1
|
Younesi FS, Miller AE, Barker TH, Rossi FMV, Hinz B. Fibroblast and myofibroblast activation in normal tissue repair and fibrosis. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024; 25:617-638. [PMID: 38589640 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-024-00716-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The term 'fibroblast' often serves as a catch-all for a diverse array of mesenchymal cells, including perivascular cells, stromal progenitor cells and bona fide fibroblasts. Although phenotypically similar, these subpopulations are functionally distinct, maintaining tissue integrity and serving as local progenitor reservoirs. In response to tissue injury, these cells undergo a dynamic fibroblast-myofibroblast transition, marked by extracellular matrix secretion and contraction of actomyosin-based stress fibres. Importantly, whereas transient activation into myofibroblasts aids in tissue repair, persistent activation triggers pathological fibrosis. In this Review, we discuss the roles of mechanical cues, such as tissue stiffness and strain, alongside cell signalling pathways and extracellular matrix ligands in modulating myofibroblast activation and survival. We also highlight the role of epigenetic modifications and myofibroblast memory in physiological and pathological processes. Finally, we discuss potential strategies for therapeutically interfering with these factors and the associated signal transduction pathways to improve the outcome of dysregulated healing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Sadat Younesi
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew E Miller
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Thomas H Barker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Fabio M V Rossi
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Song Y, Ali FN, Ye Z, Zarzoso J, Rogowski J, Sun Y, Xin Y. Pharmacokinetics of Fipaxalparant, a Small-Molecule Selective Negative Allosteric Modulator of Lysophosphatidic Acid Receptor 1, and the Effect of Food in Healthy Volunteers. Clin Pharmacol Drug Dev 2024; 13:819-827. [PMID: 38757472 DOI: 10.1002/cpdd.1417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Dysregulated lysophosphatidic acid receptor 1 (LPAR1) signaling is implicated in fibrotic diseases, including systemic sclerosis (SSc) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Fipaxalparant (HZN-825) is a small molecule acting as a negative allosteric modulator of LPAR1 and is in phase 2 clinical evaluations for treating diffuse cutaneous SSc and IPF. This open-label, phase 1 study examined the pharmacokinetics (PKs), food effect, and safety of fipaxalparant in healthy volunteers. Dose proportionality was evaluated for fipaxalparant single doses of 150, 300, and 450 mg under fasted conditions. Food effect was tested with a 450-mg single dose under fasted conditions or with a high-fat meal. Multiple-dose PKs for twice-daily dosing of either 300 or 450 mg with low- or high-fat meals was also assessed. Fipaxalparant was safe and well tolerated in healthy volunteers (n = 36) under all conditions. Fipaxalparant exposure increased in a less than dose-proportional manner from 150 to 450 mg. At 450 mg, a high-fat meal increased the maximum observed concentration and area under the curve by approximately 1.9- and 2.1-fold, respectively. These results, combined with prior preclinical and phase 2a data, informed dose selection of fipaxalparant 300 mg once and twice daily with a meal for phase 2b studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Song
- Amgen, Inc. (formerly Horizon Therapeutics plc), South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Farah N Ali
- Amgen, Inc. (formerly Horizon Therapeutics plc), Deerfield, IL, USA
| | - Zhan Ye
- Amgen, Inc. (formerly Horizon Therapeutics plc), Deerfield, IL, USA
| | - Jennifer Zarzoso
- Amgen, Inc. (formerly Horizon Therapeutics plc), South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - John Rogowski
- Amgen, Inc. (formerly Horizon Therapeutics plc), Deerfield, IL, USA
| | - Yajing Sun
- Amgen, Inc. (formerly Horizon Therapeutics plc), South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Yan Xin
- Amgen, Inc. (formerly Horizon Therapeutics plc), South San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Córdova-Casanova A, Cruz-Soca M, Gallardo FS, Faundez-Contreras J, Bock-Pereda A, Chun J, Vio CP, Casar JC, Brandan E. LPA-induced expression of CCN2 in muscular fibro/adipogenic progenitors (FAPs): Unraveling cellular communication networks. Matrix Biol 2024; 130:36-46. [PMID: 38723870 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2024.05.001] [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: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Cellular Communication Network Factor 2, CCN2, is a profibrotic cytokine implicated in physiological and pathological processes in mammals. The expression of CCN2 is markedly increased in dystrophic muscles. Interestingly, diminishing CCN2 genetically or inhibiting its function improves the phenotypes of chronic muscular fibrosis in rodent models. Elucidating the cell-specific mechanisms behind the induction of CCN2 is a fundamental step in understanding its relevance in muscular dystrophies. Here, we show that the small lipids LPA and 2S-OMPT induce CCN2 expression in fibro/adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) through the activation of the LPA1 receptor and, to a lower extent, by also the LPA6 receptor. These cells show a stronger induction than myoblasts or myotubes. We show that the LPA/LPARs axis requires ROCK kinase activity and organized actin cytoskeleton upstream of YAP/TAZ signaling effectors to upregulate CCN2 levels, suggesting that mechanical signals are part of the mechanism behind this process. In conclusion, we explored the role of the LPA/LPAR axis on CCN2 expression, showing a strong cytoskeletal-dependent response in muscular FAPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Córdova-Casanova
- Centro Científico y Tecnológico de Excelencia Ciencia & Vida, Santiago, Chile; P Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Meilyn Cruz-Soca
- Centro Científico y Tecnológico de Excelencia Ciencia & Vida, Santiago, Chile; P Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | | | - Alexia Bock-Pereda
- Centro Científico y Tecnológico de Excelencia Ciencia & Vida, Santiago, Chile; P Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jerold Chun
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Carlos P Vio
- Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan Carlos Casar
- Departamento de Neurología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile
| | - Enrique Brandan
- Centro Científico y Tecnológico de Excelencia Ciencia & Vida, Santiago, Chile; Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen H, You R, Guo J, Zhou W, Chew G, Devapragash N, Loh JZ, Gesualdo L, Li Y, Jiang Y, Tan ELS, Chen S, Pontrelli P, Pesce F, Behmoaras J, Zhang A, Petretto E. WWP2 Regulates Renal Fibrosis and the Metabolic Reprogramming of Profibrotic Myofibroblasts. J Am Soc Nephrol 2024; 35:696-718. [PMID: 38502123 PMCID: PMC11164121 DOI: 10.1681/asn.0000000000000328] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Key Points WWP2 expression is elevated in the tubulointerstitium of fibrotic kidneys and contributes to CKD pathogenesis and progression. WWP2 uncouples the profibrotic activation and cell proliferation in renal myofibroblasts. WWP2 controls mitochondrial respiration in renal myofibroblasts through the metabolic regulator peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha. Background Renal fibrosis is a common pathologic end point in CKD that is challenging to reverse, and myofibroblasts are responsible for the accumulation of a fibrillar collagen–rich extracellular matrix. Recent studies have unveiled myofibroblasts' diversity in proliferative and fibrotic characteristics, which are linked to different metabolic states. We previously demonstrated the regulation of extracellular matrix genes and tissue fibrosis by WWP2, a multifunctional E3 ubiquitin–protein ligase. Here, we investigate WWP2 in renal fibrosis and in the metabolic reprograming of myofibroblasts in CKD. Methods We used kidney samples from patients with CKD and WWP2 -null kidney disease mice models and leveraged single-cell RNA sequencing analysis to detail the cell-specific regulation of WWP2 in fibrotic kidneys. Experiments in primary cultured myofibroblasts by bulk-RNA sequencing, chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing, metabolomics, and cellular metabolism assays were used to study the metabolic regulation of WWP2 and its downstream signaling. Results The tubulointerstitial expression of WWP2 was associated with fibrotic progression in patients with CKD and in murine kidney disease models. WWP2 deficiency promoted myofibroblast proliferation and halted profibrotic activation, reducing the severity of renal fibrosis in vivo . In renal myofibroblasts, WWP2 deficiency increased fatty acid oxidation and activated the pentose phosphate pathway, boosting mitochondrial respiration at the expense of glycolysis. WWP2 suppressed the transcription of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α), a metabolic mediator of fibrotic response, and pharmacologic inhibition of PGC-1α partially abrogated the protective effects of WWP2 deficiency on myofibroblasts. Conclusions WWP2 regulates the metabolic reprogramming of profibrotic myofibroblasts by a WWP2-PGC-1α axis, and WWP2 deficiency protects against renal fibrosis in CKD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huimei Chen
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Ran You
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Gabriel Chew
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Nithya Devapragash
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Jui Zhi Loh
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Loreto Gesualdo
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Yanwei Li
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuteng Jiang
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Elisabeth Li Sa Tan
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Shuang Chen
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- School of Science, Institute for Big Data and Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Paola Pontrelli
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Pesce
- Division of Renal Medicine, Fatebenefratelli Isola Tiberina—Gemelli Isola, Rome, Italy
| | - Jacques Behmoaras
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
- Centre for Inflammatory Disease, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aihua Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Enrico Petretto
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders (CVMD) and Centre for Computational Biology (CCB), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
- School of Science, Institute for Big Data and Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Fan G, Guan X, Guan B, Zhu H, Pei Y, Jiang C, Xiao Y, Li Z, Cao F. Untargeted metabolomics reveals that declined PE and PC in obesity may be associated with prostate hyperplasia. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301011. [PMID: 38640132 PMCID: PMC11029648 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have shown that obesity may contribute to the pathogenesis of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). However, the mechanism of this pathogenesis is not fully understood. METHODS A prospective case-control study was conducted with 30 obese and 30 nonobese patients with BPH. Prostate tissues were collected and analyzed using ultra performance liquid chromatography ion mobility coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-IMS-Q-TOF). RESULTS A total of 17 differential metabolites (3 upregulated and 14 downregulated) were identified between the obese and nonobese patients with BPH. Topological pathway analysis indicated that glycerophospholipid (GP) metabolism was the most important metabolic pathway involved in BPH pathogenesis. Seven metabolites were enriched in the GP metabolic pathway. lysoPC (P16:0/0:0), PE (20:0/20:0), PE (24:1(15Z)/18:0), PC (24:1(15Z)/14:0), PC (15:0/24:0), PE (24:0/18:0), and PC (16:0/18:3(9Z,12Z,15Z)) were all significantly downregulated in the obesity group, and the area under the curve (AUC) of LysoPC (P-16:0/0/0:0) was 0.9922. The inclusion of the seven differential metabolites in a joint prediction model had an AUC of 0.9956. Thus, both LysoPC (P-16:0/0/0:0) alone and the joint prediction model demonstrated good predictive ability for obesity-induced BPH mechanisms. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, obese patients with BPH had a unique metabolic profile, and alterations in PE and PC in these patients be associated with the development and progression of BPH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guorui Fan
