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Ross R, Guo Y, Walker RN, Bergamaschi D, Shaw TJ, Connelly JT. Biomechanical Activation of Keloid Fibroblasts Promotes Lysosomal Remodeling and Exocytosis. J Invest Dermatol 2024:S0022-202X(24)00374-9. [PMID: 38763173 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2024.04.015] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Keloids are a severe form of scarring for which the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood, and treatment options are limited or inconsistent. Although biomechanical forces are potential drivers of keloid scarring, the direct cellular responses to mechanical cues have yet to be defined. The aim of this study was to examine the distinct responses of normal dermal fibroblasts and keloid-derived fibroblasts (KDFs) to changes in extracellular matrix stiffness. When cultured on hydrogels mimicking the elasticity of normal or scarred skin, KDFs displayed greater stiffness-dependent increases in cell spreading, F-actin stress fiber formation, and focal adhesion assembly. Elevated actomyosin contractility in KDFs disrupted the normal mechanical regulation of extracellular matrix deposition and conferred resistance on myosin inhibitors. Transcriptional profiling identified mechanically regulated pathways in normal dermal fibroblasts and KDFs, including the actin cytoskeleton, Hippo signaling, and autophagy. Further analysis of the autophagy pathway revealed that autophagic flux was intact in both fibroblast populations and depended on actomyosin contractility. However, KDFs displayed marked changes in lysosome organization and an increase in lysosomal exocytosis, which was mediated by actomyosin contractility. Together, these findings demonstrate that KDFs possess an intrinsic increase in cytoskeletal tension, which heightens the response to extracellular matrix mechanics and promotes lysosomal exocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosie Ross
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom; Centre for Inflammation Biology and Cancer Immunology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yiyang Guo
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca N Walker
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Daniele Bergamaschi
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tanya J Shaw
- Centre for Inflammation Biology and Cancer Immunology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - John T Connelly
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.
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2
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Stevenson AW, Cadby G, Wallace HJ, Melton PE, Martin LJ, Wood FM, Fear MW. Genetic influence on scar vascularity after burn injury in individuals of European ancestry: A prospective cohort study. Burns 2024:S0305-4179(24)00146-3. [PMID: 38902133 DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2024.05.004] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
After burn injury there is considerable variation in scar outcome, partially due to genetic factors. Scar vascularity is one characteristic that varies between individuals, and this study aimed to identify genetic variants contributing to different scar vascularity outcomes. An exome-wide array association study and gene pathway analysis was performed on a prospective cohort of 665 patients of European ancestry treated for burn injury, using their scar vascularity (SV) sub-score, part of the modified Vancouver Scar Scale (mVSS), as an outcome measure. DNA was genotyped using the Infinium HumanCoreExome-24 BeadChip, imputed to the Haplotype Reference Consortium panel. Associations between genetic variants (single nucleotide polymorphisms) and SV were estimated using an additive genetic model adjusting for sex, age, % total body surface area and number of surgical procedures, utilising linear and multinomial logistic regression. No individual genetic variants achieved the cut-off threshold for significance. Gene sets were also analysed using the Functional Mapping and Annotation (FUMA) platform, in which biological processes indirectly related to angiogenesis were significantly represented. This study suggests that SNPs in genes associated with angiogenesis may influence SV, but further studies with larger datasets are essential to validate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew W Stevenson
- Burn Injury Research Unit, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia.
