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Fatehi Hassanabad A, Zarzycki AN, Patel VB, Fedak PWM. Current concepts in the epigenetic regulation of cardiac fibrosis. Cardiovasc Pathol 2024; 73:107673. [PMID: 38996851 DOI: 10.1016/j.carpath.2024.107673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is a significant driver of congestive heart failure, a syndrome that continues to affect a growing patient population globally. Cardiac fibrosis results from a constellation of complex processes at the transcription, receptor, and signaling axes levels. Various mediators and signaling cascades, such as the transformation growth factor-beta pathway, have been implicated in the pathophysiology of cardiac tissue fibrosis. Our understanding of these markers and pathways has improved in recent years as more advanced technologies and assays have been developed, allowing for better delineation of the crosstalk between specific factors. There is mounting evidence suggesting that epigenetic modulation plays a pivotal role in the progression of cardiac fibrosis. Transcriptional regulation of key pro- and antifibrotic pathways can accentuate or blunt the rate and extent of fibrosis at the tissue level. Exosomes, micro-RNAs, and long noncoding RNAs all belong to factors that can impact the epigenetic signature in cardiac fibrosis. Herein, we comprehensively review the latest literature about exosomes, their contents, and cardiac fibrosis. In doing so, we highlight the specific transcriptional factors with pro- or antifibrotic properties. We also assimilate the data supporting these mediators' potential utility as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers. Finally, we offer insight into where further work can be done to fill existing gaps to translate preclinical findings better and improve clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Fatehi Hassanabad
- Section of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Cardiac Science, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Anna N Zarzycki
- Section of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Cardiac Science, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Vaibhav B Patel
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Paul W M Fedak
- Section of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Cardiac Science, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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2
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Chang W, Xiao D, Fang X, Wang J. Oxidative modification of miR-30c promotes cardiac fibroblast proliferation via CDKN2C mismatch. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13085. [PMID: 38849466 PMCID: PMC11161483 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-63635-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The response of cardiac fibroblast proliferation to detrimental stimuli is one of the main pathological factors causing heart remodeling. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediate the proliferation of cardiac fibroblasts. However, the exact molecular mechanism remains unclear. In vivo, we examined the oxidative modification of miRNAs with miRNA immunoprecipitation with O8G in animal models of cardiac fibrosis induced by Ang II injection or ischemia‒reperfusion injury. Furthermore, in vitro, we constructed oxidation-modified miR-30c and investigated its effects on the proliferation of cardiac fibroblasts. Additionally, luciferase reporter assays were used to identify the target of oxidized miR-30c. We found that miR-30c oxidation was modified by Ang II and PDGF treatment and mediated by excess ROS. We demonstrated that oxidative modification of G to O8G occurred at positions 4 and 5 of the 5' end of miR-30c (4,5-oxo-miR-30c), and this modification promoted cardiac fibroblast proliferation. Furthermore, CDKN2C is a negative regulator of cardiac fibroblast proliferation. 4,5-oxo-miR-30c misrecognizes CDKN2C mRNA, resulting in a reduction in protein expression. Oxidized miR-30c promotes cardiac fibroblast proliferation by mismatch mRNA of CDKN2C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenguang Chang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Institute for Translational Medicine, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Dandan Xiao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xinyu Fang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jianxun Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.
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Chu L, Xie D, Xu D. Epigenetic Regulation of Fibroblasts and Crosstalk between Cardiomyocytes and Non-Myocyte Cells in Cardiac Fibrosis. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1382. [PMID: 37759781 PMCID: PMC10526373 DOI: 10.3390/biom13091382] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms and cell crosstalk have been shown to play important roles in the initiation and progression of cardiac fibrosis. This review article aims to provide a thorough overview of the epigenetic mechanisms involved in fibroblast regulation. During fibrosis, fibroblast epigenetic regulation encompasses a multitude of mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone acetylation and methylation, and chromatin remodeling. These mechanisms regulate the phenotype of fibroblasts and the extracellular matrix composition by modulating gene expression, thereby orchestrating the progression of cardiac fibrosis. Moreover, cardiac fibrosis disrupts normal cardiac function by imposing myocardial mechanical stress and compromising cardiac electrical conduction. This review article also delves into the intricate crosstalk between cardiomyocytes and non-cardiomyocytes in the heart. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms governing epigenetic regulation and cell crosstalk in cardiac fibrosis is critical for the development of effective therapeutic strategies. Further research is warranted to unravel the precise molecular mechanisms underpinning these processes and to identify potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dachun Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 315 Yanchang Middle Road, Shanghai 200072, China; (L.C.); (D.X.)
