Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Dan Zhang
- grid.25073.330000 0004 1936 8227Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Bo Gao
- grid.25073.330000 0004 1936 8227Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Melissa MacDonald
- grid.25073.330000 0004 1936 8227Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Masao Kakoki
- grid.410711.20000 0001 1034 1720Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
| | - Joan C. Krepinsky
- grid.25073.330000 0004 1936 8227Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada ,grid.416721.70000 0001 0742 7355St. Joseph’s Hospital, 50 Charlton Ave East, Rm T3311, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6 Canada
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11
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Genetic analysis of activin/inhibin β subunits in zebrafish development and reproduction. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010523. [DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin and inhibin are both dimeric proteins sharing the same β subunits that belong to the TGF-β superfamily. They are well known for stimulating and inhibiting pituitary FSH secretion, respectively, in mammals. In addition, activin also acts as a mesoderm-inducing factor in frogs. However, their functions in development and reproduction of other species are poorly defined. In this study, we disrupted all three activin/inhibin β subunits (βAa, inhbaa; βAb, inhbab; and βB, inhbb) in zebrafish using CRISPR/Cas9. The loss of βAa/b but not βB led to a high mortality rate in the post-hatching stage. Surprisingly, the expression of fshb but not lhb in the pituitary increased in the female βA mutant together with aromatase (cyp19a1a) in the ovary. The single mutant of βAa/b showed normal folliculogenesis in young females; however, their double mutant (inhbaa-/-;inhbab-/-) showed delayed follicle activation, granulosa cell hypertrophy, stromal cell accumulation and tissue fibrosis. The ovary of inhbaa-/- deteriorated progressively after 180 dpf with reduced fecundity and the folliculogenesis ceased completely around 540 dpf. In addition, tumor- or cyst-like tissues started to appear in the inhbaa-/- ovary after about one year. In contrast to females, activin βAa/b mutant males showed normal spermatogenesis and fertility. As for activin βB subunit, the inhbb-/- mutant exhibited normal folliculogenesis, spermatogenesis and fertility in both sexes; however, the fecundity of mutant females decreased dramatically at 270 dpf with accumulation of early follicles. In summary, the activin-inhibin system plays an indispensable role in fish reproduction, in particular folliculogenesis and ovarian homeostasis.
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Yerly L, Pich-Bavastro C, Di Domizio J, Wyss T, Tissot-Renaud S, Cangkrama M, Gilliet M, Werner S, Kuonen F. Integrated multi-omics reveals cellular and molecular interactions governing the invasive niche of basal cell carcinoma. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4897. [PMID: 35986012 PMCID: PMC9391376 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32670-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumors invade the surrounding tissues to progress, but the heterogeneity of cell types at the tumor-stroma interface and the complexity of their potential interactions hampered mechanistic insight required for efficient therapeutic targeting. Here, combining single-cell and spatial transcriptomics on human basal cell carcinomas, we define the cellular contributors of tumor progression. In the invasive niche, tumor cells exhibit a collective migration phenotype, characterized by the expression of cell-cell junction complexes. In physical proximity, we identify cancer-associated fibroblasts with extracellular matrix-remodeling features. Tumor cells strongly express the cytokine Activin A, and increased Activin A-induced gene signature is found in adjacent cancer-associated fibroblast subpopulations. Altogether, our data identify the cell populations and their transcriptional reprogramming contributing to the spatial organization of the basal cell carcinoma invasive niche. They also demonstrate the power of integrated spatial and single-cell multi-omics to decipher cancer-specific invasive properties and develop targeted therapies. The role of reciprocal tumour-stroma interactions in tumour invasion remains poorly characterised. Here, single-cell and spatial transcriptomics identifies the cell populations and their transcriptional reprogramming contributing to the spatial organization of the basal cell carcinoma invasive niche.
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13
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Wang Y, Hamang M, Culver A, Jiang H, Yanum J, Garcia V, Lee J, White E, Kusumanchi P, Chalasani N, Liangpunsakul S, Yaden BC, Dai G. Activin B promotes the initiation and progression of liver fibrosis. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:2812-2826. [PMID: 35866567 PMCID: PMC9512478 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.2037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of activin B, a transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily cytokine, in liver health and disease is largely unknown. We aimed to investigate whether activin B modulates liver fibrogenesis. Liver and serum activin B, along with its analog activin A, were analyzed in patients with liver fibrosis from different etiologies and in mouse acute and chronic liver injury models. Activin B, activin A, or both was immunologically neutralized in mice with progressive or established carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 )-induced liver fibrosis. Hepatic and circulating activin B was increased in human patients with liver fibrosis caused by several liver diseases. In mice, hepatic and circulating activin B exhibited persistent elevation following the onset of several types of liver injury, whereas activin A displayed transient increases. The results revealed a close correlation of activin B with liver injury regardless of etiology and species. Injured hepatocytes produced excessive activin B. Neutralizing activin B largely prevented, as well as improved, CCl4 -induced liver fibrosis, which was augmented by co-neutralizing activin A. Mechanistically, activin B mediated the activation of c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK), the induction of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression, and the maintenance of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) expression in injured livers. Moreover, activin B directly induced a profibrotic expression profile in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and stimulated these cells to form a septa structure. Conclusions: We demonstrate that activin B, cooperating with activin A, mediates the activation or expression of JNK, iNOS, and PARP1 and the activation of HSCs, driving the initiation and progression of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Matthew Hamang
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Alexander Culver
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Huaizhou Jiang
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Jennifer Yanum
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Veronica Garcia
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Joonyong Lee
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Emily White
- College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Praveen Kusumanchi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Naga Chalasani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Suthat Liangpunsakul
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Roudebush Veterans Administration Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Benjamin C Yaden
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Guoli Dai
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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14
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Biniwale S, Wijayarathna R, Pleuger C, Bhushan S, Loveland KL, Meinhardt A, Hedger MP. Regulation of macrophage number and gene transcript levels by activin A and its binding protein, follistatin, in the testes of adult mice. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 151:103618. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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15
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Peng W, Kepsch A, Kracht TO, Hasan H, Wijayarathna R, Wahle E, Pleuger C, Bhushan S, Günther S, Kauerhof AC, Planinić A, Fietz D, Schuppe HC, Wygrecka M, Loveland KL, Ježek D, Meinhardt A, Hedger MP, Fijak M. Activin A and CCR2 regulate macrophage function in testicular fibrosis caused by experimental autoimmune orchitis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:602. [PMID: 36434305 PMCID: PMC9700630 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04632-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Experimental autoimmune-orchitis (EAO), a rodent model of chronic testicular inflammation and fibrosis, replicates pathogenic changes seen in some cases of human spermatogenic disturbances. During EAO, increased levels of pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic mediators such as TNF, CCL2, and activin A are accompanied by infiltration of leukocytes into the testicular parenchyma. Activin A levels correlate with EAO severity, while elevated CCL2 acting through its receptor CCR2 mediates leukocyte trafficking and recruits macrophages. CCR2 + CXCR4 + macrophages producing extracellular matrix proteins contribute widely to fibrogenesis. Furthermore, testicular macrophages (TMs) play a critical role in organ homeostasis. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the role of the activin A/CCL2-CCR2/macrophage axis in the development of testicular fibrosis. Following EAO induction, we observed lower levels of organ damage, collagen deposition, and leukocyte infiltration (including fibronectin+, collagen I+ and CXCR4+ TMs) in Ccr2-/- mice than in WT mice. Furthermore, levels of Il-10, Ccl2, and the activin A subunit Inhba mRNAs were lower in Ccr2-/- EAO testes. Notably, fibronectin+ TMs were also present in biopsies from patients with impaired spermatogenesis and fibrotic alterations. Overexpression of the activin A antagonist follistatin reduced tissue damage and collagen I+ TM accumulation in WT EAO testes, while treating macrophages with activin A in vitro increased the expression of Ccr2, Fn1, Cxcr4, and Mmp2 and enhanced migration along a CCL2 gradient; these effects were abolished by follistatin. Taken together, our data indicate that CCR2 and activin A promote fibrosis during testicular inflammation by regulating macrophage function. Inhibition of CCR2 or activin A protects against damage progression, offering a promising avenue for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Peng
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Artem Kepsch
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Till O Kracht
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Hiba Hasan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Rukmali Wijayarathna
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Eva Wahle
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Christiane Pleuger
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Stefan Günther
- ECCPS Bioinformatics and Deep Sequencing Platform, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - A Christine Kauerhof
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Ana Planinić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Daniela Fietz
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Hans-Christian Schuppe
- Department of Urology, Paediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Małgorzata Wygrecka
- Center for Infection and Genomics of the Lung, German Center for Lung Research, University of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, Giessen, Germany
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Davor Ježek
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Monika Fijak
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
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16
