1
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Komura K, Yanaba K, Bouaziz JD, Yoshizaki A, Hasegawa M, Varga J, Takehara K, Matsushita T. Perspective to precision medicine in scleroderma. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1298665. [PMID: 38304250 PMCID: PMC10830793 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1298665] [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: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare and heterogeneous disease with no relevant environmental trigger or significant responsible gene. It has been and will continue to be difficult to identify large enough patients to conduct classic population-based epidemiologic exposure/non-exposure studies with adequate power to ascertain environmental and genetic risk factors for these entities. The complexity of pathogenesis and heterogeneity are likely to require personalized/precision medicine for SSc. Since several potential drugs are currently available for specific patients if not whole SSc, classification of SSc seems to form the foundation for a better therapeutic strategy. To date, SSc has been classified based on the extent/severity of the affected area as well as some disease markers, including the autoantibody profile. However, such an analysis should also lead to improvements in the design of appropriately stratified clinical trials to determine the effects and prediction of targeted therapies. An approach based on drug response preclinically conducted using patients' own fibroblasts in vitro, can provide a precise disease marker/therapeutic selection for clinical practice. Because scleroderma dermal fibroblasts have a persistent hyper-productive phenotype occurring not only in person, but also in cell culture conditions. Thus, an accumulating approach based on disease markers ensures progression and de-escalation to re-establish a better life with a personally optimized drug environment after the onset of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Komura
- Department of Dermatology, Kanazawa Red Cross Hospital, Japanese Red Cross Society, Kanazawa, Japan
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Division of Rheumatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Koichi Yanaba
- Department of Dermatology, Jikei University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Ayumi Yoshizaki
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - John Varga
- Northwestern Scleroderma Program, Division of Rheumatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
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2
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Jin J, Liu Y, Tang Q, Yan X, Jiang M, Zhao X, Chen J, Jin C, Ou Q, Zhao J. Bioinformatics-integrated screening of systemic sclerosis-specific expressed markers to identify therapeutic targets. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1125183. [PMID: 37063926 PMCID: PMC10098096 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1125183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by extensive skin fibrosis. There are no effective treatments due to the severity, multiorgan presentation, and variable outcomes of the disease. Here, integrated bioinformatics was employed to discover tissue-specific expressed hub genes associated with SSc, determine potential competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNA) regulatory networks, and identify potential targeted drugs. Methods In this study, four datasets of SSc were acquired. To identify the genes specific to tissues or organs, the BioGPS web database was used. For differentially expressed genes (DEGs), functional and enrichment analyses were carried out, and hub genes were screened and shown in a network of protein-protein interactions (PPI). The potential lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network was constructed using the online databases. The specifically expressed hub genes and ceRNA network were validated in the SSc mouse and in normal mice. We also used the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to determine the diagnostic values of effective biomarkers in SSc. Finally, the Drug-Gene Interaction Database (DGIdb) identified specific medicines linked to hub genes. Results The pooled datasets identified a total of 254 DEGs. The tissue/organ-specifically expressed genes involved in this analysis are commonly found in the hematologic/immune system and bone/muscle tissue. The enrichment analysis of DEGs revealed the significant terms such as regulation of actin cytoskeleton, immune-related processes, the VEGF signaling pathway, and metabolism. Cytoscape identified six gene cluster modules and 23 hub genes. And 4 hub genes were identified, including Serpine1, CCL2, IL6, and ISG15. Consistently, the expression of Serpine1, CCL2, IL6, and ISG15 was significantly higher in the SSc mouse model than in normal mice. Eventually, we found that MALAT1-miR-206-CCL2, let-7a-5p-IL6, and miR-196a-5p-SERPINE1 may be promising RNA regulatory pathways in SSc. Besides, ten potential therapeutic drugs associated with the hub gene were identified. Conclusions This study revealed tissue-specific expressed genes, SERPINE1, CCL2, IL6, and ISG15, as effective biomarkers and provided new insight into the mechanisms of SSc. Potential RNA regulatory pathways, including MALAT1-miR-206-CCL2, let-7a-5p-IL6, and miR-196a-5p-SERPINE1, contribute to our knowledge of SSc. Furthermore, the analysis of drug-hub gene interactions predicted TIPLASININ, CARLUMAB and BINDARIT as candidate drugs for SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Jin