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Altan Z, Sahin Y. miR-203 suppresses pancreatic cancer cell proliferation and migration by modulating DUSP5 expression. Mol Cell Probes 2022; 66:101866. [PMID: 36183924 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2022.101866] [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: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancer (PC) is an insidious cancer that is commonly diagnosed in advanced stages. Therefore, it is necessary to understand PC-related mechanisms in order to discover new and reliable diagnostic biomarkers. It is known that miRNAs play a crucial role in carcinogenesis by targeting mRNAs. In this study we aimed to explore interaction between downregulated miR-203 and its upregulated target DUSP5 in PC. METHODS Using bioinformatics approaches we identified the DUSP5 as a direct target gene of miR-203 and detected potential binding sites between miR-203 and DUSP5. Additionally, we evaluated subcellular location, expression level and prognostic value of DUSP5 in PC through using various bioinformatics tools. To investigate the relationship between miR-203 and DUSP5, we increased the expression levels of miR-203 by transfecting miR-203 mimics into the pancreatic cancer cell line, PANC-1. Finally, MTT, wound healing, and colony formation assays were performed to determine effect of overexpressed miR-203 on proliferation and migration of PANC-1 cells. RESULTS We found that expression level of DUSP5 in pancreas tissue was one of the lowest tissue expression among all normal human tissue types. In addition, DUSP5 expression was upregulated both PC tissues and cell line and associated with poor overall survival in PC. Overexpression of miR-203 significantly downregulated expression level of DUSP5 and remarkably suppressed proliferation, migration and colony formation ability of PANC-1 cells. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that miR-203 restrains proliferation and migration of PC cells by regulating oncogenic activity of DUSP5 in PC, thereby could be novel candidate biomarkers for PC diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zekiye Altan
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey.
| | - Yunus Sahin
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey.
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Xue T, Qiu X, Liu H, Gan C, Tan Z, Xie Y, Wang Y, Ye T. Epigenetic regulation in fibrosis progress. Pharmacol Res 2021; 173:105910. [PMID: 34562602 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis, a common process of chronic inflammatory diseases, is defined as a repair response disorder when organs undergo continuous damage, ultimately leading to scar formation and functional failure. Around the world, fibrotic diseases cause high mortality, unfortunately, with limited treatment means in clinical practice. With the development and application of deep sequencing technology, comprehensively exploring the epigenetic mechanism in fibrosis has been allowed. Extensive remodeling of epigenetics controlling various cells phenotype and molecular mechanisms involved in fibrogenesis was subsequently verified. In this review, we summarize the regulatory mechanisms of DNA methylation, histone modification, noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification in organ fibrosis, focusing on heart, liver, lung and kidney. Additionally, we emphasize the diversity of epigenetics in the cellular and molecular mechanisms related to fibrosis. Finally, the potential and prospect of targeted therapy for fibrosis based on epigenetic is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taixiong Xue
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Xingyu Qiu
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Hongyao Liu
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Cailing Gan
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Zui Tan
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yuting Xie
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yuxi Wang
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China; Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China; Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China.
| | - Tinghong Ye
- Sichuan University-University of Oxford Huaxi Joint Centre for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China.