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Wang Y, Yu K, Zhao C, Zhou L, Cheng J, Wang DW, Zhao C. Follistatin Attenuates Myocardial Fibrosis in Diabetic Cardiomyopathy via the TGF-β-Smad3 Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:683335. [PMID: 34385917 PMCID: PMC8353454 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.683335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Follistatin (FST) is an endogenous protein that irreversibly inhibits TGF-β superfamily members and plays an anti-fibrotic role in other diseases. However, the role of FST in diabetic cardiomyopathy remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of FST on diabetic cardiomyopathy. The expression of FST was downregulated in the hearts of db/db mice. Remarkably, overexpressing FST efficiently protected against cardiac dysfunction. In addition, overexpression of FST promoted cardiac hypertrophy with an unchanged expression of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and the ratio of myosin heavy chain-β/myosin heavy chain-α (MYH7/MYH6). Furthermore, FST reduced cardiac fibrosis and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and enhanced matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9) activities in db/db mouse hearts. We also observed that overexpressing FST decreased the level of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) superfamily members and the phosphorylation of Smad3; consistently, in vitro experiments also verified the above results. Our findings revealed the cardioprotective role of FST in attenuating diabetic cardiomyopathy through its anti-fibrotic effects through the TGF-β–Smad3 pathway and provided a promising therapeutic strategy for diabetic cardiomyopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinhui Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kun Yu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chengcheng Zhao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ling Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jia Cheng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dao Wen Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunxia Zhao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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17
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Synolaki E, Papadopoulos V, Divolis G, Tsahouridou O, Gavriilidis E, Loli G, Gavriil A, Tsigalou C, Tziolos NR, Sertaridou E, Kalra B, Kumar A, Rafailidis P, Pasternack A, Boumpas DT, Germanidis G, Ritvos O, Metallidis S, Skendros P, Sideras P. The Activin/Follistatin Axis Is Severely Deregulated in COVID-19 and Independently Associated With In-Hospital Mortality. J Infect Dis 2021; 223:1544-1554. [PMID: 33625513 PMCID: PMC7928794 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiab108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Activins are members of the TGFβ-superfamily implicated in the pathogenesis of several immuno-inflammatory disorders. Based on our previous studies demonstrating that over-expression of Activin-A in murine lung causes pathology sharing key features of COVID-19, we hypothesized that Activins and their natural inhibitor Follistatin might be particularly relevant to COVID-19 pathophysiology. Methods Activin-A, Activin-B and Follistatin levels were retrospectively analyzed in 574 serum samples from 263 COVID-19 patients hospitalized in three independent centers, and compared with common demographic, clinical and laboratory parameters. Optimal-scaling with ridge-regression was used to screen variables and establish a prediction model. Result The Activin/Follistatin-axis was significantly deregulated during the course of COVID-19, correlated with severity and independently associated with mortality. FACT-CLINYCoD, a novel disease scoring system, adding one point for each of Follistatin>6235pg/ml, Activin-A>591pg/ml, Activin-B>249pg/ml, CRP>10.3mg/dL, LDH>427U/L, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission, Neutrophil/Lymphocyte-Ratio>5.6, Age>61, Comorbidities>1 and D-dimers>1097ng/ml, efficiently predicted fatal outcome in an initial cohort (AUC: 0.951; 95%CI: 0.919-0.983, p<10 -6). Two independent cohorts that were used for validation indicated similar AUC values. Conclusions This study unravels strong link between Activin/Follistatin-axis and COVID-19 mortality and introduces FACT-CLINYCoD, a novel pathophysiology-based tool that allows dynamic prediction of disease outcome, supporting clinical decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgenia Synolaki
- Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, Center for Clinical, Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Athens, Greece
| | - Vasileios Papadopoulos
- First Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Georgios Divolis
- Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, Center for Clinical, Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Athens, Greece
| | - Olga Tsahouridou
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Efstratios Gavriilidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Georgia Loli
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ariana Gavriil
- Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, Center for Clinical, Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Athens, Greece
| | - Christina Tsigalou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Nikolaos R Tziolos
- Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Sertaridou
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | | | | | - Petros Rafailidis
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Arja Pasternack
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Dimitrios T Boumpas
- Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Germanidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Olli Ritvos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Simeon Metallidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Skendros
- First Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece.,Laboratory of Molecular Hematology, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Paschalis Sideras
- Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, Center for Clinical, Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Athens, Greece
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18
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Potential novel biomarkers for chronic lung allograft dysfunction and azithromycin responsive allograft dysfunction. Sci Rep 2021; 11:6799. [PMID: 33762606 PMCID: PMC7990920 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-85949-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic Lung Allograft Dysfunction (CLAD), manifesting as Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome (BOS) or Restrictive Allograft Syndrome (RAS), is the main reason for adverse long-term outcome after Lung Transplantation (LTX). Until now, no specific biomarkers exist to differentiate between CLAD phenotypes. Therefore, we sought to find suitable cytokines to distinguish between BOS, RAS and Azithromycin Responsive Allograft Dysfunction (ARAD); and reveal potential similarities or differences to end-stage fibrotic diseases. We observed significantly increased Lipocalin-2 serum concentrations in RAS compared to BOS patients. In addition, in RAS patients immunohistochemistry revealed Lipocalin-2 expression in bronchial epithelium and alveolar walls. Patients with ARAD showed significantly lower Activin-A serum concentrations compared to Stable-LTX and BOS patients. Further, increased serum concentrations of Lipocalin-2 and Activin-A were predictors of worse freedom-from-CLAD in Stable-LTX patients. These biomarkers serve as promising serum biomarkers for CLAD prediction and seem suitable for implementation in clinical practice.
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19
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deMartelly VA, Dreixler J, Tung A, Mueller A, Heimberger S, Fazal AA, Naseem H, Lang R, Kruse E, Yamat M, Granger JP, Bakrania BA, Rodriguez-Kovacs J, Rana S, Shahul S. Long-Term Postpartum Cardiac Function and Its Association With Preeclampsia. J Am Heart Assoc 2021; 10:e018526. [PMID: 33619970 PMCID: PMC8174300 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.018526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Background Preeclampsia is a prominent risk factor for long‐term development of cardiovascular disease. Although existing studies report a strong correlation between preeclampsia and heart failure, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. One possibility is the glycoprotein growth factor activin A. During pregnancy, elevated activin A levels are associated with impaired cardiac global longitudinal strain at 1 year, but whether these changes persist beyond 1 year is not known. We hypothesized that activin A levels would remain increased more than 1 year after a preeclamptic pregnancy and correlate with impaired cardiac function. Methods and Results To test our hypothesis, we performed echocardiograms and measured activin A levels in women approximately 10 years after an uncomplicated pregnancy (n=25) or a pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia (n=21). Compared with women with a previously normal pregnancy, women with preeclampsia had worse global longitudinal strain (−18.3% versus −21.3%, P=0.001), left ventricular posterior wall thickness (0.91 mm versus 0.80 mm, P=0.003), and interventricular septal thickness (0.96 mm versus 0.81 mm, P=0.0002). Women with preeclampsia also had higher levels of activin A (0.52 versus 0.37 ng/mL, P=0.02) and activin/follistatin‐like 3 ratio (0.03 versus 0.02, P=0.04). In a multivariable model, the relationship between activin A levels and worsening global longitudinal strain persisted after adjusting for age at enrollment, mean arterial pressure, race, and body mass index (P=0.003). Conclusions Our findings suggest that both activin A levels and global longitudinal strain are elevated 10 years after a pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia. Future studies are needed to better understand the relationship between preeclampsia, activin A, and long‐term cardiac function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John Dreixler
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care University of Chicago IL
| | - Avery Tung
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care University of Chicago IL
| | - Ariel Mueller
- Department of Anesthesia Critical Care and Pain Medicine Massachusetts General HospitalHarvard Medical School Boston MA
| | - Sarah Heimberger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Chicago IL
| | - Abid A Fazal
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care University of Chicago IL
| | - Heba Naseem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Chicago IL
| | | | - Eric Kruse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Chicago IL
| | - Megan Yamat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Chicago IL
| | - Joey P Granger
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics University of Mississippi Medical Center Jackson MS
| | - Bhavisha A Bakrania
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics University of Mississippi Medical Center Jackson MS
| | | | - Sarosh Rana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Chicago IL
| | - Sajid Shahul
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care University of Chicago IL
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20
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review highlights recent discoveries and advances that have been made in understanding the role of the TGFβ superfamily members activins, and in particular, activin A (ActA), in renal disease. RECENT FINDINGS A deleterious role for ActA in renal disease and its complications has begun to emerge. We summarize data supporting an important contribution of ActA to kidney fibrosis and inflammation of varying causes, as well as its role in the development of a particular bone mineral disorder seen in chronic kidney disease (CKD) called mineral bone disorder (MBD), including vascular calcification. Finally, we discuss ActA in the context of anemia associated with chronic kidney disease and review potential approaches to treatment based on ActA blockade. SUMMARY ActA is an important contributor to the pathogenesis of acute and chronic kidney disease of varying causes. Preclinical studies show that ActA inhibition, through various approaches, is protective in rodent models of kidney disease. The potential adverse effects of some of these approaches can be attributed to their targeting of other TGFβ family ligands. Further preclinical and clinical investigations testing the therapeutic efficacy of more selective ActA inhibition on the progression of acute and chronic kidney disease and its impact on bone-mineral disorder would more definitively establish its role in renal disease.
