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Taherian M, Bayati P, Mojtabavi N. Stem cell-based therapy for fibrotic diseases: mechanisms and pathways. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:170. [PMID: 38886859 PMCID: PMC11184790 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03782-5] [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: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a pathological process, that could result in permanent scarring and impairment of the physiological function of the affected organ; this condition which is categorized under the term organ failure could affect various organs in different situations. The involvement of the major organs, such as the lungs, liver, kidney, heart, and skin, is associated with a high rate of morbidity and mortality across the world. Fibrotic disorders encompass a broad range of complications and could be traced to various illnesses and impairments; these could range from simple skin scars with beauty issues to severe rheumatologic or inflammatory disorders such as systemic sclerosis as well as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Besides, the overactivation of immune responses during any inflammatory condition causing tissue damage could contribute to the pathogenic fibrotic events accompanying the healing response; for instance, the inflammation resulting from tissue engraftment could cause the formation of fibrotic scars in the grafted tissue, even in cases where the immune system deals with hard to clear infections, fibrotic scars could follow and cause severe adverse effects. A good example of such a complication is post-Covid19 lung fibrosis which could impair the life of the affected individuals with extensive lung involvement. However, effective therapies that halt or slow down the progression of fibrosis are missing in the current clinical settings. Considering the immunomodulatory and regenerative potential of distinct stem cell types, their application as an anti-fibrotic agent, capable of attenuating tissue fibrosis has been investigated by many researchers. Although the majority of the studies addressing the anti-fibrotic effects of stem cells indicated their potent capabilities, the underlying mechanisms, and pathways by which these cells could impact fibrotic processes remain poorly understood. Here, we first, review the properties of various stem cell types utilized so far as anti-fibrotic treatments and discuss the challenges and limitations associated with their applications in clinical settings; then, we will summarize the general and organ-specific mechanisms and pathways contributing to tissue fibrosis; finally, we will describe the mechanisms and pathways considered to be employed by distinct stem cell types for exerting anti-fibrotic events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Taherian
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Paria Bayati
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nazanin Mojtabavi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Nakamura Y, Niho S, Shimizu Y. Cell-Based Therapy for Fibrosing Interstitial Lung Diseases, Current Status, and Potential Applications of iPSC-Derived Cells. Cells 2024; 13:893. [PMID: 38891026 PMCID: PMC11172081 DOI: 10.3390/cells13110893] [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: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibrosing interstitial lung diseases (FILDs), e.g., due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), are chronic progressive diseases with a poor prognosis. The management of these diseases is challenging and focuses mainly on the suppression of progression with anti-fibrotic drugs. Therefore, novel FILD treatments are needed. In recent years, cell-based therapy with various stem cells has been investigated for FILD, and the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been widely reported and clinical studies are also ongoing. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have also been reported to have an anti-fibrotic effect in FILD; however, these have not been as well studied as MSCs in terms of the mechanisms and side effects. While MSCs show a potent anti-fibrotic effect, the possibility of quality differences between donors and a stable supply in the case of donor shortage or reduced proliferative capacity after cell passaging needs to be considered. The application of iPSC-derived cells has the potential to overcome these problems and may lead to consistent quality of the cell product and stable product supply. This review provides an overview of iPSCs and FILD, followed by the current status of cell-based therapy for FILD, and then discusses the possibilities and perspectives of FILD therapy with iPSC-derived cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Nakamura
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Mibu 321-0293, Japan; (Y.N.); (S.N.)
- Center of Regenerative Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu 321-0293, Japan
| | - Seiji Niho
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Mibu 321-0293, Japan; (Y.N.); (S.N.)
| | - Yasuo Shimizu
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine and Clinical Immunology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Mibu 321-0293, Japan; (Y.N.); (S.N.)
- Center of Regenerative Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu 321-0293, Japan
- Respiratory Endoscopy Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu 321-0293, Japan
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Diwan R, Bhatt HN, Beaven E, Nurunnabi M. Emerging delivery approaches for targeted pulmonary fibrosis treatment. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 204:115147. [PMID: 38065244 PMCID: PMC10787600 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.115147] [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: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/01/2024]
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a progressive, and life-threatening interstitial lung disease which causes scarring in the lung parenchyma and thereby affects architecture and functioning of lung. It is an irreversible damage to lung functioning which is related to epithelial cell injury, immense accumulation of immune cells and inflammatory cytokines, and irregular recruitment of extracellular matrix. The inflammatory cytokines trigger the differentiation of fibroblasts into activated fibroblasts, also known as myofibroblasts, which further increase the production and deposition of collagen at the injury sites in the lung. Despite the significant morbidity and mortality associated with PF, there is no available treatment that efficiently and effectively treats the disease by reversing their underlying pathologies. In recent years, many therapeutic regimens, for instance, rho kinase inhibitors, Smad signaling pathway inhibitors, p38, BCL-xL/ BCL-2 and JNK pathway inhibitors, have been found to be potent and effective in treating PF, in preclinical stages. However, due to non-selectivity and non-specificity, the therapeutic molecules also result in toxicity mediated severe side effects. Hence, this review demonstrates recent advances on PF pathology, mechanism and targets related to PF, development of various drug delivery systems based on small molecules, RNAs, oligonucleotides, peptides, antibodies, exosomes, and stem cells for the treatment of PF and the progress of various therapeutic treatments in clinical trials to advance PF treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rimpy Diwan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, United States
| | - Himanshu N Bhatt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, United States
| | - Elfa Beaven
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, United States
| | - Md Nurunnabi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, United States; The Border Biomedical Research Center, The University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, United States.