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Li N, Zhang T, He M, Mu Y. MeCP2 attenuates cardiomyocyte hypoxia/reperfusion-induced injury via regulation of the SFRP4/Wnt/β-catenin axis. Biomarkers 2021; 26:363-370. [PMID: 33726573 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2021.1903999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Methylated CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is closely associated with heart failure, but its role in I/R injury remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to explore the role and underling mechanism of MeCP2 in myocardial I/R injury.Methods: Hypoxia/reperfusion (H/R)-induced H9c2 cardiomyocytes was used to establish an in vitro I/R injury model. Oxidative stress was assessed by measuring reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, malondialdehyde (MDA) content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Cell viability and cell cycle arrest were evaluated by the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay and cell cycle assay, respectively. Apoptosis was determined using flow cytometry analysis.Results: The expression of MeCP2 in H9c2 cells was decreased after H/R treatment. The overexpression of MeCP2 inhibited H/R-induced oxidative stress, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of H9c2 cells. Moreover, MeCP2 inhibited the activation of secreted frizzled related protein 4 (SFRP4)/Wnt/β-catenin axis, and SFRP4 relieved the effect of MeCP2 on oxidative stress, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in H/R-induced H9c2 cells.Conclusions: MeCP2 attenuated H/R-induced injury in H9c2 cardiomyocytes by modulating the SFRP4/Wnt/β-catenin axis, which suggested that MeCP2 might serve as a therapeutic target of patients with AMI after reperfusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Li
- Department of Cardiology, Xi'an Central Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Xi'an Central Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Mengying He
- Department of Center sterile supply, Xi'an Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yudong Mu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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Li X, Yang Y, Chen S, Zhou J, Li J, Cheng Y. Epigenetics-based therapeutics for myocardial fibrosis. Life Sci 2021; 271:119186. [PMID: 33577852 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Myocardial fibrosis (MF) is a reactive remodeling process in response to myocardial injury. It is mainly manifested by the proliferation of cardiac muscle fibroblasts and secreting extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins to replace damaged tissue. However, the excessive production and deposition of extracellular matrix, and the rising proportion of type I and type III collagen lead to pathological fibrotic remodeling, thereby facilitating the development of cardiac dysfunction and eventually causing heart failure with heightened mortality. Currently, the molecular mechanisms of MF are still not fully understood. With the development of epigenetics, it is found that epigenetics controls the transcription of pro-fibrotic genes in MF by DNA methylation, histone modification and noncoding RNAs. In this review, we summarize and discuss the research progress of the mechanisms underlying MF from the perspective of epigenetics, including the newest m6A modification and crosstalk between different epigenetics in MF. We also offer a succinct overview of promising molecules targeting epigenetic regulators, which may provide novel therapeutic strategies against MF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuping Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Ying Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Sixuan Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Jiuyao Zhou
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Jingyan Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Cheng
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China.
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8
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Emerging physiological and pathological roles of MeCP2 in non-neurological systems. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 700:108768. [PMID: 33485848 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.108768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Numerous neurological and non-neurological disorders are associated with dysfunction of epigenetic modulators, and methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is one of such proteins. Initially identified as a transcriptional repressor, MeCP2 specifically binds to methylated DNA, and mutations of MeCP2 have been shown to cause Rett syndrome (RTT), a severe neurological disorder. Recently, accumulating evidence suggests that ubiquitously expressed MeCP2 also plays a central role in non-neurological disorders including cardiac dysfunction, liver injury, respiratory disorders, urological dysfunction, adipose tissue metabolism disorders, movement abnormality and inflammatory responses in a DNA methylation dependent or independent manner. Despite significant progresses in our understanding of MeCP2 over the last few decades, there is still a considerable knowledge gap to translate the in vitro and in vivo experimental findings into therapeutic interventions. In this review, we provide a synopsis of the role of MeCP2 in the pathophysiology of non-neurological disorders, MeCP2-based research directions and therapeutic strategies for non-neurological disorders are also discussed.