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21
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Wu B, Zhang S, Guo Z, Bi Y, Zhou M, Li P, Seyedsadr M, Xu X, Li JL, Markovic-Plese S, Wan YY. The TGF-β superfamily cytokine Activin-A is induced during autoimmune neuroinflammation and drives pathogenic Th17 cell differentiation. Immunity 2021; 54:308-323.e6. [PMID: 33421362 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2020.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Th17 cells are known to exert pathogenic and non-pathogenic functions. Although the cytokine transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) is instrumental for Th17 cell differentiation, it is dispensable for generation of pathogenic Th17 cells. Here, we examined the T cell-intrinsic role of Activin-A, a TGF-β superfamily member closely related to TGF-β1, in pathogenic Th17 cell differentiation. Activin-A expression was increased in individuals with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and in mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Stimulation with interleukin-6 and Activin-A induced a molecular program that mirrored that of pathogenic Th17 cells and was inhibited by blocking Activin-A signaling. Genetic disruption of Activin-A and its receptor ALK4 in T cells impaired pathogenic Th17 cell differentiation in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation, which was essential for pathogenic Th17 cell differentiation, was suppressed by TGF-β1-ALK5 but not Activin-A-ALK4 signaling. Thus, Activin-A drives pathogenic Th17 cell differentiation, implicating the Activin-A-ALK4-ERK axis as a therapeutic target for Th17 cell-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Wu
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Song Zhang
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Zengli Guo
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Yanmin Bi
- Gene Therapy Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Mingxia Zhou
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Ping Li
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | | | - Xiaojiang Xu
- Integrative Bioinformatics, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Jian-Liang Li
- Integrative Bioinformatics, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Silva Markovic-Plese
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Yisong Y Wan
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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22
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Mehta N, Li R, Zhang D, Soomro A, He J, Zhang I, MacDonald M, Gao B, Krepinsky JC. miR299a-5p promotes renal fibrosis by suppressing the antifibrotic actions of follistatin. Sci Rep 2021; 11:88. [PMID: 33420269 PMCID: PMC7794215 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-80199-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Caveolin-1 (cav-1), an integral protein of the membrane microdomains caveolae, is required for synthesis of matrix proteins by glomerular mesangial cells (MC). Previously, we demonstrated that the antifibrotic protein follistatin (FST) is transcriptionally upregulated in cav-1 knockout MC and that its administration is protective against renal fibrosis. Here, we screened cav-1 wild-type and knockout MC for FST-targeting microRNAs in order to identity novel antifibrotic therapeutic targets. We identified that miR299a-5p was significantly suppressed in cav-1 knockout MC, and this was associated with stabilization of the FST 3'UTR. Overexpression and inhibition studies confirmed the role of miR299a-5p in regulating FST expression. Furthermore, the profibrotic cytokine TGFβ1 was found to stimulate the expression of miR299a-5p and, in turn, downregulate FST. Through inhibition of FST, miR299a-5p overexpression augmented, while miR299a-5p inhibition diminished TGFβ1 profibrotic responses, whereas miR299a-5p overexpression re-enabled cav-1 knockout MC to respond to TGFβ1. In vivo, miR299a-5p was upregulated in the kidneys of mice with chronic kidney disease (CKD). miR299a-5p inhibition protected these mice against renal fibrosis and CKD severity. Our data demonstrate that miR299a-5p is an important post-transcriptional regulator of FST, with its upregulation an important pathogenic contributor to renal fibrosis. Thus, miR299a-5p inhibition offers a potential novel therapeutic approach for CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neel Mehta
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Renzhong Li
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Dan Zhang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Asfia Soomro
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Juehua He
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Ivan Zhang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Melissa MacDonald
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Bo Gao
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Joan C Krepinsky
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.
- St. Joseph's Hospital, 50 Charlton Ave East, Rm T3311, Hamilton, ON, L8N 4A6, Canada.
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23
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Hsu JM, Shiue SJ, Yang KD, Shiue HS, Hung YW, Pannuru P, Poongodi R, Lin HY, Cheng JK. Locally Applied Stem Cell Exosome-Scaffold Attenuates Nerve Injury-Induced Pain in Rats. J Pain Res 2020; 13:3257-3268. [PMID: 33304105 PMCID: PMC7723240 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s286771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Nerve injury-induced pain is difficult to treat. In this study, we developed an alginate scaffold with human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell exosomes (EX-SC) to treat nerve injury-induced pain. Materials and Methods The scaffold was prepared and characterized for its physical traits and biocompatibility. In vitro studies of PC12 and HEK293 cells were used to evaluate the neuroprotective and neurotrophic effects of exosomes. Right L5/6 spinal nerve ligation (SNL) was performed in Sprague-Dawley rats to induce mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia, evaluated by von Frey hair and radiant heat tests. The EX-SC was wrapped around ligated L5/6 spinal nerves for treatment. Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining were used to evaluate neuron/glial activation, cytokines and neurotrophic factor of affected dorsal root ganglion (DRG). Results In cell culture assay, the exosomes induce neurite outgrowth of PC12 cells and protect PC12 and HEK293 cells against formaldehyde acid treatment. On post-ligation day 21, rats receiving EX-SC had significantly higher median (interquartile range) withdrawal threshold and latency [14.1 (13.7-15.5) g, 14.2 (13.7-15.3) s] than saline-SC-treated rats [2.1 (1.7-3.0) g, 2.0 (1.8-2.4) s, P=0.02 and 0.002]. The EX-SC also attenuated SNL-induced up-regulation of c-Fos, GFAP, Iba1, TNF-α and IL-1β, while enhancing the level of IL-10 and GDNF, in the ipsilateral L5/6 DRG. After implantation for 21 days, the EX-SC enhanced the expression of myelin basic protein and IL-10 in injured L5/6 axons. Conclusion We demonstrate the EX-SC possesses antinociceptive, anti-inflammation and pro-neurotrophic effects in the SNL pain model. It could be a promising therapeutic alternative for nerve injury-induced pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong-Ming Hsu
- Department of Urology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 10449, Taiwan.,Mackay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing, and Management, Taipei 11260, Taiwan.,Department of Medicine, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City 252, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Jie Shiue
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 10449, Taiwan
| | - Kuender D Yang
- Institute of Biomedical Science, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City 252, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 10449, Taiwan.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Han-Shiang Shiue
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wei Hung
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 10449, Taiwan
| | - Pavani Pannuru
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 10449, Taiwan
| | - Raju Poongodi
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 10449, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yi Lin
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 106, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Biochemical and Biomedical Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Kun Cheng
- Department of Medicine, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City 252, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 10449, Taiwan.,Department of Anesthesiology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 10449, Taiwan
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24
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Bildik G, Akin N, Esmaeilian Y, Hela F, Yildiz CS, Iltumur E, İncir S, Karahuseyinoglu S, Yakin K, Oktem O. Terminal differentiation of human granulosa cells as luteinization is reversed by activin-A through silencing of Jnk pathway. Cell Death Discov 2020; 6:93. [PMID: 33042587 PMCID: PMC7511402 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-020-00324-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular mechanisms underlying luteinization (terminal differentiation of granulosa and theca cells after ovulation) and luteolysis (demise of corpus luteum) are poorly understood in human ovary. Here we report that activin-A, after binding to its cognate receptors induces a functional luteolytic state and reverses luteinization phenotype by downregulating the expression of the steroidogenic enzymes, LH receptor and VEGF and reducing estradiol (E2) progesterone (P4) production and upregulating FSH receptor and cyclin D1 expression in human primary luteinized granulosa cells. Further, this action of activin-A involves downregulation of JNK signaling pathway and is opposite to that of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which acts as a luteotropic hormone and improves luteal function through the activation of JNK pathway in the same cell type. Reversal of luteinization phenotype in luteal granulosa cells by activin-A potentially makes this hormone an attractive candidate for use under certain clinical situations, where induction of luteolysis and rapid reduction of endogenous sex steroid levels are beneficial such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), in which the ovaries hyper-respond to gonadotropin stimulation by producing too many growing follicles along with development of ascites, pleural effusion, and hemo-concentrations as a result of increased vascular permeability and leakage of intravascular volume into third spaces. Our work unveils a previously undefined role for activin-A and JNK signaling pathway in human corpus luteum biology, that might have a direct clinical impact in assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gamze Bildik
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Nazli Akin
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBL), Department of Pathology/Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Vrije Universiteit, 1050 Brussel, Belgium
| | - Yashar Esmaeilian
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Francesko Hela
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ceren Sultan Yildiz
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ece Iltumur
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Said İncir
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory, Koc University Hospital, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sercin Karahuseyinoglu
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Koc University School of Medicine, 34010 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kayhan Yakin
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University Hospital and School of Medicine, 34010 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozgur Oktem
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University Hospital and School of Medicine, 34010 Istanbul, Turkey
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25