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yifan Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinyu Tang
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Yan
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Miao Jiang
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Caixia Jin
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Caixia Jin, ; Qingjian Ou, ; Jingjun Zhao,
| | - Qingjian Ou
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Caixia Jin, ; Qingjian Ou, ; Jingjun Zhao,
| | - Jingjun Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Dermatology, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Caixia Jin, ; Qingjian Ou, ; Jingjun Zhao,
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3
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Reolid A, Muñoz-Aceituno E, Abad-Santos F, Ovejero-Benito MC, Daudén E. Epigenetics in Non-tumor Immune-Mediated Skin Diseases. Mol Diagn Ther 2021; 25:137-161. [PMID: 33646564 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-020-00507-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetics is the study of the mechanisms that regulate gene expression without modifying DNA sequences. Knowledge of and evidence about how epigenetics plays a causative role in the pathogenesis of many skin diseases is increasing. Since the epigenetic changes present in tumor diseases have been thoroughly reviewed, we believe that knowledge of the new epigenetic findings in non-tumor immune-mediated dermatological diseases should be of interest to the general dermatologist. Hence, the purpose of this review is to summarize the recent literature on epigenetics in most non-tumor dermatological pathologies, focusing on psoriasis. Hyper- and hypomethylation of DNA methyltransferases and methyl-DNA binding domain proteins are the most common and studied methylation mechanisms. The acetylation and methylation of histones H3 and H4 are the most frequent and well-characterized histone modifications and may be associated with disease severity parameters and serve as therapeutic response markers. Many specific microRNAs dysregulated in non-tumor dermatological disease have been reviewed. Deepening the study of how epigenetic mechanisms influence non-tumor immune-mediated dermatological diseases might help us better understand the role of interactions between the environment and the genome in the physiopathogenesis of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Reolid
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Princesa (IIS-IP), Diego de León, 62, 28006, Madrid, Spain.
| | - E Muñoz-Aceituno
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Princesa (IIS-IP), Diego de León, 62, 28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - F Abad-Santos
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Instituto Teófilo Hernando, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria la Princesa (IIS-IP), Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - M C Ovejero-Benito
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Instituto Teófilo Hernando, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria la Princesa (IIS-IP), Madrid, Spain
| | - E Daudén
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Instituto Teófilo Hernando, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria la Princesa (IIS-IP), Madrid, Spain
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4
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Dichev V, Mehterov NH, Kazakova MH, Karalilova RV, Batalov AZ, Sarafian VS. Serum protein levels of YKL-40 and plasma miR-214 expression in patients with systemic sclerosis. Mod Rheumatol 2021; 31:1010-1018. [PMID: 33274678 DOI: 10.1080/14397595.2020.1859726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease with incompletely revealed etiology and pathophysiology. There are still no specific and reliable biomarkers. Here we examined YKL-40 as a biomarker of inflammation and fibrosis, and suggest a possible mechanism for its regulation. METHODS Forty female patients with SSc (26 with diffuse cutaneous (dcSSc) and 14 with limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc)) and 14 healthy female controls were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Bioinformatic tools identified miR-214 binding site in the 3'-untranslated region (3'UTR) of YKL-40 mRNA. Serum levels of YKL-40 were examined by ELISA, while YKL-40 mRNA and miR-214 was measured by qPCR. RESULTS The in silico analysis revealed several microRNAs (miRNAs) targeting YKL-40 mRNA, from which miR-214 was selected. YKL-40 serum levels were significantly higher in patients compared to controls (p = .0042). In contrary, miR-214 expression in plasma of SSc patients was significantly down-regulated compared to controls (p = .0058). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and area under the curve (AUC) analysis showed that both serum YKL-40 and plasma miR-214 levels had good capacity to distinguish patients with SSc, dcSSc and lcSSc from healthy subjects. CONCLUSION YKL-40 and miR-214 have different expression profile in SSc. Increased serum levels of YKL-40 could be associated with down-regulation of miR-214 expression in plasma. Both, YKL-40 concentrations and miR-214 plasma fold change values might serve as possible biomarkers in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Dichev