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9
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Li J, Deng Q, Fan W, Zeng Q, He H, Huang F. Melatonin-induced suppression of DNA methylation promotes odontogenic differentiation in human dental pulp cells. Bioengineered 2020; 11:829-840. [PMID: 32718272 PMCID: PMC8291816 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2020.1795425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiation potency of human dental pulp cells (hDPCs) is essential for dentin regeneration. DNA methylation is one of the major epigenetic mechanisms and is suggested to involve in differentiation of hDPCs, the machinery of which includes DNA methyltransferase enzymes (DNMTs) and methyl-CpG-binding domain proteins (MBDs). Our previous study has found that melatonin (MT) promoted hDPC differentiation, but its mechanism remains elusive. We aimed to investigate the role of DNA methylation in the promotion of MT to differentiation of hDPCs in vitro. hDPCs were cultured in basal growth medium (CO) or odontogenic medium (OM) exposed to MT at different concentrations (0, 10-12, 10-10, 10-8, 10-6, 10-4 M). The cell growth was analyzed using Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, and mineralized tissue formation was measured using Alizarin red staining. The expression of the 10 genes (DNMT1, DNMT3A, DNMT3B, MBD1-6, MeCP2) was determined using real-time qPCR and western blotting. The abundance of MeCP2 in the nuclei was evaluated using immunofluorescence analysis. Global methylation level was tested using ELISA. We found that mineralized tissue formation significantly increased in OM with MT at 10-4 M, while the levels of MeCP2 and global DNA methylation level declined. The expression of MBD1, MBD3, and MBD4 significantly increased in OM alone, and the expession of DNMT1 and MBD2 was decreased. These results indicate that MT promotes odontogenic differentiation of hDPCs in vitro by regulating the levels of DNMT1, MeCP2, and global DNA methylation, suggesting that MT-induced DNA methylation machinery may play an important role in tooth regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingzhou Li
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qianyi Deng
- Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wenguo Fan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Oral Anatomy and Physiology, Hospital of Stomatology,Guanghua School of Stomatology,Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qi Zeng
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongwen He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Oral Anatomy and Physiology, Hospital of Stomatology,Guanghua School of Stomatology,Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fang Huang
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, China
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Abstract
Gene expression is needed for the maintenance of heart function under normal conditions and in response to stress. Each cell type of the heart has a specific program controlling transcription. Different types of stress induce modifications of these programs and, if prolonged, can lead to altered cardiac phenotype and, eventually, to heart failure. The transcriptional status of a gene is regulated by the epigenome, a complex network of DNA and histone modifications. Until a few years ago, our understanding of the role of the epigenome in heart disease was limited to that played by histone deacetylation. But over the last decade, the consequences for the maintenance of homeostasis in the heart and for the development of cardiac hypertrophy of a number of other modifications, including DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation, histone methylation and acetylation, and changes in chromatin architecture, have become better understood. Indeed, it is now clear that many levels of regulation contribute to defining the epigenetic landscape required for correct cardiomyocyte function, and that their perturbation is responsible for cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis. Here, we review these aspects and draw a picture of what epigenetic modification may imply at the therapeutic level for heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Papait
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy; Humanitas Clinical Research Center-IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy; Humanitas University, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Pieve Emanuele, Italy; and National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Genetics and Biomedical Research, Milan Unit, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Simone Serio
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy; Humanitas Clinical Research Center-IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy; Humanitas University, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Pieve Emanuele, Italy; and National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Genetics and Biomedical Research, Milan Unit, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Condorelli
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy; Humanitas Clinical Research Center-IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy; Humanitas University, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Pieve Emanuele, Italy; and National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Genetics and Biomedical Research, Milan Unit, Rozzano, Italy