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Kauerhof AC, Nicolas N, Bhushan S, Wahle E, Loveland KA, Fietz D, Bergmann M, Groome NP, Kliesch S, Schuppe HC, Pilatz A, Meinhardt A, Hedger MP, Fijak M. Investigation of activin A in inflammatory responses of the testis and its role in the development of testicular fibrosis. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:1536-1550. [PMID: 31340036 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does activin A contribute to testicular fibrosis under inflammatory conditions? SUMMARY ANSWER Our results show that activin A and key fibrotic proteins are increased in human testicular biopsies with leukocytic infiltrates and impaired spermatogenesis and in murine experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) and that activin A stimulates fibrotic responses in peritubular cells (PTCs) and NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Fibrosis is a feature of EAO. Activin A, a regulator of fibrosis, was increased in testes of mice with EAO and its expression correlated with severity of the disease. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This is a cross-sectional and longitudinal study of adult mice immunized with testicular homogenate (TH) in adjuvant to induce EAO, collected at 30 (n = 6), 50 (n = 6) and 80 (n = 5) days after first immunization. Age-matched mice injected with adjuvant alone (n = 14) and untreated mice (n = 15) were included as controls. TH-immunized mice with elevated endogenous follistatin, injected with a non-replicative recombinant adeno-associated viral vector carrying a gene cassette of follistatin (rAAV-FST315; n = 3) or vector with an empty cassette (empty vector controls; n = 2) 30 days prior to the first immunization, as well as appropriate adjuvant (n = 2) and untreated (n = 2) controls, were also examined.Human testicular biopsies showing focal inflammatory lesions associated with impaired spermatogenesis (n = 7) were included. Biopsies showing intact spermatogenesis without inflammation, from obstructive azoospermia patients, served as controls (n = 7).Mouse primary PTC and NIH 3T3 fibroblasts were stimulated with activin A and follistatin 288 (FST288) to investigate the effect of activin A on the expression of fibrotic markers. Production of activin A by mouse primary Sertoli cells (SCs) was also investigated. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Testicular RNA and protein extracts collected from mice at days 30, 50 and 80 after first immunization were used for analysis of fibrotic marker genes and proteins, respectively. Total collagen was assessed by hydroxyproline assay and fibronectin; collagen I, III and IV, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression and phosphorylation of suppressor of mothers against decapentaplegic (SMAD) family member 2 were measured by western blot. Immunofluorescence was used to detect fibronectin. Fibronectin (Fn), αSMA (Acta2), collagen I (Col1a2), III (Col3a1) and IV (Col4a1) mRNA in PTC and NIH 3T3 cells treated with activin A and/or FST288 were measured by quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR). Activin A in SC following tumour necrosis factor (TNF) or FST288 stimulation was measured by ELISA. Human testicular biopsies were analysed by qRT-PCR for PTPRC (CD45) and activin A (INHBA), hydroxyproline assay and immunofluorescence. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Production of activin A by SC was stimulated by 25 and 50 ng/ml TNF (P < 0.01, P < 0.001, respectively) as compared to untreated cells. INHBA mRNA was increased in human testicular biopsies with leukocytic infiltrates and impaired spermatogenesis, compared with control biopsies (P < 0.05), accompanied by increased total collagen (P < 0.01) and fibronectin deposition. Total testicular collagen (P < 0.0001) and fibronectin protein expression (P < 0.05) were also increased in EAO, and fibronectin expression was correlated with the severity of the disease (r = 0.9028). In animals pre-treated with rAAV-FST315 prior to immunization with TH, protein expression of fibronectin was comparable to control. Stimulation of PTC and NIH 3T3 cells with activin A increased fibronectin mRNA (P < 0.05) and the production of collagen I (P < 0.001; P < 0.01) and fibronectin (P < 0.05). Moreover, activin A also increased collagen IV mRNA (P < 0.05) in PTC, while αSMA mRNA (P < 0.01) and protein (P < 0.0001) were significantly increased by activin A in NIH 3T3 cells. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION A limited number of human testicular specimens was available for the study. Part of the study was performed in vitro, including NIH 3T3 cells as a surrogate for testicular fibroblasts. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Resident fibroblasts and PTC may contribute to the progression of testicular fibrosis following inflammation, and activin A is implicated as a key mediator of this process. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia, the Victorian Government's Operational Infrastructure Support Program and the International Research Training Group between Justus Liebig University (Giessen) and Monash University (Melbourne) (GRK 1871/1-2) on `Molecular pathogenesis on male reproductive disorders' funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft and Monash University. The authors declare no competing financial interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Christine Kauerhof
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Nour Nicolas
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Eva Wahle
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Kate A Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Daniela Fietz
- Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Martin Bergmann
- Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Nigel P Groome
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Hans-Christian Schuppe
- Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Department of Urology, Paediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Department of Urology, Paediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.,Shared last authorship
| | - Monika Fijak
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.,Shared last authorship
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26
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Naseem H, Dreixler J, Mueller A, Tung A, Dhir R, Chibber R, Fazal A, Granger JP, Bakrania BA, deMartelly V, Rana S, Shahul S. Antepartum Aspirin Administration Reduces Activin A and Cardiac Global Longitudinal Strain in Preeclamptic Women. J Am Heart Assoc 2020; 9:e015997. [PMID: 32495688 PMCID: PMC7429043 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.119.015997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Background Approximately 60% of women have Stage B heart failure 1 year after a preeclamptic delivery. Emerging evidence suggests that the profibrotic growth factor activin A, which has been shown to induce cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy, is elevated in preeclampsia and may be inhibited by aspirin therapy. We hypothesized that preeclamptic women receiving aspirin would have lower activin A levels and reduced global longitudinal strain (GLS), a sensitive measure of cardiac dysfunction, than women who do not receive aspirin. To test our hypothesis, we performed a cohort study of women with preeclampsia or superimposed preeclampsia and compared activin A levels and GLS in parturients who did or did not receive aspirin. Methods and Results Ninety-two parturients were enrolled, of whom 25 (27%) received aspirin (81 mg/day) therapy. GLS, plasma activin A, and follistatin, which inactivates activin A, were measured. Women receiving aspirin therapy had lower median (interquartile range) levels of activin A (8.17 [3.70, 10.36] versus 12.77 [8.37, 31.25] ng/mL; P=0.001) and lower activin/follistatin ratio (0.59 [0.31, 0.93] versus 1.01 [0.64, 2.60] P=0.002) than women who did not receive aspirin, which also remained significant after multivariable analysis. Furthermore, GLS was worse in patients who did not receive aspirin (-19.84±2.50 versus -17.77±2.60%; P=0.03) despite no differences in blood pressure between groups. Conclusions Our study suggests that antepartum aspirin therapy reduced serum activin A levels and improved GLS in preeclamptic patients, suggesting that aspirin may mitigate the postpartum cardiac dysfunction seen in women with preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba Naseem
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care University of Chicago IL
| | - John Dreixler
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care University of Chicago IL
| | - Ariel Mueller
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care University of Chicago IL.,Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine Massachusetts General Hospital Harvard Medical School Boston MA
| | - Avery Tung
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care University of Chicago IL
| | - Rohin Dhir
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care University of Chicago IL
| | - Rachna Chibber
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Health Sciences Center Kuwait University Kuwait
| | - Abid Fazal
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care University of Chicago IL
| | - Joey P Granger
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics University of Mississippi Medical Center Jackson MS
| | - Bhavisha A Bakrania
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics University of Mississippi Medical Center Jackson MS
| | | | - Sarosh Rana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Chicago IL
| | - Sajid Shahul
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care University of Chicago IL
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27
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Szabó Z, Vainio L, Lin R, Swan J, Hulmi JJ, Rahtu-Korpela L, Serpi R, Laitinen M, Pasternack A, Ritvos O, Kerkelä R, Magga J. Systemic blockade of ACVR2B ligands attenuates muscle wasting in ischemic heart failure without compromising cardiac function. FASEB J 2020; 34:9911-9924. [PMID: 32427381 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201903074rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Signaling through activin receptors regulates skeletal muscle mass and activin receptor 2B (ACVR2B) ligands are also suggested to participate in myocardial infarction (MI) pathology in the heart. In this study, we determined the effect of systemic blockade of ACVR2B ligands on cardiac function in experimental MI, and defined its efficacy to revert muscle wasting in ischemic heart failure (HF). Mice were treated with soluble ACVR2B decoy receptor (ACVR2B-Fc) to study its effect on post-MI cardiac remodeling and on later HF. Cardiac function was determined with echocardiography, and myocardium analyzed with histological and biochemical methods for hypertrophy and fibrosis. Pharmacological blockade of ACVR2B ligands did not rescue the heart from ischemic injury or alleviate post-MI remodeling and ischemic HF. Collectively, ACVR2B-Fc did not affect cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, fibrosis, angiogenesis, nor factors associated with cardiac regeneration except modification of certain genes involved in metabolism or cell growth/survival. ACVR2B-Fc, however, was able to reduce skeletal muscle wasting in chronic ischemic HF, accompanied by reduced LC3II as a marker of autophagy and increased mTOR signaling and Cited4 expression as markers of physiological hypertrophy in quadriceps muscle. Our results ascertain pharmacological blockade of ACVR2B ligands as a possible therapy for skeletal muscle wasting in ischemic HF. Pharmacological blockade of ACVR2B ligands preserved myofiber size in ischemic HF, but did not compromise cardiac function nor exacerbate cardiac remodeling after ischemic injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltán Szabó
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Laura Vainio
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Ruizhu Lin
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Julia Swan
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Juha J Hulmi
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Neuromuscular Research Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Lea Rahtu-Korpela
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Raisa Serpi
- Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Mika Laitinen
- Department of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Medicine, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Arja Pasternack
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Olli Ritvos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Risto Kerkelä
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Johanna Magga
- Research Unit of Biomedicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
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Activin-A limits Th17 pathogenicity and autoimmune neuroinflammation via CD39 and CD73 ectonucleotidases and Hif1-α-dependent pathways. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:12269-12280. [PMID: 32409602 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1918196117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In multiple sclerosis (MS), Th17 cells are critical drivers of autoimmune central nervous system (CNS) inflammation and demyelination. Th17 cells exhibit functional heterogeneity fostering both pathogenic and nonpathogenic, tissue-protective functions. Still, the factors that control Th17 pathogenicity remain incompletely defined. Here, using experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, an established mouse MS model, we report that therapeutic administration of activin-A ameliorates disease severity and alleviates CNS immunopathology and demyelination, associated with decreased activation of Th17 cells. In fact, activin-A signaling through activin-like kinase-4 receptor represses pathogenic transcriptional programs in Th17-polarized cells, while it enhances antiinflammatory gene modules. Whole-genome profiling and in vivo functional studies revealed that activation of the ATP-depleting CD39 and CD73 ectonucleotidases is essential for activin-A-induced suppression of the pathogenic signature and the encephalitogenic functions of Th17 cells. Mechanistically, the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, along with STAT3 and c-Maf, are recruited to promoter elements on Entpd1 and Nt5e (encoding CD39 and CD73, respectively) and other antiinflammatory genes, and control their expression in Th17 cells in response to activin-A. Notably, we show that activin-A negatively regulates the metabolic sensor, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α, and key inflammatory proteins linked to pathogenic Th17 cell states. Of translational relevance, we demonstrate that activin-A is induced in the CNS of individuals with MS and restrains human Th17 cell responses. These findings uncover activin-A as a critical controller of Th17 cell pathogenicity that can be targeted for the suppression of autoimmune CNS inflammation.