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.,Research Institute, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Nikolay Hristov Mehterov
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.,Research Institute, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Maria Hristova Kazakova
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.,Research Institute, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Rositsa Valerieva Karalilova
- Department of Internal Diseases, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.,Clinic of Rheumatology, University Hospital 'Kaspela', Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Anastas Zgurov Batalov
- Department of Internal Diseases, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.,Clinic of Rheumatology, University Hospital 'Kaspela', Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Victoria Stepan Sarafian
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.,Research Institute, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
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5
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Sharma S, Ma L, Rahaman SO. Role of TRPV4 in matrix stiffness-induced expression of EMT-specific LncRNA. Mol Cell Biochem 2020; 474:189-197. [PMID: 32734537 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-020-03844-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) are long (> 200 bases), non-coding, single-stranded RNAs that have emerged as major regulators of gene expression, cell differentiation, development, and oncogenesis. In view of the fact that matrix stiffness plays a role in cellular functions associated with these processes, it is important to ask what role matrix stiffness plays in regulating expression of LncRNAs. In this report, we show that (i) matrix stiffness causes differential expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related LncRNAs and mRNAs in primary mouse normal epidermal keratinocytes, (ii) differential expression of EMT-related LncRNAs and mRNAs occurs in response to combined stimulation of transforming growth factor β1 and matrix stiffness, and (iii) transient receptor potential (TRP) channel of the vanilloid subfamily, TRPV4, a matrix stiffness-sensitive ion channel, plays a role in differential expression of EMT-related LncRNAs and mRNAs in response to combined stimulation by TGFβ1 and matrix stiffness. These data identify TRPV4 as a candidate plasma membrane mechanosensor that transmits matrix-sensing signals essential to LncRNA expression. Our results also show that we have established and validated an assay system capable of discovering novel LncRNAs and mRNAs sensitive to matrix stiffening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shweta Sharma
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Li Ma
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Shaik O Rahaman
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA.
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6
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Wolska-Gawron K, Bartosińska J, Krasowska D. MicroRNA in localized scleroderma: a review of literature. Arch Dermatol Res 2019; 312:317-324. [PMID: 31637470 PMCID: PMC7248018 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-019-01991-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Revised: 09/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Localized scleroderma (LoSc) is rare connective tissue disease that manifests with inflammation and fibrosis of the skin. Depending on the LoSc subtype, adjacent structures such as subcutaneous tissue, fascia, muscles, bones may be affected. The hallmark of fibrosis is tissue remodelling with excess deposition of extracellular matrix proteins (ECM), principally collagens. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNA molecules that consist of 19-24 nucleotides and act as negative regulators of gene expression at the posttranscriptional level. Based on the current articles, approximately 40 microRNAs have been linked to fibrosis in different organs and diseases. The majority of these molecules promote or inhibit fibrosis by targeting connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), extracellular matrix proteins, TGF-β pathway and MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) pathway. Further, particular microRNAs regulate fibrogenesis by altering epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) or activating proliferation of myofibroblasts. MiRNAs are relatively stable, detectable in tissues and body fluids (serum, plasma) which suggest that they may serve as beneficial biomarkers to monitor the course of the disease and response to treatment. Herein, we report the present state of knowledge on microRNA expression in localized scleroderma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Wolska-Gawron
- Chair and Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Paediatric Dermatology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Joanna Bartosińska