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Li X, Li X, He S, Zhao M. MeCP2-421-mediated RPE epithelial-mesenchymal transition and its relevance to the pathogenesis of proliferative vitreoretinopathy. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:9420-9427. [PMID: 32638535 PMCID: PMC7417696 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is a blinding eye disease. Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) of RPE cells plays an important role in the pathogenesis of PVR. In the current study, we sought to investigate the role of the methyl‐CpG‐binding protein 2 (MeCP2), especially P‐MeCP2‐421 in the pathogenesis of PVR. The expressions of P‐MeCP2‐421, P‐MeCP2‐80, PPAR‐γ and the double labelling of P‐MeCP2‐421 with α‐SMA, cytokeratin, TGF‐β and PPAR‐γ in human PVR membranes were analysed by immunohistochemistry. The effect of knocking down MeCP2 using siRNA on the expressions of α‐SMA, phospho‐Smad2/3, collagen I, fibronectin and PPAR‐γ; the expression of α‐SMA stimulated by recombinant MeCP2 in ARPE‐19; and the effect of TGF‐β and 5‐AZA treatment on PPAR‐γ expression were analysed by Western blot. Chromatin immunoprecipitation was used to determine the binding of MeCP2 to TGF‐β. Our results showed that P‐MeCP2‐421 was highly expressed in PVR membranes and was double labelled with α‐SMA, cytokeratin and TGF‐β, knocking down MeCP2 inhibited the activation of Smad2/3 and the expression of collagen I and fibronectin induced by TGF‐β. TGF‐β inhibited the expression of PPAR‐γ, silence of MeCP2 by siRNA or using MeCP2 inhibitor (5‐AZA) increased the expression of PPAR‐γ. α‐SMA was up‐regulated by the treatment of recombinant MeCP2. Importantly, we found that MeCP2 bound to TGF‐β as demonstrated by Chip assay. The results suggest that MeCP2 especially P‐MeCP2‐421 may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of PVR and targeting MeCP2 may be a potential therapeutic approach for the treatment of PVR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Li
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, Henan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhengzhou, China.,People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xue Li
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Eye Institute, Henan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhengzhou, China.,People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shikun He
- Ophthalmology Optometry Centre, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Therapy of Retinal and Choroid Diseases, Beijing, China.,Departments of Pathology, USC Roski Eye Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mingwei Zhao
- Ophthalmology Optometry Centre, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Therapy of Retinal and Choroid Diseases, Beijing, China
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12
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Zhang Q, Xing Y, Jiang S, Xu C, Zhou X, Zhang R, Xie T, Zou Z, Gong P, Zhu H, Zhang D, Ma H, Liao L, Dong J. Integrated analysis identifies DUSP5 as a novel prognostic indicator for thyroid follicular carcinoma. Thorac Cancer 2019; 11:336-345. [PMID: 31821724 PMCID: PMC6996982 DOI: 10.1111/1759-7714.13270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Differentiated thyroid cancer involves thyroid follicular carcinoma (FTC) and papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Patients with FTC have a worse prognosis than those with PTC for early metastasis through blood of FTC. However, the mechanism of poor prognosis of FTC is still unclear. Here, we aim to evaluate the role of DUSP5 in the prognostic evaluation of FTC. METHOD We searched the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database for the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between FTC and PTC, and then combined with survival analysis of cBioPortal database to locate the gene significantly related to prognosis. Tissue microarrays and clinical tissues were used to examine DUSP5 expression by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining between FTC and PTC tissues. In vitro experiment, proliferation, migration and invasion of FTC were observed after regulation of DUSP5 by transfection of siRNA and plasmids, respectively. RESULTS After searching the GEO database, 26 DEGs were found. DUSP5 was significantly associated with prognosis of FTC in combination with survival analysis. Data of IHC staining showed lower expression of DUSP5 in FTC compared to PTC tissues. Furthermore, overexpression of DUSP5 inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion accompanied with low level of MMP9 and Vimentin and high level of E-cadherin. Nevertheless, inhibition of DUSP5 ameliorated above damaging effect on the proliferation, migration and invasion. CONCLUSION DUSP5 was differentially expressed in FTC and PTC tissues. Low level of DUSP5 in FTC participates in the high frequency of metastasis, and further contributes to poor prognosis of FTC. DUSP5 could be served as a novel therapeutic target for FTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yiqian Xing
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, The First Hospital Affiliated with Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Shan Jiang
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Chunmei Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaojun Zhou
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, The First Hospital Affiliated with Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.,Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Tianyue Xie
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, The First Hospital Affiliated with Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Zhiwei Zou
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Piyun Gong
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Huangao Zhu
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Dongmei Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Huimei Ma
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lin Liao
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, The First Hospital Affiliated with Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.,Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jianjun Dong