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Cangkrama M, Wietecha M, Mathis N, Okumura R, Ferrarese L, Al-Nuaimi D, Antsiferova M, Dummer R, Innocenti M, Werner S. A paracrine activin A-mDia2 axis promotes squamous carcinogenesis via fibroblast reprogramming. EMBO Mol Med 2020; 12:e11466. [PMID: 32150356 PMCID: PMC7136968 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.201911466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are key regulators of tumorigenesis and promising targets for next‐generation therapies. We discovered that cancer cell‐derived activin A reprograms fibroblasts into pro‐tumorigenic CAFs. Mechanistically, this occurs via Smad2‐mediated transcriptional regulation of the formin mDia2, which directly promotes filopodia formation and cell migration. mDia2 also induces expression of CAF marker genes through prevention of p53 nuclear accumulation, resulting in the production of a pro‐tumorigenic matrisome and secretome. The translational relevance of this finding is reflected by activin A overexpression in tumor cells and of mDia2 in the stroma of skin cancer and other malignancies and the correlation of high activin A/mDia2 levels with poor patient survival. Blockade of this signaling axis using inhibitors of activin, activin receptors, or mDia2 suppressed cancer cell malignancy and squamous carcinogenesis in 3D organotypic cultures, ex vivo, and in vivo, providing a rationale for pharmacological inhibition of activin A‐mDia2 signaling in stratified cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Cangkrama
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mateusz Wietecha
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Mathis
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Rin Okumura
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Luca Ferrarese
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dunja Al-Nuaimi
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Maria Antsiferova
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Reinhard Dummer
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Metello Innocenti
- Heidelberg University Biochemistry Center (BZH), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sabine Werner
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Marceca GP, Londhe P, Calore F. Management of Cancer Cachexia: Attempting to Develop New Pharmacological Agents for New Effective Therapeutic Options. Front Oncol 2020; 10:298. [PMID: 32195193 PMCID: PMC7064558 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cachexia (CC) is a multifactorial syndrome characterized by systemic inflammation, uncontrolled weight loss and dramatic metabolic alterations. This includes myofibrillar protein breakdown, increased lipolysis, insulin resistance, elevated energy expediture, and reduced food intake, hence impairing the patient's response to anti-cancer therapies and quality of life. While a decade ago the syndrome was considered incurable, over the most recent years much efforts have been put into the study of such disease, leading to the development of potential therapeutic strategies. Several important improvements have been reached in the management of CC from both the diagnostic-prognostic and the pharmacological viewpoint. However, given the heterogeneity of the disease, it is impossible to rely only on single variables to properly treat patients presenting this metabolic syndrome. Moreover, the cachexia symptoms are strictly dependent on the type of tumor, stage and the specific patient's response to cancer therapy. Thus, the attempt to translate experimentally effective therapies into the clinical practice results in a great challenge. For this reason, it is of crucial importance to further improve our understanding on the interplay of molecular mechanisms implicated in the onset and progression of CC, giving the opportunity to develop new effective, safe pharmacological treatments. In this review we outline the recent knowledge regarding cachexia mediators and pathways involved in skeletal muscle (SM) and adipose tissue (AT) loss, mainly from the experimental cachexia standpoint, then retracing the unimodal treatment options that have been developed to the present day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gioacchino P Marceca
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Priya Londhe
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Federica Calore
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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barari A, Dehghani pour F, abdi A, farzanegi P. Effects of Aerobic Exercise and Resveratrol Supplementation on Plasma Level and Liver Expression of Activin A and Follistatin in a Rats with Nonalcoholic Fatty liver Disease. MEDICAL LABORATORY JOURNAL 2020. [DOI: 10.29252/mlj.14.2.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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Polyzos SA, Perakakis N, Boutari C, Kountouras J, Ghaly W, Anastasilakis AD, Karagiannis A, Mantzoros CS. Targeted Analysis of Three Hormonal Systems Identifies Molecules Associated with the Presence and Severity of NAFLD. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5613670. [PMID: 31690932 PMCID: PMC7112980 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgz172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To investigate circulating levels and liver gene expression of 3 hormonal pathways associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation to identify leads towards potential diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). METHODS We compared circulating levels of (1) proglucagon-derived hormones (glucagon-like peptide [GLP]-1, GLP-2, glicentin, oxyntomodulin, glucagon, major proglucagon fragment [MPGF]), (2) follistatins-activins (follistatin-like [FSTL]3, activin B), (3) IGF axis (insulin-like growth factor [IGF]-1, total and intact IGF binding protein [IGFBP]-3 and IGFBP-4, and pregnancy-associated plasma protein [PAPP]-A) in 2 studies: (1) 18 individuals with early stage NAFLD versus 14 controls (study 1; early NAFLD study) and in (2) 31 individuals with biopsy proven NAFLD (15 with simple steatosis [SS] and 16 with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis [NASH]), vs 50 controls (24 lean and 26 obese) (study 2). Liver gene expression was assessed in 22 subjects (12 controls, 5 NASH, 5 NASH-related cirrhosis). RESULTS Patients in early stages of NAFLD demonstrate higher fasting MPGF and lower incremental increase of glicentin during oral glucose tolerance test than controls. In more advanced stages, FSTL3 levels are higher in NASH than simple steatosis and, within NAFLD patients, in those with more severe lobular and portal inflammation. The IGF-1/intact IGFBP-3 ratio is lower in patients with liver fibrosis. Genes encoding follistatin, activin A, activin B, and the IGF-1 receptor are higher in NASH. CONCLUSION MPGF and glicentin may be involved in early stages of NAFLD, whereas FSTL3 and IGF-1/intact IGFBP3 in the progression to NASH and liver fibrosis respectively, suggesting potential as diagnostic markers or therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stergios A Polyzos
- First Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Perakakis
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chrysoula Boutari
- Second Propaedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Ippokration Hospital, Thessaloniki Greece
| | - Jannis Kountouras
- Second Medical Clinic, Faculty of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Ippokration Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Wael Ghaly
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Physiology, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt
| | | | - Asterios Karagiannis
- Second Propaedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Ippokration Hospital, Thessaloniki Greece
| | - Christos S Mantzoros
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Christos S. Mantzoros, 330 Brookline Avenue, East campus, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Stoneman Building, ST-820 Boston, MA 02215, USA. E-mail:
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Tsai YL, Chou RH, Lu YW, Liu CT, Huang PH, Lin SJ. Serum Activin A Levels and Renal Outcomes After Coronary Angiography. Sci Rep 2020; 10:3365. [PMID: 32099067 PMCID: PMC7042345 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-60359-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Prevention for contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is limited by the lack of a single predictor. As activin A is upregulated in heart failure and chronic kidney disease, we aimed to clarify the association between activin A levels and renal outcomes after coronary angiography (CAG). This prospective observational study included 267 patients who received CAG between 2009 and 2015. CIN was defined as elevation of serum creatinine to >0.5 mg/dL or to >25% above baseline within 48 hours after CAG. During follow-up, laboratory parameters were measured every 3–6 months. Renal decline was defined as>2-fold increase in serum creatinine or initiation of dialysis. The patients were stratified into tertiles according to serum activin A levels at baseline. High activin A tertile was significantly associated more CIN and renal function decline compared to low activin A tertile (all p < 0.001). After adjusting potential confounding factors, high serum activin A tertiles was associated to CIN (Odds ratio 4.49, 95% CI 1.07–18.86, p = 0.040) and renal function decline (Hazard ratio 4.49, 95% CI 1.27–11.41, p = 0.017) after CAG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Lin Tsai
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ruey-Hsing Chou
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Wen Lu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Te Liu
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Po-Hsun Huang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Department of Critical Care Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Shing-Jong Lin
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Healthcare and Management Center, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Taipei Heart Institute, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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34
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Kim YI, Lee CY, Shin MK. Downregulation of activin-signaling gene expression in passaged normal human dermal fibroblasts. Biomed Rep 2019; 12:17-22. [PMID: 31839945 DOI: 10.3892/br.2019.1258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Activins are members of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily and play important roles in proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis of various target cells. We investigated changes of activin, activin receptor (ActR), and Smad-signaling gene expression with increasing passage number in normal human dermal fibroblasts. The expression of mRNA and protein was measured by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunoblot analysis from passage numbers 5 to 15. Activin A and follistatin transcript levels increased with increasing passage number. ActR types IA, IB, IIA and IIB mRNA levels decreased at high passage number. The levels of Smad2, 3 and 4 protein decreased with increasing passage number, which also attenuated phosphorylation of Smad2 and 3 protein expression. Smad7 was enhanced with increasing passage number. These results suggest that expression of activin-signaling in aging normal human dermal fibroblasts increases activin A and follistatin, whereas ActR-Smad signaling is decreased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Il Kim
- Medical Science Research Institute, Kyung Hee University Medical Center, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan-Yang Lee
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Kyung Shin
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
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35