- Clinical Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Xiaohai Guan
- Clinical Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Bo Guan
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Hongfei Zhu
- Clinical Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Yongchao Pei
- Clinical Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Chonghao Jiang
- Clinical Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Yonggui Xiao
- Clinical Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Zhiguo Li
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Fenghong Cao
- Clinical Medical College, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Volkmann ER, Denton CP, Kolb M, Wijsenbeek-Lourens MS, Emson C, Hudson K, Amatucci AJ, Distler O, Allanore Y, Khanna D. Lysophosphatidic acid receptor 1 inhibition: a potential treatment target for pulmonary fibrosis. Eur Respir Rev 2024; 33:240015. [PMID: 39009409 PMCID: PMC11262619 DOI: 10.1183/16000617.0015-2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA)-mediated activation of LPA receptor 1 (LPAR1) contributes to the pathophysiology of fibrotic diseases such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and systemic sclerosis (SSc). These diseases are associated with high morbidity and mortality despite current treatment options. The LPA-producing enzyme autotaxin (ATX) and LPAR1 activation contribute to inflammation and mechanisms underlying fibrosis in preclinical fibrotic models. Additionally, elevated levels of LPA have been detected in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from patients with IPF and in serum from patients with SSc. Thus, ATX and LPAR1 have gained considerable interest as pharmaceutical targets to combat fibrotic disease and inhibitors of these targets have been investigated in clinical trials for IPF and SSc. The goals of this review are to summarise the current literature on ATX and LPAR1 signalling in pulmonary fibrosis and to help differentiate the novel inhibitors in development. The mechanisms of action of ATX and LPAR1 inhibitors are described and preclinical studies and clinical trials of these agents are outlined. Because of their contribution to numerous physiologic events underlying fibrotic disease, ATX and LPAR1 inhibition presents a promising therapeutic strategy for IPF, SSc and other fibrotic diseases that may fulfil unmet needs of the current standard of care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth R Volkmann
- Department of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Martin Kolb
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - Claire Emson
- Translational Medicine, Horizon Therapeutics (now Amgen, Inc.), Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Krischan Hudson
- Clinical Development, Horizon Therapeutics (now Amgen, Inc.), Deerfield, IL, USA
| | - Anthony J Amatucci
- Global Medical Affairs, Horizon Therapeutics (now Amgen, Inc), Deerfield, IL, USA
| | - Oliver Distler
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Yannick Allanore
- Rheumatology Department, Cochin Hospital APHP, INSERM U1016, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Dinesh Khanna
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Guo C, Cui Y, Jiao M, Yao J, Zhao J, Tian Y, Dong J, Liao L. Crosstalk between proximal tubular epithelial cells and other interstitial cells in tubulointerstitial fibrosis after renal injury. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1256375. [PMID: 38260142 PMCID: PMC10801024 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1256375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The energy needs of tubular epithelial components, especially proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTECs), are high and they heavily depend on aerobic metabolism. As a result, they are particularly vulnerable to various injuries caused by factors such as ischemia, proteinuria, toxins, and elevated glucose levels. Initial metabolic and phenotypic changes in PTECs after injury are likely an attempt at survival and repair. Nevertheless, in cases of recurrent or prolonged injury, PTECs have the potential to undergo a transition to a secretory state, leading to the generation and discharge of diverse bioactive substances, including transforming growth factor-β, Wnt ligands, hepatocyte growth factor, interleukin (IL)-1β, lactic acid, exosomes, and extracellular vesicles. By promoting fibroblast activation, macrophage recruitment, and endothelial cell loss, these bioactive compounds stimulate communication between epithelial cells and other interstitial cells, ultimately worsening renal damage. This review provides a summary of the latest findings on bioactive compounds that facilitate the communication between these cellular categories, ultimately leading to the advancement of tubulointerstitial fibrosis (TIF).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Congcong Guo
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Nephrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yuying Cui
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Nephrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicin, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Mingwen Jiao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jinming Yao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Nephrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Junyu Zhao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Nephrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yutian Tian
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Nephrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jianjun Dong
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lin Liao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Nephrology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
- First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicin, Jinan, Shandong, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ezzo M, Hinz B. Novel approaches to target fibroblast mechanotransduction in fibroproliferative diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 250:108528. [PMID: 37708995 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The ability of cells to sense and respond to changes in mechanical environment is vital in conditions of organ injury when the architecture of normal tissues is disturbed or lost. Among the various cellular players that respond to injury, fibroblasts take center stage in re-establishing tissue integrity by secreting and organizing extracellular matrix into stabilizing scar tissue. Activation, activity, survival, and death of scar-forming fibroblasts are tightly controlled by mechanical environment and proper mechanotransduction ensures that fibroblast activities cease after completion of the tissue repair process. Conversely, dysregulated mechanotransduction often results in fibroblast over-activation or persistence beyond the state of normal repair. The resulting pathological accumulation of extracellular matrix is called fibrosis, a condition that has been associated with over 40% of all deaths in the industrialized countries. Consequently, elements in fibroblast mechanotransduction are scrutinized for their suitability as anti-fibrotic therapeutic targets. We review the current knowledge on mechanically relevant factors in the fibroblast extracellular environment, cell-matrix and cell-cell adhesion structures, stretch-activated membrane channels, stress-regulated cytoskeletal structures, and co-transcription factors. We critically discuss the targetability of these elements in therapeutic approaches and their progress in pre-clinical and/or clinical trials to treat organ fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maya Ezzo
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, and Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, and Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yu S, Kalinin AA, Paraskevopoulou MD, Maruggi M, Cheng J, Tang J, Icke I, Luo Y, Wei Q, Scheibe D, Hunter J, Singh S, Nguyen D, Carpenter AE, Horman SR. Integrating inflammatory biomarker analysis and artificial-intelligence-enabled image-based profiling to identify drug targets for intestinal fibrosis. Cell Chem Biol 2023; 30:1169-1182.e8. [PMID: 37437569 PMCID: PMC10529501 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Intestinal fibrosis, often caused by inflammatory bowel disease, can lead to intestinal stenosis and obstruction, but there are no approved treatments. Drug discovery has been hindered by the lack of screenable cellular phenotypes. To address this, we used a scalable image-based morphology assay called Cell Painting, augmented with machine learning algorithms, to identify small molecules that could reverse the activated fibrotic phenotype of intestinal myofibroblasts. We then conducted a high-throughput small molecule chemogenomics screen of approximately 5,000 compounds with known targets or mechanisms, which have achieved clinical stage or approval by the FDA. By integrating morphological analyses and AI using pathologically relevant cells and disease-relevant stimuli, we identified several compounds and target classes that are potentially able to treat intestinal fibrosis. This phenotypic screening platform offers significant improvements over conventional methods for identifying a wide range of drug targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shan Yu
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, CA 92121, USA.
| | | | | | - Marco Maruggi
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Jie Cheng
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Jie Tang
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Ilknur Icke
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Yi Luo
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Qun Wei
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Dan Scheibe
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Joel Hunter
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Shantanu Singh
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Deborah Nguyen
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | | | - Shane R Horman
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, CA 92121, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Yamamura Y, Sakai N, Iwata Y, Lagares D, Hara A, Kitajima S, Toyama T, Miyagawa T, Ogura H, Sato K, Oshima M, Nakagawa S, Tamai A, Horikoshi K, Matsuno T, Yamamoto N, Hayashi D, Toyota Y, Kaikoi D, Shimizu M, Tager AM, Wada T. Myocardin-related transcription factor contributes to renal fibrosis through the regulation of extracellular microenvironment surrounding fibroblasts. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23005. [PMID: 37289107 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201870r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Fibroblast accumulation and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition are common critical steps for the progression of organ fibrosis, but the precise molecular mechanisms remain to be fully investigated. We have previously demonstrated that lysophosphatidic acid contributes to organ fibrosis through the production of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) via actin cytoskeleton-dependent signaling, myocardin-related transcription factor family (MRTF) consisting of MRTF-A and MRTF-B-serum response factor (SRF) pathway. In this study, we investigated the role of the MRTF-SRF pathway in the development of renal fibrosis, focusing on the regulation of ECM-focal adhesions (FA) in renal fibroblasts. Here we showed that both MRTF-A and -B were required for the expressions of ECM-related molecules such as lysyl oxidase family members, type I procollagen and fibronectin in response to transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 . TGF-β1 -MRTF-SRF pathway induced the expressions of various components of FA such as integrin α subunits (αv , α2 , α11 ) and β subunits (β1 , β3 , β5 ) as well as integrin-linked kinase (ILK). On the other hand, the blockade of ILK suppressed TGF-β1 -induced MRTF-SRF transcriptional activity, indicating a mutual relationship between MRTF-SRF and FA. Myofibroblast differentiation along with CTGF expression was also dependent on MRTF-SRF and FA components. Finally, global MRTF-A deficient and inducible fibroblast-specific MRTF-B deficient mice (MRTF-AKO BiFBKO mice) are protected from renal fibrosis with adenine administration. Renal expressions of ECM-FA components and CTGF as well as myofibroblast accumulation were suppressed in MRTF-AKO BiFBKO mice. These results suggest that the MRTF-SRF pathway might be a therapeutic target for renal fibrosis through the regulation of components forming ECM-FA in fibroblasts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuta Yamamura
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Norihiko Sakai
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- Division of Blood Purification, Kanazawa University Hospital, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Yasunori Iwata