| | - Gemma Cadby
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Hilary J Wallace
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Phillip E Melton
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia; Menzies Research Institute, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Lisa J Martin
- Burn Injury Research Unit, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia; Burns Service of Western Australia, Princess Margaret Hospital for Children and Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - Fiona M Wood
- Burn Injury Research Unit, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia; Burns Service of Western Australia, Princess Margaret Hospital for Children and Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - Mark W Fear
- Burn Injury Research Unit, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
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Qiu ZK, Yang E, Yu NZ, Zhang MZ, Zhang WC, Si LB, Wang XJ. The biomarkers associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition in human keloids. Burns 2024; 50:474-487. [PMID: 37980270 DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2023.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A keloid is a type of benign fibrotic disease with similar features to malignancies, including anti-apoptosis, over-proliferation, and invasion. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a crucial mechanism that regulates the metastatic behavior of tumors. Thus, identifying EMT biomarkers is paramount in comprehensively understanding keloid pathogenesis. METHODS To identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) GSE92566 dataset, with 3 normal skin and 4 keloid tissues, was downloaded from GEO databases to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Further, EMT-related genes were downloaded from dbEMT 2.0 databases and intersected with GSE92566 DEGs to identify EMT-related-DEGs (ERDEGs). Subsequently, the ERDEGs were used for GO, KEGG, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), protein-protein interaction (PPI), and miRNAs-mRNAs network analysis. To predict small molecules for EMT inhibition, the ERDEGs were imported to cMAP databases, whereas hub genes were imported to DGidb databases. Finally, we carried out qRT-PCR and in vitro experiments to validate our findings. RESULTS A total of 122 ERDEGs were identified, including 59 upregulated and 63 down-regulated genes. Moreover, enrichment analysis revealed that focal adhesion, AMPK signal pathway, Wnt signal pathway, and EMT biological process were significantly enriched. STRING databases and Cytoscape software were used to construct the PPI network and EMT-related hub genes. Further, 3 modules were explored from the PPI network using the Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) plugin. In the Cytohubba plugin, 10 hub genes were explored, including FN1, EGF, SOX9, CDH2, PROM1, EPCAM, KRT19, ITGB1, CD24, and KRT18. These genes were then enriched for the focal adhesion pathway. We constructed a microRNA (miRNA)-mRNA network, which predicted hsa-miR-155-5p (8 edges), hsa-miR-124-3p (7 edges), hsa-miR-145-5p (5 edges), hsa-miR-20a-5p (5 edges) and hsa-let-7b-5p (4 edges) as the most connected miRNAs regulating EMT. Based on the ERDEGs and 10 hub genes mentioned above, ribavirin demonstrated high drug-targeting relevance. Subsequently, qRT-PCR confirmed that the expression of FN1, ITGB1, CDH2, and EPCAM corroborated with previous findings. qRT-PCR also showed that the expression levels of hsa-miR-124-3p and hsa-miR-145-5p were significantly lower in keloids and hsa-miR-155-5p was upregulated in keloids. Finally, by treating human keloid fibroblasts (HKFs) with ribavirin in vitro, we confirmed that ribavirin could inhibit HKFs proliferation and EMT. CONCLUSION In summary, this work provides novel EMT biomarkers in keloids and predicts new small target molecules for keloid therapy. Our findings improve the understanding of keloid pathogenesis, providing new treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Kai Qiu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Elan Yang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Nan-Ze Yu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Ming-Zi Zhang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Wen-Chao Zhang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Lou-Bin Si
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.
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Zhong Y, Zhang Y, Lu B, Deng Z, Zhang Z, Wang Q, Zhang J. Hydrogel Loaded with Components for Therapeutic Applications in Hypertrophic Scars and Keloids. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:883-899. [PMID: 38293605 PMCID: PMC10824614 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s448667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypertrophic scars and keloids are common fibroproliferative diseases following injury. Patients with pathologic scars suffer from impaired quality of life and psychological health due to appearance disfiguration, itch, pain, and movement disorders. Recently, the advancement of hydrogels in biomedical fields has brought a variety of novel materials, methods and therapeutic targets for treating hypertrophic scars and keloids, which exhibit broad prospects. This review has summarized current research on hydrogels and loaded components used in preventing and treating hypertrophic scars and keloids. These hydrogels attenuate keloid and hypertrophic scar formation and progression by loading organic chemicals, drugs, or bioactive molecules (such as growth factors, genes, proteins/peptides, and stem cells/exosomes). Among them, smart hydrogels (a very promising method for loading many types of bioactive components) are currently favoured by researchers. In addition, combining hydrogels and current therapy (such as laser or radiation therapy, etc.) could improve the treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids. Then, the difficulties and limitations of the current research and possible suggestions for improvement are listed. Moreover, we also propose novel strategies for facilitating the construction of target multifunctional hydrogels in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixiu Zhong