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Liu H, Yang C, Gao Y, Zhang X, Wang M, Yu X, Wang W, Xie L, Tang P, Yin X, Bai C, Zhang L. Macrophage-based delivery of anti-fibrotic proteins alleviates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Bioeng Transl Med 2023; 8:e10555. [PMID: 37693057 PMCID: PMC10486326 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal interstitial lung disease characterized by chronic, progressive, and fibrotic lung injury. Although remarkable progress has been made toward understanding the pathogenesis of PF, finding more effective treatments for this fatal disease remains a challenge. In this study, we describe an innovative macrophage-based approach to deliver anti-fibrotic protein to the lung and inhibit PF in a mouse model of bleomycin (BLM)-induced lung injury. We engineered macrophages to continuously secrete three types of proteins: interleukin-10, which prevents inflammation; TGFRcFc, a soluble truncated TGF-βR2 that blocks TGF-β; and CD147, which induces matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and causes collagen degradation. Infusing these engineered macrophages into the lungs of BLM-induced PF mouse models in an optimal pattern significantly ameliorated PF in mice. Specifically, the most effective therapeutic outcome was achieved by infusing IL-10-secreting macrophages on day 1, followed by TGFRcFc-secreting macrophages on day 7 and CD147-secreting macrophages on day 14 into the same mice after BLM treatment. Our data suggest that macrophage-based delivery of anti-fibrotic proteins to the lungs is a promising therapy for fibrotic lung disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiying Liu
- College of Pulmonary and Critical Medicine, The 8th Medical CentreChinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Medical School of Chinese PLABeijingChina
| | - Cuiping Yang
- College of Pulmonary and Critical Medicine, The 8th Medical CentreChinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Medical School of Chinese PLABeijingChina
| | - Yun Gao
- College of Pharmaceutical and Biological EngineeringShenyang University of Chemical TechnologyShenyangLiaoningChina
| | - Xueli Zhang
- Department of PathologyThe 5th Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Min Wang
- Graduate School of Dalian Medical UniversityDalianLiaoningChina
| | - Xinting Yu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine307 Clinical College, Anhui Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Weidong Wang
- Medical School of Chinese PLABeijingChina
- Research Center of BioengineeringThe Medical Innovation Research Division of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Lixin Xie
- College of Pulmonary and Critical Medicine, The 8th Medical CentreChinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Medical School of Chinese PLABeijingChina
| | - Ping Tang
- Department of RespiratoryShenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Clinical Medical AcademyShenzhenChina
| | - Xiushan Yin
- College of Pharmaceutical and Biological EngineeringShenyang University of Chemical TechnologyShenyangLiaoningChina
- RocRock Biotechnology (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd.ShenzhenChina
| | - Changqing Bai
- Department of RespiratoryShenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Clinical Medical AcademyShenzhenChina
| | - Luo Zhang
- Medical School of Chinese PLABeijingChina
- Research Center of BioengineeringThe Medical Innovation Research Division of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
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Secretome of hESC-Derived MSC-like Immune and Matrix Regulatory Cells Mitigate Pulmonary Fibrosis through Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020463. [PMID: 36830999 PMCID: PMC9953085 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020463] [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: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress and inflammation are major drivers in the pathogenesis and progression of pulmonary fibrosis (PF). The mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) secretome has regenerative potential and immunomodulatory functions. Human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived MSC-like immune and matrix regulatory cells (IMRCs) are manufacturable with large-scale good manufacturing practice (GMP) preparation. In the present study, the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties and the therapeutic effect of the secretome of hESC-MSC-IMRC-derived conditioned culture medium (CM) (hESC-MSC-IMRC-CM) were investigated. Results revealed the capacities of hESC-MSC-IMRC-CM to reduce bleomycin (BLM)-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS), extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in A549 cells. The administration of concentrated hESC-MSC-IMRC-CM significantly alleviated the pathogenesis of PF in lungs of BLM-injured mice, as accessed by pathohistological changes and the expression of ECM and EMT. A mechanistic study further demonstrated that the hESC-MSC-IMRC-CM was able to inhibit BLM-induced ROS and pro-inflammatory cytokines, accompanied by a reduced expression of Nox4, Nrf2, Ho-1, and components of the Tlr4/MyD88 signaling cascade. These results provide a proof of concept for the hESC-MSC-IMRC-derived secretome treatment of PF, in part mediated by their antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. This study thus reinforces the development of ready-to-use, cell-free hESC-MSC-IMRC secretome biomedicine for the treatment of PF in clinical settings.
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Ishida Y, Kuninaka Y, Mukaida N, Kondo T. Immune Mechanisms of Pulmonary Fibrosis with Bleomycin. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043149. [PMID: 36834561 PMCID: PMC9958859 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis and structural remodeling of the lung tissue can significantly impair lung function, often with fatal consequences. The etiology of pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is diverse and includes different triggers such as allergens, chemicals, radiation, and environmental particles. However, the cause of idiopathic PF (IPF), one of the most common forms of PF, remains unknown. Experimental models have been developed to study the mechanisms of PF, and the murine bleomycin (BLM) model has received the most attention. Epithelial injury, inflammation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), myofibroblast activation, and repeated tissue injury are important initiators of fibrosis. In this review, we examined the common mechanisms of lung wound-healing responses after BLM-induced lung injury as well as the pathogenesis of the most common PF. A three-stage model of wound repair involving injury, inflammation, and repair is outlined. Dysregulation of one or more of these three phases has been reported in many cases of PF. We reviewed the literature investigating PF pathogenesis, and the role of cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and matrix feeding in an animal model of BLM-induced PF.