- Chair and Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Paediatric Dermatology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Dorota Krasowska
- Chair and Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Paediatric Dermatology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
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7
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A novel miRNA-4484 is up-regulated on microarray and associated with increased MMP-21 expression in serum of systemic sclerosis patients. Sci Rep 2019; 9:14264. [PMID: 31582779 PMCID: PMC6776520 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50695-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex, heterogeneous connective tissue disease, characterized by fibrosis and ECM deposition in skin and internal organs, autoimmunity, and changes in the microvasculature. Profiling of circulating miRNAs in serum has been found to be changed in pathological states, creating new possibilities for molecular diagnostics as blood-based biomarkers. This study was designed to identify miRNAs that are differentially expressed in SSc and might be potentially contributing to the disease etiopathogenesis or be used for diagnostic purposes. Thus, we compared the expression pattern of multiple miRNAs in serum of 10 SSc patients to 6 healthy controls using microarray analysis, and RT-qPCR to confirm the obtained results. In addition, bioinformatics analysis was performed to explore miRNAs target genes and the signaling pathways that may be potentially involved in SSc pathogenesis. Our study shows a different expression of 15 miRNAs in SSc patients. We identified that miR-4484, located on chromosome 10q26.2, was an 18-fold up-regulated in SSc patients compared to a control group. Bioinformatics analysis of the miR-4484 target genes and the signaling pathways showed that it might be potentially involved in the TGF-β signaling pathway, ECM-receptor interaction, and metalloproteinases expression. Based on the chromosomal location, the most interesting target gene of miR-4484 may be MMP-21. We found that the expression of MMP-21 significantly increased in SSc patients compared to healthy subjects (P < 0.05). Our results suggest that miR-4484, and MMP-21 might be novel serum biomarkers that may correspond to pathological fibrosis in SSc, but it needs to be validated in further studies.
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8
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Martinović Kaliterna D, Petrić M. Biomarkers of skin and lung fibrosis in systemic sclerosis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2019; 15:1215-1223. [DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2020.1670062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marin Petrić
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Split, Split, Croatia
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9
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Henry TW, Mendoza FA, Jimenez SA. Role of microRNA in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis tissue fibrosis and vasculopathy. Autoimmun Rev 2019; 18:102396. [PMID: 31520794 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2019.102396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) pathogenesis involves multiple immunological, vascular and fibroproliferative abnormalities that contribute to a severe and complex clinical picture. Vasculopathy and fibroproliferative alterations are two hallmark pathological processes in SSc that are responsible for the most severe clinical manifestations of the disease and determine its clinical outcome and mortality. However, the pathogenesis of SSc vasculopathy and of the uncontrolled SSc fibrotic process remain incompletely understood. Recent investigations into the molecular pathways involved in these processes have identified an important role for epigenetic processes that contribute to overall disease progression and have emphasized microRNAs (miRNAs) as crucial epigenetic regulators. MiRNAs hold unique potential for elucidating SSc pathogenesis, improving diagnosis and developing effective targeted therapies for the disease. This review examines the important role that miRNAs play in the development and regulation of vascular and fibroproliferative alterations associated with SSc pathogenesis and their possible participation in the establishment of pathogenetic connections between these two processes. This review also emphasizes that further understanding of the involvement of miRNA in SSc fibrosis and vasculopathy will very likely provide novel future research directions and allow for the identification of groundbreaking therapeutic interventions within these processes. MiR-21, miR- 31, and miR-155 are of particular interest owing to their important involvement in both SSc vasculopathy and fibroproliferative alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler W Henry
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia 19107, USA; Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, USA
| | - Fabian A Mendoza
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, USA; Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, USA
| | - Sergio A Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, USA.