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Meyer M, Ben-Yehuda Greenwald M, Rauschendorfer T, Sänger C, Jukic M, Iizuka H, Kubo F, Chen L, Ornitz DM, Werner S. Mouse genetics identifies unique and overlapping functions of fibroblast growth factor receptors in keratinocytes. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 24:1774-1785. [PMID: 31830366 PMCID: PMC6991627 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) are key regulators of tissue development, homeostasis and repair, and abnormal FGF signalling is associated with various human diseases. In human and murine epidermis, FGF receptor 3 (FGFR3) activation causes benign skin tumours, but the consequences of FGFR3 deficiency in this tissue have not been determined. Here, we show that FGFR3 in keratinocytes is dispensable for mouse skin development, homeostasis and wound repair. However, the defect in the epidermal barrier and the resulting inflammatory skin disease that develops in mice lacking FGFR1 and FGFR2 in keratinocytes were further aggravated upon additional loss of FGFR3. This caused fibroblast activation and fibrosis in the FGFR1/FGFR2 double‐knockout mice and even more in mice lacking all three FGFRs, revealing functional redundancy of FGFR3 with FGFR1 and FGFR2 for maintaining the epidermal barrier. Taken together, our study demonstrates that FGFR1, FGFR2 and FGFR3 act together to maintain epidermal integrity and cutaneous homeostasis, with FGFR2 being the dominant receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Meyer
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Theresa Rauschendorfer
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Catharina Sänger
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marko Jukic
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Haruka Iizuka
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Fumimasa Kubo
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lin Chen
- Center of Bone Metabolism and Repair, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Trauma Center, Research Institute of Surgery, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - David M Ornitz
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Sabine Werner
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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The caveolin-1 regulated protein follistatin protects against diabetic kidney disease. Kidney Int 2019; 96:1134-1149. [DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2019.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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37
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Takei Y, Takahashi S, Nakasatomi M, Sakairi T, Ikeuchi H, Kaneko Y, Hiromura K, Nojima Y, Maeshima A. Urinary Activin A is a novel biomarker reflecting renal inflammation and tubular damage in ANCA-associated vasculitis. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0223703. [PMID: 31613925 PMCID: PMC6793943 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0223703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily, is a critical modulator of inflammation and plays a key role in controlling the cytokine cascade that drives the inflammatory response. However, the role of activin A in inflammatory kidney diseases remains unknown. To address this issue, we examined here whether activin A can be detected in the kidney and/or urine from patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) -associated vasculitis (AAV). Fifty-one patients who had been diagnosed with AAV and were treated in our department between November 2011 to March 2018 were included in this study. Forty-one patients had renal complications (renal AAV). Serum and urinary activin A levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Correlation of urinary activin A concentration with clinical parameters was analyzed. Urinary activin A was undetectable in healthy volunteers. In contrast, urinary activin A concentration was significantly increased in patients with renal AAV but not in those with non-renal AAV. Urinary activin A concentration decreased rapidly after immunosuppressive treatment. There was a significant correlation of urinary activin A level with urinary protein, L-FABP, and NAG. Histologic evaluation revealed that urinary activin A levels were significantly higher in patients with cellular crescentic glomeruli than in those lacking this damage. In situ hybridization demonstrated that the mRNA encoding the activin A βA subunit was undetectable in normal kidneys but accumulated in the proximal tubules and crescentic glomeruli of the kidneys of patients with renal AAV. Immunostaining showed that activin A protein also was present in the proximal tubules, crescentic glomeruli, and macrophages infiltrating into the interstitium in the kidneys of patients with renal AAV. These data suggested that urinary activin A concentration reflects renal inflammation and tubular damage in AAV and may be a useful biomarker for monitoring renal AAV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinori Takei
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Takahashi
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Masao Nakasatomi
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Toru Sakairi
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Hidekazu Ikeuchi
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Yoriaki Kaneko
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Keiju Hiromura
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Nojima
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Japanese Red Cross Hospital, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Akito Maeshima
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Japanese Red Cross Hospital, Maebashi, Japan
- * E-mail:
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38
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Mehta N, Gava AL, Zhang D, Gao B, Krepinsky JC. Follistatin Protects Against Glomerular Mesangial Cell Apoptosis and Oxidative Stress to Ameliorate Chronic Kidney Disease. Antioxid Redox Signal 2019; 31:551-571. [PMID: 31184201 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2018.7684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Aims: Interventions to inhibit oxidative stress and apoptosis, important pathogenic contributors toward the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD), are not well established. Here, we investigated the role of a transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) superfamily neutralizing protein, follistatin (FST), in the regulation of apoptosis and oxidative stress in glomerular mesangial cells (MCs) and in the progression of CKD. Results: The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress inducer thapsigargin (Tg), known to cause MC apoptosis, led to a post-translational increase in the expression of FST. Recombinant FST protected, whereas FST downregulation augmented, Tg-induced apoptosis without affecting Ca2+ release or ER stress induction. Although activins are the primary ligands neutralized by FST, their inhibition with neutralizing antibodies did not affect Tg-induced apoptosis. Instead, FST protected against Tg-induced apoptosis through neutralization of reactive oxygen species (ROS) independently of its ability to neutralize activins. Importantly, administration of FST to mice with CKD protected against renal cell apoptosis and oxidative stress. This was associated with improved kidney function, reduced albuminuria, and attenuation of fibrosis. Innovation and Conclusion: Independent of its activin neutralizing ability, FST protected against Tg-induced apoptosis through neutralization of ROS and consequent suppression of oxidative stress, seen both in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, FST also ameliorated fibrosis and improved kidney function in CKD. FST is, thus, a novel potential therapeutic agent for delaying the progression of CKD. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 31, 551-571.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neel Mehta
- 1Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Agata L Gava
- 2Physiological Sciences Graduate Program, Health Sciences Centre, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, Brazil
| | - Dan Zhang
- 1Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Bo Gao
- 1Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Joan C Krepinsky
- 1Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
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39
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Activin-A in the regulation of immunity in health and disease. J Autoimmun 2019; 104:102314. [PMID: 31416681 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2019.102314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The TGF-β superfamily of cytokines plays pivotal roles in the regulation of immune responses protecting against or contributing to diseases, such as, allergy, autoimmunity and cancer. Activin-A, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, was initially identified as an inducer of follicle-stimulating hormone secretion. Extensive research over the past decades illuminated fundamental roles for activin-A in essential biologic processes, including embryonic development, stem cell maintenance and differentiation, haematopoiesis, cell proliferation and tissue fibrosis. Activin-A signals through two type I and two type II receptors which, upon ligand binding, activate their kinase activity, phosphorylate the SMAD2 and 3 intracellular signaling mediators that form a complex with SMAD4, translocate to the nucleus and activate or silence gene expression. Most immune cell types, including macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), T and B lymphocytes and natural killer cells have the capacity to produce and respond to activin-A, although not in a similar manner. In innate immune cells, including macrophages, DCs and neutrophils, activin-A exerts a broad range of pro- or anti-inflammatory functions depending on the cell maturation and activation status and the spatiotemporal context. Activin-A also controls the differentiation and effector functions of Th cell subsets, including Th9 cells, TFH cells, Tr1 Treg cells and Foxp3+ Treg cells. Moreover, activin-A affects B cell responses, enhancing mucosal IgA secretion and inhibiting pathogenic autoantibody production. Interestingly, an array of preclinical and clinical studies has highlighted crucial functions of activin-A in the initiation, propagation and resolution of human diseases, including autoimmune diseases, such as, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis and pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, in allergic disorders, including allergic asthma and atopic dermatitis, in cancer and in microbial infections. Here, we provide an overview of the biology of activin-A and its signaling pathways, summarize recent studies pertinent to the role of activin-A in the modulation of inflammation and immunity, and discuss the potential of targeting activin-A as a novel therapeutic approach for the control of inflammatory diseases.
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40
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Rethinking ME/CFS Diagnostic Reference Intervals via Machine Learning, and the Utility of Activin B for Defining Symptom Severity. Diagnostics (Basel) 2019; 9:diagnostics9030079. [PMID: 31331036 PMCID: PMC6787626 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics9030079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomarker discovery applied to myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), a disabling disease of inconclusive aetiology, has identified several cytokines to potentially fulfil a role as a quantitative blood/serum marker for laboratory diagnosis, with activin B a recent addition. We explored further the potential of serum activin B as a ME/CFS biomarker, alone and in combination with a range of routine test results obtained from pathology laboratories. Previous pilot study results showed that activin B was significantly elevated for the ME/CFS participants compared to healthy (control) participants. All the participants were recruited via CFS Discovery and assessed via the Canadian/International Consensus Criteria. A significant difference for serum activin B was also detected for ME/CFS and control cohorts recruited for this study, but median levels were significantly lower for the ME/CFS cohort. Random Forest (RF) modelling identified five routine pathology blood test markers that collectively predicted ME/CFS at ≥62% when compared via weighted standing time (WST) severity classes. A closer analysis revealed that the inclusion of activin B to the panel of pathology markers improved the prediction of mild to moderate ME/CFS cases. Applying correct WST class prediction from RFA modelling, new reference intervals were calculated for activin B and associated pathology markers, where 24-h urinary creatinine clearance, serum urea and serum activin B showed the best potential as diagnostic markers. While the serum activin B results remained statistically significant for the new participant cohorts, activin B was found to also have utility in enhancing the prediction of symptom severity, as represented by WST class.