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- Division of Infection Control, Kanazawa University Hospital, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - David Lagares
- Fibrosis Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Akinori Hara
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Shinji Kitajima
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- Division of Infection Control, Kanazawa University Hospital, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Tadashi Toyama
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Taro Miyagawa
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Hisayuki Ogura
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Koichi Sato
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Megumi Oshima
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Shiori Nakagawa
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Akira Tamai
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Keisuke Horikoshi
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Takahiro Matsuno
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Naoki Yamamoto
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Daiki Hayashi
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Yoshitada Toyota
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Daichi Kaikoi
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Miho Shimizu
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Andrew M Tager
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Takashi Wada
- Department of Nephrology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Cruz-Soca M, Faundez-Contreras J, Córdova-Casanova A, Gallardo FS, Bock-Pereda A, Chun J, Casar JC, Brandan E. Activation of skeletal muscle FAPs by LPA requires the Hippo signaling via the FAK pathway. Matrix Biol 2023; 119:57-81. [PMID: 37137584 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a lysophospholipid that signals through six G-protein coupled receptors (LPARs), LPA1 to LPA6. LPA has been described as a potent modulator of fibrosis in different pathologies. In skeletal muscle, LPA increases fibrosis-related proteins and the number of fibro/adipogenic progenitors (FAPs). FAPs are the primary source of ECM-secreting myofibroblasts in acute and chronic damage. However, the effect of LPA on FAPs activation in vitro has not been explored. This study aimed to investigate FAPs' response to LPA and the downstream signaling mediators involved. Here, we demonstrated that LPA mediates FAPs activation by increasing their proliferation, expression of myofibroblasts markers, and upregulation of fibrosis-related proteins. Pretreatment with the LPA1/LPA3 antagonist Ki16425 or genetic deletion of LPA1 attenuated the LPA-induced FAPs activation, resulting in decreased expression of cyclin e1, α-SMA, and fibronectin. We also evaluated the activation of the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) in response to LPA. Our results showed that LPA induces FAK phosphorylation in FAPs. Treatment with the P-FAK inhibitor PF-228 partially prevented the induction of cell responses involved in FAPs activation, suggesting that this pathway mediates LPA signaling. FAK activation controls downstream cell signaling within the cytoplasm, such as the Hippo pathway. LPA induced the dephosphorylation of the transcriptional coactivator YAP (Yes-associated protein) and promoted direct expression of target pathway genes such as Ctgf/Ccn2 and Ccn1. The blockage of YAP transcriptional activity with Super-TDU further confirmed the role of YAP in LPA-induced FAPs activation. Finally, we demonstrated that FAK is required for LPA-dependent YAP dephosphorylation and the induction of Hippo pathway target genes. In conclusion, LPA signals through LPA1 to regulate FAPs activation by activating FAK to control the Hippo pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meilyn Cruz-Soca
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330025, Chile; Centro Científico y Tecnológico de Excelencia Ciencia & Vida, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jennifer Faundez-Contreras
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330025, Chile; Centro Científico y Tecnológico de Excelencia Ciencia & Vida, Santiago, Chile
| | - Adriana Córdova-Casanova
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330025, Chile; Centro Científico y Tecnológico de Excelencia Ciencia & Vida, Santiago, Chile
| | - Felipe S Gallardo
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330025, Chile; Centro Científico y Tecnológico de Excelencia Ciencia & Vida, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alexia Bock-Pereda
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330025, Chile; Centro Científico y Tecnológico de Excelencia Ciencia & Vida, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jerold Chun
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Juan Carlos Casar
- Departamento de Neurología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Enrique Brandan
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330025, Chile; Centro Científico y Tecnológico de Excelencia Ciencia & Vida, Santiago, Chile; Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yanagida K, Shimizu T. Lysophosphatidic acid, a simple phospholipid with myriad functions. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 246:108421. [PMID: 37080433 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108421] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a simple phospholipid consisting of a phosphate group, glycerol moiety, and only one hydrocarbon chain. Despite its simple chemical structure, LPA plays an important role as an essential bioactive signaling molecule via its specific six G protein-coupled receptors, LPA1-6. Recent studies, especially those using genetic tools, have revealed diverse physiological and pathological roles of LPA and LPA receptors in almost every organ system. Furthermore, many studies are illuminating detailed mechanisms to orchestrate multiple LPA receptor signaling pathways and to facilitate their coordinated function. Importantly, these extensive "bench" works are now translated into the "bedside" as exemplified by approaches targeting LPA1 signaling to combat fibrotic diseases. In this review, we discuss the physiological and pathological roles of LPA signaling and their implications for clinical application by focusing on findings revealed by in vivo studies utilizing genetic tools targeting LPA receptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Yanagida
- Department of Lipid Life Science, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Takao Shimizu
- Department of Lipid Life Science, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan; Institute of Microbial Chemistry, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Huang R, Fu P, Ma L. Kidney fibrosis: from mechanisms to therapeutic medicines. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:129. [PMID: 36932062 PMCID: PMC10023808 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01379-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 91.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is estimated to affect 10-14% of global population. Kidney fibrosis, characterized by excessive extracellular matrix deposition leading to scarring, is a hallmark manifestation in different progressive CKD; However, at present no antifibrotic therapies against CKD exist. Kidney fibrosis is identified by tubule atrophy, interstitial chronic inflammation and fibrogenesis, glomerulosclerosis, and vascular rarefaction. Fibrotic niche, where organ fibrosis initiates, is a complex interplay between injured parenchyma (like tubular cells) and multiple non-parenchymal cell lineages (immune and mesenchymal cells) located spatially within scarring areas. Although the mechanisms of kidney fibrosis are complicated due to the kinds of cells involved, with the help of single-cell technology, many key questions have been explored, such as what kind of renal tubules are profibrotic, where myofibroblasts originate, which immune cells are involved, and how cells communicate with each other. In addition, genetics and epigenetics are deeper mechanisms that regulate kidney fibrosis. And the reversible nature of epigenetic changes including DNA methylation, RNA interference, and chromatin remodeling, gives an opportunity to stop or reverse kidney fibrosis by therapeutic strategies. More marketed (e.g., RAS blockage, SGLT2 inhibitors) have been developed to delay CKD progression in recent years. Furthermore, a better understanding of renal fibrosis is also favored to discover biomarkers of fibrotic injury. In the review, we update recent advances in the mechanism of renal fibrosis and summarize novel biomarkers and antifibrotic treatment for CKD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rongshuang Huang
- Kidney Research Institute, Division of Nephrology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ping Fu
- Kidney Research Institute, Division of Nephrology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Liang Ma
- Kidney Research Institute, Division of Nephrology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Paredes F, Williams HC, Suster I, Tejos M, Fuentealba R, Bogan B, Holden CM, San Martin A. Metabolic regulation of the proteasome under hypoxia by Poldip2 controls fibrotic signaling in vascular smooth muscle cells. Free Radic Biol Med 2023; 195:283-297. [PMID: 36596387 PMCID: PMC10268434 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2022.12.098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The polymerase delta interacting protein 2 (Poldip2) is a nuclear-encoded mitochondrial protein required for oxidative metabolism. Under hypoxia, Poldip2 expression is repressed by an unknown mechanism. Therefore, low levels of Poldip2 are required to maintain glycolytic metabolism. The Cellular Communication Network Factor 2 (CCN2, Connective tissue growth factor, CTGF) is a profibrogenic molecule highly expressed in cancer and vascular inflammation in advanced atherosclerosis. Because CCN2 is upregulated under hypoxia and is associated with glycolytic metabolism, we hypothesize that Poldip2 downregulation is responsible for the upregulation of profibrotic signaling under hypoxia. Here, we report that Poldip2 is repressed under hypoxia by a mechanism that requires the activation of the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 repressive complex (EZH2) downstream from the Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 2 (CDK2). Importantly, we found that Poldip2 repression is required for CCN2 expression downstream of metabolic inhibition of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS)-dependent stabilization of the serum response factor. Pharmacological or gene expression inhibition of CDK2 under hypoxia reverses Poldip2 downregulation, the inhibition of the UPS, and the expression of CCN2, collagen, and fibronectin. Thus, our findings connect cell cycle regulation and proteasome activity to mitochondrial function and fibrotic responses under hypoxia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Paredes
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Holly C Williams
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Izabela Suster
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Macarena Tejos
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Roberto Fuentealba
- Institute of Chemistry and Natural Resources, Universidad de Talca, Talca, 3460000, Chile
| | - Bethany Bogan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Claire M Holden
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Alejandra San Martin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
The Role of Pulmonary Surfactant Phospholipids in Fibrotic Lung Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010326. [PMID: 36613771 PMCID: PMC9820286 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Diffuse parenchymal lung diseases (DPLD) or Interstitial lung diseases (ILD) are a heterogeneous group of lung conditions with common characteristics that can progress to fibrosis. Within this group of pneumonias, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is considered the most common. This disease has no known cause, is devastating and has no cure. Chronic lesion of alveolar type II (ATII) cells represents a key mechanism for the development of IPF. ATII cells are specialized in the biosynthesis and secretion of pulmonary surfactant (PS), a lipid-protein complex that reduces surface tension and minimizes breathing effort. Some differences in PS composition have been reported between patients with idiopathic pulmonary disease and healthy individuals, especially regarding some specific proteins in the PS; however, few reports have been conducted on the lipid components. This review focuses on the mechanisms by which phospholipids (PLs) could be involved in the development of the fibroproliferative response.