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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13
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Moran-Salvador E, Garcia-Macia M, Sivaharan A, Sabater L, Zaki MY, Oakley F, Knox A, Page A, Luli S, Mann J, Mann DA. Fibrogenic Activity of MECP2 Is Regulated by Phosphorylation in Hepatic Stellate Cells. Gastroenterology 2019; 157:1398-1412.e9. [PMID: 31352003 PMCID: PMC6853276 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2019.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Methyl-CpG binding protein 2, MECP2, which binds to methylated regions of DNA to regulate transcription, is expressed by hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and is required for development of liver fibrosis in mice. We investigated the effects of MECP2 deletion from HSCs on their transcriptome and of phosphorylation of MECP2 on HSC phenotype and liver fibrosis. METHODS We isolated HSCs from Mecp2-/y mice and wild-type (control) mice. HSCs were activated in culture and used in array analyses of messenger RNAs and long noncoding RNAs. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses identified pathways regulated by MECP2. We studied mice that expressed a mutated form of Mecp2 that encodes the S80A substitution, MECP2S80, causing loss of MECP2 phosphorylation at serine 80. Liver fibrosis was induced in these mice by administration of carbon tetrachloride, and liver tissues and HSCs were collected and analyzed. RESULTS MECP2 deletion altered expression of 284 messenger RNAs and 244 long noncoding RNAs, including those that regulate DNA replication; are members of the minichromosome maintenance protein complex family; or encode CDC7, HAS2, DNA2 (a DNA helicase), or RPA2 (a protein that binds single-stranded DNA). We found that MECP2 regulates the DNA repair Fanconi anemia pathway in HSCs. Phosphorylation of MECP2S80 and its putative kinase, HAS2, were induced during transdifferentiation of HSCs. HSCs from MECP2S80 mice had reduced proliferation, and livers from these mice had reduced fibrosis after carbon tetrachloride administration. CONCLUSIONS In studies of mice with disruption of Mecp2 or that expressed a form of MECP2 that is not phosphorylated at S80, we found phosphorylation of MECP2 to be required for HSC proliferation and induction of fibrosis. In HSCs, MECP2 regulates expression of genes required for DNA replication and repair. Strategies to inhibit MECP2 phosphorylation at S80 might be developed for treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jelena Mann
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom.
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14
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MeCP2 inhibits cell functionality through FoxO3a and autophagy in endothelial progenitor cells. Aging (Albany NY) 2019; 11:6714-6733. [PMID: 31477637 PMCID: PMC6756911 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102183] [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: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved intracellular degradation mechanism in which cell constituents are phagocytosed to maintain cellular homeostasis. Forkhead box O 3a (FoxO3a) promotes autophagy to protect cells from environmental stress. Methylated CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is a nuclear protein that binds DNA and represses transcription. However, the mechanism and interplay between FoxO3a and MeCP2 underlying endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) function are not fully understood. Results: In EPCs, MeCP2 overexpression attenuated autophagy and cell functionality, which were reversed by the autophagy activator rapamycin or co-transfection with FoxO3a. FoxO3a promoted cell function, which was reversed by the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine. Following MeCP2 overexpression, MeCP2 was found enriched on the FoxO3a promoter, resulting in promoter hypermethylation and enhanced H3K9 histone modification in nucleosomes of the FoxO3a promoter. Conclusions: MeCP2 attenuated cell functionality via DNA hypermethylation and histone modification of the FoxO3a promoter to inhibit FoxO3a transcription and autophagy. Materials and Methods: EPCs were isolated from human umbilical cord blood and treated with adenoviral vectors containing interference sequences. The effects and mechanism of MeCP2 and FoxO3a were analyzed by utilizing western blotting, cell counting kit-8, transwell plates, Matrigel, matrix adhesion, transmission electron microscopy, and chromatin immunoprecipitation.
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15
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Reactive Oxygen Species Drive Epigenetic Changes in Radiation-Induced Fibrosis. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:4278658. [PMID: 30881591 PMCID: PMC6381575 DOI: 10.1155/2019/4278658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Radiation-induced fibrosis (RIF) develops months to years after initial radiation exposure. RIF occurs when normal fibroblasts differentiate into myofibroblasts and lay down aberrant amounts of extracellular matrix proteins. One of the main drivers for developing RIF is reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated immediately after radiation exposure. Generation of ROS is known to induce epigenetic changes and cause differentiation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts. Several antioxidant compounds have been shown to prevent radiation-induced epigenetic changes and the development of RIF. Therefore, reviewing the ROS-linked epigenetic changes in irradiated fibroblast cells is essential to understand the development and prevention of RIF.