- Department of Dermatology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Youfan Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Beibei Lu
- Department of Dermatology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhenjun Deng
- Department of Dermatology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhiwen Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianglin Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
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Stocks M, Walter AS, Akova E, Gauglitz G, Aszodi A, Boecker W, Saller MM, Volkmer E. RNA-seq unravels distinct expression profiles of keloids and Dupuytren's disease. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23681. [PMID: 38187218 PMCID: PMC10770622 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Keloid scars and Dupuytren's disease are two common, chronic, and incurable fibroproliferative disorders that, among other shared clinical features, may induce joint contractures. We employed bulk RNA sequencing to discern potential shared gene expression patterns and underlying pathological pathways between these two conditions. Our aim was to uncover potential molecular targets that could pave the way for novel therapeutic strategies. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were functionally annotated using Gene Ontology (GO) terms and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways with the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID). The protein-protein-interaction (PPI) networks were constructed by using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) and Cytoscape. The Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) plugin was used for downstream analysis of the PPI networks. A total of 1922 DEGs were identified within Dupuytren's and keloid samples, yet no overlapping gene expression profiles were detected. Significantly enriched GO terms were related to skin development and tendon formation in keloid scars and Dupuytren's disease, respectively. The PPI network analysis revealed 10 genes and the module analysis provided six protein networks, which might play an integral part in disease development. These genes, including CDH1, ERBB2, CASP3 and RPS27A, may serve as new targets for future research to develop biomarkers and/or therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Stocks
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximillians-University (LMU), Frauenhoferstr. 12, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Annika S. Walter
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximillians-University (LMU), Frauenhoferstr. 12, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Elif Akova
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximillians-University (LMU), Frauenhoferstr. 12, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Gerd Gauglitz
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Hospital, LMU, Thalkirchnerstr. 48, 80337 Munich, Germany
| | - Attila Aszodi
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximillians-University (LMU), Frauenhoferstr. 12, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Boecker
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximillians-University (LMU), Frauenhoferstr. 12, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Maximilian M. Saller
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximillians-University (LMU), Frauenhoferstr. 12, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Elias Volkmer
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximillians-University (LMU), Frauenhoferstr. 12, 80336 Munich, Germany
- Clinic of Hand Surgery, Helios Klinikum Muenchen West, Steinerweg 5, 81241 Munich, Germany
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Dirand Z, Tissot M, Chatelain B, Viennet C, Rolin G. Is Spheroid a Relevant Model to Address Fibrogenesis in Keloid Research? Biomedicines 2023; 11:2350. [PMID: 37760792 PMCID: PMC10526056 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Keloid refers to a fibro-proliferative disorder characterized by an accumulation of extracellular matrix at the dermis level, overgrowing beyond the initial wound and forming tumor-like nodule areas. The absence of treatment for keloid is clearly related to limited knowledge about keloid etiology. In vitro, keloids were classically studied through fibroblasts monolayer culture, far from keloid in vivo complexity. Today, cell aggregates cultured as 3D spheroid have gained in popularity as new tools to mimic tissue in vitro. However, no previously published works on spheroids have specifically focused on keloids yet. Thus, we hypothesized that spheroids made of keloid fibroblasts (KFs) could be used to model fibrogenesis in vitro. Our objective was to qualify spheroids made from KFs and cultured in a basal or pro-fibrotic environment (+TGF-β1). As major parameters for fibrogenesis assessment, we evaluated apoptosis, myofibroblast differentiation and response to TGF-β1, extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis, and ECM-related genes regulation in KFs spheroids. We surprisingly observed that fibrogenic features of KFs are strongly downregulated when cells are cultured in 3D. In conclusion, we believe that spheroid is not the most appropriate model to address fibrogenesis in keloid, but it constitutes an efficient model to study the deactivation of fibrotic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zélie Dirand
- Université de Franche-Comté, Sciences Médicales et Pharmaceutiques, EFS, INSERM, UMR RIGHT, 25000 Besançon, France; (Z.D.)
| | - Marion Tissot
- Université de Franche-Comté, Sciences Médicales et Pharmaceutiques, EFS, INSERM, UMR RIGHT, 25000 Besançon, France; (Z.D.)