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Deciphering the Role of miR-200c-3p in Type 1 Diabetes (Subclinical Cardiovascular Disease) and Its Correlation with Inflammation and Vascular Health. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415659. [PMID: 36555301 PMCID: PMC9778946 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415659] [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: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncomplicated type 1 diabetes (T1DM) displays all features of subclinical cardiovascular disease (CVD) as is associated with inflammation, endothelial dysfunction and low endothelial progenitor cells. MiR-200c-3p has been shown in animal tissues to be pro-atherogenic. We aimed to explore the role of miR-200c-3p in T1DM, a model of subclinical CVD. 19 samples from T1DM patients and 20 from matched controls (HC) were analyzed. MiR-200c in plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was measured by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The results were compared with the following indices of vascular health: circulating endothelial progenitor cells, (CD45dimCD34+VEGFR-2+ or CD45dimCD34+CD133+) and proangiogenic cells (PACs). MiR-200c-3p was significantly downregulated in PBMCs but not in plasma in T1DM. There was a significant negative correlation between the expression of miR-200c-3p and HbA1c, interleukin-7 (IL-7), vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C), and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, and a positive correlation with CD45dimCD34+VEGFR-2+, CD45dimCD34+CD133+ and PACs. Receiver operating curve analyses showed miR-200c-3p as a biomarker for T1DM with significant downregulation of miR-200c-3p, possibly defining subclinical CVD at HbA1c > 44.8 mmol/mol (6.2%). In conclusion, downregulated miR-200c-3p in T1DM correlated with diabetic control, VEGF signaling, inflammation, vascular health and targeting VEGF signaling, and may define subclinical CVD. Further prospective studies are necessary to validate our findings in a larger group of patients.
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Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a chronic and relentlessly progressive interstitial lung disease in which the accumulation of fibroblasts and extracellular matrix (ECM) induces the destruction of normal alveolar structures, ultimately leading to respiratory failure. Patients with advanced PF are unable to perform physical labor and often have concomitant cough and dyspnea, which markedly impair their quality of life. However, there is a paucity of available pharmacological therapies, and to date, lung transplantation remains the only possible treatment for patients suffering from end-stage PF; moreover, the complexity of transplantation surgery and the paucity of donors greatly restrict the application of this treatment. Therefore, there is a pressing need for alternative therapeutic strategies for this complex disease. Due to their capacity for pluripotency and paracrine actions, stem cells are promising therapeutic agents for the treatment of interstitial lung disease, and an extensive body of literature supports the therapeutic efficacy of stem cells in lung fibrosis. Although stem cell transplantation may play an important role in the treatment of PF, some key issues, such as safety and therapeutic efficacy, remain to be resolved. In this review, we summarize recent preclinical and clinical studies on the stem cell-mediated regeneration of fibrotic lungs and present an analysis of concerning issues related to stem cell therapy to guide therapeutic development for this complex disease.
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Promises and Challenges of Cell-Based Therapies to Promote Lung Regeneration in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11162595. [PMID: 36010671 PMCID: PMC9406501 DOI: 10.3390/cells11162595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The lung epithelium is constantly exposed to harmful agents present in the air that we breathe making it highly susceptible to damage. However, in instances of injury to the lung, it exhibits a remarkable capacity to regenerate injured tissue thanks to the presence of distinct stem and progenitor cell populations along the airway and alveolar epithelium. Mechanisms of repair are affected in chronic lung diseases such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a progressive life-threatening disorder characterized by the loss of alveolar structures, wherein excessive deposition of extracellular matrix components cause the distortion of tissue architecture that limits lung function and impairs tissue repair. Here, we review the most recent findings of a study of epithelial cells with progenitor behavior that contribute to tissue repair as well as the mechanisms involved in mouse and human lung regeneration. In addition, we describe therapeutic strategies to promote or induce lung regeneration and the cell-based strategies tested in clinical trials for the treatment of IPF. Finally, we discuss the challenges, concerns and limitations of applying these therapies of cell transplantation in IPF patients. Further research is still required to develop successful strategies focused on cell-based therapies to promote lung regeneration to restore lung architecture and function.
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Jinlian Xiaodu Decoction Protects against Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis in Rats. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:4206364. [PMID: 35783517 PMCID: PMC9246571 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4206364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Jinlian Xiaodu Decoction (JXD) was reported to have anti-inflammatory and lung protection effects. This study aimed to explore the role and mechanism of JXD on bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis (PF). Methods The UHPLC-Q/TOF-MS system was applied to analyze JXD composition. The PF model was established by BLM intratracheal administration in Wistar rats. Subsequently, BLM-treated rats were intragastrically administered with dexamethasone (DXM, 1 g/kg/d) or JXD (3.5, 7 or 14 g/kg/d). Next, the lung coefficient was calculated; H&E, Masson, and TUNEL staining were used for lung morphological analysis and apoptosis assessment. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) biochemical analysis was conducted to count the inflammatory cell number. The expression of inflammatory factors mRNA in the lung tissue and BALF were measured by qRT-PCR. The content and activity of oxidative stress-related proteins were detected. The expression of PF-related, apoptosis-related, and TGF-β1 pathway-related protein were assessed by immunohistochemistry or Western blot. Results Twenty-six compounds were identified from JXD in both negative and positive ion modes. In BLM-induced rats, JXD reduced the lung coefficient and alleviated PF injury. JXD decreased inflammatory cell count and TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and MCP-1 content. Meanwhile, JXD blunted BLM-induced oxidative stress and a high level of HYP. Furthermore, TUNEL analysis found that JXD inhibited cell apoptosis and increased Bcl-2/Bax ratio in BLM-induced lung. Moreover, JXD relieved the role of BLM on α-SMA, TGF-β1, collagen I, fibronectin, E-cadherin protein expression, and the phosphorylation of Smad2/3 in PF rat. Conclusion This study revealed the protective effect and possible element of JXD on BLM-caused PF.