Collapse
|
16
|
Kurano M, Jubishi D, Okamoto K, Hashimoto H, Sakai E, Morita Y, Saigusa D, Kano K, Aoki J, Harada S, Okugawa S, Doi K, Moriya K, Yatomi Y. Dynamic modulations of urinary sphingolipid and glycerophospholipid levels in COVID-19 and correlations with COVID-19-associated kidney injuries. J Biomed Sci 2022; 29:94. [PMCID: PMC9647768 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-022-00880-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Among various complications of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), renal complications, namely COVID-19-associated kidney injuries, are related to the mortality of COVID-19. Methods In this retrospective cross-sectional study, we measured the sphingolipids and glycerophospholipids, which have been shown to possess potent biological properties, using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry in 272 urine samples collected longitudinally from 91 COVID-19 subjects and 95 control subjects without infectious diseases, to elucidate the pathogenesis of COVID-19-associated kidney injuries. Results The urinary levels of C18:0, C18:1, C22:0, and C24:0 ceramides, sphingosine, dihydrosphingosine, phosphatidylcholine, lysophosphatidylcholine, lysophosphatidic acid, and phosphatidylglycerol decreased, while those of phosphatidylserine, lysophosphatidylserine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and lysophosphatidylethanolamine increased in patients with mild COVID-19, especially during the early phase (day 1–3), suggesting that these modulations might reflect the direct effects of infection with SARS-CoV-2. Generally, the urinary levels of sphingomyelin, ceramides, sphingosine, dihydrosphingosine, dihydrosphingosine l-phosphate, phosphatidylcholine, lysophosphatidic acid, phosphatidylserine, lysophosphatidylserine, phosphatidylethanolamine, lysophosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, lysophosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, and lysophosphatidylinositol increased, especially in patients with severe COVID-19 during the later phase, suggesting that their modulations might result from kidney injuries accompanying severe COVID-19. Conclusions Considering the biological properties of sphingolipids and glycerophospholipids, an understanding of their urinary modulations in COVID-19 will help us to understand the mechanisms causing COVID-19-associated kidney injuries as well as general acute kidney injuries and may prompt researchers to develop laboratory tests for predicting maximum severity and/or novel reagents to suppress the renal complications of COVID-19. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12929-022-00880-5.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Kurano
- grid.26999.3d0000 0001 2151 536XDepartment of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8655 Japan ,grid.412708.80000 0004 1764 7572Department of Clinical Laboratory, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daisuke Jubishi
- grid.26999.3d0000 0001 2151 536XDepartment of Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koh Okamoto
- grid.26999.3d0000 0001 2151 536XDepartment of Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideki Hashimoto
- grid.26999.3d0000 0001 2151 536XDepartment of Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eri Sakai
- grid.412708.80000 0004 1764 7572Department of Clinical Laboratory, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshifumi Morita
- grid.412708.80000 0004 1764 7572Department of Clinical Laboratory, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daisuke Saigusa
- grid.264706.10000 0000 9239 9995Laboratory of Biomedical and Analytical Sciences, Faculty of Pharma-Science, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kuniyuki Kano
- grid.26999.3d0000 0001 2151 536XDepartment of Health Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junken Aoki
- grid.26999.3d0000 0001 2151 536XDepartment of Health Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sohei Harada
- grid.26999.3d0000 0001 2151 536XDepartment of Infection Control and Prevention, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shu Okugawa
- grid.26999.3d0000 0001 2151 536XDepartment of Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kent Doi
- grid.412708.80000 0004 1764 7572Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kyoji Moriya
- grid.26999.3d0000 0001 2151 536XDepartment of Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan ,grid.26999.3d0000 0001 2151 536XDepartment of Infection Control and Prevention, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Yatomi
- grid.26999.3d0000 0001 2151 536XDepartment of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8655 Japan ,grid.412708.80000 0004 1764 7572Department of Clinical Laboratory, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Gu Z, Yan Y, Yao H, Lin K, Li X. Targeting the LPA1 signalling pathway for fibrosis therapy: a patent review (2010-present). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2022; 32:1097-1122. [PMID: 36175357 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2022.2130753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fibrosis is a disease that damages organs and even causes death. Because of the complicated pathogenesis, the development of drugs for fibrosis is challenging. In the lysophosphatidic acid receptor type 1 (LPA1) signalling pathway, LPA1 and its downstream Rho-associated coiled-coil forming protein kinase (ROCK) are related to the process of fibrosis. Targeting LPA1 signalling pathway is a potential strategy for the treatment of fibrosis. AREA COVERED This review describes the process of fibrosis mediated by the LPA1 signalling pathway and then summarizes LPA1 antagonist patents reported since 2010 and ROCK inhibitor patents since 2017 according to their scaffolds based on the Cortellis Drug Discovery Intelligence database. Information on LPA1 antagonists entering clinical trials is integrated. EXPERT OPINION Over the past decade, a large number of antagonists targeting the LPA1 signalling pathway have been patented for fibrosis therapy. A limited number of compounds have entered clinical trials. Different companies and research groups have used different scaffolds when designing compounds for fibrosis therapy. Therefore, LPA1 and ROCK are competitive targets for the development of new therapies for fibrosis to provide a potential treatment method for fibrosis in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhihao Gu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yong Yan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hequan Yao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Kejiang Lin
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuanyi Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Deng X, Hao C, Li Y, Guo Y, Si H, He J, Deng M, Niu Z, Wang C, Xu X, Dai K, Yao W. Lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 1 alleviates silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis by modulating lipid metabolism. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113638. [PMID: 36099794 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Silicosis is an incurable lung disease that can progress even when exposure to silica dust has ended. Lipid metabolism plays an important role in the occurrence and development of silicosis. However, the mechanistic details have not been fully elucidated. This was investigated in the current study by high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based lipidomic analysis of lung tissue in a mouse model of silicosis. Lipid profiles and key metabolic enzymes were compared between silica and control groups. The lipidomic analysis revealed differentially-expressed lipids in the lungs of silicosis mice compared with controls. Among the identified lipid metabolism-related enzymes, the expression of lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 1 (LPCAT1) was significantly down-regulated at the transcript and protein levels. LPCAT1 overexpression in vivo using adeno-associated virus altered the balance between phosphatidylcholine and lysophosphatidylcholine and inhibited the development of silicosis in mice. These results indicate that LPCAT1 dysregulation leads to abnormal lipid metabolism and silicosis, and is a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuedan Deng
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Changfu Hao
- Department of Child and Adolescence Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Yiping Li
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Yonghua Guo
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Huifang Si
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Jing He
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Meng Deng
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Zhuoya Niu
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Kai Dai
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Wu Yao
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lee GH, Cheon J, Kim D, Jun HS. Lysophosphatidic Acid Promotes Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Kidney Epithelial Cells via the LPAR1/MAPK-AKT/KLF5 Signaling Pathway in Diabetic Nephropathy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810497. [PMID: 36142408 PMCID: PMC9500642 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810497] [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: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a differentiation process associated with fibrogenesis in diabetic nephropathy (DN). Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a small, naturally occurring glycerophospholipid implicated in the pathogenesis of DN. In this study, we investigated the role of LPA/LPAR1 signaling in the EMT of tubular cells as well as the underlying mechanisms. We observed a decrease in E-cadherin and an increase in vimentin expression levels in the kidney tubules of diabetic db/db mice, and treatment with ki16425 (LPAR1/3 inhibitor) inhibited the expression of these EMT markers. Ki16425 treatment also decreased the expression levels of the fibrotic factors fibronectin and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) in db/db mice. Similarly, we found that LPA decreased E-cadherin expression and increased vimentin expression in HK-2 cells, which was reversed by treatment with ki16425 or AM095 (LPAR1 inhibitor). In addition, the expression levels of fibronectin and α-SMA were increased by LPA, and this effect was reversed by treatment with ki16425 and AM095 or by LPAR1 knockdown. Moreover, LPA induced the expression of the transcription factor, Krüppel-like factor 5 (KLF5), which was decreased by AM095 treatment or LPAR1 knockdown. The expression levels of EMT markers and fibrotic factors induced by LPA were decreased upon KLF5 knockdown in HK-2 cells. Inhibition of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and serine-threonine kinase (AKT) pathways decreased LPA-induced expression of KLF5 and EMT markers. In conclusion, these data suggest that LPA contributes to the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy by inducing EMT and renal tubular fibrosis via regulation of KLF5 through the LPAR1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geon-Ho Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea
| | - Jayeon Cheon
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea
| | - Donghee Kim
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Korea
| | - Hee-Sook Jun
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Korea
- Gachon Medical Research Institute, Gil Hospital, Incheon 21565, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-32-899-6056; Fax: +82-32-899-6057
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Xiao Q, Yu X, Yu X, Liu S, Jiang J, Cheng Y, Lin H, Wang Y, Zhang X, Ye X, Xiang Z. An integrated network pharmacology and cell metabolomics approach to reveal the role of rhein, a novel PPARα agonist, against renal fibrosis by activating the PPARα-CPT1A axis. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 102:154147. [PMID: 35567992 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rhein, an anthraquinone compound, displays extensive antifibrotic effects; however, its potential mechanisms are not fully understood. In this study, we explored the underlying molecular mechanism of action of rhein. METHOD An integrated network pharmacology and cell metabolomics approach was developed based on network pharmacology and bioinformatics method, and then successfully applied to speculate the potential targets of rhein and construct a rhein-target-metabolic enzyme-metabolite network. Thereafter, the antifibrotic mechanism of rhein was validated in TGF-β- and oleic acid- induced HK-2 and NRK-52E cells in vitro as well as a unilateral ischemia-reperfusion injury Sprague-Dawley rat model. RESULTS Based on the construction of the rhein-target-metabolic enzyme-metabolite network, we found that rhein played an antifibrotic role through the PPAR-α-CPT1A-l-palmitoyl-carnitine axis. In vitro experiments demonstrated that rhein effectively activated the expression of PPARα and its downstream proteins (CPT1A and ACOX1) to alleviate lipid accumulation and fibrosis development. In vivo experiments indicated that rhein attenuated renal fibrosis mainly by activating the fatty acid oxidation pathway and improving lipid metabolism. CONCLUSION Taken together, our findings reveal that rhein is a novel agonist of PPARα, which contributes to its renoprotection through the regulation of the PPARα-CPT1A axis. Moreover, our study provides a novel insight into an integrated network pharmacology-metabolomics strategy for uncovering the pharmacological mechanisms of drugs from the system perspective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiming Xiao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Xixi Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Xinwei Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Shundi Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Jianping Jiang
- Medical School, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, 310015, China
| | - Yu Cheng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Hao Lin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Yuzhen Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Xiaoshan Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Xiaoxia Ye
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
| | - Zheng Xiang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China; Medical School, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, 310015, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Axelsson Raja A, Wakimoto H, DeLaughter DM, Reichart D, Gorham J, Conner DA, Lun M, Probst CK, Sakai N, Knipe RS, Montesi SB, Shea B, Adam LP, Leinwand LA, Wan W, Choi ES, Lindberg EL, Patone G, Noseda M, Hübner N, Seidman CE, Tager AM, Seidman JG, Ho CY. Ablation of lysophosphatidic acid receptor 1 attenuates hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in a mouse model. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2204174119. [PMID: 35787042 PMCID: PMC9282378 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2204174119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Myocardial fibrosis is a key pathologic feature of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). However, the fibrotic pathways activated by HCM-causing sarcomere protein gene mutations are poorly defined. Because lysophosphatidic acid is a mediator of fibrosis in multiple organs and diseases, we tested the role of the lysophosphatidic acid pathway in HCM. Lysphosphatidic acid receptor 1 (LPAR1), a cell surface receptor, is required for lysophosphatidic acid mediation of fibrosis. We bred HCM mice carrying a pathogenic myosin heavy-chain variant (403+/-) with Lpar1-ablated mice to create mice carrying both genetic changes (403+/- LPAR1 -/-) and assessed development of cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis. Compared with 403+/- LPAR1WT, 403+/- LPAR1 -/- mice developed significantly less hypertrophy and fibrosis. Single-nucleus RNA sequencing of left ventricular tissue demonstrated that Lpar1 was predominantly expressed by lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) and cardiac fibroblasts. Lpar1 ablation reduced the population of LECs, confirmed by immunofluorescence staining of the LEC markers Lyve1 and Ccl21a and, by in situ hybridization, for Reln and Ccl21a. Lpar1 ablation also altered the distribution of fibroblast cell states. FB1 and FB2 fibroblasts decreased while FB0 and FB3 fibroblasts increased. Our findings indicate that Lpar1 is expressed predominantly by LECs and fibroblasts in the heart and is required for development of hypertrophy and fibrosis in an HCM mouse model. LPAR1 antagonism, including agents in clinical trials for other fibrotic diseases, may be beneficial for HCM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Axelsson Raja
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hiroko Wakimoto
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | | | - Daniel Reichart
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Joshua Gorham
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - David A. Conner
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Mingyue Lun
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Clemens K. Probst
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
- Fibrosis Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
| | - Norihiko Sakai
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
- Fibrosis Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
- Division of Nephrology, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-1192 Japan
| | - Rachel S. Knipe
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
- Fibrosis Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
| | - Sydney B. Montesi
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
| | - Barry Shea
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Albert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903
| | - Leonard P. Adam
- Research and Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, NJ 08540
| | - Leslie A. Leinwand
- Biofrontiers Institute, Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80302
| | - William Wan
- Biofrontiers Institute, Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80302
| | - Esther Sue Choi
- Biofrontiers Institute, Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80302
| | - Eric L. Lindberg
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Giannino Patone
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Michela Noseda
- National Heart and Lung Institute, British Heart Foundation Centre of Regenerative Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | - Norbert Hübner
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Berlin, 13347 Berlin, Germany
| | - Christine E. Seidman
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
- HHMI, Chevy Chase, MD 20815
| | - Andrew M. Tager
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
- Fibrosis Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
| | - J. G. Seidman
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Carolyn Y. Ho
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Magkrioti C, Antonopoulou G, Fanidis D, Pliaka V, Sakellaropoulos T, Alexopoulos LG, Ullmer C, Aidinis V. Lysophosphatidic Acid Is a Proinflammatory Stimulus of Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137452. [PMID: 35806457 PMCID: PMC9267536 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) refers to a spectrum of diseases defined by renal fibrosis, permanent alterations in kidney structure, and low glomerular-filtration rate. Prolonged epithelial-tubular damage involves a series of changes that eventually lead to CKD, highlighting the importance of tubular epithelial cells in this process. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a bioactive lipid that signals mainly through its six cognate LPA receptors and is implicated in several chronic inflammatory pathological conditions. In this report, we have stimulated human proximal tubular epithelial cells (HKC-8) with LPA and 175 other possibly pathological stimuli, and simultaneously detected the levels of 27 intracellular phosphoproteins and 32 extracellular secreted molecules with multiplex ELISA. This quantification revealed a large amount of information concerning the signaling and the physiology of HKC-8 cells that can be extrapolated to other proximal tubular epithelial cells. LPA responses clustered with pro-inflammatory stimuli such as TNF and IL-1, promoting the phosphorylation of important inflammatory signaling hubs, including CREB1, ERK1, JUN, IκΒα, and MEK1, as well as the secretion of inflammatory factors of clinical relevance, including CCL2, CCL3, CXCL10, ICAM1, IL-6, and IL-8, most of them shown for the first time in proximal tubular epithelial cells. The identified LPA-induced signal-transduction pathways, which were pharmacologically validated, and the secretion of the inflammatory factors offer novel insights into the possible role of LPA in CKD pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christiana Magkrioti
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, 16672 Athens, Greece; (C.M.); (G.A.); (D.F.)