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10
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Identification and Interaction Analysis of Key Genes and MicroRNAs in Systemic Sclerosis by Bioinformatics Approaches. Curr Med Sci 2019; 39:645-652. [DOI: 10.1007/s11596-019-2086-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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11
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Impact of alterations in X-linked IRAK1gene and miR-146a on susceptibility and clinical manifestations in patients with systemic sclerosis. Immunol Lett 2018; 204:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2018.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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12
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Thuan DTB, Zayed H, Eid AH, Abou-Saleh H, Nasrallah GK, Mangoni AA, Pintus G. A Potential Link Between Oxidative Stress and Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Systemic Sclerosis. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1985. [PMID: 30283435 PMCID: PMC6156139 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc), an autoimmune disease that is associated with a number of genetic and environmental risk factors, is characterized by progressive fibrosis and microvasculature damage in the skin, lungs, heart, digestive system, kidneys, muscles, joints, and nervous system. These abnormalities are associated with altered secretion of growth factor and profibrotic cytokines, such as transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), interleukin-4 (IL-4), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and connective-tissue growth factor (CTGF). Among the cellular responses to this proinflammatory environment, the endothelial cells phenotypic conversion into activated myofibroblasts, a process known as endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT), has been postulated. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) might play a key role in SSs-associated fibrosis and vascular damage by mediating and/or activating TGF-β-induced EndMT, a phenomenon that has been observed in other disease models. In this review, we identified and critically appraised published studies investigating associations ROS and EndMT and the presence of EndMT in SSc, highlighting a potential link between oxidative stress and EndMT in this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duong Thi Bich Thuan
- Department of Biochemistry, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Hue, Hue, Vietnam
| | - Hatem Zayed
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ali H Eid
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Haissam Abou-Saleh
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Gheyath K Nasrallah
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.,Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Arduino A Mangoni
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Medical Centre, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Gianfranco Pintus
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.,Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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13
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Dolcino M, Pelosi A, Fiore PF, Patuzzo G, Tinazzi E, Lunardi C, Puccetti A. Gene Profiling in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis Reveals the Presence of Oncogenic Gene Signatures. Front Immunol 2018; 9:449. [PMID: 29559981 PMCID: PMC5845728 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare connective tissue disease characterized by three pathogenetic hallmarks: vasculopathy, dysregulation of the immune system, and fibrosis. A particular feature of SSc is the increased frequency of some types of malignancies, namely breast, lung, and hematological malignancies. Moreover, SSc may also be a paraneoplastic disease, again indicating a strong link between cancer and scleroderma. The reason of this association is still unknown; therefore, we aimed at investigating whether particular genetic or epigenetic factors may play a role in promoting cancer development in patients with SSc and whether some features are shared by the two conditions. We therefore performed a gene expression profiling of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) derived from patients with limited and diffuse SSc, showing that the various classes of genes potentially linked to the pathogenesis of SSc (such as apoptosis, endothelial cell activation, extracellular matrix remodeling, immune response, and inflammation) include genes that directly participate in the development of malignancies or that are involved in pathways known to be associated with carcinogenesis. The transcriptional analysis was then complemented by a complex network analysis of modulated genes which further confirmed the presence of signaling pathways associated with carcinogenesis. Since epigenetic mechanisms, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), are believed to play a central role in the pathogenesis of SSc, we also evaluated whether specific cancer-related miRNAs could be deregulated in the serum of SSc patients. We focused our attention on miRNAs already found upregulated in SSc such as miR-21-5p, miR-92a-3p, and on miR-155-5p, miR 126-3p and miR-16-5p known to be deregulated in malignancies associated to SSc, i.e., breast, lung, and hematological malignancies. miR-21-5p, miR-92a-3p, miR-155-5p, and miR-16-5p expression was significantly higher in SSc sera compared to healthy controls. Our findings indicate the presence of modulated genes and miRNAs that can play a predisposing role in the development of malignancies in SSc and are important for a better risk stratification of patients and for the identification of a better individualized precision medicine strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Dolcino
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Andrea Pelosi
- Immunology Area, Pediatric Hospital Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Elisa Tinazzi
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Puccetti