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Filidou E, Kandilogiannakis L, Tarapatzi G, Spathakis M, Steiropoulos P, Mikroulis D, Arvanitidis K, Paspaliaris V, Kolios G. Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Fibrotic Effect of Immortalized Mesenchymal-Stem-Cell-Derived Conditioned Medium on Human Lung Myofibroblasts and Epithelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094570. [PMID: 35562961 PMCID: PMC9102072 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is caused by progressive lung tissue impairment due to extended chronic fibrosis, and it has no known effective treatment. The use of conditioned media (CM) from an immortalized human adipose mesenchymal stem cell line could be a promising therapeutic strategy, as it can reduce both fibrotic and inflammatory responses. We aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effect of CM on human pulmonary subepithelial myofibroblasts (hPSM) and on A549 pulmonary epithelial cells, treated with pro-inflammatory or pro-fibrotic mediators. CM inhibited the proinflammatory cytokine-induced mRNA and protein production of various chemokines in both hPSMs and A549 cells. It also downregulated the mRNA expression of IL-1α, but upregulated IL-1β and IL-6 mRNA production in both cell types. CM downregulated the pro-fibrotic-induced mRNA expression of collagen Type III and the migration rate of hPSMs, but upregulated fibronectin mRNA production and the total protein collagen secretion. CM's direct effect on the chemotaxis and cell recruitment of immune-associated cells, and its indirect effect on fibrosis through the significant decrease in the migration capacity of hPSMs, makes it a plausible candidate for further development towards a therapeutic treatment for IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirini Filidou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece; (E.F.); (L.K.); (G.T.); (M.S.); (K.A.); (G.K.)
| | - Leonidas Kandilogiannakis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece; (E.F.); (L.K.); (G.T.); (M.S.); (K.A.); (G.K.)
| | - Gesthimani Tarapatzi
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece; (E.F.); (L.K.); (G.T.); (M.S.); (K.A.); (G.K.)
| | - Michail Spathakis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece; (E.F.); (L.K.); (G.T.); (M.S.); (K.A.); (G.K.)
| | - Paschalis Steiropoulos
- Department of Pneumonology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
| | - Dimitrios Mikroulis
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Democritus University of Thrace, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Arvanitidis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece; (E.F.); (L.K.); (G.T.); (M.S.); (K.A.); (G.K.)
| | - Vasilis Paspaliaris
- Vasilis Paspaliaris, Tithon Biotech Inc., 11440 West Bernardo Court, Suite 300, San Diego, CA 92127, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +1-88-8780-2639
| | - George Kolios
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece; (E.F.); (L.K.); (G.T.); (M.S.); (K.A.); (G.K.)
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Moradinasab S, Pourbagheri-Sigaroodi A, Zafari P, Ghaffari SH, Bashash D. Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) and MSC-derived extracellular vesicles in COVID-19-induced ARDS: Mechanisms of action, research progress, challenges, and opportunities. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 97:107694. [PMID: 33932694 PMCID: PMC8079337 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In late 2019, a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) emerged in Wuhan city, Hubei province, China. Rapidly escalated into a worldwide pandemic, it has caused an unprecedented and devastating situation on the global public health and society economy. The severity of recent coronavirus disease, abbreviated to COVID-19, seems to be mostly associated with the patients' immune response. In this vein, mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) have been suggested as a worth-considering option against COVID-19 as their therapeutic properties are mainly displayed in immunomodulation and anti-inflammatory effects. Indeed, administration of MSCs can attenuate cytokine storm and enhance alveolar fluid clearance, endothelial recovery, and anti-fibrotic regeneration. Despite advantages attributed to MSCs application in lung injuries, there are still several issues __foremost probability of malignant transformation and incidence of MSCs-related coagulopathy__ which should be resolved for the successful application of MSC therapy in COVID-19. In the present study, we review the historical evidence of successful use of MSCs and MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We also take a look at MSCs mechanisms of action in the treatment of viral infections, and then through studying both the dark and bright sides of this approach, we provide a thorough discussion if MSC therapy might be a promising therapeutic approach in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Moradinasab
- Iranian Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atieh Pourbagheri-Sigaroodi
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Zafari
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Seyed H Ghaffari
- Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Shariati Hospital, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Davood Bashash
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Yu C, Chen Z, Li X, Bao H, Wang Y, Zhang B, Huang J, Zhang Z. pH-Triggered Aggregation of Gold Nanoparticles for Enhanced Labeling and Long-Term CT Imaging Tracking of Stem Cells in Pulmonary Fibrosis Treatment. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2021; 17:e2101861. [PMID: 34235846 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202101861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) pose a great challenge in the development of nanotracers that can self-adaptively alter their properties in response to certain cellular environments for long-term stem cell tracking. Herein, pH-sensitive Au nanotracers (CPP-PSD@Au) are fabricated by sequential coupling of AuNPs with sulfonamide-based polymer (PSD) and cell-penetrating peptide (CPP), which can be efficiently internalized by mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and undergo pH-induced self-assembly in endosomes, facilitating long-term computed tomography (CT) imaging tracking MSCs in a murine model of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Using the CPP-PSD@Au, the transplanted MSCs for the first time can be monitored with CT imaging for up to 35 days after transplantation into the lung of IPF mice, clearly elucidating the migration process of MSCs in vivo. Moreover, we preliminarily explored the mechanism of the CPP-PSD@Au labeled MSCs in the alleviation of IPF, including recovery of alveolar integrity, decrease of collagen deposition, as well as down-regulation of relevant cytokine level. This work facilitates our understanding of the behavior and effect of MSCs in the therapy of IPF, thereby providing an important insight into the stem cell-based treatment of lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenggong Yu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
- School of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Zhongjin Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Xiaodi Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
- School of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Hongying Bao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
- School of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Yujie Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Jie Huang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
- School of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Zhijun Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
- School of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
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14