| | - Georgia Antonopoulou
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, 16672 Athens, Greece; (C.M.); (G.A.); (D.F.)
| | - Dionysios Fanidis
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, 16672 Athens, Greece; (C.M.); (G.A.); (D.F.)
| | - Vaia Pliaka
- ProtATonce Ltd., 15343 Athens, Greece; (V.P.); (T.S.); (L.G.A.)
| | | | - Leonidas G. Alexopoulos
- ProtATonce Ltd., 15343 Athens, Greece; (V.P.); (T.S.); (L.G.A.)
- School of Mechanical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 15780 Zografou, Greece
| | - Christoph Ullmer
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Vassilis Aidinis
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center Alexander Fleming, 16672 Athens, Greece; (C.M.); (G.A.); (D.F.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Connective Tissue Growth Factor in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Breaking the Bridge. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116064. [PMID: 35682743 PMCID: PMC9181498 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
CTGF is upregulated in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), characterized by the deposition of a pathological extracellular matrix (ECM). Additionally, many omics studies confirmed that aberrant cellular senescence-associated mitochondria dysfunction and metabolic reprogramming had been identified in different IPF lung cells (alveolar epithelial cells, alveolar endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and macrophages). Here, we reviewed the role of the CTGF in IPF lung cells to mediate anomalous senescence-related metabolic mechanisms that support the fibrotic environment in IPF.
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
Lysophospholipids, exemplified by lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), are produced by the metabolism and perturbation of biological membranes. Both molecules are established extracellular lipid mediators that signal via specific G protein-coupled receptors in vertebrates. This widespread signaling axis regulates the development, physiological functions, and pathological processes of all organ systems. Indeed, recent research into LPA and S1P has revealed their important roles in cellular stress signaling, inflammation, resolution, and host defense responses. In this review, we focus on how LPA regulates fibrosis, neuropathic pain, abnormal angiogenesis, endometriosis, and disorders of neuroectodermal development such as hydrocephalus and alopecia. In addition, we discuss how S1P controls collective behavior, apoptotic cell clearance, and immunosurveillance of cancers. Advances in lysophospholipid research have led to new therapeutics in autoimmune diseases, with many more in earlier stages of development for a wide variety of diseases, such as fibrotic disorders, vascular diseases, and cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuniyuki Kano
- Department of Health Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan; , .,AMED-LEAP, Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan
| | - Junken Aoki
- Department of Health Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan; , .,AMED-LEAP, Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan
| | - Timothy Hla
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA; .,Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Sun Y, Cai H, Ge J, Shao F, Huang Z, Ding Z, Dong L, Chen J, Zhang J, Zang Y. Tubule-derived INHBB promotes interstitial fibroblast activation and renal fibrosis. J Pathol 2022; 256:25-37. [PMID: 34543458 DOI: 10.1002/path.5798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Upstream stimuli for myofibroblast activation are of considerable interest for understanding the mechanisms underlying renal fibrosis. Activin B, a member of the TGF-β family, exists as a homodimer of inhibin subunit beta B (INHBB), but its role in renal fibrosis remains unknown. We found that INHBB expression was significantly increased in various renal fibrosis models and human chronic kidney disease specimens with renal fibrosis. Notably, the increase of INHBB occurred mainly in the tubular epithelial cells (TECs). In vivo, inhibiting INHBB blocked the activation of interstitial fibroblasts and ameliorated the renal fibrosis induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction or ischemia-reperfusion injury, while ectopic expression of INHBB in the TECs was able to activate interstitial fibroblasts and initiate interstitial fibrosis. In vitro, overexpression of INHBB in TECs led to the secretion of activin B, thereby promoting the proliferation and activation of interstitial fibroblasts through activin B/Smad signaling. Furthermore, inhibition of activin B/Smad signaling attenuated the fibrotic response caused by tubular INHBB. Mechanistically, the upregulation of INHBB depended on the transcription factor Sox9 in the injured TECs. Clinical analyses also identified a positive correlation between Sox9 and INHBB expression in human specimens, suggesting the Sox9/INHBB axis as a positive regulator of renal fibrosis. In conclusion, tubule-derived INHBB is implicated in the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis by activating the surrounding fibroblasts in a paracrine manner, thereby exhibiting as a potential therapeutic target. © 2021 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Huimin Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Jia Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Fang Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Zhen Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Zhi Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Lei Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Jiangning Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Sciences and Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Junfeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Yuhui Zang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Wang H, Long T, Zhang H, Li M, Sun Q, Zhai X, Sun L. Anti-fibrosis Attributes; UHPLC-MS/MS-Based pharmacokinetics profiling of a novel ATX inhibitor with excellent vivo efficacy in rat. Biomed Chromatogr 2021; 36:e5301. [PMID: 34928514 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.5301] [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: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
3,4-Difluorobenzyl(1-ethyl-5-(4-((4-hydroxypiperidin-1-yl)-methyl)thiazol-2-yl)-1H-indol-3-yl)carbamate (NAI59), a small molecule with outstanding therapeutic effectiveness to anti-pulmonary fibrosis, is being developed as an autotaxin inhibitor candidate compound. To evaluate the pharmacokinetics and plasma protein binding of NAI59, a UPLC-MS/MS method was developed to quantity NAI59 in plasma and phosphate-buffered saline. The calibration curve linearity ranged from 9.95 ng·mL-1 to 1990.00 ng·mL-1 in plasma. The accuracy was -6.8%-5.9%, and the intra- and inter-day precision were within 15%. The matrix effect and recovery were within the criteria, as well as dilution integrity. The chromatographic and mass spectrometric conditions were also feasible to determine PBS samples, and it's proved that this method had good precision and accuracy in the range from 9.95 ng·mL-1 to 497.50 ng·mL-1 in PBS. It's the first time to determine the pharmacokinetics, absolute bioavailability, and plasma protein binding of NAI59 in rats by this established method. As a result, the pharmacokinetic profiles of NAI59 showed a dose-dependent relationship after oral administration, and the absolute bioavailability in rats was 6.3%. In addition, the results of protein binding showed that the combining capacity of NAI59 with plasma protein attained 90% and increased with the increase of drug concentration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongjin Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tengfei Long
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Meng Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qi Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xin Zhai
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Lixin Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Huang W, Yu J, Liu T, Defnet AE, Zalesak S, Farese AM, MacVittie TJ, Kane MA. Acute Proteomic Changes in Lung after Radiation: Toward Identifying Initiating Events of Delayed Effects of Acute Radiation Exposure in Non-human Primate after Partial Body Irradiation with Minimal Bone Marrow Sparing. HEALTH PHYSICS 2021; 121:384-394. [PMID: 34546219 PMCID: PMC8546870 DOI: 10.1097/hp.0000000000001476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Radiation-induced lung injury is a delayed effect of acute radiation exposure resulting in pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis. Molecular mechanisms that lead to radiation-induced lung injury remain incompletely understood. Using a non-human primate model of partial body irradiation with minimal bone marrow sparing, lung was analyzed from animals irradiated with 12 Gy at timepoints every 4 d up to 21 d after irradiation and compared to non-irradiated (sham) controls. Tryptic digests of lung tissues were analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry followed by pathway analysis. Out of the 3,101 unique proteins that were identified, we found that 252 proteins showed significant and consistent responses across at least three time points post-irradiation, of which 215 proteins showed strong up-regulation while 37 proteins showed down-regulation. Canonical pathways affected by irradiation, changes in proteins that serve as upstream regulators, and proteins involved in key processes including inflammation, fibrosis, and retinoic acid signaling were identified. The proteomic profiling of lung conducted here represents an untargeted systems biology approach to identify acute molecular events in the non-human primate lung that could potentially be initiating events for radiation-induced lung injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weiliang Huang
- University of Maryland, School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jianshi Yu
- University of Maryland, School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Tian Liu
- University of Maryland, School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Amy E Defnet
- University of Maryland, School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Stephanie Zalesak
- University of Maryland, School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ann M. Farese
- University of Maryland, School of Medicine, Department of Radiation Oncology, Baltimore, MD 21201
| | - Thomas J. MacVittie
- University of Maryland, School of Medicine, Department of Radiation Oncology, Baltimore, MD 21201
| | - Maureen A Kane
- University of Maryland, School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Implant Fibrosis and the Underappreciated Role of Myofibroblasts in the Foreign Body Reaction. Cells 2021; 10:cells10071794. [PMID: 34359963 PMCID: PMC8304203 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Body implants and implantable medical devices have dramatically improved and prolonged the life of countless patients. However, our body repair mechanisms have evolved to isolate, reject, or destroy any object that is recognized as foreign to the organism and inevitably mounts a foreign body reaction (FBR). Depending on its severity and chronicity, the FBR can impair implant performance or create severe clinical complications that will require surgical removal and/or replacement of the faulty device. The number of review articles discussing the FBR seems to be proportional to the number of different implant materials and clinical applications and one wonders, what else is there to tell? We will here take the position of a fibrosis researcher (which, coincidentally, we are) to elaborate similarities and differences between the FBR, normal wound healing, and chronic healing conditions that result in the development of peri-implant fibrosis. After giving credit to macrophages in the inflammatory phase of the FBR, we will mainly focus on the activation of fibroblastic cells into matrix-producing and highly contractile myofibroblasts. While fibrosis has been discussed to be a consequence of the disturbed and chronic inflammatory milieu in the FBR, direct activation of myofibroblasts at the implant surface is less commonly considered. Thus, we will provide a perspective how physical properties of the implant surface control myofibroblast actions and accumulation of stiff scar tissue. Because formation of scar tissue at the surface and around implant materials is a major reason for device failure and extraction surgeries, providing implant surfaces with myofibroblast-suppressing features is a first step to enhance implant acceptance and functional lifetime. Alternative therapeutic targets are elements of the myofibroblast mechanotransduction and contractile machinery and we will end with a brief overview on such targets that are considered for the treatment of other organ fibroses.