- Immunology Area, Pediatric Hospital Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine - Section of Histology, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
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14
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Dashti N, Mahmoudi M, Gharibdoost F, Kavosi H, Rezaei R, Imeni V, Jamshidi A, Aslani S, Mostafaei S, Vodjgani M. Evaluation of ITGB2 (CD18) and SELL (CD62L) genes expression and methylation of ITGB2 promoter region in patients with systemic sclerosis. Rheumatol Int 2018; 38:489-498. [PMID: 29356883 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-017-3915-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc), an autoimmune disease of connective tissue, is characterized by inflammation, fibrosis, and vessel endothelial damage. Products of Integrin subunit beta 2 (ITGB2) and selectin L (SELL) genes participate in several functional pathways of immune system. The aim of this investigation was to survey the transcript level of ITGB2 and SELL genes as well as methylation status of CpG sites in promoter region of differently expressed gene in PBMCs of SSc patients. PBMCs were isolated from whole blood of 50 SSc patients and 30 healthy controls. Total RNA and DNA contents of PBMCs were extracted. Gene expression was analyzed by real-time PCR using the SYBR Green PCR Master Mix. To investigate the methylation status of CpG sites, DNA samples were treated by bisulfite, amplified through nested PCR, and sequenced through Sanger difficult sequencing method. ITGB2 gene in PBMCs of SSc patients was overexpressed significantly in comparison to healthy controls. However, no altered SELL expression was observed. Three CpG sites of 12, 13 and 14 were significantly hypomethylated in patients group, despite overall methylation status of ITGB2 gene promoter revealed no significant difference between study groups. There was no statistically significant correlation between methylation status of ITGB2 promoter and the gene expression in patients. Regarding to lack of correlation of increased expression of ITGB2 with its promoter hypomethylation in SSc patients, our study suggests that upregulation of ITGB2 in PBMCs from SSc patients is probably due to another mechanism other than methylation alteration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navid Dashti
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Mahmoudi
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farhad Gharibdoost
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hoda Kavosi
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramazan Rezaei
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahideh Imeni
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmadreza Jamshidi
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Aslani
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shayan Mostafaei
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Vodjgani
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran.
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15
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Li L, Zhu S, Li Y, Cao W, Qiao X. Downregulation of miR‑146a promotes proliferation and migration of AOB‑treated embryoid body via PDGFRA induction. Mol Med Rep 2017; 17:2586-2592. [PMID: 29207159 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.8133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Antioxidant of bamboo leaves (AOB) has been proven to have antioxidant activity and an inhibitory effect on free radicals that induce deterioration of macromolecules. The multi‑target regulation of microRNAs (miRs) in the complicated process of vasculogenesis and angiogenesis lead to the use of miRNA therapy in vascular development. In the present study, the role of miRNAs on early embryo vascular development upon AOB stimulation was investigated. For this purpose, mouse embryonic stem cells were spontaneously differentiated as embryoid bodies (EBs) and were examined by phase contrast microscopy. miR‑146a mimic and scramble control were transfected into EBs and potential targets of miR‑146a were predicted. Cell proliferation and migration were detected by cell viability and wound‑healing and migration assays, respectively. Angiogenesis was determined by the Spheroid sprouting assay. It was demonstrated that EBs transfected with miR‑146a mimic had an increased growth rate compared with the control cells. miR‑146a‑transfected cells were very susceptible to AOB treatment. Furthermore, among the predicted miR‑146a targets, platelet‑derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRA) was identified as a bona fide target of miR‑146a. In conclusion, PDGFRA was demonstrated to participate in the modulation of cell migration and proliferation of mouse EBs. The present study expanded the current understanding of AOB biology and elucidated the mechanisms underlying early embryo vascular development upon AOB stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lejing Li
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustio, Linzi District People's Hospital, Linzi, Shandong 255400, P.R. China
| | - Shoulian Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Linzi District People's Hospital, Linzi, Shandong 255400, P.R. China
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Neurology, Linzi District People's Hospital, Linzi, Shandong 255400, P.R. China
| | - Wenyuan Cao
- Department of Neurology, Linzi District People's Hospital, Linzi, Shandong 255400, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoli Qiao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Linzi District People's Hospital, Linzi, Shandong 255400, P.R. China
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16