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Samarelli AV, Tonelli R, Heijink I, Martin Medina A, Marchioni A, Bruzzi G, Castaniere I, Andrisani D, Gozzi F, Manicardi L, Moretti A, Cerri S, Fantini R, Tabbì L, Nani C, Mastrolia I, Weiss DJ, Dominici M, Clini E. Dissecting the Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Cause or Solution. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:692551. [PMID: 34290610 PMCID: PMC8287856 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.692551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is one of the most aggressive forms of idiopathic interstitial pneumonias, characterized by chronic and progressive fibrosis subverting the lung's architecture, pulmonary functional decline, progressive respiratory failure, and high mortality (median survival 3 years after diagnosis). Among the mechanisms associated with disease onset and progression, it has been hypothesized that IPF lungs might be affected either by a regenerative deficit of the alveolar epithelium or by a dysregulation of repair mechanisms in response to alveolar and vascular damage. This latter might be related to the progressive dysfunction and exhaustion of the resident stem cells together with a process of cellular and tissue senescence. The role of endogenous mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) resident in the lung in the homeostasis of these mechanisms is still a matter of debate. Although endogenous MSCs may play a critical role in lung repair, they are also involved in cellular senescence and tissue ageing processes with loss of lung regenerative potential. In addition, MSCs have immunomodulatory properties and can secrete anti-fibrotic factors. Thus, MSCs obtained from other sources administered systemically or directly into the lung have been investigated for lung epithelial repair and have been explored as a potential therapy for the treatment of lung diseases including IPF. Given these multiple potential roles of MSCs, this review aims both at elucidating the role of resident lung MSCs in IPF pathogenesis and the role of administered MSCs from other sources for potential IPF therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Valeria Samarelli
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- University Hospital of Modena, Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto Tonelli
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- University Hospital of Modena, Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Irene Heijink
- University of Groningen, Departments of Pathology & Medical Biology and Pulmonology, GRIAC Research Institute, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Aina Martin Medina
- IdISBa (Institut d’Investigacio Sanitaria Illes Balears), Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Alessandro Marchioni
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- University Hospital of Modena, Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Bruzzi
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- University Hospital of Modena, Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Ivana Castaniere
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- University Hospital of Modena, Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Dario Andrisani
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- University Hospital of Modena, Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Filippo Gozzi
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- University Hospital of Modena, Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Linda Manicardi
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- University Hospital of Modena, Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio Moretti
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- University Hospital of Modena, Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Stefania Cerri
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- University Hospital of Modena, Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Riccardo Fantini
- University Hospital of Modena, Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Luca Tabbì
- University Hospital of Modena, Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Chiara Nani
- University Hospital of Modena, Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Ilenia Mastrolia
- Laboratory of Cellular Therapy, Program of Cell Therapy and Immuno-Oncology, Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniel J. Weiss
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Enrico Clini
- Laboratory of Cell Therapies and Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults University Hospital of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- University Hospital of Modena, Respiratory Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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15
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Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a devastating disease characterized by progressive lung scarring due to unknown injurious stimuli ultimately leading to respiratory failure. Diagnosis is complex and requires a combination of clinical, laboratory, radiological, and histological investigations, along with exclusion of known causes of lung fibrosis. The current understanding of the disease etiology suggests an interaction between genetic factors and epigenetic alterations in susceptible, older individuals. Prognosis is dismal and current treatment options include anti-fibrotic agents that only slow down disease progression and carry considerable side effects that hamper patients' quality of life. Therefore, the need for new, more effective treatments, alone or in combination with existing pharmacotherapy, is sorely needed. Regenerative medicine, the potential use of cell therapies to treat destructive diseases that cause architectural distortion to the target organ, has also emerged as an alternative therapeutic for lung diseases with unfavorable prognosis such as IPF. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and type II alveolar epithelial cells (AEC2s) have been used and their safety has been demonstrated. In the case of MSCs, both homogenic and allogeneic sources have been used and both are considered viable options without immunosuppressive therapy, taking into consideration the absence of immunogenicity and HLA response. AEC2s have been used in one trial with promising results but their use requires a deceased donor and immunosuppressive pre-treatment. In this review, we briefly summarize the current state of knowledge regarding the pathogenesis of IPF, and the background and rationale for using MSCs or AEC2s as potential treatment options. We list and describe the clinical trials completed to date and provide a comparison of their methods and results as well as a possible way forward.
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16
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Guo H, Su Y, Deng F. Effects of Mesenchymal Stromal Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Lung Diseases: Current Status and Future Perspectives. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 17:440-458. [PMID: 33211245 PMCID: PMC7675022 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-020-10085-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) as a kind of pluripotent adult stem cell have shown great therapeutic potential in relation to many diseases in anti-inflammation and regeneration. The results of preclinical experiments and clinical trials have demonstrated that MSC-derived secretome possesses immunoregulatory and reparative abilities and that this secretome is capable of modulating innate and adaptive immunity and reprograming the metabolism of recipient cells via paracrine mechanisms. It has been recognized that MSC-derived secretome, including soluble proteins (cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, proteases), extracellular vesicles (EVs) and organelles, plays a key role in tissue repair and regeneration in bronchopulmonary dysplasia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), pulmonary arterial hypertension, and silicosis. This review summarizes the known functions of MSC-EV modulation in lung diseases, coupled with the future challenges of MSC-EVs as a new pharmaceutical agent. The identification of underlying mechanisms for MSC-EV might provide a new direction for MSC-centered treatment in lung diseases.Graphical abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Guo
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218 Ji-Xi Road, 230022 Hefei, Anhui Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Yue Su
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7BL UK
| | - Fang Deng
- Department of Nephrology, Anhui Provincial Children’s Hospital, Hefei City, Anhui Province 230022 People’s Republic of China
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17