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16
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Seternes OM, Kidger AM, Keyse SM. Dual-specificity MAP kinase phosphatases in health and disease. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2018; 1866:124-143. [PMID: 30401534 PMCID: PMC6227380 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
It is well established that a family of dual-specificity MAP kinase phosphatases (MKPs) play key roles in the regulated dephosphorylation and inactivation of MAP kinase isoforms in mammalian cells and tissues. MKPs provide a mechanism of spatiotemporal feedback control of these key signalling pathways, but can also mediate crosstalk between distinct MAP kinase cascades and facilitate interactions between MAP kinase pathways and other key signalling modules. As our knowledge of the regulation, substrate specificity and catalytic mechanisms of MKPs has matured, more recent work using genetic models has revealed key physiological functions for MKPs and also uncovered potentially important roles in regulating the pathophysiological outcome of signalling with relevance to human diseases. These include cancer, diabetes, inflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders. It is hoped that this understanding will reveal novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers for disease, thus contributing to more effective diagnosis and treatment for these debilitating and often fatal conditions. A comprehensive review of the dual-specificity MAP kinase Phosphatases (MKPs) Focus is on MKPs in the regulation of MAPK signalling in health and disease. Covers roles of MKPs in inflammation, obesity/diabetes, cancer and neurodegeneration
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Affiliation(s)
- Ole-Morten Seternes
- Department of Pharmacy, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, N-9037 Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Andrew M Kidger
- Signalling Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge CB22 3AT, England, UK.
| | - Stephen M Keyse
- Stress Response Laboratory, Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, James Arrot Drive, Ninewells Hospital & Medical School, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK.
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17
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Tao H, Song ZY, Ding XS, Yang JJ, Shi KH, Li J. Epigenetic signatures in cardiac fibrosis, special emphasis on DNA methylation and histone modification. Heart Fail Rev 2018; 23:789-799. [DOI: 10.1007/s10741-018-9694-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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18
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Lucarelli P, Schilling M, Kreutz C, Vlasov A, Boehm ME, Iwamoto N, Steiert B, Lattermann S, Wäsch M, Stepath M, Matter MS, Heikenwälder M, Hoffmann K, Deharde D, Damm G, Seehofer D, Muciek M, Gretz N, Lehmann WD, Timmer J, Klingmüller U. Resolving the Combinatorial Complexity of Smad Protein Complex Formation and Its Link to Gene Expression. Cell Syst 2018; 6:75-89.e11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cels.2017.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Revised: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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19
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Zhang X, Hu M, Lyu X, Li C, Thannickal VJ, Sanders YY. DNA methylation regulated gene expression in organ fibrosis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2017; 1863:2389-2397. [PMID: 28501566 PMCID: PMC5567836 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2017.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
DNA methylation is a major epigenetic mechanism to regulate gene expression. Epigenetic regulation, including DNA methylation, histone modifications and RNA interference, results in heritable changes in gene expression independent of alterations in DNA sequence. Epigenetic regulation often occurs in response to aging and environment stimuli, including exposures and diet. Studies have shown that DNA methylation is critical in the pathogenesis of fibrosis involving multiple organ systems, contributing to significant morbidity and mortality. Aberrant DNA methylation can silence or activate gene expression patterns that drive the fibrosis process. Fibrosis is a pathological wound healing process in response to chronic injury. It is characterized by excessive extracellular matrix production and accumulation, which eventually affects organ architecture and results in organ failure. Fibrosis can affect a wide range of organs, including the heart and lungs, and have limited therapeutic options. DNA methylation, like other epigenetic process, is reversible, therefore regarded as attractive therapeutic interventions. Although epigenetic mechanisms are highly interactive and often reinforcing, this review discusses DNA methylation-dependent mechanisms in the pathogenesis of organ fibrosis, with focus on cardiac and pulmonary fibrosis. We discuss specific pro- and anti-fibrotic genes and pathways regulated by DNA methylation in organ fibrosis; we further highlight the potential benefits and side-effects of epigenetic therapies in fibrotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China; Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
| | - Min Hu
- Laboratory of Clinical Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Xing Lyu
- Laboratory of Clinical Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China; Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Chun Li
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Victor J Thannickal
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Yan Y Sanders
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
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20
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Genome-wide RNA-Sequencing analysis identifies a distinct fibrosis gene signature in the conjunctiva after glaucoma surgery. Sci Rep 2017; 7:5644. [PMID: 28717200 PMCID: PMC5514109 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-05780-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis-related events play a part in most blinding diseases worldwide. However, little is known about the mechanisms driving this complex multifactorial disease. Here we have carried out the first genome-wide RNA-Sequencing study in human conjunctival fibrosis. We isolated 10 primary fibrotic and 7 non-fibrotic conjunctival fibroblast cell lines from patients with and without previous glaucoma surgery, respectively. The patients were matched for ethnicity and age. We identified 246 genes that were differentially expressed by over two-fold and p < 0.05, of which 46 genes were upregulated and 200 genes were downregulated in the fibrotic cell lines compared to the non-fibrotic cell lines. We also carried out detailed gene ontology, KEGG, disease association, pathway commons, WikiPathways and protein network analyses, and identified distinct pathways linked to smooth muscle contraction, inflammatory cytokines, immune mediators, extracellular matrix proteins and oncogene expression. We further validated 11 genes that were highly upregulated or downregulated using real-time quantitative PCR and found a strong correlation between the RNA-Seq and qPCR results. Our study demonstrates that there is a distinct fibrosis gene signature in the conjunctiva after glaucoma surgery and provides new insights into the mechanistic pathways driving the complex fibrotic process in the eye and other tissues.