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Caforio AL, Adler Y, Agostini C, Allanore Y, Anastasakis A, Arad M, Böhm M, Charron P, Elliott PM, Eriksson U, Felix SB, Garcia-Pavia P, Hachulla E, Heymans S, Imazio M, Klingel K, Marcolongo R, Matucci Cerinic M, Pantazis A, Plein S, Poli V, Rigopoulos A, Seferovic P, Shoenfeld Y, Zamorano JL, Linhart A. Diagnosis and management of myocardial involvement in systemic immune-mediated diseases: a position statement of the European Society of Cardiology Working Group on Myocardial and Pericardial Disease. Eur Heart J 2017; 38:2649-2662. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehx321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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17
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Lei Y, Chen Q, Chen J, Liu D. Potential ameliorative effects of grape seed-derived polyphenols against cadmium induced prostatic deficits. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 91:707-713. [PMID: 28499242 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Revised: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Grape (Vitis vinifera) is consumed as fruit and wine for people. In this study, rat model of prostatic deficits was induced by orally receiving 60mg/L cadmium chlorine (CdCl2) through drinking water for 20 weeks. Grape seed-derived polyphenols extract (GSP) was orally given for 20 weeks. Finally, the prostatic levels of E-cadherin, fibronectin, and α-smooth muscle actin were measured by immunohistochemical and qPCR analysis. The oxidative stress was measured by detecting the levels of malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione and enzymatic antioxidant status. Additionally, the prostatic expressions of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), type I TGF-β receptor (TGF-βRI), Smad3, phosphorylation-Smad3 (p-Smad3), Smad7, nuclear related factor-2 (Nrf-2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and γ-glutamate cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (γ-GCLC) were measured by western blot. The levels of microRNA (miR)-133a/b were measured by qPCR. It was observed that GSP ameliorated the prostatic oxidative stress and fibrosis induced by CdCl2. GSP also inhibited the over-generation of TGF-β1 and p-Smad3, as well as enhanced the levels of Smad7, Nrf-2, HO-1, γ-GCLC and miR-133a/b. These results showed that GSP could attenuate Cd-induced prostatic deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongfang Lei
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinglou Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Puai Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Dong Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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18
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Kumar S, Singh J, Rattan S, DiMarino AJ, Cohen S, Jimenez SA. Review article: pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of gastrointestinal involvement in systemic sclerosis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2017; 45:883-898. [PMID: 28185291 PMCID: PMC5576448 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2016] [Revised: 11/18/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) involvement is a common cause of debilitating symptoms in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). There are no disease modifying therapies for this condition and the treatment remains symptomatic, largely owing to the lack of a clear understanding of its pathogenesis. AIMS To investigate novel aspects of the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal involvement in SSc. To summarise existing knowledge regarding the cardinal clinical gastrointestinal manifestations of SSc and its pathogenesis, emphasising recent investigations that may be valuable in identifying potentially novel therapeutic targets. METHODS Electronic (PubMed/Medline) and manual Google search. RESULTS The GIT is the most common internal organ involved in SSc. Any part of the GIT from the mouth to the anus can be affected. There is substantial variability in clinical manifestations and disease course and symptoms are nonspecific and overlapping for a particular anatomical site. Gastrointestinal involvement can occur in the absence of cutaneous disease. Up to 8% of SSc patients develop severe GIT symptoms. This subset of patients display increased mortality with only 15% survival at 9 years. Dysmotiity of the GIT causes the majority of symptoms. Recent investigations have identified a novel mechanism in the pathogenesis of GIT dysmotility mediated by functional anti-muscarinic receptor autoantibodies. CONCLUSIONS Despite extensive investigation, the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal involvement in systemic sclerosis remains elusive. Although treatment currently remains symptomatic, an improved understanding of novel pathogenic mechanisms may allow the development of potentially highly effective approaches including intravenous immunoglobulin and microRNA based therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Thomas Jefferson University, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jagmohan Singh
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Thomas Jefferson University, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Satish Rattan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Thomas Jefferson University, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Anthony J DiMarino
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Thomas Jefferson University, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Sidney Cohen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Thomas Jefferson University, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Sergio A. Jimenez
- Jefferson Institute of Molecular Medicine and Scleroderma Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Philadelphia, PA
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20
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Huang Q, Xiao B, Ma X, Qu M, Li Y, Nagarkatti P, Nagarkatti M, Zhou J. MicroRNAs associated with the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis. J Neuroimmunol 2016; 295-296:148-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2016.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2015] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 04/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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