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Yang S, Liu P, Jiang Y, Wang Z, Dai H, Wang C. Therapeutic Applications of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:639657. [PMID: 33768094 PMCID: PMC7985078 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.639657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is an interstitial disease of unknown etiology characterized by progressive pulmonary fibrosis. Pirfenidone and nintedanib are the only drugs that can prolong the time to disease progression, slow down the decline in lung function, and prolong survival. However, they do not offer a cure and are associated with tolerability issues. The pluripotency of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their ability to regulate immunity, inhibit inflammation, and promote epithelial tissue repair highlight the promise of MSC therapy for treating interstitial lung disease. However, optimal protocols are lacking for multi-parameter selection in MSC therapy. This review summarizes preclinical studies on MSC transplantation for the treatment of interstitial lung disease and clinical studies with known results. An analysis of relevant factors for the optimization of treatment plans is presented, including MSCs with different sources, administration routes and timing, dosages, frequencies, and pretreatments with MSCs. This review proposes an optimized plan for guiding the design of future clinical research to identify therapeutic options for this complex disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengnan Yang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Center of Respiratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Center for Respiratory Medicine, Beijing, China.,Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Beijing, China.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Tobacco Cessation and Respiratory Diseases Prevention, Beijing, China.,Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Peipei Liu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Center of Respiratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China.,Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yale Jiang
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Zai Wang
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Huaping Dai
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Center of Respiratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Center for Respiratory Medicine, Beijing, China.,Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Beijing, China.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Tobacco Cessation and Respiratory Diseases Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Center of Respiratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Center for Respiratory Medicine, Beijing, China.,Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Beijing, China.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Tobacco Cessation and Respiratory Diseases Prevention, Beijing, China.,Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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18
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Papait A, Cargnoni A, Sheleg M, Silini AR, Kunis G, Ofir R, Parolini O. Perinatal Cells: A Promising COVID-19 Therapy? Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 8:619980. [PMID: 33520970 PMCID: PMC7841388 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.619980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has become a priority in the health systems of all nations worldwide. In fact, there are currently no specific drugs or preventive treatments such as vaccines. The numerous therapies available today aim to counteract the symptoms caused by the viral infection that in some subjects can evolve causing acute respiratory distress syndromes (ARDS) with consequent admission to intensive care unit. The exacerbated response of the immune system, through cytokine storm, causes extensive damage to the lung tissue, with the formation of edema, fibrotic tissues and susceptibility to opportunistic infections. The inflammatory picture is also aggravated by disseminated intravascular coagulation which worsens the damage not only to the respiratory system, but also to other organs. In this context, perinatal cells represent a valid strategy thanks to their strong immunomodulatory potential, their safety profile, the ability to reduce fibrosis and stimulate reparative processes. Furthermore, perinatal cells exert antibacterial and antiviral actions. This review therefore provides an overview of the characteristics of perinatal cells with a particular focus on the beneficial effects that they could have in patients with COVID-19, and more specifically for their potential use in the treatment of ARDS and sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Papait
- Department of Life Science and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza-Istituto Ospedaliero, Brescia, Italy
| | - Anna Cargnoni
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza-Istituto Ospedaliero, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Antonietta R. Silini
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza-Istituto Ospedaliero, Brescia, Italy
| | | | | | - Ornella Parolini
- Department of Life Science and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “Agostino Gemelli” IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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19
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Ellison-Hughes GM, Colley L, O'Brien KA, Roberts KA, Agbaedeng TA, Ross MD. The Role of MSC Therapy in Attenuating the Damaging Effects of the Cytokine Storm Induced by COVID-19 on the Heart and Cardiovascular System. Front Cardiovasc Med 2020; 7:602183. [PMID: 33363221 PMCID: PMC7756089 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2020.602183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The global pandemic of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has led to 47 m infected cases and 1. 2 m (2.6%) deaths. A hallmark of more severe cases of SARS-CoV-2 in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) appears to be a virally-induced over-activation or unregulated response of the immune system, termed a "cytokine storm," featuring elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-2, IL-6, IL-7, IL-22, CXCL10, and TNFα. Whilst the lungs are the primary site of infection for SARS-CoV-2, in more severe cases its effects can be detected in multiple organ systems. Indeed, many COVID-19 positive patients develop cardiovascular complications, such as myocardial injury, myocarditis, cardiac arrhythmia, and thromboembolism, which are associated with higher mortality. Drug and cell therapies targeting immunosuppression have been suggested to help combat the cytokine storm. In particular, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), owing to their powerful immunomodulatory ability, have shown promise in early clinical studies to avoid, prevent or attenuate the cytokine storm. In this review, we will discuss the mechanistic underpinnings of the cytokine storm on the cardiovascular system, and how MSCs potentially attenuate the damage caused by the cytokine storm induced by COVID-19. We will also address how MSC transplantation could alleviate the long-term complications seen in some COVID-19 patients, such as improving tissue repair and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgina M. Ellison-Hughes
- Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, School of Basic and Medical Biosciences, King's College London Guy's Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | - Liam Colley
- School of Sport, Health, and Exercise Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, United Kingdom
| | - Katie A. O'Brien
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsty A. Roberts
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas A. Agbaedeng
- Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, School of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Mark D. Ross
- School of Applied Sciences, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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20