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21
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Zeybel M, Luli S, Sabater L, Hardy T, Oakley F, Leslie J, Page A, Moran Salvador E, Sharkey V, Tsukamoto H, Chu DCK, Singh US, Ponzoni M, Perri P, Di Paolo D, Mendivil EJ, Mann J, Mann DA. A Proof-of-Concept for Epigenetic Therapy of Tissue Fibrosis: Inhibition of Liver Fibrosis Progression by 3-Deazaneplanocin A. Mol Ther 2017; 25:218-231. [PMID: 28129116 PMCID: PMC5363305 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2016.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Revised: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The progression of fibrosis in chronic liver disease is dependent upon hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) transdifferentiating to a myofibroblast-like phenotype. This pivotal process is controlled by enzymes that regulate histone methylation and chromatin structure, which may be targets for developing anti-fibrotics. There is limited pre-clinical experimental support for the potential to therapeutically manipulate epigenetic regulators in fibrosis. In order to learn if epigenetic treatment can halt the progression of pre-established liver fibrosis, we treated mice with the histone methyltransferase inhibitor 3-deazaneplanocin A (DZNep) in a naked form or by selectively targeting HSC-derived myofibroblasts via an antibody-liposome-DZNep targeting vehicle. We discovered that DZNep treatment inhibited multiple histone methylation modifications, indicative of a broader specificity than previously reported. This broad epigenetic repression was associated with the suppression of fibrosis progression as assessed both histologically and biochemically. The anti-fibrotic effect of DZNep was reproduced when the drug was selectively targeted to HSC-derived myofibroblasts. Therefore, the in vivo modulation of HSC histone methylation is sufficient to halt progression of fibrosis in the context of continuous liver damage. This discovery and our novel HSC-targeting vehicle, which avoids the unwanted effects of epigenetic drugs on parenchymal liver cells, represents an important proof-of-concept for epigenetic treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Müjdat Zeybel
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, 4(th) Floor, William Leech Building, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK; School of Medicine, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Saimir Luli
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, 4(th) Floor, William Leech Building, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Laura Sabater
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, 4(th) Floor, William Leech Building, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Timothy Hardy
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, 4(th) Floor, William Leech Building, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Fiona Oakley
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, 4(th) Floor, William Leech Building, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Jack Leslie
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, 4(th) Floor, William Leech Building, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Agata Page
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, 4(th) Floor, William Leech Building, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Eva Moran Salvador
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, 4(th) Floor, William Leech Building, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Victoria Sharkey
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, 4(th) Floor, William Leech Building, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Hidekazu Tsukamoto
- Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA; Department of Veterans Affairs, Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - David C K Chu
- The University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Uma Sharan Singh
- The University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Mirco Ponzoni
- Experimental Therapy Unit, Laboratory of Oncology, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16148 Genova, Italy
| | - Patrizia Perri
- Experimental Therapy Unit, Laboratory of Oncology, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16148 Genova, Italy
| | - Daniela Di Paolo
- Experimental Therapy Unit, Laboratory of Oncology, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16148 Genova, Italy
| | - Edgar J Mendivil
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Institute for Molecular Biology and Gene Therapy, University of Guadalajara, 44100 Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Jelena Mann
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, 4(th) Floor, William Leech Building, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Derek A Mann
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, 4(th) Floor, William Leech Building, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK.
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