Collapse
|
29
|
Zhao N, Liu B, Liu SW, Zhang W, Li HN, Pang G, Luo XF, Wang JG. The Combination of Electroacupuncture and Massage Therapy Alleviates Myofibroblast Transdifferentiation and Extracellular Matrix Production in Blunt Trauma-Induced Skeletal Muscle Fibrosis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2021; 2021:5543468. [PMID: 34306140 PMCID: PMC8282377 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5543468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Complementary therapies, such as acupuncture and massage, had been previously reported to have therapeutic effects on skeletal muscle contusions. However, the recovery mechanisms on skeletal muscles after blunt trauma via the combination of electroacupuncture (EA) and massage therapy remain unclear. In the present study, a rat model of the skeletal muscle fibrosis following blunt trauma to rat skeletal muscle was established, and the potential molecular mechanisms of EA + massage therapy on the skeletal muscle fibrosis were investigated. The results suggested that EA + massage therapy could significantly decrease inflammatory cells infiltration and collagenous fiber content and ameliorate the disarrangement of sarcomeres within myofibrils compared to the model group. Further analysis revealed that EA + massage therapy could reduce the degree of fibrosis and increase the degree of myofibroblast apoptosis by downregulating the mRNA and protein expression of transforming growth factor- (TGF-) β1 and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). Furthermore, the fibrosis of injured skeletal muscle was inhibited after treatment through the normalization of balance between matrix metalloproteinase- (MMP-) 1 and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP). These findings suggested that the combination of electroacupuncture and massage therapy could alleviate the fibrotic process by regulating TGF β1-CTGF-induced myofibroblast transdifferentiation and MMP-1/TIMP-1 balance for extracellular matrix production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Na Zhao
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300193, China
| | - Bo Liu
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300193, China
| | - Si-Wen Liu
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300193, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300193, China
| | - Hua-Nan Li
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300193, China
| | - Geng Pang
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Xiong-Fei Luo
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300193, China
| | - Jin-Gui Wang
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin 300193, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Aiello S, Casiraghi F. Lysophosphatidic Acid: Promoter of Cancer Progression and of Tumor Microenvironment Development. A Promising Target for Anticancer Therapies? Cells 2021; 10:cells10061390. [PMID: 34200030 PMCID: PMC8229068 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased expression of the enzyme autotaxin (ATX) and the consequently increased levels of its product, lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), have been reported in several primary tumors. The role of LPA as a direct modulator of tumor cell functions—motility, invasion and migration capabilities as well as resistance to apoptotic death—has been recognized by numerous studies over the last two decades. Notably, evidence has recently been accumulating that shows that LPA also contributes to the development of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Indeed, LPA plays a crucial role in inducing angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis, triggering cellular glycolytic shift and stimulating intratumoral fibrosis. In addition, LPA helps tumoral cells to escape immune surveillance. Treatments that counter the TME components, in order to deprive cancer cells of their crucial support, have been emerging among the promising new anticancer therapies. This review aims to summarize the latest knowledge on how LPA influences both tumor cell functions and the TME by regulating the activity of its different elements, highlighting why and how LPA is worth considering as a molecular target for new anticancer therapies.
Collapse
|
31
|
Small molecules against the origin and activation of myofibroblast for renal interstitial fibrosis therapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 139:111386. [PMID: 34243594 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) is a common pathological response in a broad range of prevalent chronic kidney diseases and ultimately leads to renal failure and death. Although RIF causes a high morbi-mortality worldwide, effective therapeutic drugs are urgently needed. Myofibroblasts are identified as the main effector during the process of RIF. Multiple types of cells, including fibroblasts, epithelial cells, endothelial cells, macrophages and pericytes, contribute to renal myofibroblasts origin, and lots of mediators, including signaling pathways (Transforming growth factor-β1, mammalian target of rapamycin and reactive oxygen species) and epigenetic modifications (Histone acetylation, microRNA and long non-coding RNA) are participated in renal myofibroblasts activation during renal fibrogenesis, suggesting that these mediators may be the promising targets for treating RIF. In addition, many small molecules show profound therapeutic effects on RIF by suppressing the origin and activation of renal myofibroblasts. Taken together, the review focuses on the mechanisms of the origin and activation of renal myofibroblasts in RIF and the small molecules against them improving RIF, which will provide a new insight for RIF therapy.
Collapse
|
32
|
Chen B, Wang P, Liang X, Jiang C, Ge Y, Dworkin LD, Gong R. Permissive effect of GSK3β on profibrogenic plasticity of renal tubular cells in progressive chronic kidney disease. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:432. [PMID: 33931588 PMCID: PMC8087712 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03709-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Renal tubular epithelial cells (TECs) play a key role in renal fibrogenesis. After persistent injuries that are beyond self-healing capacity, TECs will dedifferentiate, undergo growth arrest, convert to profibrogenic phenotypes, and resort to maladaptive plasticity that ultimately results in renal fibrosis. Evidence suggests that glycogen synthase kinase (GSK) 3β is centrally implicated in kidney injury. However, its role in renal fibrogenesis is obscure. Analysis of publicly available kidney transcriptome database demonstrated that patients with progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD) exhibited GSK3β overexpression in renal tubulointerstitium, in which the predefined hallmark gene sets implicated in fibrogenesis were remarkably enriched. In vitro, TGF-β1 treatment augmented GSK3β expression in TECs, concomitant with dedifferentiation, cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase, excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix, and overproduction of profibrotic cytokines like PAI-1 and CTGF. All these profibrogenic phenotypes were largely abrogated by GSK3β inhibitors or by ectopic expression of a dominant-negative mutant of GSK3β but reinforced in cells expressing the constitutively active mutant of GSK3β. Mechanistically, GSK3β suppressed, whereas inhibiting GSK3β facilitated, the activity of cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), which competes for CREB-binding protein, a transcriptional coactivator essential for TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway to drive TECs profibrogenic plasticity. In vivo, in mice with folic acid-induced progressive CKD, targeting of GSK3β in renal tubules via genetic ablation or by microdose lithium mitigated the profibrogenic plasticity of TEC, concomitant with attenuated interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy. Collectively, GSK3β is likely a pragmatic therapeutic target for averting profibrogenic plasticity of TECs and improving renal fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bohan Chen
- Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA
| | - Pei Wang
- Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Xianhui Liang
- Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Chunming Jiang
- Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Yan Ge
- Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA
| | - Lance D Dworkin
- Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA
| | - Rujun Gong
- Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, RI, 02903, USA.
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Geng H, Lan R, Liu Y, Chen W, Wu M, Saikumar P, Weinberg JM, Venkatachalam MA. Proximal tubule LPA1 and LPA2 receptors use divergent signaling pathways to additively increase profibrotic cytokine secretion. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2021; 320:F359-F374. [PMID: 33427061 PMCID: PMC7988817 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00494.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) increases platelet-derived growth factor-B (PDGFB) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) production and secretion by proximal tubule (PT) cells through LPA2 receptor-Gqα-αvβ6-integrin-mediated activation of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFB1). LPA2, β6-integrin, PDGFB, and CTGF increase in kidneys after ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), coinciding with fibrosis. The TGFB1 receptor antagonist SD-208 prevents increases of β6-integrin, TGFB1-SMAD signaling, and PDGFB/CTGF expression after IRI and ameliorates fibrosis (Geng H, Lan R, Singha PK, Gilchrist A, Weinreb PH, Violette SM, Weinberg JM, Saikumar P, Venkatachalam MA. Am J Pathol 181: 1236-1249, 2012; Geng H, Lan R, Wang G, Siddiqi AR, Naski MC, Brooks AI, Barnes JL, Saikumar P, Weinberg JM, Venkatachalam MA. Am J Pathol 174: 1291-1308, 2009). We report now that LPA1 receptor signaling through epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-ERK1/2-activator protein-1 cooperates with LPA2-dependent TGFB1 signaling to additively increase PDGFB/CTGF production and secretion by PT cells. Conversely, inhibition of both pathways results in greater suppression of PDGFB/CTGF production and secretion and promotes greater PT cellular differentiation than inhibiting one pathway alone. Antagonism of the LPA-generating enzyme autotaxin suppressed signaling through both pathways. After IRI, kidneys showed not only more LPA2, nuclear SMAD2/3, and PDGFB/CTGF but also increased LPA1 and autotaxin proteins, together with enhanced EGFR/ERK1/2 activation. Remarkably, the TGFB1 receptor antagonist SD-208 prevented all of these abnormalities excepting increased LPA2. SD-208 inhibits only one arm of LPA signaling: LPA2-Gqα-αvβ6-integrin-dependent production of active TGFB1 and its receptor-bound downstream effects. Consequently, far-reaching protection by SD-208 against IRI-induced signaling alterations and tubule-interstitial pathology is not fully explained by our data. TGFB1-dependent feedforward modulation of LPA1 signaling is one possibility. SD-208 effects may also involve mitigation of injury caused by IRI-induced TGFB1 signaling in endothelial cells and monocytes. Our results have translational implications for using TGFB1 receptor antagonists, LPA1 and LPA2 inhibitors concurrently, and autotaxin inhibitors in acute kidney injury to prevent the development of chronic kidney disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Geng
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Rongpei Lan
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Yaguang Liu
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Meng Wu
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Pothana Saikumar
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Joel M Weinberg
- Department of Medicine, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Chen Z, Zhang N, Chu HY, Yu Y, Zhang ZK, Zhang G, Zhang BT. Connective Tissue Growth Factor: From Molecular Understandings to Drug Discovery. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:593269. [PMID: 33195264 PMCID: PMC7658337 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.593269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a key signaling and regulatory molecule involved in different biological processes, such as cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and wound healing, as well as multiple pathologies, such as tumor development and tissue fibrosis. Although the underlying mechanisms of CTGF remain incompletely understood, a commonly accepted theory is that the interactions between different protein domains in CTGF and other various regulatory proteins and ligands contribute to its variety of functions. Here, we highlight the structure of each domain of CTGF and its biology functions in physiological conditions. We further summarized main diseases that are deeply influenced by CTGF domains and the potential targets of these diseases. Finally, we address the advantages and disadvantages of current drugs targeting CTGF and provide the perspective for the drug discovery of the next generation of CTGF inhibitors based on aptamers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zihao Chen
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hang Yin Chu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuanyuan Yu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zong-Kang Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ge Zhang
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Bao-Ting Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Pakshir P, Noskovicova N, Lodyga M, Son DO, Schuster R, Goodwin A, Karvonen H, Hinz B. The myofibroblast at a glance. J Cell Sci 2020; 133:133/13/jcs227900. [DOI: 10.1242/jcs.227900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT