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Abdel Halim AS, Ahmed HH, Aglan HA, Abdel Hamid FF, Mohamed MR. Role of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells in alleviating pulmonary epithelium damage and extracellular matrix remodeling in a rat model of lung fibrosis induced by amiodarone. Biotech Histochem 2020; 96:418-430. [PMID: 32909452 DOI: 10.1080/10520295.2020.1814966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic role of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in cases of amiodarone (AD) induced pulmonary fibrosis (PF) has not been well studied. Also, the period required by MSCs to attain full therapeutic effectiveness has not yet been assessed. We investigated the potential curative effect of bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) and conditioned media (CM) from BM-MSCs on AD induced PF by focusing on pulmonary epithelium injury and repair, and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. We used 64 Wistar rats divided into eight groups: negative control group; PF group; three PF groups treated with BM-MSCs for 1, 2 or 4 months; and three PF groups treated with CM for 1, 2 and 4 months. Serum levels of Clara cell secretory protein (CC16) and keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) were measured. Gene expression of type I collagen (COL1A1) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was evaluated in pulmonary tissue. Treatment of PF challenged rats with BM-MSCs or CM caused reduced CC16 levels, increased KGF levels, reduced expression of COL1A1 and CTGF, histological improvement following lung injury, and decreased collagen accumulation. Treatment with BM-MSCs exhibited greater amelioration of PF than CM. BM-MSCs or CM treatment for 2 and 4 months exhibited better resolution of fibrosis than treatment for 1 month. BM-MSCs are promising for treating PF due to their attenuation of ECM deposition in addition to alleviating pulmonary epithelium damage and initiating its repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyaa S Abdel Halim
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hanaa H Ahmed
- Hormones Department, Medical Research Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt.,Stem Cells Lab, Center of Excellence for Advanced Sciences, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Hadeer A Aglan
- Hormones Department, Medical Research Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt.,Stem Cells Lab, Center of Excellence for Advanced Sciences, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Fatma F Abdel Hamid
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed R Mohamed
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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21
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Yen BL, Yen ML, Wang LT, Liu KJ, Sytwu HK. Current status of mesenchymal stem cell therapy for immune/inflammatory lung disorders: Gleaning insights for possible use in COVID-19. Stem Cells Transl Med 2020; 9:1163-1173. [PMID: 32526079 PMCID: PMC7300965 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.20-0186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The broad immunomodulatory properties of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have allowed for wide application in regenerative medicine as well as immune/inflammatory diseases, including unmatched allogeneic use. The novel coronavirus disease COVID‐19 has unleashed a pandemic in record time accompanied by an alarming mortality rate mainly due to pulmonary injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Because there are no effective preventive or curative therapies currently, MSC therapy (MSCT) has emerged as a possible candidate despite the lack of preclinical data of MSCs for COVID‐19. Interestingly, MSCT preclinical data specifically on immune/inflammatory disorders of the lungs were among the earliest to be reported in 2003, with the first clinical use of MSCT for graft‐vs‐host disease reported in 2004. Since these first reports, preclinical data showing beneficial effects of MSC immunomodulation have accumulated substantially, and as a consequence, over a third of MSCT clinical trials now target immune/inflammatory diseases. There is much preclinical evidence for MSCT in noninfectious—including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis—as well as infectious bacterial immune/inflammatory lung disorders, with data generally demonstrating therapeutic effects; however, for infectious viral pulmonary conditions, the preclinical evidence is more scarce with some inconsistent outcomes. In this article, we review the mechanistic evidence for clinical use of MSCs in pulmonary immune/inflammatory disorders, and survey the ongoing clinical trials—including for COVID‐19—of MSCT for these diseases, with some perspectives and comment on MSCT for COVID‐19.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Linju Yen
- Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Institute of Cellular & System Medicine, National Health Research Institutes (NHRI), Zhunan, Taiwan
| | - Men-Luh Yen
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, National Taiwan University (NTU) Hospital & College of Medicine, NTU, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Tzu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, National Taiwan University (NTU) Hospital & College of Medicine, NTU, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ko-Jiunn Liu
- National Institute of Cancer Research, NHRI, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Huey-Kang Sytwu
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases & Vaccinology, NHRI, Zhunan, Taiwan.,Department & Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
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22
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Lu Q, El-Hashash AHK. Cell-based therapy for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Stem Cell Investig 2019; 6:22. [PMID: 31559309 PMCID: PMC6737434 DOI: 10.21037/sci.2019.06.09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is an example of interstitial lung diseases that is characterized by chronic, progressive, and fibrotic lung injuries. During lung fibrosis, normal healthy lung tissues are replaced by remarkably destroyed alveolar architecture and altered extracellular cell matrix. These changes eventually cause severe disruption of the tightly-controlled gas exchange process and reduction of lung compliance that ultimately lead to both respiratory failure and death. In the last decade, progress has been made toward understanding the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis, and two novel disease-modifying therapies were approved. However, finding more effective treatments for pulmonary fibrosis is still a challenge, with its incidence continues to increase globally, which is associated with significantly high mortality, morbidity and economical healthcare burden. Different stem cell types have recently emerged as a promising therapy for human diseases, including lung fibrosis, with numerous studies on the identification, characterization, proliferation and differentiation of stem cells. A large body of both basic and pre-clinical research on stem cells has been recently translated to patient care worldwide. Herein, we review recent advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology of IPF, and types of cells used in IPF cell-based therapies, including alveolar and mixed lung epithelial cells, different stem cell types (MSCs, ADSCs, IPSCs…etc.), endogenous lung tissue-specific stem cells, and circulating endothelial progenitors (EPCs). We also discuss recent studies on the applications of these cells in IPF therapy and their delivery routes, effective doses for cell therapy, and timing of delivery. Finally, we discuss attractive recent and current clinical trials conducted on cell-based therapy for IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Lu
- The University of Edinburgh-Zhejiang International campus (UoE-ZJU Institute), Haining, China
- Centre of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Schools of Medicine & Basic Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ahmed H. K. El-Hashash
- The University of Edinburgh-Zhejiang International campus (UoE-ZJU Institute), Haining, China
- Centre of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Schools of Medicine & Basic Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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23
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Xia P, Gu R, Zhang W, Shao L, Li F, Wu C, Sun Y. MicroRNA-200c promotes osteogenic differentiation of human bone mesenchymal stem cells through activating the AKT/β-Catenin signaling pathway via downregulating Myd88. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:22675-22686. [PMID: 31152447 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.28834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