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Wijayarathna R, Hedger MP. Activins, follistatin and immunoregulation in the epididymis. Andrology 2019; 7:703-711. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R. Wijayarathna
- Centre for Reproductive Health Hudson Institute of Medical Research Clayton Vic. Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences School of Clinical Sciences Monash University Clayton Vic. Australia
| | - M. P. Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health Hudson Institute of Medical Research Clayton Vic. Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences School of Clinical Sciences Monash University Clayton Vic. Australia
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Miller DSJ, Schmierer B, Hill CS. TGF-β family ligands exhibit distinct signalling dynamics that are driven by receptor localisation. J Cell Sci 2019; 132:jcs234039. [PMID: 31217285 PMCID: PMC6679586 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.234039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth factor-induced signal transduction pathways are tightly regulated at multiple points intracellularly, but how cells monitor levels of extracellular ligand and translate this information into appropriate downstream responses remains unclear. Understanding signalling dynamics is thus a key challenge in determining how cells respond to external cues. Here, we demonstrate that different TGF-β family ligands, namely activin A and BMP4, signal with distinct dynamics, which differ profoundly from those of TGF-β itself. The signalling dynamics are driven by differences in the localisation and internalisation of receptors for each ligand, which in turn determine the capability of cells to monitor levels of extracellular ligand. By using mathematical modelling, we demonstrate that the distinct receptor behaviours and signalling dynamics observed may be primarily driven by differences in ligand-receptor affinity. Furthermore, our results provide a clear rationale for the different mechanisms of pathway regulation found in vivo for each of these growth factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S J Miller
- Developmental Signalling Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Bernhard Schmierer
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics and SciLifeLab Biomedicum 9B, Solnavägen 9, SE-171 65 Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Caroline S Hill
- Developmental Signalling Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
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Kim JM, Lee JK, Choi SM, Lee J, Park YS, Lee CH, Yim JJ, Yoo CG, Kim YW, Han SK, Lee SM. Diagnostic and prognostic values of serum activin-a levels in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome. BMC Pulm Med 2019; 19:115. [PMID: 31238942 PMCID: PMC6593589 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-019-0879-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We aimed to evaluate whether serum activin-A levels are elevated and have any value in predicting severity and prognosis in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Methods Retrospective cohort study was performed with patients who were admitted to MICU with diagnosis of ARDS and have serum samples stored within 48 h of Intensive care unit (ICU) admission between March 2013 and December 2016 at a single tertiary referral hospital. Serum activin-A levels were measured with ELISA kit, and were compared with those of normal healthy control and non-ARDS sepsis patients. Results Total 97 ARDS patients were included for the study. Levels of Activin-A were elevated in ARDS patients compared to those of healthy controls (Log-transformed activin-A levels 2.89 ± 0.36 vs. 2.34 ± 0.11, p < 0.001, absolute activin-A levels 1525.6 ± 1060.98 vs. 225.9 ± 30.1, p = 0.016) and non-ARDS sepsis patients (Log-transformed activin-A levels 2.89 ± 0.36 vs. 2.73 ± 0.34, p = 0.002, Absolute activin-A levels 1525.6 ± 1060.98 vs. 754.8 ± 123.5 pg/mL, p = 0.036). When excluding five outliers with extremely high activin-A levels, activin-A showed statistically significant correlation with in-hospital mortalities (In-hospital survivors 676.2 ± 407 vs. non-survivors 897.9 ± 561.9 pg/mL, p = 0.047). In predicting in-hospital mortality, serum activin-A concentrations showed superior area under curve compared to that of Acute physiologic and chronic health evaluation II scores (0.653; 95% CI [0541, 0.765] vs. 0.591, 95% CI [0.471, 0.710]). With cut-off level of 708 pg/mL, those with high serum activin-A levels had more than twofold increased risk of in-hospital mortalities. However, those relations were missing when outliers were in. Conclusions Serum activin-A levels in ARDS patients are elevated. However, its levels are weakly associated with ARDS outcomes. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12890-019-0879-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jee-Min Kim
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, National Medical Center, 245 Eulji-ro, Joong-gu, Seoul, 04564, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Kyu Lee
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Seoul Metropolitan Government-Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, 425 Sindaebang dong, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, 07061, Republic of Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Mi Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinwoo Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Sik Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Hoon Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Joon Yim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Chul-Gyu Yoo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Whan Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Koo Han
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Min Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea. .,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
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Tsai YL, Chou RH, Kuo CS, Chang CC, Wu CH, Huang PH, Chen JW, Lin SJ. Circulating Activin A Is a Surrogate for the Incidence of Diastolic Dysfunction and Heart Failure in Patients With Preserved Ejection Fraction. Circ J 2019; 83:1514-1519. [PMID: 31092760 DOI: 10.1253/circj.cj-18-0837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diastolic dysfunction (DD) is a characteristic of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), which is thought to be caused by cardiac hypertrophy or fibrosis. Activin A is involved in the inflammatory response and myocardial fibrosis, but the relationship between the activin A level and DD remains unclear.Methods and Results:A total of 209 patients with stable angina were enrolled. Serum activin A levels were assessed, and echocardiography and cross-sectional analysis were performed. Among the subjects (65% male; mean age, 70±13 years), 84 (40%) subjects had DD. The subjects were divided into tertiles based on activin A levels. Patients in the high activin A group had enhanced left ventricular mass indexes, medial E/e' ratios, left atrial diameter, and right ventricular systolic pressure compared with those in the lower activin A groups (all P<0.001). Prevalence of DD (P=0.001), HFpEF at enrollment (P=0.007), and the composite endpoints including new-onset heart failure (HF) or death within 3 years (P<0.001) correlated positively with high activin A levels. After adjusting for confounding factors, high activin A levels remained significantly associated with DD (P=0.036) and the composite endpoints (P=0.012). CONCLUSIONS Enhanced serum activin A levels were associated with the incidence of DD and development of HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Lin Tsai
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital.,Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang-Ming University.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University
| | - Ruey-Hsing Chou
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital.,Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang-Ming University.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital
| | - Chin-Sung Kuo
- Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang-Ming University.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University.,Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital
| | - Chun-Chin Chang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital.,Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang-Ming University.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University
| | - Cheng-Hsueh Wu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital.,Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang-Ming University.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital
| | - Po-Hsun Huang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital.,Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang-Ming University.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital
| | - Jaw-Wen Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital.,Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang-Ming University.,Division of Clinical Research, Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital.,Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University
| | - Shing-Jong Lin
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital.,Cardiovascular Research Center, National Yang-Ming University.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University.,Taipei Medical University
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Mehta N, Zhang D, Li R, Wang T, Gava A, Parthasarathy P, Gao B, Krepinsky JC. Caveolin-1 regulation of Sp1 controls production of the antifibrotic protein follistatin in kidney mesangial cells. Cell Commun Signal 2019; 17:37. [PMID: 30995923 PMCID: PMC6472091 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-019-0351-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We previously showed that caveolin-1 (cav-1), an integral membrane protein, is required for the synthesis of matrix proteins by glomerular mesangial cells (MC). In a previous study to understand how cav-1 is involved in regulating matrix production, we had identified significant upregulation of the antifibrotic protein follistatin in cav-1 knockout MC. Follistatin inhibits the profibrotic effects of several members of the transforming growth factor beta superfamily, in particular the activins. Here, we characterize the molecular mechanism through which cav-1 regulates the expression of follistatin. METHODS Kidneys from cav-1 wild type and knockout (KO) mice were analyzed and primary cultures of MC from cav-1 wild-type and KO mice were utilized. FST promoter deletion constructs were generated to determine the region of the promoter important for mediating FST upregulation in cav-1 KO MC. siRNA-mediated down-regulation and overexpression of Sp1 in conjunction with luciferase activity assays, immunoprecipitation, western blotting and ChiP was used to assess the role of Sp1 in transcriptionally regulating FST expression. Pharmacologic kinase inhibitors and specific siRNA were used to determine the post-translational mechanism through which cav-1 affects Sp1 activity. RESULTS Our results establish that follistatin upregulation occurs at the transcript level. We identified Sp1 as the critical transcription factor regulating activation of the FST promoter in cav-1 KO MC through binding to a region within 123 bp of the transcription start site. We further determined that the lack of cav-1 increases Sp1 nuclear levels and transcriptional activity. This occurred through increased phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) activity and downstream protein kinase C (PKC) zeta-mediated phosphorylation and activation of Sp1. CONCLUSIONS These findings shed light on the transcriptional mechanism by which cav-1 represses the expression of a major antifibrotic protein, and can inform the development of novel antifibrotic treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neel Mehta
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Dan Zhang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Renzhong Li
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Tony Wang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Agata Gava
- Physiological Sciences Graduate Program, Health Sciences Centre, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, Brazil
| | | | - Bo Gao
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Joan C Krepinsky
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada. .,St. Joseph's Hospital, 50 Charlton Ave East, Rm T3311, Hamilton, ON, L8N 4A6, Canada.