In 1971, Gabbiani and co-workers discovered and characterized the “modification of fibroblasts into cells which are capable of an active spasm” (contraction) in rat wound granulation tissue and, accordingly, named these cells ‘myofibroblasts’. Now, myofibroblasts are not only recognized for their physiological role in tissue repair but also as cells that are key in promoting the development of fibrosis in all organs. In this Cell Science at a Glance and the accompanying poster, we provide an overview of the current understanding of central aspects of myofibroblast biology, such as their definition, activation from different precursors, the involved signaling pathways and most widely used models to study their function. Myofibroblasts will be placed into context with their extracellular matrix and with other cell types communicating in the fibrotic environment. Furthermore, the challenges and strategies to target myofibroblasts in anti-fibrotic therapies are summarized to emphasize their crucial role in disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pardis Pakshir
- Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1G6, Canada
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Nina Noskovicova
- Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1G6, Canada
| | - Monika Lodyga
- Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1G6, Canada
| | - Dong Ok Son
- Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1G6, Canada
| | - Ronen Schuster
- Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1G6, Canada
| | - Amanda Goodwin
- Nottingham NIHR Respiratory Biomedical Research Unit, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Henna Karvonen
- Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1G6, Canada
- Respiratory Medicine, Research Unit of Internal Medicine, Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, POB 20, 90029 Oulu, Finland
| | - Boris Hinz
- Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1G6, Canada
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Kurata A, Tachibana Y, Takahashi T, Horiba N. Novel AXL-specific inhibitor ameliorates kidney dysfunction through the inhibition of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition of renal tubular cells. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0232055. [PMID: 32324796 PMCID: PMC7179907 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0232055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney diseases affect more than 800 million people globally and remain a high unmet need. Various therapeutic targets are currently under evaluation in pre-clinical and clinical studies. Because the growth arrest specific gene 6 (Gas6)/AXL pathway has been implicated in the pathogenesis of kidney diseases, we generated a novel selective and potent AXL inhibitor, CH5451098, and we evaluated its efficacy and elucidated its mechanism in an NEP25 mouse model that follows the clinical course of glomerular nephritis. In this model, CH5451098 significantly ameliorated the excretion of urinary albumin and elevation of serum creatinine. Additionally, it also inhibited tubulointerstitial fibrosis and tubular damage. To elucidate the mechanism behind these changes, we analyzed the effect of CH5451098 against transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) and Gas6, which is a ligand of AXL receptor, in NRK-52E renal tubular epithelial cells. CH5451098 inhibited epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) caused by the synergistic effects of TGFβ1 and Gas6 in NRK-52E cells. This inhibition was also observed in NEP25 mice. Taken together, these results suggest that CH5451098 could ameliorate kidney dysfunction in glomerular nephritis by inhibiting EMT in tubular cells. These results reveal that AXL strongly contributes to the disease progression of glomerular nephritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atsuo Kurata
- Research Division, Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Gotemba, Shizuoka, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Yukako Tachibana
- Research Division, Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Gotemba, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Tadakatsu Takahashi
- Research Division, Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Gotemba, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Naoshi Horiba
- Research Division, Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Gotemba, Shizuoka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Xiang H, Lu Y, Shao M, Wu T. Lysophosphatidic Acid Receptors: Biochemical and Clinical Implications in Different Diseases. J Cancer 2020; 11:3519-3535. [PMID: 32284748 PMCID: PMC7150451 DOI: 10.7150/jca.41841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA, 1-acyl-2-hemolytic-sn-glycerol-3-phosphate) extracted from membrane phospholipid is a kind of simple bioactive glycophospholipid, which has many biological functions such as stimulating cell multiplication, cytoskeleton recombination, cell survival, drug-fast, synthesis of DNA and ion transport. Current studies have shown that six G-coupled protein receptors (LPAR1-6) can be activated by LPA. They stimulate a variety of signal transduction pathways through heterotrimeric G-proteins (such as Gα12/13, Gαq/11, Gαi/o and GαS). LPA and its receptors play vital roles in cancers, nervous system diseases, cardiovascular diseases, liver diseases, metabolic diseases, etc. In this article, we discussed the structure of LPA receptors and elucidated their functions in various diseases, in order to better understand them and point out new therapeutic schemes for them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongjiao Xiang
- Center of Chinese Medical Therapy and Systems Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yifei Lu
- Center of Chinese Medical Therapy and Systems Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Mingmei Shao
- Center of Chinese Medical Therapy and Systems Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Tao Wu
- Center of Chinese Medical Therapy and Systems Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Yanagida K, Valentine WJ. Druggable Lysophospholipid Signaling Pathways. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1274:137-176. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-50621-6_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|
39
|
Li H, Shao F, Qian B, Sun Y, Huang Z, Ding Z, Dong L, Chen J, Zhang J, Zang Y. Upregulation of HER2 in tubular epithelial cell drives fibroblast activation and renal fibrosis. Kidney Int 2019; 96:674-688. [DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2019.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
40
|
Wang J, Zhu H, Huang L, Zhu X, Sha J, Li G, Ma G, Zhang W, Gu M, Guo Y. Nrf2 signaling attenuates epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and renal interstitial fibrosis via PI3K/Akt signaling pathways. Exp Mol Pathol 2019; 111:104296. [PMID: 31449784 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2019.104296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nrf2 constitutes a therapeutic reference point for renal fibrosis and chronic kidney diseases. Nrf2-related signaling pathways are recognized to temper endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in fibrotic tissue. Nevertheless, the mechanism by which Nrf2 mitigates renal interstitial fibrosis is imprecise. METHODS The relationship between Nrf2 and renal interstitial fibrosis was investigated using the unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) model of Nrf2-/- mice. The mice were separated into four groups, based on the treatment and intervention: Nrf2-/- + UUO, Nrf2-/- + Sham, WT + UUO and WT + Sham. Histological examination of renal tissue following the hematoxylin-eosin and Masson staining was carried out, as well as immunohistochemical staining. Additionally, to confirm the in vivo discoveries, in vitro experiments with HK-2 cells were also performed. RESULTS The Nrf2-/- + UUO group showed more severe renal interstitial fibrosis compared to the WT + UUO, Nrf2-/- + Sham and WT + Sham groups. Furthermore, the manifestations of α-SMA and Fibronectin significantly increased, and the manifestation of E-cadherin considerably decreased in kidney tissues from the group of Nrf2-/- + UUO, compared to the WT + UUO group. The Nrf2 protein level significantly decreased in HK-2 cells, in reaction to the TGF-β1 concentration. In addition, the overexpression of Nrf2 presented contradictory results. What is more, the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway was discovered to be activated in the proteins extracted from cultured cells, and treated with Nrf2 siRNA and kidney tissues from the Nrf2-/- + UUO group. CONCLUSIONS The results we obtained demonstrate that Nrf2 signaling pathway may perhaps offset the development of EMT, prompted by TGF-β1 and renal interstitial fibrosis. Likewise, the anti-fibrotic effect of Nrf2 was imparted by the inactivation of PI3K/Akt signaling. From our discoveries, we deliver new insight related to the prevention and treatment of kidney fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wang
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Haobo Zhu
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Liqu Huang
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Xiaojiang Zhu
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Jintong Sha
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Guogen Li
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Geng Ma
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Min Gu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.
| | - Yunfei Guo
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, China.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Lee JH, Kim D, Oh YS, Jun HS. Lysophosphatidic Acid Signaling in Diabetic Nephropathy. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20112850. [PMID: 31212704 PMCID: PMC6600156 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20112850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a bioactive phospholipid present in most tissues and body fluids. LPA acts through specific LPA receptors (LPAR1 to LPAR6) coupled with G protein. LPA binds to receptors and activates multiple cellular signaling pathways, subsequently exerting various biological functions, such as cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis. LPA also induces cell damage through complex overlapping pathways, including the generation of reactive oxygen species, inflammatory cytokines, and fibrosis. Several reports indicate that the LPA–LPAR axis plays an important role in various diseases, including kidney disease, lung fibrosis, and cancer. Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most common diabetic complications and the main risk factor for chronic kidney diseases, which mostly progress to end-stage renal disease. There is also growing evidence indicating that the LPA–LPAR axis also plays an important role in inducing pathological alterations of cell structure and function in the kidneys. In this review, we will discuss key mediators or signaling pathways activated by LPA and summarize recent research findings associated with DN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jong Han Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea.
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Korea.
| | - Donghee Kim
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Korea.
| | - Yoon Sin Oh
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Eulji University, Seongnam 13135, Korea.
| | - Hee-Sook Jun
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea.
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Korea.
- Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Gachon Medical and Convergence Institute, Incheon 21565, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
The involvement of autotaxin in renal interstitial fibrosis through regulation of fibroblast functions and induction of vascular leakage. Sci Rep 2019; 9:7414. [PMID: 31092842 PMCID: PMC6520387 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-43576-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The accumulation of fibroblasts is a critical step in the development of fibrosis, and lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) promotes fibrosis by regulating multiple fibroblast functions. Autotaxin (ATX) is a key LPA-producing enzyme, and we hypothesized that ATX contributes to the development of renal interstitial fibrosis through LPA-mediated effects on fibroblast functions. In a mouse model of renal interstitial fibrosis induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO), the levels of renal ATX protein and activity increased with the progression of fibrosis in ligated kidneys, despite concurrent reductions in renal ATX mRNA. UUO enhanced vascular permeability in the renal interstitium, and ATX protein localized to areas of vascular leak, suggesting that vascular leak allowed ATX to enter the renal interstitium. In vitro studies showed that ATX induces the migration and proliferation of renal fibroblasts and enhances the vascular permeability of endothelial monolayers. Finally, pharmacological inhibition of ATX partially attenuated renal interstitial fibrosis. These results suggest that during the development of renal fibrosis, ATX accumulates in the renal interstitium and drives fibroblast accumulation and promotes renal interstitial vascular leak, thereby partially contributing to the pathogenesis of renal interstitial fibrosis. Taken together, ATX inhibition may have the potential to be a novel therapeutic strategy to combat renal interstitial fibrosis.