| | - Brice Chatelain
- Service de Chirurgie Maxillo-Faciale, Stomatologie et Odontologie Hospitalière, CHU Besançon, 25000 Besançon, France
| | - Céline Viennet
- Université de Franche-Comté, Sciences Médicales et Pharmaceutiques, EFS, INSERM, UMR RIGHT, 25000 Besançon, France; (Z.D.)
| | - Gwenaël Rolin
- Université de Franche-Comté, Sciences Médicales et Pharmaceutiques, CHU Besançon EFS, INSERM, UMR RIGHT, 25000 Besançon, France
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7
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Zhu L, Liu L, Wang A, Liu J, Huang X, Zan T. Positive feedback loops between fibroblasts and the mechanical environment contribute to dermal fibrosis. Matrix Biol 2023; 121:1-21. [PMID: 37164179 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Dermal fibrosis is characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix in the dermis and affects millions of people worldwide and causes limited movement, disfigurement and psychological distress in patients. Fibroblast dysfunction of plays a central role in the pathogenesis of dermal fibrosis and is controlled by distinct factors. Recent studies support the hypothesis that fibroblasts can drive matrix deposition and stiffening, which in turn can exacerbate the functional dysregulation of fibroblasts. Ultimately, through a positive feedback loop, uncontrolled pathological fibrosis develops. This review aims to summarize the phenomenon and mechanism of the positive feedback loop in dermal fibrosis, and discuss potential therapeutic targets to help further elucidate the pathogenesis of dermal fibrosis and develop therapeutic strategies. In this review, fibroblast-derived compositional and structural changes in the ECM that lead to altered mechanical properties are briefly discussed. We focus on the mechanisms by which mechanical cues participate in dermal fibrosis progression. The mechanosensors discussed in the review include integrins, DDRs, proteoglycans, and mechanosensitive ion channels. The FAK, ERK, Akt, and Rho pathways, as well as transcription factors, including MRTF and YAP/TAZ, are also discussed. In addition, we describe stiffness-induced biological changes in the ECM on fibroblasts that contribute to the formation of a positive feedback loop. Finally, we discuss therapeutic strategies to treat the vicious cycle and present important suggestions for researchers conducting in-depth research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Zhu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lechen Liu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Aoli Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinwen Liu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Tao Zan
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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Dong Y, Zhang C, Zhang Q, Li Z, Wang Y, Yan J, Wu G, Qiu L, Zhu Z, Wang B, Gu H, Zhang Y. Identification of nanoparticle-mediated siRNA-ASPN as a key gene target in the treatment of keloids. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1025546. [PMID: 36394011 PMCID: PMC9649824 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1025546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Keloid, also known as connective tissue hyperplasia, is a benign proliferative disorder with a global distribution. The available therapeutic interventions are steroid injections, surgical removal of keloids, radiotherapy, compression therapy, the application of cryosurgery, and many other methods. Objectives: Existing treatments or approaches for keloids may lead to similar or even larger lesions at the site of keloid excision, leading to a high recurrence rate. Therefore, this study aims at identifying a new gene-based therapy for the treatment of keloids. Methods: An ASPN-siRNA/nanoparticle combination (si-ASPN) and a negative siRNA/nanoparticle complex (NC) was developed on the basis of bioinformatics studies and used in vitro and in vivo experiments. Results: The results showed a strong correlation between the development of keloids and high expression of ASPN protein. With the expression of ASPN protein greatly reduced in keloid fibroblasts and nude mice allografts after treatment with si-ASPN, the collagen and fibroblasts were also uniform, thinner, parallel and regular. Conclusion: All the above experimental results suggest that keloid and ASPN are closely related and both fibroblast growth and metabolism of keloid are inhibited after silencing ASPN. Therefore, ASPN-siRNA delivered via nanoparticles can serve as a novel intervention therapy for the treatment of keloids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yipeng Dong
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Chuwei Zhang
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Qingrong Zhang
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Institute of Burn Research, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Zihan Li
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yixiao Wang
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jun Yan
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Gujie Wu
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Ling Qiu
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Zhihan Zhu
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Bolin Wang
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Haiying Gu
- Institute of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Nantong University, Nantong, China
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, China
- *Correspondence: Yi Zhang, ; Haiying Gu,
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- *Correspondence: Yi Zhang, ; Haiying Gu,
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9