During the human bone formation, the event of osteogenic differentiation of human bone mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) is vital, and recent evidence has emphasized the important role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs. This study aims to examine the potential effects of miR-200c in osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs and understand their underlying mechanisms. HBMSCs were obtained via human bone marrow. During osteogenic induction and differentiation, cells were transfected with different plasmids with the intention of investigating the roles of miR-200c on osteogenic differentiation, calcium salt deposition, alkaline-phosphatase (ALP) activity, mineralized nodule formation, osteocalcin (OCN) content, and proliferation of osteoblasts. Following transfection, dual luciferase reporter gene assay was conducted so as to explore the correlation between miR-200c and Myd88. Moreover, the AKT/β-Catenin signaling pathway was blocked with an AKT/β-Catenin inhibitor, AKTi, to investigate its involvement. The hBMSCs were successfully isolated from human bone marrow. Myd88 was determined as a target gene of miR-200c. Gain and loss-of-function assays confirmed that overexpression of miR-200c, or silencing of Myd88 promoted osteogenic differentiation, increased calcium salt deposition, ALP activity, mineralized nodule formation, and enhanced the proliferation of osteoblasts following osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs. Meanwhile, the downregulation of miR-200c has been shown to have the opposite effect. Furthermore, these findings showed that the miR-200c overexpression activated the AKT/β-Catenin signaling pathway by targeting Myd88. To sum up, the miR-200c upregulation induces osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs by activating the AKT/β-Catenin signaling pathway via the inhibition of Myd88, providing a target for treatment of bone repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Xia
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Rui Gu
- Department of Orthopedics, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Liwei Shao
- Department of Orthopedics, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Fang Li
- Department of Orthopedics, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Changyan Wu
- Department of Orthopedics, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yifu Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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24
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Leukocytic toll-like receptor 2 knockout protects against diabetes-induced cardiac dysfunction. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 506:668-673. [PMID: 30454704 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2018.10.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic cardiomyopathy is characterized by the deterioration of the myocardial function. Emerging evidences have indicated that leukocytic toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) played an important role in the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy. Our study aimed to investigate whether TLR2 knockout (KO) exerted a cardioprotective effect in vivo. The establishment of diabetes model was set up in mice via intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ). Results demonstrated that blocking of TLR2 significantly suppressed the enhanced left ventricular end-diastolic dimension (LVEDD), left ventricular end systolic diameter (LVESD) and the reduced the heart rate in diabetic cardiomyopathy mice. The decreased resting cell length, PS, TPS and + dL/dt while increased TR90 and - dL/dt caused by diabetic cardiomyopathy were remarkably inhibited by TLR2 KO. Besides that, the alleviated ΔFFI (360/380), decreased SERCA2a and p-NFATc3 expressions, extended Ca2+ decay time and elevated Calcineurin A induced by diabetic cardiomyopathy were vastly repressed by TLR2 KO in cardiocytes. Moreover, TLR2 gene silence could ameliorate oxidative stress-induced apoptosis, evidences were the up-regulated superoxide generation and Bax/Bcl-2 expression while restrained GSH/GSSG ratio caused by diabetic cardiomyopathy were tremendously repressed in TLR2 KO mice. Furthermore, blocking of TLR2 remarkably attenuated the augmented fibrosis areas of heart tissues in mice with diabetic cardiomyopathy. The result of the enhanced α-SMA and collagenⅠ caused by diabetic cardiomyopathy were suppressed in heart tissues of TLR2 KO mice further validate it. All in all, our study demonstrated that diabetes-induced cardiac dysfunction could be attenuated by TLR2 KO.
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25
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Serrano-Mollar A. Cell Therapy in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis †. Med Sci (Basel) 2018; 6:medsci6030064. [PMID: 30104544 PMCID: PMC6164035 DOI: 10.3390/medsci6030064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a fatal disease with no effective or curative treatment options. In recent decades, cell-based therapies using stem cells or lung progenitor cells to regenerate lung tissue have experienced rapid growth in both preclinical animal models and translational clinical studies. In this review, the current knowledge of these cell therapies is summarized. Although further investigations are required, these studies indicate that cell therapies are a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Serrano-Mollar
- Departamento de Patología Experimental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas de Barcelona IIBB-CSIC-IDIBAPS, Rosselló, 161, 08036 Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
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26
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Tzouvelekis A, Toonkel R, Karampitsakos T, Medapalli K, Ninou I, Aidinis V, Bouros D, Glassberg MK. Mesenchymal Stem Cells for the Treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2018; 5:142. [PMID: 29868594 PMCID: PMC5962715 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2018.00142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is an inexorably progressive lung disease of unknown origin. Prognosis is poor, with limited treatment options available, and the median survival remains just 3-5 years. Despite the use of pirfenidone and nintedanib for the treatment of IPF, curative therapies remain elusive and mortality remains high. Regenerative medicine and the use of cell-based therapies has recently emerged as a potential option for various diseases. Promising results of preclinical studies using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) suggest that they may represent a potential therapeutic option for the treatment of chronic lung diseases including IPF. Encouraging results of Phase 1 studies of MSCs various have reduced safety concerns. Nonetheless, there is still a pressing need for exploratory biomarkers and interval end-points in the context of MSCs investigation. This review intends to summarize the current state of knowledge for stem cells in the experimental and clinical setting of IPF, present important safety and efficacy issues, highlight future challenges and address the need for large, multicenter clinical trials coupled with realistic end-points, including biomarkers, to assess treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Argyrios Tzouvelekis
- First Academic Respiratory Department, Sotiria General Hospital for Thoracic Diseases, University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Division of Immunology, Alexander Fleming Biomedical Sciences Research Center, Athens, Greece
| | - Rebecca Toonkel
- Department of Medicine, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Theodoros Karampitsakos
- First Academic Respiratory Department, Sotiria General Hospital for Thoracic Diseases, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Kantha Medapalli
- Department of Medicine, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States.,Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Ioanna Ninou
- Division of Immunology, Alexander Fleming Biomedical Sciences Research Center, Athens, Greece
| | - Vasilis Aidinis
- Division of Immunology, Alexander Fleming Biomedical Sciences Research Center, Athens, Greece.,Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Demosthenes Bouros
- First Academic Respiratory Department, Sotiria General Hospital for Thoracic Diseases, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Marilyn K Glassberg
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States.,Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
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