Collapse
|
43
|
Nambiar S, Bong How S, Gummer J, Trengove R, Moodley Y. Metabolomics in chronic lung diseases. Respirology 2019; 25:139-148. [PMID: 30907495 DOI: 10.1111/resp.13530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Revised: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Chronic lung diseases represent a significant global burden. Their increasing incidence and complexity render a comprehensive, multidisciplinary and personalized approach to each patient, critically important. Most recently, unique biochemical pathways and disease markers have been identified through large-scale metabolomic studies. Metabolomics is the study of metabolic pathways and the measurement of unique biomolecules in a living system. Analysing samples from different compartments such as bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and plasma has proven useful for the characterization of a number of pathological conditions and offers promise as a clinical tool. For example, several studies using mass spectrometry (MS) have shown alterations in the sphingolipid metabolism of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) sufferers. In this article, we present a practical review of the application of metabolomics to the study of chronic lung diseases (CLD): COPD, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and asthma. The insights, which the analytical strategies employed in metabolomics, have provided to the dissection of the biochemistry of CLD and future clinical biomarkers are explored.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shabarinath Nambiar
- Separation Science and Metabolomics Laboratory, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Sze Bong How
- Separation Science and Metabolomics Laboratory, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia.,Metabolomics Australia, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Joel Gummer
- Separation Science and Metabolomics Laboratory, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia.,Metabolomics Australia, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Robert Trengove
- Separation Science and Metabolomics Laboratory, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia.,Metabolomics Australia, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Yuben Moodley
- School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.,Department of Respiratory Medicine, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia.,Institute of Respiratory Health, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Hinz B, McCulloch CA, Coelho NM. Mechanical regulation of myofibroblast phenoconversion and collagen contraction. Exp Cell Res 2019; 379:119-128. [PMID: 30910400 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2019.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Activated fibroblasts promote physiological wound repair following tissue injury. However, dysregulation of fibroblast activation contributes to the development of fibrosis by enhanced production and contraction of collagen-rich extracellular matrix. At the peak of their activities, fibroblasts undergo phenotypic conversion into highly contractile myofibroblasts by developing muscle-like features, including formation of contractile actin-myosin bundles. The phenotype and function of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts are mechanically regulated by matrix stiffness using a feedback control system that is integrated with the progress of tissue remodelling. The actomyosin contraction machinery and cell-matrix adhesion receptors are critical elements that are needed for mechanosensing by fibroblasts and the translation of mechanical signals into biological responses. Here, we focus on mechanical and chemical regulation of collagen contraction by fibroblasts and the involvement of these factors in their phenotypic conversion to myofibroblasts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Boris Hinz
- Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Canada; Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G 1G6, Canada
| | | | - Nuno M Coelho
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G 1G6, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Yang M, Chen G, Zhang X, Guo Y, Yu Y, Tian L, Chang S, Chen ZK. Inhibition of class I HDACs attenuates renal interstitial fibrosis in a murine model. Pharmacol Res 2019; 142:192-204. [PMID: 30807866 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 01/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Renal interstitial fibrosis is the most common of all the forms of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Research has shown that histone deacetylases (HDACs) participate in the process leading to renal fibrosis. However, the effects of class I HDAC inhibitors on the mechanisms of onset and progression of renal interstitial fibrosis are still unclear. Here, we present the effects and mechanisms of action of FK228 (a selective inhibitor of class I HDACs) in the murine model of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) and in vitro models. We investigated the antifibrotic role of FK228 in a murine model of UUO. We used two key effector cell populations, rat renal interstitial fibroblasts and renal tubular epithelial cells exposed to recombinant transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), to explore the mechanistic pathways among in vitro models. The results indicated that FK228 significantly suppressed the production of extracellular matrix (ECM) in both in vivo and in vitro models. FK228 inhibited renal fibroblast activation and proliferation and increased the acetylation of histone H3. We found that FK228 also inhibited the small mothers against decapentaplegic (Smad) and non-Smad signaling pathways. So FK228 could significantly suppress renal interstitial fibrosis via Smad and non-Smad pathways. FK228 may be the basis for a new and effective medicine for alleviating renal fibrosis in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Yang
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Gen Chen
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xue Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuliang Guo
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Yu
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Tian
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Sheng Chang
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China.
| | - Zhonghua Klaus Chen
- Institute of Organ Transplantation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Qi R, Yang C. Renal tubular epithelial cells: the neglected mediator of tubulointerstitial fibrosis after injury. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:1126. [PMID: 30425237 PMCID: PMC6233178 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-1157-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 10/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Renal fibrosis, especially tubulointerstitial fibrosis, is the inevitable outcome of all progressive chronic kidney diseases (CKDs) and exerts a great health burden worldwide. For a long time, interests in renal fibrosis have been concentrated on fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. However, in recent years, growing numbers of studies have focused on the role of tubular epithelial cells (TECs). TECs, rather than a victim or bystander, are probably a neglected mediator in renal fibrosis, responding to a variety of injuries. The maladaptive repair mechanisms of TECs may be the key point in this process. In this review, we will focus on the role of TECs in tubulointerstitial fibrosis. We will follow the fate of a tubular cell and depict the intracellular changes after injury. We will then discuss how the repair mechanism of tubular cells becomes maladaptive, and we will finally discuss the intercellular crosstalk in the interstitium that ultimately proceeds tubulointerstitial fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruochen Qi
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, P. R. China
- Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Cheng Yang
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, P. R. China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, 200032, Shanghai, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Ramazani Y, Knops N, Elmonem MA, Nguyen TQ, Arcolino FO, van den Heuvel L, Levtchenko E, Kuypers D, Goldschmeding R. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) from basics to clinics. Matrix Biol 2018; 68-69:44-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2018.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Revised: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
48
|
Ninou I, Magkrioti C, Aidinis V. Autotaxin in Pathophysiology and Pulmonary Fibrosis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2018; 5:180. [PMID: 29951481 PMCID: PMC6008954 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2018.00180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Lysophospholipid signaling is emerging as a druggable regulator of pathophysiological responses, and especially fibrosis, exemplified by the relative ongoing clinical trials in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) patients. In this review, we focus on ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase-phosphodiesterase 2 (ENPP2), or as more widely known Autotaxin (ATX), a secreted lysophospholipase D (lysoPLD) largely responsible for extracellular lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) production. In turn, LPA is a bioactive phospholipid autacoid, forming locally upon increased ATX levels and acting also locally through its receptors, likely guided by ATX's structural conformation and cell surface associations. Increased ATX activity levels have been detected in many inflammatory and fibroproliferative conditions, while genetic and pharmacologic studies have confirmed a pleiotropic participation of ATX/LPA in different processes and disorders. In pulmonary fibrosis, ATX levels rise in the broncheoalveolar fluid (BALF) and stimulate LPA production. LPA engagement of its receptors activate multiple G-protein mediated signal transduction pathways leading to different responses from pulmonary cells including the production of pro-inflammatory signals from stressed epithelial cells, the modulation of endothelial physiology, the activation of TGF signaling and the stimulation of fibroblast accumulation. Genetic or pharmacologic targeting of the ATX/LPA axis attenuated disease development in animal models, thus providing the proof of principle for therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Ninou
- Division of Immunology, Alexander Fleming Biomedical Sciences Research Center, Athens, Greece
| | - Christiana Magkrioti
- Division of Immunology, Alexander Fleming Biomedical Sciences Research Center, Athens, Greece
| | - Vassilis Aidinis
- Division of Immunology, Alexander Fleming Biomedical Sciences Research Center, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Eraky SM, El-Mesery M, El-Karef A, Eissa LA, El-Gayar AM. Silymarin and caffeine combination ameliorates experimentally-induced hepatic fibrosis through down-regulation of LPAR1 expression. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 101:49-57. [PMID: 29477472 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.02.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Lysophosphatidic acid is a lipid mediator that is supposed to be implicated in hepatic fibrosis. Silymarin and caffeine are natural compounds known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Our study aimed to explore the effect of silymarin, caffeine, and their combination on lysophosphatidic acid receptor 1 (LPAR1) pathway in thioacetamide (TAA)-induced hepatic fibrosis. MAIN METHODS Hepatic fibrosis was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats by intraperitoneal injection of 200 mg/kg of TAA twice a week for 8 weeks. Silymarin (50 mg/kg), caffeine (50 mg/kg), and their combination (50 mg/kg silymarin + 50 mg/kg caffeine) were orally given to rats every day for 8 weeks along with TAA injection. Liver functions were measured. Histopathological examination of liver tissues was performed using hematoxylin and eosin and Masson's trichrome staining. mRNA expressions of LPAR1, transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), and alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were measured using RT-PCR. LPAR1 tissue expression was scored using immunohistochemistry. KEY FINDINGS Silymarin, caffeine, and their combination significantly improved liver function. They caused significant decrease in fibrosis and necro-inflammatory scores. Combination of silymain and caffeine caused a significant decrease in the necro-inflammatory score than the single treatment with silymarin or caffeine. In addition, silymarin, caffeine, and their combination significantly decreased hepatic LPAR1, TGF-β1, CTGF, and α-SMA gene expressions and LPAR1 tissue expression. SIGNIFICANCE Silymarin, caffeine, and their combination protect against liver fibrosis through down-regulation of LPAR1, TGF-β1, and CTGF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salma M Eraky
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed El-Mesery
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Amro El-Karef
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Laila A Eissa
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
| | - Amal M El-Gayar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Rindlisbacher B, Schmid C, Geiser T, Bovet C, Funke-Chambour M. Serum metabolic profiling identified a distinct metabolic signature in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis - a potential biomarker role for LysoPC. Respir Res 2018; 19:7. [PMID: 29321022 PMCID: PMC5764001 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-018-0714-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a lethal lung disease of unknown etiology. Patients present loss of lung function, dyspnea and dry cough. Diagnosis requires compatible radiologic imaging and, in undetermined cases, invasive procedures such as bronchoscopy and surgical lung biopsy. The pathophysiological mechanisms of IPF are not completely understood. Lung injury with abnormal alveolar epithelial repair is thought to be a major cause for activation of profibrotic pathways in IPF. Metabolic signatures might indicate pathological pathways involved in disease development and progression. Reliable serum biomarker would help to improve both diagnostic approach and monitoring of drug effects. METHOD The global metabolic profiles measured by ultra high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS) of ten stable IPF patients were compared to the ones of ten healthy participants. The results were validated in an additional study of eleven IPF patients and ten healthy controls. RESULTS We discovered 10 discriminative metabolic features using multivariate and univariate statistical analysis. Among them, we identified one metabolite at a retention time of 9.59 min that was two times more abundant in the serum of IPF patients compared to healthy participants. Based on its ion pattern, a lysophosphatidylcholine (LysoPC) was proposed. LysoPC is a precursor of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) - a known mediator for lung fibrosis with its pathway currently being evaluated as new therapeutic drug target for IPF and other fibrotic diseases. CONCLUSIONS We identified a LysoPC by UHPLC-HRMS as potential biomarker in serum of patients with IPF. Further validation studies in a larger cohort are necessary to determine its role in IPF. TRIAL REGISTRATION Serum samples from IPF patients have been obtained within the clinical trial NCT02173145 at baseline and from the idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP) cohort study. The study was approved by the Swiss Ethics Committee, Bern (KEK 002/14 and 246/15 or PB_2016-01524).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Rindlisbacher
- University Institute of Clinical Chemistry, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia Schmid
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Geiser
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Cédric Bovet
- University Institute of Clinical Chemistry, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Manuela Funke-Chambour
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|