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Feng QL, Gu JJ, Chen JY, Zheng WY, Pan HH, Xu XY, Deng CC, Yang B. TSP1 promotes fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition via the IL6/JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway in keloids. Exp Dermatol 2022; 31:1533-1542. [PMID: 35661430 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Keloids are benign fibroproliferative diseases with abnormally proliferated bulges beyond the edge of the skin lesions, and they are characterized by uncontrolled fibroblast proliferation and excessive extracellular matrix deposition in the dermis. However, the definite mechanisms that increase fibroblast proliferation and collagen deposition in keloids remain unclear. Thrombospondin 1 (TSP1) has been suggested to play an important role in wound healing and fibrotic disorders, but its role in keloids is unknown. In this study, we aimed to clarify the specific role of TSP1 in keloids and explore the potential mechanism. Our results demonstrated that TSP1 was highly expressed in keloid lesions compared to normal skin. Knockdown of TSP1 in keloid fibroblasts decreased cell proliferation and collagen I deposition. Exogenous TSP1 treatment increased cell proliferation and collagen I deposition in normal fibroblasts. We further investigated the underlying mechanism and found that TSP1 promoted fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition by upregulating the IL6/JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Moreover, we verified that TSP1 expression was positively correlated with IL6/STAT3 signalling activity in keloids. Taken together, our findings indicate that TSP1 promotes keloid development via the IL6/JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway and blocking TSP1 may represent a potential strategy for keloid therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Lan Feng
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing-Jing Gu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun-Yi Chen
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Yue Zheng
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui-Hui Pan
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue-Yan Xu
- Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng-Cheng Deng
- Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Yang
- Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Feng F, Liu M, Pan L, Wu J, Wang C, Yang L, Liu W, Xu W, Lei M. Biomechanical Regulatory Factors and Therapeutic Targets in Keloid Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:906212. [PMID: 35614943 PMCID: PMC9124765 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.906212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Keloids are fibroproliferative skin disorder caused by abnormal healing of injured or irritated skin and are characterized by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis and deposition, which results in excessive collagen disorders and calcinosis, increasing the remodeling and stiffness of keloid matrix. The pathogenesis of keloid is very complex, and may include changes in cell function, genetics, inflammation, and other factors. In this review, we aim to discuss the role of biomechanical factors in keloid formation. Mechanical stimulation can lead to excessive proliferation of wound fibroblasts, deposition of ECM, secretion of more pro-fibrosis factors, and continuous increase of keloid matrix stiffness. Matrix mechanics resulting from increased matrix stiffness further activates the fibrotic phenotype of keloid fibroblasts, thus forming a loop that continuously invades the surrounding normal tissue. In this process, mechanical force is one of the initial factors of keloid formation, and matrix mechanics leads to further keloid development. Next, we summarized the mechanotransduction pathways involved in the formation of keloids, such as TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway, integrin signaling pathway, YAP/TAZ signaling pathway, and calcium ion pathway. Finally, some potential biomechanics-based therapeutic concepts and strategies are described in detail. Taken together, these findings underscore the importance of biomechanical factors in the formation and progression of keloids and highlight their regulatory value. These findings may help facilitate the development of pharmacological interventions that can ultimately prevent and reduce keloid formation and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Feng
- National Innovation and Attracting Talents “111” Base, Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Mingying Liu
- School of Comprehensive Health Management, Xihua University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lianhong Pan
- National Innovation and Attracting Talents “111” Base, Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiaqin Wu
- National Innovation and Attracting Talents “111” Base, Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chunli Wang
- National Innovation and Attracting Talents “111” Base, Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Yang
- National Innovation and Attracting Talents “111” Base, Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wanqian Liu
- National Innovation and Attracting Talents “111” Base, Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Wanqian Liu, ; Wei Xu, ; Mingxing Lei,
| | - Wei Xu
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Dermatology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Integrative Dermatology Research, Department of Dermatology, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Wanqian Liu, ; Wei Xu, ; Mingxing Lei,
| | - Mingxing Lei
- National Innovation and Attracting Talents “111” Base, Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Wanqian Liu, ; Wei Xu, ; Mingxing Lei,
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