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Fujiki K, Inamura H, Sugaya T, Matsuoka M. Blockade of ALK4/5 signaling suppresses cadmium- and erastin-induced cell death in renal proximal tubular epithelial cells via distinct signaling mechanisms. Cell Death Differ 2019; 26:2371-2385. [PMID: 30804470 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-019-0307-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Various types of cell death, including apoptosis, necrosis, necroptosis, and ferroptosis, are induced in renal tubular epithelial cells following exposure to environmental stresses and toxicants such as osmotic stress, ischemia/reperfusion injury, cisplatin, and cadmium. This is known to cause renal dysfunction, but the cellular events preceding stress-induced cell death in renal tubules are not fully elucidated. The activin receptor-like kinase (ALK) 4/5, also known as activin-transforming growth factor (TGF) β receptor, is involved in stress-induced renal injury. We, therefore, studied the role of ALK4/5 signaling in HK-2 human proximal tubular epithelial cell death induced by cisplatin, cadmium, hyperosmotic stress inducer, sorbitol, and the ferroptosis activator, erastin. We found that ALK4/5 signaling is involved in cadmium- and erastin-induced cell death, but not sorbitol- or cisplatin-induced apoptotic cell death. Cadmium exposure elevated the level of phosphorylated Smad3, and treatment with the ALK4/5 kinase inhibitors, SB431542 or SB505124, suppressed cadmium-induced HK-2 cell death. Cadmium-induced cell death was attenuated by siRNA-mediated ALK4 or Smad3 silencing, or by treatment with SIS3, a selective inhibitor of TGFβ1-dependent Smad3 phosphorylation. Furthermore, ALK4/5 signaling activated Akt signaling to promote cadmium-induced HK-2 cell death. In contrast, siRNA-mediated Inhibin-bA silencing or treatment with TGFβ1 or activin A had little effect on cadmium-induced HK-2 cell death. On the other hand, treatment with SB431542 or SB505124 attenuated erastin-induced ferroptosis by hyperactivating Nrf2 signaling in HK-2 cells. These results suggest that blockade of ALK4/5 signaling protects against cadmium- and erastin-induced HK-2 cell death via Akt and Nrf2 signaling pathways, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kota Fujiki
- Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, 162-8666, Japan.
| | - Hisako Inamura
- Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, 162-8666, Japan
| | - Takeshi Sugaya
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, 216-8511, Japan
| | - Masato Matsuoka
- Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, 162-8666, Japan
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Fazio E, Medica P, Cravana C, Ferlazzo AM, Ferlazzo A, Satué K. Plasma Glycosaminoglycans, Cortisol, Iron, and Hemoglobin in Term and Nursing Mares. J Equine Vet Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Lou LL, Li W, Zhou BH, Chen L, Weng HZ, Zou YH, Tang GH, Bu XZ, Yin S. (+)-Isobicyclogermacrenal and spathulenol from Aristolochia yunnanensis alleviate cardiac fibrosis by inhibiting transforming growth factor β/small mother against decapentaplegic signaling pathway. Phytother Res 2018; 33:214-223. [PMID: 30375049 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis contributes to both systolic and diastolic dysfunction in many cardiac pathophysiologic conditions. Antifibrotic therapies are likely to be a crucial strategy in curbing many fibrosis-related cardiac diseases. In our previous study, an ethyl acetate extract of a traditional Chinese medicine Aristolochia yunnanensis Franch. was found to have a therapeutic effect on myocardial fibrosis in vitro and in vivo. However, the exact chemicals and their mechanisms responsible for the activity of the crude extract have not been illustrated yet. In the current study, 10 sesquiterpenoids (1-10) were isolated from the active extract, and their antifibrotic effects were systematically evaluated in transforming growth factor β 1 (TGFβ1)-stimulated cardiac fibroblasts and NIH3T3 fibrosis models. (+)-Isobicyclogermacrenal (1) and spathulenol (2) were identified as the main active components, being more potent than the well-known natural antifibrotic agent oxymatrine. Compounds 1 and 2 could inhibit the TGFβ1-induced cardiac fibroblasts proliferation and suppress the expression of the fibrosis biomarkers fibronectin and α-smooth muscle actin via down-regulation of their mRNA levels. The mechanism study revealed that 1 and 2 could inhibit the phosphorylation of TGFβ type I receptor, leading to the decrease of the phosphorylation levels of downstream Smad2/3, then consequently blocking the nuclear translocation of Smad2/3 in the TGFβ/Smad signaling pathway. These findings suggest that 1 and 2 may serve as promising natural leads for the development of anticardiac fibrosis drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan-Lan Lou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin-Hua Zhou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lin Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Han-Zhuang Weng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Hong Zou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gui-Hua Tang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xian-Zhang Bu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sheng Yin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Iskenderian A, Liu N, Deng Q, Huang Y, Shen C, Palmieri K, Crooker R, Lundberg D, Kastrapeli N, Pescatore B, Romashko A, Dumas J, Comeau R, Norton A, Pan J, Rong H, Derakhchan K, Ehmann DE. Myostatin and activin blockade by engineered follistatin results in hypertrophy and improves dystrophic pathology in mdx mouse more than myostatin blockade alone. Skelet Muscle 2018; 8:34. [PMID: 30368252 PMCID: PMC6204036 DOI: 10.1186/s13395-018-0180-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myostatin antagonists are being developed as therapies for Duchenne muscular dystrophy due to their strong hypertrophic effects on skeletal muscle. Engineered follistatin has the potential to combine the hypertrophy of myostatin antagonism with the anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects of activin A antagonism. METHODS Engineered follistatin was administered to C57BL/6 mice for 4 weeks, and muscle mass and myofiber size was measured. In the mdx model, engineered follistatin was dosed for 12 weeks in two studies comparing to an Fc fusion of the activin IIB receptor or an anti-myostatin antibody. Functional measurements of grip strength and tetanic force were combined with tissue analysis for markers of necrosis, inflammation, and fibrosis to evaluate improvement in dystrophic pathology. RESULTS In wild-type and mdx mice, dose-dependent increases in muscle mass and quadriceps myofiber size were observed for engineered follistatin. In mdx, increases in grip strength and tetanic force were combined with improvements in muscle markers for necrosis, inflammation, and fibrosis. Improvements in dystrophic pathology were greater for engineered follistatin than the anti-myostatin antibody. CONCLUSIONS Engineered follistatin generated hypertrophy and anti-fibrotic effects in the mdx model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Iskenderian
- Discovery Therapeutics, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Nan Liu
- Discovery Therapeutics, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Qingwei Deng
- Research, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Yan Huang
- Discovery Therapeutics, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Chuan Shen
- Discovery Therapeutics, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Kathleen Palmieri
- Research, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Robert Crooker
- Research, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Dianna Lundberg
- Discovery Therapeutics, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Niksa Kastrapeli
- Discovery Therapeutics, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Brian Pescatore
- Discovery Therapeutics, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Alla Romashko
- Discovery Therapeutics, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - John Dumas
- Discovery Therapeutics, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Robert Comeau
- Discovery Therapeutics, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Angela Norton
- Discovery Therapeutics, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jing Pan
- Discovery Therapeutics, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Haojing Rong
- Nonclinical Development, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Katayoun Derakhchan
- Nonclinical Development, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, USA.,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - David E Ehmann
- Research, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA. .,Drug Discovery, Shire, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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50
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Systemic Activation of Activin A Signaling Causes Chronic Kidney Disease-Mineral Bone Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092490. [PMID: 30142896 PMCID: PMC6163495 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The high cardiovascular mortality associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is caused in part by the CKD-mineral bone disorder (CKD-MBD) syndrome. The CKD-MBD consists of skeletal, vascular and cardiac pathology caused by metabolic derangements produced by kidney disease. The prevalence of osteopenia/osteoporosis resulting from the skeletal component of the CKD-MBD, renal osteodystrophy (ROD), in patients with CKD exceeds that of the general population and is a major public health concern. That CKD is associated with compromised bone health is widely accepted, yet the mechanisms underlying impaired bone metabolism in CKD are not fully understood. Therefore, clarification of the molecular mechanisms by which CKD produces ROD is of crucial significance. We have shown that activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β super family, is an important positive regulator of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclastogenesis with Smad-mediated signaling being crucial for inducing osteoclast development and function. Recently, we have demonstrated systemic activation of activin receptors and activin A levels in CKD mouse models, such as diabetic CKD and Alport (AL) syndrome. In these CKD mouse models, bone remodeling caused by increased osteoclast numbers and activated osteoclastic bone resorption was observed and treatment with an activin receptor ligand trap repaired CKD-induced-osteoclastic bone resorption and stimulated individual osteoblastic bone formation, irrespective of parathyroid hormone (PTH) elevation. These findings have opened a new field for exploring mechanisms of activin A-enhanced osteoclast formation and function in CKD. Activin A appears to be a strong candidate for CKD-induced high-turnover ROD. Therefore, the treatment with the decoy receptor for activin A might be a good candidate for treatment for CKD-induced osteopenia or osteoporosis, indicating that the new findings from in these studies will lead to the identification of novel therapeutic targets for CKD-related and osteopenia and osteoporosis in general. In this review, we describe the impact of CKD-induced Smad signaling in osteoclasts, osteoblasts and vascular cells in CKD.
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